St Lorenzo Market

In the historic heart of central Florence is the city's most popular street market. The San Lorenzo Market is an open air bazaar in the San Lorenzo district, near the church and piazza of the same name. It's the most recognized shopping street in the city. It features a daily display of crafted leather belts, jackets, purses and gloves at the tent-like stalls lining the streets. You'll find great finds at good prices - if you know how to barter. The leather goods are generally good quality and at prices much lower than in the stores.

But it's not all cowhide or sheepskin, you'll also find stalls selling silk scarves, aprons, costume jewelry, and tourist trinkets along with household nick-nacks. It's full of colorful characters and energy. In the Piazza of San Lorenzo you'll be entertained by street performers or impromptu musicians. The piazza is the neighborhood's gathering spot and is almost always pulsing with life.

If gourmet goodies are more your style, then take a few steps over to the Mercato Centrale, the district's famous indoor market teeming with fresh vegetables and orchard-fresh fruits, along with butcher stands selling local meats or stalls with exotic spices. Here you'll find all the Tuscan specialty items like biscotti, pasta and cheese, but you can also enjoy the sight of prosciutto hanging like festoons and big bins of beans or rice. It's a great place to do your grocery shopping or pick up some picnic items.