Some places just make you happy. And if you’re remotely capable of joy, Florence is one of the destinations that reliably lifts your spirit. After all, a place where eating an artful gelato is considered a cultural activity is a special spot. So in case you’re going to Florence (hopefully soon), here’s a list of what to take home, to always remind you of that happy, hallowed place.
Leather
The Renaissance city is renowned for its “Made in Italy” leather, making it one of the essential buys in Florence. You can find new and vintage leather to cover you from head to toe. (But please don’t do that — a leather coat, handbag or cosmetic case will do). With an infinite number of vendors and styles, it’s the perfect place to buy that purse or statement jacket you’ve always wanted.
Where to Find It:
The better question might be where can’t you find leather in Florence. It can be tricky to avoid tourist traps. The San Lorenzo Market is a hub for those who have a discerning eye for quality. If you’re looking for top-notch, hand-crafted stuff, you want to check out the boutiques. Also, the Sculoa del Cuoio will show you the craftsmanship that goes into the art of leather in Florence. While you’ll pay full price, this place has both vintage and new pieces that are top quality.
What to Look for:
Florence is host to all the leatherwares you could imagine. Look for full-grain, top-grain, or genuine leather (listed in order of quality), or imitation for vegans. Avoid bonded leather. Also, look for clues in the craftsmanship. Loose stitching? Cheap buttons or zippers? Run the other way.
Antiques, Jewelry and Collectibles
When you visit Italy, you’ll see why it’s impossible to leave without wanting to take a little piece of it home with you. Luckily, you can! And we’re not talking cheap Duomo magnets (though if that’s your thing, go for it). For one-of-a-kind treasures that possess the authentic spirit of Italy, antiques and collectibles are among the essential buys in Florence.
Where to Find It:
Across the Arno river is the area of Oltrarno. It’s far less touristy. And you’ll find, when exploring the narrow, cobbled streets, that the stores are rich in history. Most of these antique and collectibles shops are old, locally-owned, and can carry everything from impossibly old statues to artisan-crafted housewares to vintage sunglasses. For jewelry, gold dealers line the famed (and touristy) Ponte Vecchio. As long as you know what you’re looking for in terms of quality, there are stunning pieces here that may just become family heirlooms.
What to Look for:
The key is perhaps to not be looking for anything. In Florence, treasures have a way of finding you — and chances are that when they do, you’ll stumble upon that missing thing you never knew you needed. With any luck, it will live on your mantel for the rest of your earthly existence.
Perfume
The Officina Profumo di Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is the oldest in the world, dating back to 1221. Fittingly, upon entering, you’re transported back in time. It is a relic stunning for both its interior space and its product offerings. Stopping into the pharmacy and testing its perfumes and smelling its soaps, you’ll instantly understand why this place is rated highly for some of the essential buys in Florence.
Where to Find It:
Using ingredients from the garden of the Dominican Friars, the pharmacists here came up with natural remedies for ailments of body and mind. Building on those recipes, the pharmacy is very much still in business, selling wellness products and wonderful perfumes. Additionally, the Officina still maintains its own garden to ensure a supply of only the highest-quality natural ingredients.
What to Look for:
Walking into the Santa Maria Novella pharmacy can be overwhelming. There’s an incredible amount of wellness products and perfume scents to try. Find a scent that embodies your essence and you’ll leave the store with a reinvigorated sense of self.
Chocolate
Florence is home to some of the best chocolatiers in the world. Wander into one of the quintessential shops, whose craft has been perfected over decades and generations. Stash a gift box or two in your suitcase, and once you are back in the office, your co-workers will gladly cover for you on the next trip.
Where to Find It:
Chocolate is everywhere in Florence. You can be steps away from the Duomo and find authentic shops, like Coccole Cioccolato. Near Santa Croce is the famed Vestri, which also makes it offerings available online.
What to Look for:
Chocolate is part of the Florentine culture, so look toward the locals. We have the list of the best chocolate shops in Florence, and a few of them also have cafés. There, you’ll see people on their laptops and phones while enjoying a cup of coffee accompanied by chocolate. Part of what makes Florence chocolate so special, besides the stuff itself, is the art of sampling the wares with the shop keepers…and taking in the store ambience.
