You’ll be delighted by the food in Florence. The list of must-try dishes is long and hotly debated, as is the classic question about which gelateria is the best (try as many as you can!). Bread, vegetables and beans star in traditional Florentine recipes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro and panzanella, thrilling vegetarians from around the world. On the other hand, big rare Florentine steaks are a thing, as are food trucks serving up tripe or lampredotto sandwiches. Definitely try the traditional dishes at local or historic restaurants favored by Florentines.

Another way to get to know Florentine food is to head to the two major markets in the San Lorenzo and Sant’Ambrogio areas. Browse seasonal fruits and vegetables, buy fresh bread and cheese, or eat at the food stands there.

We recommend that you explore Florentine handicraft and traditional shops in the historic center, which preserve the city’s past. Supporting artisans guarantees the continuity of outstanding historical traditions like leather crafting, ceramics, home textiles or hard stone mosaics. You’ll also find modern artisans crafting sustainable fashion and accessories, handcrafted perfumes, home goods and more. Florence also takes pride in its historic merchants where customers feel like they have traveled back in time. You’ll find some of the best quality products in these stores, which range from pharmacies to butchers, glove shops to art supply shops.

With this amazing variety of authentic products to choose from, we probably don’t have to tell you to avoid purchasing the fake designer items that pop up on the pavement. While the price may be appealing, the steep fine you have to pay if caught is not.