It is hard to beat the experience of visiting one of Florence’s many markets. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruit, intriguing works of art or antiques of yesteryear, you’re sure to find something of interest.
The sights, sounds, and smells of a Florence market are unique and will live in your memory forever.
Market Day In Florence
There isn’t one single market day. Florence is a big city and you’ll find one type of market or another happening virtually every day. Alongside this, there are often bigger weekly and monthly markets. If you’re planning to visit any of the markets in Florence, you’ll need a guide to which markets to visit in Florence.
It helps to know which types of market appeals to you the most.
Daily Markets Not To Be Missed
Most markets will either sell food or souvenirs. Of course, there are more specialist markets, these tend to be the monthly ones. While you’re visiting Florence, check out these daily markets:
- San Lorenzo
The San Lorenzo market is open from 9 am to 7 pm Tuesday to Saturday. It’s actually two different markets. One focuses on food, the other on leather, clothing, and souvenirs.
It’s popular with locals as well as tourists, just go ready to barter!
- Central Market
This is a local food market and an experience even if you’re not looking to buy. You’ll find a collection of butcheries, fishmongers, and delis on the main floor. Fruit and veg is on the top floor. It’s worth grabbing lunch here, you’ll be impressed by the selection and the taste. This one is open Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 2 pm.
The Largest Market In Florence
Le Cascine is considered the largest market in Florence, so give yourself plenty of time to explore it. This market can be very crowded.
It takes place once a week, on Tuesdays, and is open from 8am to 2pm. The market sells everything. Foodstuffs, household items, utensils and new and second-hand clothes are sold.
This market is very popular with locals, allowing them to get most of their shopping in one place. Be prepared to walk the kilometre-long market first before you start buying anything. It will allow you to make the most of what’s on offer and secure the best deals.
Summing Up
There are too many markets in Florence to see them all. That’s why you should do your research first and choose the markets that you want to visit.
The good news is that there is an abundance of markets, with some being held every day. The only day that you’ll struggle to find a market is Sunday. This is still considered a holy day and traditionally Italians like to rest.
Monthly markets are particularly good as this is when you’ll find the most hand-made goods. They give you a real insight into the local way of life.
Florence markets offer food, cultural souvenirs, and an abundance of household items. However, the biggest reason for going is to experience the ambiance and blend with the locals. It’s an experience like no other!
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
