Florence isn’t just about Renaissance art and breathtaking architecture; it’s also a paradise for shopping and food lovers. Its bustling markets, artisan workshops, and designer outlets offer unique experiences that capture the city’s soul. Whether you’re craving a hands-on culinary adventure like Cooking Class with Local Food Market Tour, or want to hunt for luxury brands at designer outlets, Florence’s shopping scene is as varied as it is authentic. We especially love tours that combine food, culture, and local craftsmanship, giving you a well-rounded taste of this city’s heart. For example, the Street Food & Market Tour of Florence takes you beyond tourist traps into local neighborhoods, while Guided Shopping in Florence offers insider access to jewelers on Ponte Vecchio.
Quick Overview
This list covers culinary classes, street food tours, market walks, and designer outlet trips. You’ll find options suitable for foodies, shoppers seeking high-end brands, or those just wanting a taste of authentic Florence. Each offers a different perspective—some focus on food markets like San Lorenzo or Sant’Ambrogio, others on artisan workshops or luxury shopping trips. Dive into the descriptions below to find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Florence: Cooking Class with Local Food Market Tour
At number 1, this hands-on culinary experience combines a 5-hour cooking class with a visit to Florence’s vibrant central food market. Led by a local food guide, you’ll learn to shop Italian style and gather fresh ingredients. The highlight? Using those ingredients to prepare a full Tuscan feast, then sitting down to enjoy it with a glass of Chianti. The tour concludes with a graduation certificate from the Food & Wine Academy of Florence—adding a nice touch for foodies. Guests consistently praise the professionalism and wit of chef Victoria and guide Tommaso, who make the experience both educational and fun. This tour is perfect if you want a culinary souvenir and genuine insight into Tuscan ingredients and cooking techniques. The price of around $47.58 offers great value for a small-group class that creates lasting memories.
Bottom Line: It’s an immersive, hands-on cooking experience that pairs market shopping with a delicious meal—ideal for foodies eager to bring authentic tastes home.
2. Florence Central Market Food Tour with Eating Europe
Number 2 on our list, this Food Tour with Eating Europe takes you through Florence’s famous San Lorenzo Market, sampling Tuscan cheeses, meats, and oils. The tour includes a private wine tasting at a historic shop, plus a sweet finale with gelato. The small group size ensures personal attention, and reviewers love guide Kiara’s enthusiasm and knowledge. You’ll learn how to buy and taste like a local, which makes this tour practical as well as tasty. The $109.14 price reflects the quality of the experience, especially with multiple tastings and a wine session. Guests mention it’s a perfect way to start your Florence visit and get acquainted with regional flavors.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a gourmet introduction to Florence, combining market exploration, wine, and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Street Food & Market Tour of Florence (by Streaty)
Our third spot goes to Street Food & Market Tour by Streaty, which offers a 3-hour walk through lesser-known neighborhoods and markets like Sant’Ambrogio. This tour focuses on local street foods, from seasonal dishes to Florentine specialties you won’t find in tourist menus. Led by a passionate local, you’ll explore hidden spots, learn about Tuscan eating habits, and sample regional treats like lampredotto and ribollita. The reviews highlight how the tour deepens your understanding of authentic Florence cuisine. Costing about $91.73, it’s a great value for food-focused travelers eager for a local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous eaters wanting to escape tourist spots and discover off-the-beaten-path Florence dishes.
4. Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with optional Local Market Tour
Number 4 features an interactive cooking class where you’ll make handmade pasta and tiramisu from scratch alongside a local chef. The 4-hour session includes a visit to Florence’s Sant’Ambrogio market if you choose the optional market tour, giving you a taste of local ingredients before cooking. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the fun atmosphere, with instructors like Chef Victoria bringing both humor and expertise. For around $40, you get to prepare and eat your dishes, paired with wine. The class is small and intimate, making it ideal for those who want culinary skills and a personal touch.
Bottom Line: An affordable, engaging cooking class with a chance to shop and cook—great for food lovers who want to learn traditional Italian recipes.
5. Florence Cooking Course with Historic Local Market Visit
At number 5, this Florence Cooking Course combines a market walk through San Lorenzo with a chef-led cooking session. Over 5 hours, you’ll select fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare a Tuscan meal featuring a starter, two mains, and a dessert, all paired with wine. Guests appreciate the balance of market insight and hands-on cooking, plus recipes to take home. The tour’s price of about $91.73 offers excellent value considering the length and quality of instruction. Reviewers mention the fun of shopping with a local guide and enjoying the meal afterward.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive culinary experience that balances market shopping with cooking and tasting.
6. Devour Florence Food Tour with Sant’Ambrogio Market Visit
Number 6 is the Devour Florence Food Tour, focusing on local markets and authentic flavors. You’ll visit bustling spots like Sant’Ambrogio and enjoy a variety of wines and Florentine desserts. The tour features chef-like butchers, baked treats, and gelato, giving you a full taste of Florence’s culinary roots. Guided by passionate locals, you’ll learn how traditional foods are made and enjoyed. Valued at $91.73, this tour suits those wanting an immersive, food-centric day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for gourmets wanting a local-centric day, combining market visits, tastings, and wine in a relaxed setting.
