Experience an integral part of Florence’s culinary and retail scene on a visit to Central Market (Mercato Centrale). Dating back to 1874, the Central Market features two distinct indoor and outdoor sections. Food vendors tantalize the taste buds with the aromas and flavors of Tuscan cuisine inside. Outside, market traders hawk clothing, leather goods and souvenirs.
Take your time and observe the chefs at each food stand before deciding on what to eat. The market is open from 8 a.m. until midnight, so you can come for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Pick up freshly baked pastries, sample pizzas smothered in buffalo mozzarella and dine on pasta, seafood and sushi. Try a lampredotto, which is a Florentine sandwich stuffed with tripe.
The culinary options also cater to vegetarian and vegan visitors. Pair your food with a craft beer or a glass of wine from the Tuscan region. Purchase a range of products, such as olive oils, truffles and wines, to take home. Check the market’s event schedule for food tasting sessions and cooking classes, which are ideal for budding chefs.
Discover bargains and one-of-a-kind items at the outdoor market area, called Mercato di San Lorenzo. Fashionistas will have a great time shopping for leather bags, belts, jackets and wallets. Colorful pashmina scarfs, replica soccer shirts, straw hats and sunglasses are also on offer. Several stalls offer the same, or similar goods, so check out the prices of each prior to buying and be sure to bargain with the vendors.
Located in the San Lorenzo district of Florence, the market is less than 10 minutes’ walk from the city’s railway terminal. Travel by car and find metered parking in the market’s underground garage present your ticket at the information desk to receive a discount.
The Central Market is open year round. A list of the food stores and traders is available on the attraction’s official website.
