Florence offers several historic and renowned markets where you can buy fresh, high-quality meat. Here are the best markets in the city for shopping:
- Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo
Description: Located in the heart of Florence, the Mercato Centrale is one of the most famous and popular markets. The ground floor is dedicated to traditional food stalls, including butchers offering fresh, top-quality meat. You’ll find beef, pork, poultry, and typical Tuscan cured meats.
Specialties: Fiorentina steak, pork, wild boar, and typical Tuscan meats.
Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. - Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio
Description: This market is less touristy and more frequented by locals, maintaining an authentic atmosphere. Here, you’ll find several fresh meat stalls offering products from local farms. It’s an excellent place to buy high-quality meats at competitive prices.
Specialties: Beef, pork, lamb, and poultry, as well as regional products like Tuscan cured meats and prosciutto.
Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. - Mercato delle Cascine
Description: This is the largest open-air market in Florence, located in the Cascine Park. While the market is mainly known for selling clothing and household items, you can also find food stalls, including some butchers selling fresh meat.
Specialties: Veal, poultry, and pork.
Hours: Open every Tuesday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. - Mercato di San Frediano
Description: Located in the Oltrarno neighborhood, this is one of the most authentic markets in Florence. Although it’s smaller compared to other markets, it offers high-quality local products, including fresh meat.
Specialties: Beef, pork, and poultry, often from Tuscan farms.
Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. - Neighborhood Butcher Shops
Florence is home to numerous neighborhood butcher shops, many of which source their products from small local farms. Some of the most famous include:
- Macelleria Falorni: Located in the city center, it’s one of the oldest and most renowned for quality Tuscan meat.
- Macelleria Ricciardi: In the Sant’Ambrogio area, it offers fresh meats and high-quality cured meats.
In all these markets, you’ll find top-quality fresh meat, with a particular focus on local Tuscan products.