7. Florence Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Central Market
Coming in at number 7, this Street Food & City Tour combines Florence’s culinary delights with cultural sights like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll sample pappa al pomodoro, gelato, and local cheeses while walking through markets and streets. The tour is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to taste and see Florence at once. The cost of $45.28 offers good value for a quick yet fulfilling experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for time-crunched travelers who want a taste of Florence’s food and sights.
8. Private Chauffeur for shopping to “The Mall” and Prada Outlet (Space)
Number 8 offers a luxurious shopping day with a private chauffeur. This 6-hour tour includes pickup at your hotel and visits to The Mall, Tuscany’s top outlet for brands like Gucci, Ferragamo, and Valentino, plus the Prada Space Outlet for exclusive deals. The price of $172.86 reflects the premium experience, with time to browse at your leisure. Guests note the professional driver and convenience make this a fantastic choice for serious shoppers wanting stress-free luxury.
Bottom Line: Best for luxury shoppers who want to visit premium outlets without the hassle of transportation.
9. 4 Hours Market Tour and Guided Pasta Cooking Class in Florence
Number 9 provides a full culinary immersion in Florence with a market tour and pasta class. Over 4.5 hours, you explore the local market, learn how to make ravioli or tagliatelle, and enjoy a three-course meal with paired wines. The tour is highly rated, with guests praising the expert chef and delicious food. At $201.90, the value is high considering the comprehensive experience and culinary skills gained.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a deep dive into pasta-making paired with market shopping and a full meal.
10. Florence Street Food Tour: Central Market & Duomo Area
Our tenth choice is a 2.5-hour street food and sightseeing tour, perfect for a short, tasty overview. You’ll explore San Lorenzo and the Duomo, tasting olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and gelato while admiring Florence’s main sights. The $45.28 price makes it an affordable way to combine culture and cuisine, especially for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: Great for quick explorers wanting a sample of Florence’s flavors and sights in a few hours.
11. Guided Shopping in Florence
Number 11 is a personal shopping tour focusing on jewelry and leather goods. For about $97.44, up to four people can explore Ponte Vecchio’s jewelry shops and leather boutiques. The guide helps you navigate quality stores and get fair prices, making this perfect for serious shoppers who want insider access to Florence’s best shops.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fashion-conscious travelers seeking quality craftsmanship and local shopping secrets.
12. Hire a driver for The Mall Outlet – Limousine Service Florence
Number 12 offers a luxury transfer service for a seamless shopping day. With a private Mercedes, you get flexible pickup and drop-off for two main stops: The Mall and Prada Outlet. For $795.15, this is a top-tier experience ideal for luxury shoppers wanting comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: A premium option for those who prefer luxury transport and flexibility on their shopping day.
13. Private Florence Market Tour & Tuscan Cooking Class with Mirella
Number 13 combines a private market tour with a home-cooked meal. Led by Mirella and Stefano, this 4-hour experience involves shopping at Sant’Ambrogio and preparing a seasonal, multi-course Tuscan meal in a lovely garden setting. Guests praise the personal attention and authenticity.
Bottom Line: Best for foodies seeking an intimate, private experience with hands-on cooking in a genuine home environment.
14. Florence Artisan Shopping Tour – a tailor-made unique experience
The Artisan Shopping Tour offers a personalized exploration of Florence’s Oltrarno district. Visit workshops where masters craft gold jewelry, leather goods, perfumes, and marble papers. You can also pick up gourmet local delicacies. It’s ideal for those who want a custom shopping experience with a local guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for craft lovers and those seeking unique souvenirs crafted by Florence’s artisans.
15. Private Florence Market Tour and Pasta Making Class with Cinzia
Finally, the Pasta Making & Market Tour is a 6-hour private experience. You’ll visit Florence’s markets with host Cinzia, then cook three pasta dishes in her authentic kitchen. Guests love the personalized guidance and delicious meal shared in her home.
Bottom Line: An immersive, private experience for pasta aficionados wanting to learn and taste authentic Italian dishes.
How to Choose the Right Florence Shopping & Market Tour
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. Are you a foodie eager to learn Tuscan cooking? The Cooking Class with Market Tour offers hands-on lessons. If shopping for luxury brands is your goal, the Private Chauffeur for The Mall or Limousine Service are excellent options. For gourmets wanting an authentic taste of Florence’s street and market foods, the Street Food Tour and Devour Florence stand out. If you prefer personalized experiences, the private Market & Cooking Tour with Mirella is ideal.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Guided Shopping or private classes, to ensure availability.
Wrapping Up
Florence offers a rich tapestry of shopping and food experiences, from culinary classes and street food tours to designer outlet visits. If you’re into learning local recipes, Cooking Classes provide hands-on fun. For luxury shopping, the options include private chauffeur trips to outlets like The Mall or Prada. Meanwhile, food lovers will enjoy exploring markets, tasting Florentine specialties, and discovering artisan workshops.
No matter your style, these tours give you a true taste of Florence’s culinary richness and craftsmanship. Book early to lock in your preferred experience, and get ready to shop and taste your way through one of Italy’s most beloved cities.