Taste of Florence Private Food and Wine Tour

The journey begins at the heart of Florence: Piazza de Signoria. You’ll pick up some schiacciata bread freshly out from the oven and wake up with some real Italian coffee as the locals do.

Passing by the city hall and the cathedral, you’ll arrive at the city’s beloved gastronomic center: Mercato Centrale (Central Market, or San Lorenzo Market). Forget about the upper-floor food court catering to tourists, the genuine local producers are hidden on the ground floor of the market. Your food expert will first take you to meet a passionate family who has been selling olive oil and balsamic vinegar for generations. You’ll sample some of their premium products artfully paired with local cheese and fruit.

After an optional lampredotto (tripe) tasting for the adventurous, rest your feet and have a seat at the local’s favorite osteria in the market. You’ll enjoy a warm welcome and some copious assortments of Florentine specialties, such as artichoke pickles, pici pasta, ribollita stew, cheese and salumi platter, paired with a glass of Chianti wine for each guest. Enjoy the convivial company as the guide explains to you the stories and culture behind these stars of local cuisine.

The savory meal is followed by an aromatic coffee and an ultra-fresh gelato. You’ll go back to the charming streets of Florence for a much needed stroll and search for the best handmade gelato. Besides a satisfied belly, you’ll end up with a list of great addresses in mind to explore or to come back again and again for the rest of your stay!