Italy is a global fashion powerhouse—and shopping in Florence is a big part of that legacy. As the birthplace of legendary designers like Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci, and Roberto Cavalli, Florence proudly holds its status as one of the country’s fashion capitals. Today, the city blends high-end luxury with artisanal craftsmanship, offering a shopping experience that’s both stylish and authentic.
Whether you’re in search of designer labels or handcrafted leather goods, Florence delivers variety and charm at every turn. From elegant boutiques to family-run workshops and bustling local markets, the city has something for every taste and budget.
If you’re wondering where to find the best shopping in Florence, this guide will take you through the top streets, iconic stores, and hidden gems worth exploring. So grab your most comfortable shoes—it’s time to turn your day into a shopping-filled adventure through the fashion heart of Tuscany.
Florence Leather Shopping Guide: Where to Find the Best Local Goods
Florence is known not only for its breathtaking art and architecture but also for its exceptional leather craftsmanship. With centuries of tradition tied to its location near the Arno River, shopping in Florence Italy offers a truly authentic experience for leather lovers.
As you explore the city, you’ll notice that leather is everywhere—jackets, bags, belts, and shoes line shop windows and markets. But to ensure you’re buying quality, keep an eye out for these five key features:
- A rich, musky scent (avoid anything chemical)
- Supple, soft texture—not rigid or glossy
- Natural shades like tan or brown
- Tight, hand-stitched seams
- The fleur-de-lys symbol, confirming Florentine origin
For the best shopping in Florence, head to the Oltrarno district. This historic neighborhood, once home to Florence’s tanneries, is now filled with small artisan studios crafting beautiful leather goods by hand.
Markets like San Lorenzo and Mercato Nuovo also offer a wide selection, though you’ll want to inspect pieces closely to ensure authenticity. When done right, buying leather in Florence is not just shopping—it’s bringing home a piece of the city’s soul.
Historic Shopping in Florence: Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy Is a Must-Visit
When it comes to shopping in Florence, the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is truly one of a kind. Just steps from the basilica, this historic pharmacy has been producing luxurious herbal remedies, perfumes, and skincare since 1221. Still using centuries-old recipes, it’s home to the iconic Acqua di Santa Maria Novella, originally created for Caterina de’ Medici. Stepping inside feels like walking through a museum of fragrance and Florentine tradition. For anyone seeking the best shopping in Florence beyond fashion, this is an unmissable stop full of elegance, history, and charm.
Luxury Shopping in Florence: Where Style Meets Heritage
Via de’ Tornabuoni
Via de’ Tornabuoni is the crown jewel of high-end retail. Known as the city’s most luxurious shopping street, it’s lined with prestigious designer boutiques and steeped in fashion history. This elegant boulevard is where Salvatore Ferragamo opened his first property, and today, you’ll find the likes of Gucci, Emilio Pucci, Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Pomellato, Hermès, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier—all housed in stunning Renaissance-era buildings.
A highlight here is Palazzo Spini Feroni, home to the Ferragamo flagship store. Alongside a full selection of men’s and women’s fashion, the lower level features a fascinating museum dedicated to Ferragamo’s early life and design legacy, tracing his journey from Naples to global fame. The street itself is a parade of Florence’s most stylish locals, and its polished storefronts and historic facades make it a destination in its own right for those craving a truly refined shopping experience.
Via dei Calzaiuoli
Stretching between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, Via dei Calzaiuoli blends luxury with accessibility. Here, high-end names like Chanel meet everyday favourites such as Coin—the Italian department store often likened to Macy’s. The street also features Furla, beloved for its Italian leather handbags, as well as fashion brands like Sisley, offering contemporary styles at mid-range prices. Families can pop into the Disney Store for some fun, making this street a well-rounded choice for all kinds of shoppers. With its central location and wide selection, Via dei Calzaiuoli is a dynamic destination that captures Florence’s modern side.
Via del Corso
Vibrant and energetic, Via del Corso is a lively artery for everyday fashion and hidden gems. Beginning at Piazza della Repubblica, this bustling street teems with locals and visitors alike, navigating its boutiques and brand-name shops. It’s the place to go for trendy accessories, contemporary Italian fashion, and a taste of daily Florentine life.
