Florence Central Market Food Tour with Eating Europe
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our Florence Market Food Tour takes you on a culinary journey at the San Lorenzo Market, the heart of Tuscan food traditions. Here you’ll enjoy tasty local cheeses, mouthwatering cured meats, fresh olive oil, a proper Italian coffee, traditional Lampredotto sandwich, aged balsamic vinegar and much more.
Once we’ve eaten our way through the market, we’ll pop over to one of Florence’s oldest wine shops for a private wine tasting and food pairing. End the tour just like a true Italian would finish their meal: with sweetness! After learning how to enjoy your drinks like an Italian, savor an authentic gelato and learn how to differentiate it from the fake stuff!
Experience this one-of-a-kind Florence market food tour, where tradition and taste come together. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
Available options
Florence Central Market Food Tour with Eating Europe
Book a Private tour
Private Guided Tour<br/>Extra glass of wine
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Explore the San Lorenzo market, meeting the families who keep Tuscan culinary traditions alive
Taste the best delicacies like truffle olive oil, truffle cheese, balsamic vinegar and Tuscan wines
Unearth the Medici Family legacy, learning about their profound influence
‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Detailed itinerary
1
Take a look at the impressive San Lorenzo Church, one of Florence’s oldest and most important churches, deeply tied to the Medici family. Inside, there's the Medici Chapels, home to Michelangelo’s sculptures and the opulent Chapel of the Princes.
2
Enjoy freshly made cantucci, known as biscotti, paired with their perfect Tuscan match: Vin Santo, a naturally sweet white wine. A classic local ritual and a delicious taste of tradition.
3
The San Lorenzo Outdoor Leather Market is one of Florence’s liveliest open-air markets. Wander among colorful stalls selling Italian leather goods, scarves, and souvenirs while enjoying the vibrant energy of the historic district.
4
The Central Market is a 19th-century iron-and-glass landmark celebrating Florence’s food culture, with traditional food stalls downstairs, and a food hall upstairs.
5
Meet Marco, a market legend selling Tuscan cheeses and cured meats for 40 years. Discover his famous pecorino window with 46 varieties and taste local favorites. Don’t be surprised if truffle cheese follows you home!
6
The Le Lame stand is run by the same family for generations, and it brings daily treasures from the Tuscan hills, including olive oils, vinegars, wines, liqueurs, and traditional flavours. Try a variety of this organic products!
7
To feel the true Florentine spirit, stop at Bar del Mercato, where vendors gather for coffee, wine, and gossip. Mingle with locals and enjoy one of Florence’s best coffees.
8
Discover true Florentine street food with the legendary Bambi family. Taste lampredotto made with a century-old recipe, and try Tuscan meatballs, all paired with a glass of Sangiovese wine for the full local experience.
9
Step into this historic wine shop, run by three generations of sommeliers since 1944. Browse 2,500 labels and enjoy two wines from the family’s own farm, paired with a main course brought from the Market.
10
Learn how to spot real artisanal gelato at this gelateria, discovering the importance of color, texture, and temperature. Taste two flavors, including their signature creations.
What's not included
Gratuities / Tips for the guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
215 reviews
5★
212
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This activity requires a minimum of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
Children under 4 years old do not need a ticket and can join the tour for free. However, food is not included. Paid tickets with food included are available for ages 4 and up.
Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Meeting point
Your guide will be waiting for you near the rounded bench, and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag.
Important notes
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time.
You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
About Florence
Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
Duomo
The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.
Architecture/Religious
2-3 hours
Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome
Uffizi Gallery
One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Museum/Art
2-3 hours
€20
Ponte Vecchio
A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.
Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Piazzale Michelangelo
A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.
Scenic Viewpoint
1-2 hours
Free
Accademia Gallery
Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
€16
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.
Dinner
Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Ribollita
A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Lampredotto
A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.
Lunch
Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Cantucci
Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.
Dessert
Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Tuscan countryside
Cycling tours
Hot air balloon rides
Wine tasting tours
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending opera or concerts
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
- Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center
By train
Santa Maria Novella Station
By bus
Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Santa Maria Novella
Oltrarno
San Lorenzo
Santa Croce
Day trips
Siena
70 km from Florence • Half day to full day
A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.
Pisa
85 km from Florence • Half day
Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.
Chianti Wine Region
30-50 km from Florence • Full day
A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.
Festivals
Festa di San Giovanni • June 24
Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary)
Firenze dei Fiori • April to June
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
- Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
- Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
