Outdoor markets in Florence are a vital part of the city’s daily life and culture. In an article a few weeks ago, I talked about the two most historic and well-known markets in Florence.
However, I have been asked to also discuss the other markets, which are equally interesting though less known. For centuries, these markets have offered a wide variety of fresh, local, and artisanal products, becoming places of meeting and exchange for residents and visitors. From traditional markets like the Fierucola and the Mercato delle Cascine to the neighborhood markets of various districts, there is a wide range of options to explore and discover the best of Tuscan cuisine and local crafts. Each market has its own history, unique atmosphere, and distinctive selection of products, offering an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who visit them.

Cascine Market

The Mercato delle Cascine in Florence is truly something unique in the Florentine panorama. I would say it is a fascinating and picturesque institution that takes place every Tuesday morning in the vast Cascine Park, located along the Arno River. This open-air market is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of the city and discover a wide range of fresh, artisanal, and traditional products. The history of the Mercato delle Cascine dates back to the 19th century when Grand Duke Leopold II of Tuscany decided to transform the Cascine estate into a public park accessible to all citizens. Along with the park, a weekly market was established, which soon became a regular event for the inhabitants of Florence and visitors.
So, the most important feature of the Mercato delle Cascine is that it is located in a magnificent park!
Every Tuesday morning, the park comes alive with colorful stalls and street vendors, offering a wide selection of fresh products, from fruits and vegetables to cheese and freshly baked bread. But the main feature of the Mercato delle Cascine is shopping. Here, you can really find everything. From stalls selling everything needed for the home and clothing to stalls where you need to search through piles to find the deal of a lifetime!
It’s a really fun and enjoyable experience and especially popular with locals.

Fierucola Market in piazza Santo Spirito

The Mercato della Fierucola has its roots in Florence’s medieval past when the “fierucola” were small fairs that took place periodically in the city’s squares. At that time, the market was the main place for exchanging goods, where local farmers and artisans sold their products directly to the public.
In 1984, Giannozzo Pucci (from the same family as Emilio Pucci, who was among the founders of made in Italy fashion), a Florentine intellectual, driven by the need to reconnect citizens with the agricultural tradition of the rich surrounding territory, founded the association and created the first farmers’ market for small producers in Italy. Initially, it was the Fierucola del Pane and took place in Piazza Santissima Annunziata. Now it is held in Piazza Santo Spirito, in the heart of the Oltrarno. The Fierucola has become an established tradition, continuing to be held regularly and representing an important moment in the life of the city.

The Mercato della Fierucola is therefore the market for TRUE local craftsmanship and where “zero kilometer” products are bought. So, it’s an old-style market that is still authentic and close to the local community. Among the colorful stalls and inviting scents, you can find a wide selection of fresh, seasonal products, directly from farmers and local producers in the region. From freshly picked fruits and vegetables to cheese, freshly baked bread, honey, and preserves, the market offers a variety of flavors and aromas that reflect the richness of Tuscan cuisine and the region’s biodiversity. In addition to the wide selection of food products, the Mercato della Fierucola also offers a variety of goods including clothing, accessories, art objects, and local crafts. Here you can find unique and original products, handmade by local artists and artisans, representing the best of Florentine and Tuscan tradition.
The Mercato della Fierucola is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to discover the true heart and soul of Florence. The Fierucola represents a centuries-old tradition that continues to live and thrive, keeping the city’s culture and traditions alive.

Antiques Market

This market is located in the garden of the Fortezza da Basso and is held only on the third Saturday and Sunday of the month. Here you can find all kinds of antique and vintage items like old vinyl records, furniture, coins, clothing, and costume jewelry.

Mercato delle Pulci – Flee market

This market is located in Piazza dei Ciompi, in the Santa Croce area, and is held only on the last Saturday and Sunday of the month. The Ciompi market is a Florentine institution, located in the Santa Croce district. In this market, the stalls change continuously depending on the weekend, so you can find creative crafts, clothing, handmade bags and accessories, comics, records, collectibles, and vintage curiosities. Originally born as a flea market in the 14th century, the Mercato dei Ciompi still retains its historical and authentic charm. Visiting this market is a fascinating experience where you can find hidden treasures and unique pieces of Florentine history. Surrounded by the lively energy of the neighborhood, the Ciompi market offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the past and discover the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and antiques.

Porcellino Market

The Mercato del Porcellino, located next to the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, is an icon of Florence. Here, among colorful stalls, you can find souvenirs, leather goods, jewelry, and craft items. The name comes from the famous statue of a boar (which the Florentines call “Porcellino” and which was once the market’s fountain) and if you rub its nose, it brings good luck. This market is a popular place for tourists looking for souvenirs and gifts at reasonable prices. It is a reduced version of the stalls of the San Lorenzo Market with very similar leather products.
Please note that right here, at the Porcellino, there is one of the best lampredotto sandwiches in Florence.

Neighborhood Markets

Finally, the Neighborhood Markets in the center and nearby areas