A standout along Via del Corso is Piero Puliti, a boutique revered for its tailor-made shirts and ties. Crafted from the finest Italian fabrics and designed exclusively by Piero himself, these elegant pieces are must-haves for anyone seeking sartorial excellence. The store’s reputation for craftsmanship draws loyal customers from around the world.
Shopping in Florence at San Lorenzo Market
For an authentic and lively Florence shopping experience, a visit to San Lorenzo Market—also known as Mercato Centrale—is a must. Located just steps from the Duomo, this vibrant open-air market stretches through the streets around Piazza San Lorenzo, offering a colourful array of stalls and locally crafted goods.
It’s a prime destination for picking up high-quality leather products, from handbags and belts to wallets and hats. Perfect for unique souvenirs or a stylish keepsake, the market captures the spirit of Florentine craftsmanship at affordable prices.
An insider’s tip: take your time to browse the full market. You’ll often spot similar items with different styles and price points, so a bit of comparison shopping goes a long way. Prices are flexible—friendly bargaining is welcome and often expected.
Whether you’re after gifts or just enjoying the atmosphere, San Lorenzo is one of the most dynamic spots for shopping in Florence, blending tradition, variety, and unbeatable location.
Artisan Finds in Oltrarno: Florence’s Most Charming Streets
For those seeking the best shopping in Florence, a visit to the artisan-rich streets of Via Santo Spirito, Borgo San Jacopo, and Borgo San Frediano is essential. Nestled in the heart of the Oltrarno district, just across the Arno River, these picturesque streets are filled with independent boutiques, studios, and local craftsmanship.
Even if you’re not planning to shop, a leisurely stroll through this area reveals Florence’s creative soul—rich in history, character, and authenticity. With its vibrant energy and artistic spirit, Oltrarno offers a refreshing alternative to the city’s main shopping avenues.
Jewels on the Bridge: Shopping at Florence’s Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most iconic spots for the best shopping in Florence, especially for fine jewelry. This historic bridge, stretching across the Arno River, is famed for its unique design—lined with shops along its span. Originally home to butchers, the bridge transformed in the 16th century into a haven for goldsmiths and jewelers.
Today, it dazzles with high-end jewelry boutiques offering everything from sparkling gemstones to timeless gold pieces. For an immersive experience, consider a guided walking tour that includes Ponte Vecchio and a local leather market—combining history with artisan shopping.
Mercato delle Pulci: Florence’s Flea Market Gem
For lovers of vintage finds and antiques, Mercato delle Pulci is a must for the best shopping in Florence. Located near Piazza dei Ciompi in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, this charming flea market is packed with vintage furniture, collectibles, clothing, and unique curiosities. Open most days in an open-air setting, it invites browsing beneath canopies and tents. Bargaining is part of the fun, so don’t hesitate to negotiate with friendly vendors. Just be sure not to confuse it with the nearby Mercato di San Lorenzo—it’s a completely different experience, rich in old-world character and eclectic treasures.
Scuola del Cuoio: Florence’s Finest Leather Craft School
An authentic slice of the best shopping in Florence awaits at Scuola del Cuoio, the city’s historic leather school nestled within the Santa Croce complex. This artisan institution has been preserving traditional Italian leathercraft since WWII, when it was founded to train orphans and veterans. Today, it remains a hub of handmade excellence, producing finely crafted bags, belts, and wallets using centuries-old techniques. Visitors can tour the workshops to watch skilled artisans at work, gaining insight into the craftsmanship behind each piece. With a boutique on-site and an online shop, it’s a meaningful shopping experience rooted in Florentine heritage.
The Mall Firenze
Just outside the city, The Mall Firenze is a must-visit for anyone interested in designer deals while shopping in Florence. Set in the scenic Tuscan countryside, this luxury outlet features major Italian and global brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace—all at discounted prices. It’s perfect for those looking to score high-end fashion without the high-end price tag, making it a stylish and budget-friendly addition to your Florence shopping itinerary.
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