Florence Free Tour
Florence Free Tour
Florence Free Tour

If you’re wandering through the Renaissance streets of Florence with a craving for something sweet, there’s no better treat than authentic Italian gelato. But with so many shops vying for your attention, how can you tell the tourist traps from the true artisan gelaterias? In this guide to Florence’s Finest Gelato Spots, we’ll share five top picks that locals love and visitors rave about.

1. Gelateria dei Neri

📍 Via dei Neri, 20/22R
Located just steps from the Uffizi Gallery, Gelateria dei Neri is a local favorite with an ever-changing menu of seasonal and classic flavors. Their pistachio and ricotta-fig combinations are standouts. The shop uses high-quality ingredients and no artificial additives, making each scoop rich and authentic.

Why go: Great location, local vibe, real ingredients.
Pro tip: Try the sesame or pear-caramel if they’re available.

2. La Carraia

📍 Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25R
Just across the Arno River, La Carraia offers creamy, affordable gelato with generous portions. It’s one of the best-value options in Florence without compromising quality. Popular with students and locals, this is a must-stop if you’re exploring the Oltrarno district.

Must-try: Cheesecake and dark chocolate.


Craving Something Unique?

Not all gelato is created equal, and if you’re hunting for bold, unconventional flavors, these next spots won’t disappoint.


3. My Sugar

📍 Via de’ Ginori, 49R
Tucked away near the San Lorenzo Market, My Sugar is a small, family-run shop that won the Gelato Festival in 2016. Their creations include combinations like honey-lavender and matcha-ginger, appealing to adventurous palates.

Insider tip: Ask for a taste before choosing—staff are super friendly.

4. Gelateria Santa Trinita

📍 Piazza de’ Frescobaldi, 11-12R
With a gorgeous view of Ponte Santa Trinita, this place combines great gelato with one of the best spots to sit and savor. Gelateria Santa Trinita is known for rich, velvety textures and unique flavors like black sesame and rose.

What to try: “Santa Trinita” house flavor – a mix of ricotta, fig, and caramelized almonds.


5. Perché No!…

📍 Via dei Tavolini, 19R
Since 1939, Perché No! (“Why not!”) has been churning small-batch gelato in the heart of Florence. Their use of fresh ingredients and traditional methods make this a timeless pick. Look for their soy-based options and seasonal fruit sorbets.

Don’t miss: The saffron-pine nut or lemon-basil sorbet in summer.


Plan Your Sweet Adventure

As you explore Florence’s Finest Gelato Spots, keep in mind:

  • Go early or late: Midday lines can be long.
  • Ask for samples: Most shops are happy to let you try before you buy.
  • Look for signs of quality: Covered metal tubs (called pozzetti) and muted colors often indicate more authentic gelato.

For more travel tips and foodie favorites, visit Visit Florence’s Food Guide.


Conclusion

When it comes to indulging in the best of Italian sweets, Florence’s Finest Gelato Spots never disappoint. From riverside views to award-winning flavors, each gelateria on this list promises a taste of Florentine excellence. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth visit to Florence, treat yourself to the city’s creamiest, dreamiest delight—gelato done right.