A fine art - a guide to shopping in Florence

When you think of big name shopping in Italy the likes of Rome and Milan immediately spring to mind, however Florence can really hold it's own when it comes to both luxury labels and vintage finds!


It may be easy to pick up the latest off the catwalk looks from Italian heavyweights such as Gucci and Prada yet one of the city's best retail pleasures is stumbling across it's little-known traditional shops from centuries old pharmacies to historic gems selling sumptuous silk to hand marbled paper. Below is a list of some of the quirkiest and cutest boutiques you can find on those criss-crossing Renaissance streets!

Filistrucchi (Via Giuseppe Verdi 9) A wig shop patronised by a plethora of worldwide stars (on a strictly hush hush basis) you will be astounded by the range of human hair wigs and beards. This shop also stocks a range of props for private and commercial use in film - you just might recognise some of them!

Antico Setificio Fiorentino (Via L. Bartolini 4) Florence has famously produced silk for centuries. This friendly shop supplies exquisite silks still made on original looms and according to traditional Florentine techniques. Open by appointment Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm

Giulio Giannini & Figlio (Piazza de' Pitti 37r) Florence is famous for marbled paper, Giannini has been making distinctive designs since 1856. It comes in sheets, covers, books, frames, bookplates and plenty of other stationery items.

Madova (Via de, Guiciardini 1r) This cute shop may only sell gloves, but what gloves they are! Every style and every colour is available, all in sumptuous leather, with luxurious linings of silk, lambs wool or cashmere.

Fonte dei Dolci (Via Nazionale 120-122r) If you have a sweet tooth - this one is for you! Established in 1954, this is the Florentines' first port of call for sweets and chocolates.

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