Via dei Calzaiuoli - A red car driving down a curvy road
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Via dei Calzaiuoli

4.7
·119 reviews·Firenze, Italy

Florence's premier pedestrian street, blending high-end fashion boutiques with medieval churches and historic charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Via dei Calzaiuoli - A red car driving down a curvy road

Via dei Calzaiuoli

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Florence's premier pedestrian street, blending high-end fashion boutiques with medieval churches and historic charm.

4.7
(119 reviews)

"Busy yet elegant shopping street linking the Piazza della Signoria with the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or late evening for a more peaceful stroll. Crowds peak mid-day.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking on this busy street. Prioritize comfort!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

High-End Fashion Boutiques

High-End Fashion Boutiques

Explore designer stores and luxury brands lining this elegant shopping street.

Museo di Orsanmichele

Museo di Orsanmichele

Via dei Calzaiuoli

Discover this unique church and former granary, a testament to Florence's medieval past.

Architectural Marvels

Architectural Marvels

Admire the blend of medieval churches and historic buildings as you stroll.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Crowds

Via dei Calzaiuoli is a bustling pedestrian street, especially from late morning onwards. For a more relaxed experience, aim for early mornings or evenings. Be prepared for significant foot traffic as it connects major landmarks.

Shopping & Sightseeing Hub

This street is a prime spot for high-end fashion and medieval churches. Plan your visit to include both shopping and exploring historical sites like the Museo di Orsanmichele.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical ambiance, shops still open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Send this to your travel crew 😎 🇮🇹 #travel #travelguide #thingstodo #milan #italy #milano #food #shopping #cars #traveltok #car
@lensautos
62.7K likes • 835.2K views

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or late evening for a more peaceful stroll. Crowds peak mid-day. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking on this busy street. Prioritize comfort! Reddit

Esse lugar é CHOCANTE!!! 😱 Galera, sério, é muuuito maior do que eu imaginava!!! é gigantesco! 🤩 💰 Dica de ouro: Chegue na Catedral pela Via dei Calzaiuoli ou pela Via de Marteli para ter esse choque com o Duomo! Vc tá andando e ele aparece DO NADA GIGANTESCO na sua frente! Foi incrível! Me diz ai, o que você achou dessa igreja? Quem já foi, também teve essa reação??? 👇🏼 E não perde os stories...
matrips_
10.8K likes • 197.3K views
Ti sveliamo la nuova destinazione beauty di Firenze: ⁣il nuovo Flagship Store di Sephora 🤍🖤⁣ 📍 Dal 22 marzo in via dei Calzaiuoli 56 📍⁣ti aspettiamo per il big opening alle 11.30 💫 Pront* per lasciarti conquistare?
sephoraitalia
5K likes • 506.3K views

🛍️ Shopping Delights

From high fashion to local treats, Via dei Calzaiuoli offers diverse shopping options. Instagram+1

📸 Stunning Views

The street offers dramatic views of the Duomo as you approach from the north. Instagram

📅 Save the date: Friday, September 12th, from 5:00 PM 📍 At @profumerie_aline_firenze Via dei Calzaiuoli 53/r, Florence Join us to discover the Giardini di Toscana fragrances together with our Nose Silvia Martinelli, and to inaugurate the new window displays created in collaboration with @istitutomarangoni_firenze A special project designed by the students of the Master in Olfactory Experience Man...
giardiniditoscana
500 likes • 27.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or late evening for a more peaceful stroll. Crowds peak mid-day. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking on this busy street. Prioritize comfort! Reddit

🛍️ Shopping Delights

From high fashion to local treats, Via dei Calzaiuoli offers diverse shopping options. Instagram+1

📸 Stunning Views

The street offers dramatic views of the Duomo as you approach from the north. Instagram

☕ Coffee & Gelato Stops

Plenty of cafes and gelato shops to refuel while exploring. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Via dei Calzaiuoli is a vibrant and elegant pedestrian street, praised for its high-end shopping and historical architecture. Visitors enjoy its central location connecting major landmarks and the lively atmosphere. However, many note that it can become extremely crowded, impacting the overall experience.

"Nice street with a lot of shops and historical buildings. Very crowded tho!"

Joanna Carab

"Beautiful place.wonderful people.fantastic food! Enjoyed it this trip we my family.Hopefully one day we go back again 🙏🏼💙"

Dilcia Aguilar

"Busy yet elegant shopping street linking the Piazza della Signoria with the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore."

