Typical markets in Florence
Florence is a great city for going shopping. In addition to fashion stores, craft workshops and small shops, you will find numerous markets. Food, clothes, typical products, leather items, antiques, etc are sold on the stalls in the Florentine markets at very good prices, especially if you’re an expert in the art of haggling.
The more central markets in Florence, the ones preferred by tourist, are usually open everyday, whilst if we go a little further out of the centre we will find smaller markets where more traditional Italian customs reign.
These are the more typical markets in Florence:
San Lorenzo Street Market – right into the heart of the historical centre is one of the most popular markets in Florence. It is a lively place, full of life. You can find items ranging from food to clothes on the various stalls there. However, it is especially well known for its leather and suede goods including belts, jackets, wallets, bags, shoes and accessories, all at very good prices. Where: Piazza San Lorenzo. When: from Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 7:30pm.
Porcellino Market (New Market) – This Florentine market houses a popular character of the city, the Porcellino. It comprises a bronze sculpture of a wild boar. This pretty little pig is one of the symbols of the city that is visited by tourists and locals on a daily basis.
It is said that if you rub its snout with the palm of your hand whilst holding some money, and while you’re rubbing, the money falls down between the bars of the small hole beneath the pig’s feet, the Porcellino will grant you a wish and guarantee that you return to Florence.The market itself is one of the liveliest in the city, with souvenirs, clothes, and leather and wood items. Where: Piazza del Mercato Nuevo. When: from Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm. It only opens in the afternoon on Monday.
Centrale Market – A busy and colourful market supplying an array of fresh products. You will find top quality vegetables there, as well as aromatic spices, fruit, meat, Italian cheeses and all kinds of products typical of the Tuscany region. A real feast for the eyes and palates of Italian food lovers. Where: Via de’ll Ariento and Piazza Mercato Centrale. When: from Monday to Friday from 7am to 2pm. Saturday from 7am to 7pm.
Mercato delle Pulci – The Florence flea market. You will be able to find antiques, knickknacks, old money and jewellery, prints, decorative objects and old books, etc. there. Its worth visiting on the last Sunday of the month when it’s livelier. Where: Piazza dei Ciompi. When: from Monday to Sunday from 9am to 7pm.
Laura – Marketing Team
