Hidden Oltrarno Tour:
Experiencing Florence’s Artisan Gems
Live like a local for a day in one of Florence’s most authentic quarters via hidden gems and unique handicrafts which define Florence's artisan legacy with skillful creations from paper, leather goods, water colors, metalworks to traditionally made jewelry.
You’ll experience everyday local rituals like getting espresso and breakfast sweets, breads from the forno (bakery), meeting traditional Florentine artisans in their independently workspaces, shopping the daily produce markets and ending with artisanal gelato (or optional wine tasting for private bookings). Great option for travelers with various food restrictions as more art-focused but are still curious for one of our curated experiences!
This 3 hour artisan workshop tour in Florence explores centuries-old techniques that are nearly disappeared in Florence, carried on by just a handful of family-makers left in Florence’s most reputable artisan districts. You’ll learn why Florence has a long-standing legacy and reputation for the hand-made arts.
The tour kicks off with espresso and fresh baked sweets, then a quick spin around the morning produce market to see what's in season before heading into various artisan shops including a demonstration at one of the stops. You'll meet the artisans and be given exclusive access to visit their production sites and learn how they are made.
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Spend the morning like a local exploring Florence’s key artisan quarters such as the bohemian Oltrarno (the other side of the Arno river) or lesser-sung corners for artisan workshops in Sant’Ambrogio & Santa Croce.
A taste of what you’ll discover and experience:
Min. 3 artisan stops s to understand Florence's hand-made legacy with paper marbling, jewelry, metal smithing, mosaics, art restoration and more
2 food stops (coffee/baked goods, gelato)
Optional add-on: wine tasting with Tuscan charcuterie pairings
Visit of a daily outdoor food market to taste what’s in season and savory flatbreads from local bakeries
Meet the makers of famed Florentine arts & crafts with exclusive appointments
Learn about Florence's key handicrafts crafts and their traditions
Excellent option for families traveling with kids, i.e. engaging demos led by the artisans with the option to add hands-on colorful paper marbling activities.
Duration: 3hrs Inclusions: All artisan visits (min. 3), min. 2 food stops (morning coffee and baked specialties), neighborhood walk and market stroll, gelato and specialized, bilingual expert guide.
Examples of artisans we visit: Metalworkers, jewelry makers, paper marbling, art restorers, scagliola and mosaic artists, docents of egg tempura Medieval painting and ceramic artisans.
Please note we have a variety of artisans to visit and appointments will rely on availability.This experience is apart of our private experience collection and is only available to book privately
We have the option to conduct the experience in either the Oltrarno or the Sant’Ambrogio/Santa Croce quarter. We will contact you at time of booking and/or inquiry to advise of options accordingly.
Optional upgrades: (at extra fee) add extra tasting stops (i.e. wine tastings) and/or artisan stops or focus on paper, jewelry, ceramics, bookbinding, metalworks, watercolors, art restoration, etc.
Not included: Travel insurance, transport, additional tastings and trip cancellation insurance. -
PRIVATE TOUR Cost (depends on group size): 1-2 guests = $275 pp, 3 guests = $205 pp, 4 guests = $175, 5-6 guests = $135 pp, Youth under 16: $30 discount (min. 2 adult ticket purchase required)
For private requests larger than 6, please inquire for a custom quote via “Request Additional Info” button
PRIVATE TOUR Days/Times: Monday-Friday at 10am (Afternoon slots available upon request)
For additional availability not listed, please send an inquiry via “Request Additional Info ” button below.
Optional upgrades: (at extra fee) Extra tasting stops (i.e. wine tastings) and/or artisan stops or focus on paper, jewelry, ceramics, bookbinding, metalworks, watercolors, art restoration, etc.
*Please note all pricing is in USD$
Additional Notes:
In order for us to curate this experience personally for your group, during the booking questionnaire please let us know your preferences, experience with artisan goods, etc in order to personalized accordingly.
If you have mobility considerations: bear in mind there is light walking involved, some stairs with short ceilings for workshop cellar visits, tight sidewalks and uneven cobblestone surfaces.
If you would like to start later or earlier than the times listed, please make a note while purchasing tickets.