Marta Gallastegui

What People Like

Elegant shopping street
Central location
Historical buildings

What People Dislike

Very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Via dei Calzaiuoli is a central pedestrian street in Florence, easily accessible on foot from major landmarks like the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. It's a key thoroughfare connecting these two important squares. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a pedestrian-only street, perfect for exploring on foot. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. Reddit

No, Via dei Calzaiuoli is a pedestrian street and is closed to vehicle traffic. You'll need to park nearby and walk. Reddit

The best way is to walk its length, taking in the shops, churches, and the atmosphere. Consider visiting early morning or late evening to avoid the biggest crowds. Reddit

Yes, Via dei Calzaiuoli is a direct route connecting Piazza Duomo to Piazza Signoria, making it a central and convenient path between these two iconic Florence locations. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along Via dei Calzaiuoli is free as it's a public street. Tickets are only required for specific attractions like museums or churches if you choose to enter them. Reddit

Via dei Calzaiuoli is always accessible as it's a public street. However, individual shops and attractions along the street have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to simply walk along Via dei Calzaiuoli. Any costs would be for purchases made in shops or entry into specific historical sites. Reddit

Many shops on Via dei Calzaiuoli are open on Sundays, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's always a good idea to check individual store hours if you have specific places in mind. Reddit

For a less crowded shopping experience, aim for weekday mornings. Evenings can also be pleasant, with shops remaining open and a lively atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Via dei Calzaiuoli is known for its high-end fashion boutiques, luxury brands, and also features some souvenir shops, shoe stores, and perfumeries. InstagramReddit+1

You can find shoe shops on Via dei Calzaiuoli, including options like Bata for more affordable choices or higher-end boutiques. Reddit

Yes, you'll find cafes for coffee and pastries, gelato shops, and places for quick panini. For more extensive dining, explore the side streets. InstagramReddit+1

Coronas Café is a historic and iconic cafe located on Via dei Calzaiuoli, known for its timeless charm and coffee. Instagram

Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato is a popular spot on Via dei Calzaiuoli for delicious chocolate and gelato. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The street offers great perspectives of the Duomo from the north end and the Palazzo Vecchio from the south. Capturing the bustling street life and shop window displays is also popular. Instagram

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for cleaner shots. Evenings provide a warm, inviting glow as the lights come on. Reddit

Generally, you can take photos of shop exteriors and window displays. For interior photography, especially in boutiques, it's best to ask permission from staff. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the street's grandeur and a zoom for details. TikTok

There are no general restrictions on photography for personal use on the public street. However, commercial photography may require permits. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Via dei Calzaiuoli offers a lively experience for families, though it can get quite crowded. The abundance of gelato shops like Venchi is a definite hit with children! Instagram Keep an eye on little ones due to the high foot traffic. The street's connection to major landmarks like the Duomo also makes it a convenient route for family sightseeing. Reddit

While the high-end boutiques might not be the main draw for kids, the sheer energy of the street and the opportunity for a sweet treat can make it an enjoyable part of your Florence adventure. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more manageable with younger children. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Fashion Enthusiasts

For those who love to shop, Via dei Calzaiuoli is a paradise. It's lined with a fantastic array of high-end fashion boutiques, designer stores, and luxury brands, offering a premier shopping experience in Florence. Instagram+1 You'll find everything from Italian fashion houses to international labels. Reddit

Beyond the designer names, you can also find excellent shoe stores and perfumeries. Even if you're not buying, window shopping along this elegant street is an experience in itself. Remember to check out the new Sephora Flagship Store that opened here! Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs & Sightseers

While known for shopping, Via dei Calzaiuoli is steeped in history. It serves as a crucial link between Florence's most iconic sites, the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. As you walk, you'll pass by medieval churches and historic buildings, offering glimpses into the city's past. Reddit

Don't miss the Museo di Orsanmichele, a unique historical gem located directly on the street. The street itself is a living museum, showcasing centuries of Florentine urban development and commerce. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Florentine Commerce

Via dei Calzaiuoli, translating to 'Shoemakers' Street,' is more than just a shopping destination; it's a historic artery of Florence. This pedestrian street has been a vital commercial hub for centuries, connecting two of the city's most significant squares: Piazza Duomo to the north and Piazza della Signoria to the south. Its strategic location has always made it a prime spot for trade and craftsmanship, with its name reflecting its past as a center for shoemakers. Today, it continues this legacy, albeit with a modern, high-fashion twist. Reddit

The street is characterized by its elegant architecture, a blend of medieval structures and more contemporary facades housing luxury brands. As you walk, you'll encounter a vibrant mix of high-end fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, and perfumeries, alongside historical churches and smaller artisan shops. The sheer density of shops and the constant flow of people make it a lively and energetic place to experience. InstagramReddit+1

Despite its commercial nature, Via dei Calzaiuoli retains a sense of Florentine charm. The presence of historical buildings and the stunning views of the Duomo as you approach from the north add layers of historical and visual interest. It's a place where the modern pursuit of fashion intersects with the enduring beauty of Florence's past, making it a must-visit for shoppers and sightseers alike. Instagram

Navigating the Crowds and Experience

Via dei Calzaiuoli is renowned for being a very busy street, especially during peak tourist hours. Visitors often describe it as 'very crowded' and experiencing 'a lot of foot traffic.' This can make for a lively atmosphere but also means you'll need to be patient and mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

To make the most of your visit and avoid the densest crowds, it's highly recommended to visit either early in the morning or later in the evening. Early mornings offer a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the architecture and shop windows without the hustle and bustle. Evenings, on the other hand, provide a magical ambiance as the street lights up and the shops remain open, creating a vibrant yet slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the midday rush. Reddit

When exploring, comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll likely be doing a significant amount of walking. The street is also dotted with cafes and gelato shops, offering perfect opportunities to take a break, refuel, and people-watch. InstagramReddit+1

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