Student Bloggers

In the middle of Florence is Mercato Centrale—not a market, but a vibrant reflection of the city's heritage and changing food landscape. Whether foodie, hungry visitor, or local buying fresh produce, a visit to Mercato Centrale is an experience complete with all the tastes one could desire.

Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Taste
Mercato Centrale blends the old with the new. The ground floor has been a traditional market since 1874, where local retailers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. But head upstairs and you'll find a modern food hall, opened in 2014, with gourmet stalls, artisan eateries, and even cooking classes. The market is the perfect combination of tradition and innovation, appealing to foodies of all ages. This combination of old and new has gained the market a reputation as a must-visit site in Florence.

Our Experience:
For the best experience, visit in the morning when stalls are opening. On our field trip, we arrived at 9 am as the market was just opening. Before our field trip, we had only seen the market on the weekend around lunchtime, and it was a very different experience. This site visit with the class allowed us to take everything in without the usual hustle and bustle.

We were lucky enough to try many traditional Italian foods, from light, fluffy pastries to warm, rich arancinis to delicious pizza to fried vegetables like zucchini and onions. From hearing insider information from the head of marketing to getting to sample a variety of food, we gained a new perspective on Mercato Centrale.

Must-Try Foods
There is no shortage of delicious food at Mercato Centrale, but here are a few must-tries:

• Bambi Family– A traditional food stall that's famous for lampredotto, a slow-cooked tripe sandwich that's a true taste of Florence. Served plain or with a variety of sauces and seasonings.
• Il Tartufo – Truffle heaven, with oils, sauces, and dishes. The tapas here are a perfect snack or appetizer.
• Paolo Pomposi – Refreshing sorbet, creamy gelato, and artisanal cakes. Come taste the local, sweet, and fresh flavors.

More than Just Food
Mercato Centrale isn’t just about eating—it’s an experience. Many artisans offer tastings and cooking classes, giving visitors a deeper dive into Tuscan cuisine. The market also hosts live music, food festivals, and events, so there’s always something new to enjoy. It’s a space that welcomes everyone, whether you’re there to learn, to taste, or simply to people-watch while sipping a cappuccino or sharing a drink with friends.

Tips for Your Visit

• Go on a weekday to avoid big groups of visitors and have more time to chat with vendors.
• Come hungry and sample your way through the market.
• Take a piece of Florence home—whether it's Chianti wine, balsamic vinegar, or artisanal pasta.
• Bring cash because some smaller vendors will not accept cards.
• Go beyond the obvious—vendors or locals can give you tips on secrets in the market.

Whether you’re there to eat, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Mercato Centrale is a must-visit spot in Florence. It’s where tradition meets modern flavors, making it a true reflection of the city’s vibrant food culture. Buon appetito!