Shopping In Florence
Via dei Calzaiuoli Florence Italy
Via dei Calzaiuoli is a cobble stoned pedestrian street. It connects the two main squares of Florence, Piazza della Signoria Florence and the Piazza del Duomo. It is lined with many designer stores like Chanel, Max Mara, and Swarovski (Jewelry). You will also find Disney, Kiko (Cosmetics and Beauty Supply), Tezenis (Women’s Clothing). In addition there are many local Italian shops you can visit (leather, souvenirs, etc). If you are looking for a quick bite, there are some charming cafes, pizza and gelato shops. Always very crowded, but worth a visit.
Pharmacy of Santa Maria Novella Florence Italy
Pharmacy of Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. It was set up by monks (lived in the Santa Maria Novella Church) as a pharmacy to prepare and sell their medicinal products. The fragrances are enchanting, and the building itself is so beautiful, you can’t help but be impressed. Don’t miss the little chapel in the back adorned with spectacular frescoes from the 17th century. They offer a wide variety of products. Soaps, teas, skin care products, potpourri, perfume, cologne and so much more. They even have a small cafe area where you can have tea and pastries, cakes, etc. Products are a bit expensive, but are high quality. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly. A unique place to visit, you will not be disappointed.
Phone: 39 055 216 276
Address: Via della Scala 16, 50123 Florence, Italy
Monday thru Sunday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
San Lorenzo Market
You will find just about anything you need here. Outside the building, there are some terrific leather items (bags, jackets, etc). In addition, they have scarves, clothes, artwork and all sorts of souvenirs. Inside, on the lower level, they offer a lot of fresh fruit/vegetables and Tuscan specialities (pasta, cured meat, cheese, wine, etc). If you get hungry, you can make a quick trip to the second floor. There are many eating and drinking places located here. They have pizza, sandwiches, seafood and gelato. Everything is great, delicious, and fairly priced. Do not forget to check the authenticity of the leather products you are buying! Prices can be a bit higher than some of the other shops. You can get it lower for a lower cost. Just make sure to haggle over the prices.
Address: Piazza San Lorenzo, Florence, Italy
Via de’ Tornabuoni
This elegant street houses all the big names in fashion (Gucci, Versace, Armani, Prada, Ferragamo and many others). If you love shoes, Salvatore Ferragamo Museum Florence is located on the lower level of the Ferragamo store (shoes galore). Another popular spot is Tod’s Boutique. They sell Italian-made leather shoes, handbags and accessories for women and men. Many cafes, restaurants and gelato shops too. Even if you don’t buy anything along this famous street you can still have a great time. The lovely architecture, wonderful history, beautiful churches, and people watching will still guarantee an enjoyable stroll.
Ponte Vecchio
I’m pretty sure that you won’t find the best deals on the Ponte Vecchio, however it’s worth a trip across the Arno River. It is predominantly upscale jewelers and goldsmiths that fill most of the shops along either side of the bridge. There are a few interesting (and a little less expensive) shops along the bridge too. There are a lot of street vendors on the bridge that sell artwork, frames, magnets and other knickknacks you can take home as a souvenir. Be aware of pickpockets at all times, and street peddlers trying their hardest to sell you everything imaginable under the sun. It is quite an experience to walk through, take pictures and enjoy the street entertainers. As expected, it’s very crowded.
Piazza Santo Spirito
There are some lovely shops that surround the piazza, and also a wonderful marketplace set up each morning. You can find some real bargains here. Which include cheese, coffee, fresh vegetables/fruit, bread, honey, etc. On the weekends, they also sell antiques, jewelry, and some handmade items (scarves, blankets, etc). A few nice bars and restaurants to enjoy, as well as the Church of Santo Spirito Florence Italy. It is very unassuming on the outside, yet very beautiful inside. Genuine Florence experience, as the area is filled with locals that frequent this lovely piazza.
