Florence for Foodie Families

Looking for a fun filled trip to Florence? You can choose from a range of specialist Florence tours that provide a wealth of activities and intrigue to capture the attention of the entire family – from being able to sample some of the world’s best ice cream, to exploring the finely crafted jewellery and handbags at one of Florence’s many markets. 

A Tour for All Ages 

For some of the best that Florence has to offer, you cannot go wrong with Art Viva’s ‘Italian Passions – Food & Wine Tour’. During your excursion, bond over some of Italy’s most renowned delicacies, including a luscious variety of cheeses, freshly baked bread and high quality balsamic vinegar. Enhance the experience by meeting and speaking with the local bakers, cheesemongers and grocers responsible for these delights, testing who in the family has been the quickest to master Italian in the process – 1st prize wins a gelato! 

For a complete and comprehensive culinary immersion, we’ll make sure you tick off the following markets representing the best that Florence has to offer.

The San Lorenzo Markets

Comprised of two individual venues, first up is the Central Market, a favourite amongst locals that is split across two floors. Butchers, fishmongers and fruit and vegetables are on the lower level, while there are bars, delis, book stores, wine and food sellers on the top level. On the Via dell’Ariento side of the market, look out for Perini’s delicatessen, where you will be invited to choose from a formidable selection of prosciutto, and your children will be able to sample balsamic vinegar that is probably the same age as they are.

The deli will allow you to try out their produce before buying, so spend some time tasting before taking a family vote and deciding what comes home in the luggage rack at the end of your Florence tour. 

The second market in the San Lorenzo line-up runs from the Church of San Lorenzo along Via dell’Ariento to the Via Nazionale. This outdoor venue is popular with tourists and locals alike and features bustling stalls offering a range of leather goods, clothing and souvenirs.

Sant’Ambrogio Market

On the opposite side of town to the Central market, the Sant’Ambrogio Market has a distinctly local and cosy feel. Top picks include fresh pasta and artichokes as well as a range of household items such as plants and value for money clothing.

Santo Spirito Market 

Situated in Florence’s lesser known but equally enchanting Oltrarno district, the Santo Spirito Market is typically a reasonably subdued affair except for the second Sunday of the month, where the entire piazza and surrounding streets transform into a bustling outdoor venue. In addition to the usual selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, clothing and household items, this extended market will offer up a range of unique, intricately designed antiques and handmade goods.

Food and Fun for All the Family 

Take a Florence tour that covers these markets and you’ll be sure to get the chance to sample the full range of delicacies that the city and region has to offer, as well as opportunities to purchase unique gifts for friends back home.