Mercato Centrale: A Culinary Haven in Florence
Discover the heart of Italian gastronomy at Mercato Centrale, Florence's vibrant market showcasing local flavors and culinary delights.
A brief summary to Mercato Centrale
- Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50123, IT
- +390552399798
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-12 am
- Tuesday 9 am-12 am
- Wednesday 9 am-12 am
- Thursday 9 am-12 am
- Friday 9 am-12 am
- Saturday 9 am-12 am
- Sunday 9 am-12 am
Mercato Centrale is not just a market; it's an experience that captures the essence of Florentine culture and cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Florence, this lively market is a haven for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Visitors can stroll through the two levels of the market, where the ground floor is dedicated to fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. Here, you can haggle with friendly vendors and sample the freshest ingredients that Tuscany has to offer. The upper floor is a bustling food court, home to a variety of eateries and stalls, each showcasing the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. From traditional pasta dishes to gourmet sandwiches and sweet pastries, the options are endless. Make sure to try the delectable lampredotto, a Florentine specialty made from tripe, or indulge in some authentic gelato for dessert. The atmosphere is electric, with the sounds of laughter and sizzling dishes filling the air, creating a true Italian ambiance. Besides food, Mercato Centrale hosts events and workshops that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the culinary arts. Whether you’re looking to take a cooking class or join a wine tasting, there’s always something happening at this vibrant market. It's a perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the local culture. With its fresh ingredients, diverse dining options, and lively atmosphere, Mercato Centrale is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Florence.
Local tips
- Visit during lunchtime for the best selection of freshly prepared meals.
- Don't miss the chance to try local specialties, especially the lampredotto sandwich.
- Bring cash for easier transactions at various stalls.
- Check the calendar for special events and cooking classes available at the market.
- Explore both floors for a complete experience of food shopping and dining.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from any location in Valdarno and navigate towards Florence (Firenze). The most common route is via the A1 motorway. From Valdarno, take the exit towards Firenze Sud or Firenze Nord depending on your starting point. Once you reach Florence, follow the signs for Centro Storico (Historic Center). You can park at various parking garages nearby, such as Garage delle Terme or Parcheggio Porta al Prato. After parking, it's a short walk to Mercato Centrale, located at Piazza del Mercato Centrale.
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Train
For those using public transportation, take a regional train from Valdarno to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station. Trains run frequently, and the journey typically takes about 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at SMN, exit the station and walk towards Via Nazionale. Continue straight until you reach Piazza del Mercato Centrale. The market is just a short 10-minute walk from the train station.
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Bus
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Valdarno to Florence. Check local bus schedules for routes that connect to Florence. The bus will drop you off at a central location, from where you can either walk or take a taxi to Mercato Centrale. The market is approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from the bus station, located in the city center.
Attractions Nearby to Mercato Centrale
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Storico Mercato Centrale
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Movinflorence
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Piazza del Mercato Centrale
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L’antica pizzeria da Michele Firenze
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Towns of Italy - Cooking School - Florence
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Cappelle Medicee
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Sagrestia Nuova
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la piazza di Madonna
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Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini
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Opera Medicea Laurenziana
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Basilica di San Lorenzo
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Sagrestia Vecchia
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Laurentian Medici Library
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Palazzo Tolomei Garzoni
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Statue de Giovanni delle Bande Nere
Landmarks nearby to Mercato Centrale
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Bardi Chapel
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Tourist House Duomo
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The Florentine
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The Baptistery of St. John
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Chiostro Grande di Santa Maria Novella
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Giotto's Bell Tower
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Campanile di Giotto
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Piazza del Duomo
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Loggia del Bigallo
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Brunelleschi's dome
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Piazza San Marco
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Monumento a Manfredo Fanti
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San Marco Museum
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Opera del Duomo Museum