Florence is the birthplace of gelato—so a gelato crawl is non-negotiable when you’re in town!
This list rounds up five excellent gelaterie, from can’t-miss classics near the sights to beloved local spots. You’ll find suggested flavors, typical prices, and a quick feel for each shop’s history and vibe. Bookmark this for your next Florence trip.
1. Vivoli
One of Florence’s oldest gelaterie. Founded in 1930 and still family-run (now 4th generation), Vivoli feels timeless—busy with both locals and visitors. Beyond gelato you’ll find affogato, semifreddo and pastries, so it also works for a sweet breakfast stop. Don’t miss the affogato!
- Price: from €2.50
- Try: Crema (custard), Chocolate
- Pair with sightseeing: Ideal before/after Santa Croce.
Basics
- Address: Via Isola delle Stinche, 7r, 50122 Firenze
- Hours: 8:00–21:00
- Closed: Monday
- Website: vivoli.it/en
- Access: 2 minutes’ walk west of Santa Croce
2. Carabè Firenze
Sicilian-style gelato with a loyal local following. Famous for bright, fruit-forward flavors and a clean ingredient list—natural ingredients and minimal additives. You’ll notice covered, lidded pozzetti tubs: a good sign of quality.
- Price: from €3.00
- Try: Lemon and other citrus, seasonal fruit
- Pair with sightseeing: Cool down after the Accademia Gallery.
Basics
- Address: Via Ricasoli, 60/R, 50122 Firenze
- Hours: 12:00–18:45
- Closed: Monday
- Instagram: @carabeofficial
- Access: 1 minute’s walk south of the Accademia
3. Perché no!
A 1939 classic that still draws a line. Great for mixed groups thanks to vegan and dairy-free options. Quality is consistent and the location is perfect for a quick stop between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria.
- Price: from €3.00
- Popular flavors: Sesame, Watermelon (seasonal)
- Pair with sightseeing: Before/after the Duomo or Giotto’s Campanile.
Basics
- Address: Via dei Tavolini, 19r, 50122 Firenze
- Hours: 12:00–19:30
- Closed: Tuesday
- Website/Instagram: none officially listed
- Access: 4 minutes south of the Duomo; 1 minute north of Piazza della Signoria
Open Perché no! in Google Maps
4. Gelateria La Carraia
Great value with riverside vibes. Since 1990, La Carraia has been known for generous portions and balanced flavors at friendly prices. Seating is limited, so grab-and-go and enjoy your cup by the Arno—pure Florence magic on a sunny day.
- Price: from €3.00
- Pair with sightseeing: Stroll the Arno or cross Ponte Vecchio and continue west.
Basics
- Address: Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25/r, 50124 Firenze
- Hours: 11:00–00:00 (to 22:00 in winter)
- Closed: not listed
- Website: gelaterialacarraia.it
- Access: 4 minutes’ walk west of Ponte Santa Trinita
Open La Carraia in Google Maps
5. La Strega Nocciola
Modern favorite with multiple locations (since 2004). Offers lactose-free and vegan choices. As the name suggests (nocciola = hazelnut), their hazelnut is outstanding—and the lavender flavor is a fun curveball. Another shop that keeps gelato covered in pozzetti—always a plus.
- Price: from €3.50
- Popular flavors: Hazelnut, Lavender
- Pair with sightseeing: Perfect before/after the Duomo and Giotto’s Campanile.
Basics
- Address: Via Ricasoli, 16R, 50122 Firenze
- Hours: 11:00–23:00 (Sun/Mon until 20:00)
- Closed: irregular
- Website: lastreganocciola.it
- Access: 2 minutes’ walk north of the Duomo
Open La Strega Nocciola (Duomo) in Google Maps
Wrap-up
Florence has far more gelaterie than we could ever fit in one article. Each spot has its own personality, so snack between sights and taste around—fruit sorbetti on hot afternoons and rich nutty flavors in the evening are a perfect combo.
If you’re planning what else to eat in Florence, don’t miss our round-up of must-try foods in the city:
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Grazie for reading—and happy scooping!