Florence Antiques District
Discover unique treasures and artisan crafts in Florence's charming Oltrarno district, a haven for antique lovers and collectors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market buzz and fewer crowds
Florence Antiques District
Best Time
Market buzz and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover unique treasures and artisan crafts in Florence's charming Oltrarno district, a haven for antique lovers and collectors.
"My favorite spot to find a treasure! There’s always something new to see."
🎯 Embrace the Hunt!
The joy is in the discovery! Allow ample time to explore each shop and booth for hidden treasures.
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Look for unique, handcrafted items in the Oltrarno district. Many shops offer authentic Florentine craftsmanship.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Workshops & Boutiques
Oltrarno District
Discover handcrafted goods, vintage clothing, and unique home decor from local artisans. A true Florentine experience!
Mercato di Santo Spirito
Piazza Santo Spirito
A vibrant monthly market offering vintage finds, artisan crafts, and organic produce. Perfect for unique souvenirs.
Hidden Gem Antique Stores
Various locations
Wander through charming shops filled with everything from antique furniture to collectible jewelry. You never know what you'll find!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hunt for Treasures
Navigating the Oltrarno Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Hunt!
The joy is in the discovery! Allow ample time to explore each shop and booth for hidden treasures.
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Look for unique, handcrafted items in the Oltrarno district. Many shops offer authentic Florentine craftsmanship.
📅 Check Market Dates
If visiting the Mercato di Santo Spirito, confirm its monthly schedule beforehand.
🐶 Friendly Greetings
Some stores have resident pups! Enjoy the warm welcome from furry shop assistants.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Hunt!
The joy is in the discovery! Allow ample time to explore each shop and booth for hidden treasures.
🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Look for unique, handcrafted items in the Oltrarno district. Many shops offer authentic Florentine craftsmanship.
📅 Check Market Dates
If visiting the Mercato di Santo Spirito, confirm its monthly schedule beforehand.
🐶 Friendly Greetings
Some stores have resident pups! Enjoy the warm welcome from furry shop assistants.
💰 Haggle Respectfully
While not always expected, polite negotiation can sometimes be possible, especially for larger items.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Florence Antiques District for its abundance of unique treasures and the joy of discovery. The Oltrarno's artisan charm and the lively Mercato di Santo Spirito are frequently highlighted. However, some shoppers have reported uncomfortable experiences with overly attentive staff in certain shops, which can detract from the browsing experience.
"My 13 year old daughter and I stopped here on our weekly visit to downtown Florence. The lady at the cash register followed us around the store and stood behind us while we were shopping each booth. My daughter found two things she wanted to purchase and as soon as she picked them up the lady jumped on her and told her she would carry them to the register for her. Once we arrived at the register I asked the woman if she thought we were going to steal from her. Is that why she followed us around the store? She quickly became incredibly nasty toward me. Turns out the owner of the store was standing up front and witnessed the entire interaction. Never once did she step in and say anything. I was horrified. My daughter and I ended up purchasing the items to add to her collection and we left. All of this to say that my daughter and I regularly spend good money at the stores here in Florence. I own a horse property just a short drive away from this very store. This is no way to treat regular customers."
Sarah Calhoun
"Love this place. So many treasures to find and there's always a different variety of items to shop and hunt through. Very clean store and 2 adorable pups to greet you when you walk in the door."
Lindsay Harford
"My favorite spot to find a treasure! There’s always something new to see, and the store is very well organized—it’s a joy to wander around and discover all the treasures. Every twist and turn leads to something new! The store owner is also incredibly warm, kind, and knowledgeable, which makes the experience even better. Highly recommend stopping by!"
Sara Krauss
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Antiques District is primarily located in the Oltrarno district, across the Arno River. You can easily reach it by walking from the city center, crossing the Ponte Vecchio or Ponte Santa Trinita. Local buses also serve the area.
Yes, the Oltrarno district is very walkable and best explored on foot to discover its charming streets and hidden artisan shops.
Parking in Florence can be challenging. There are paid parking garages like Garage Sant'Ambrogio or Garage Europa, but walking or using public transport is often recommended.
Focus on the streets around Piazza Santo Spirito and the broader Oltrarno area. This is where many artisan workshops and antique shops are concentrated.
Yes, several bus lines run through the Oltrarno district, making it accessible from other parts of Florence. Check local bus routes for specific stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Antiques District itself is an open area. Entry to individual shops or markets may vary, but generally, browsing is free.
Opening hours can vary greatly. Most shops are open from morning to late afternoon, often with a break for lunch. It's best to check individual shop hours.
Yes, the Mercato di Santo Spirito is a public market and is free to enter and browse.
No, exploring the artisan shops in the Oltrarno district is free. You only pay for items you choose to purchase.
The market is typically held monthly. It's best to check its specific schedule, but Saturday mornings are often lively.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Finds
You can find a wide range of items, including vintage furniture, antique jewelry, art, collectibles, books, and unique decorative pieces.
The Oltrarno district is renowned for its antique shops and artisan boutiques. Look around Piazza Santo Spirito for a concentration of these.
While the Antiques District focuses on older items, the Oltrarno is also famous for its leather craftsmanship. You might find vintage leather pieces or discover new artisan leather makers nearby. +1
The Mercato di Santo Spirito often features vintage clothing stalls among other antique and artisan goods.
Beyond typical souvenirs, consider handcrafted items from Oltrarno artisans, vintage jewelry, or unique decorative pieces found in antique shops.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charm of the narrow streets, artisan workshops, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercato di Santo Spirito. The Oltrarno district itself is very photogenic.
It's polite to ask permission before taking photos inside private antique shops. Some owners are happy to let you, especially if you're a potential buyer.
The Santo Spirito church and its piazza are great focal points. The charming side streets with their workshops also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric photos.
Be respectful of shop owners and their merchandise. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in smaller, more intimate shops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Some shops might have resident pets, which can be a delightful surprise for younger visitors. 💰 Budget Travelers
Browsing is free, and you can find charming, inexpensive souvenirs like old postcards or small decorative items. Look for shops that specialize in books or smaller collectibles, as these can sometimes be more budget-friendly. 💖 Couples
The Mercato di Santo Spirito can be a fun shared experience, browsing for treasures together. Consider looking for vintage jewelry or unique home decor items that you can cherish as a couple. Enjoying a coffee or a gelato in one of the district's charming piazzas after your antique hunt adds to the romantic ambiance. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Oltrarno
This area is a haven for those seeking unique, handcrafted items and a glimpse into Florence's artistic soul. Many TikToks and Instagram reels showcase the charm of this district, highlighting its independent boutiques and studios. +1Exploring the Oltrarno is an experience in itself. Wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets, and you'll stumble upon hidden courtyards, small piazzas, and shops brimming with character. The Mercato di Santo Spirito, a monthly market held in Piazza Santo Spirito, is a particular highlight, offering a diverse array of vintage goods, artisan crafts, and local produce.
It's a fantastic place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and soak in the local atmosphere. Remember that many of these shops are small, family-run businesses, so engaging with the owners can enrich your experience and provide insights into their craft. Treasure Hunting: What to Expect
When visiting antique shops, be prepared for a more intimate shopping experience. Some reviewers mention being closely attended to by shopkeepers, which can feel intrusive to some but is seen as charming and engaging by others.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit