Eat and Go: The Florentine 3-Hour Street Food Tour

The Eat and Go: The Florentine 3-Hour Street Food Tour offers an authentic taste of Florence’s culinary traditions in a short, engaging experience. Priced at $103.12 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to explore Florence’s vibrant food scene with a knowledgeable guide and limited to 10 participants to ensure personalized attention. The tour departs at 11:00 am from Piazza di San Firenze and lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect choice for a mid-morning culinary adventure.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on regional specialties and small-group format, which allows for more interaction with the guide and a relaxed pace. The journey includes four distinct stops featuring local dishes like schiacciata, ribollita, lampredotto, and cantuccini, paired with two wines and soft drinks. A highlight for many is the visit to Piazza della Signoria and Piazza di San Lorenzo, combined with a stroll through Mercato Centrale for a sweet ending. While the tour is accessible most, it is ideal for those interested in food, history, and local culture in an intimate setting.

Key Points

• Price of $103.12 per person for a 3-hour guided street food experience in Florence
• Limited to only 10 participants for a more personal guide interaction
• Features four stops at historic locations, markets, and local eateries
• Includes taste of Tuscan specialties like schiacciata, ribollita, lampredotto, and cantuccini with two wines
• Tour ends at Mercato Centrale, offering an opportunity for further exploration
• Easy to book with mobile tickets and most travelers can participate

Exploring Florence’s Historic Center Through Food

The tour starts at Piazza di San Firenze, where the guide introduces the day’s culinary journey. This central location offers a scenic backdrop and sets the tone for exploring Florence’s culinary heritage. After a brief introduction, the tour moves to the nearby Piazza della Signoria, a historic square renowned for its statues and architecture. Here, participants enjoy a taste of Tuscan “schiacciata,” a simple yet delicious flatbread, served at a well-known local spot. The admission ticket is included, ensuring a smooth experience.

The first stop encapsulates Florence’s rich food traditions with fresh flatbread and cold cuts. The guide shares insights into Tuscan ingredients and cooking styles, making this first taste both satisfying and educational. The location’s lively atmosphere offers a prime chance to grasp Florence’s vibrant street life while savoring authentic flavors.

Discovering Ribollita in Via dei Calzaiuoli

Next, the tour heads to Via dei Calzaiuoli, a bustling street connecting major historic landmarks. Here, a bowl of Ribollita is served—a hearty bread and vegetable soup traditionally enjoyed during winter but beloved year-round. The guide explains how this Tuscan staple has been part of Florence’s daily life for generations. This stop lasts 30 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the delicious soup and chat about local food customs.

The admission ticket is included, and the guide offers context about how Ribollita reflects the region’s agricultural roots. The dish’s warming qualities make it a perfect comfort food, and the tour offers tips on where locals often enjoy it.

Tasting Lampredotto and Wine in Piazza di San Lorenzo

The third stop takes participants into Piazza di San Lorenzo, a site rich in history and local flavor. Here, the guide shares historical tidbits about Florence while leading to a famous spot for Lampredotto, a traditional Florentine tripe sandwich. This unique delicacy is paired with a glass of Tuscan wine, offering a perfect combination of savory and refreshing.

This part of the tour lasts an hour, allowing enough time to sample the lampredotto and enjoy the informative narration about Florence’s culinary history. The admission ticket is included, and participants get to experience a local specialty that’s both beloved by residents and a must-try for visitors.

Market Visit and Sweet Finale at Mercato Centrale

The tour culminates outside Mercato Centrale, Florence’s iconic market, where the group enjoys Cantuccini cookies and Vin Santo. This 30-minute stop provides a sweet ending to the food adventure. The free admission invites a leisurely moment to explore the market stalls and perhaps pick up souvenirs or additional snacks.

Along With tasting the famously crunchy cantuccini dipped in Vin Santo, travelers gain an understanding of local artisan products. The market’s bustling atmosphere adds an authentic touch, making it a memorable conclusion to the day’s culinary walk.

The Logistics and Group Experience

The meeting point at Piazza di San Firenze is conveniently located near public transportation, easing access for most visitors. The small group size of only 10 people guarantees personalized guidance and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The tour ends back at the starting point, but the location is ideal for further exploration of Florence’s historic sights or additional market visits.

The timing at 11:00 am provides a relaxed morning, and the duration of about 3 hours strikes a good balance between tasting and sightseeing. Guests should note that minors under 18 cannot consume alcohol, but soft drinks are available for younger participants.

Overall Value and Suitability

At just over $100 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Florence’s regional foods and historic ambiance. The inclusion of multiple food and drink stops, market visits, and small-group interaction makes it an attractive choice for foodies and curious travelers alike. The high rating of 5.0/5 and the positive review underscore its quality.

While it’s ideal for those interested in local specialties, history, and casual strolling, it’s also suited for visitors who prefer a relaxed pace in a small-group setting. Since it requires most travelers to participate, those with mobility issues should inquire further.

Frequent Questions About the Florentine Street Food Tour

What is included in the price?
The tour covers four food stops featuring Schiacciata, Ribollita, Lampredotto, and Cantuccini, as well as two alcoholic beverages (a glass of Tuscan wine and Vin Santo) and water or soft drinks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza di San Firenze at 11:00 am and concludes at the same location, allowing for easy continuation of sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate, but minors under 18 are not permitted to consume alcohol. Soft drinks are provided for them.

How many stops are there?
There are four stops at key locations: Piazza della Signoria, Via dei Calzaiuoli, Piazza di San Lorenzo, and Mercato Centrale.

Are tickets included?
Yes, all admission tickets for the stops are included in the price.

Can I explore further after the tour?
Yes, since the tour ends at SantAmbrogio Market, you can explore additional market stalls or nearby sights.

What is the guide’s style?
Guides provide insights into Florence’s history and local food traditions, ensuring an informative and friendly experience.

How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 10 travelers to maintain a personalized atmosphere.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available if canceled earlier.

This small-group street food tour combines delicious local dishes, historic sights, and market visits. It’s a practical way to taste Florence’s regional flavors, especially for those who want a guided, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for questions. The highly praised guide and well-curated stops make this a reliable choice for uncovering Florence’s culinary soul.