Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is popular for its rich history as much as for its delicious gelato. While Bernardo Buontalenti is the legendary figure credited with creating this much-loved frozen dessert, his legacy survives in the many gelaterie dotting the city’s piazzas and streets. Here are the spots that serve the best ice cream in Florence (or the best gelato).
Italy is all about its gelato, in my humble opinion! I’ve created this list so that there’s no need to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of places you may come across!
Vivoli
Located in the historic center of Florence, a few steps away from Basilica of Santa Croce (unmissable!) , is the oldest gelato shop in the city. No tour of Florence’s gelato places is complete without a visit to Vivoli.
Serving Florentines since 1929, their neon sign and old-school interiors continue to be mainstays. Don’t bother asking for a cone here; they say it detracts from the gelato flavor, so they only have cups. They use only natural ingredients to produce the ice cream daily in the laboratory adjacent to their business and with carefully selected products.
Vivoli continues to serve good old-fashioned, classic, and creamy gelato that made them popular decades ago. Look out for flavors like Saffron, Lime and Mint, Amarena, and the Florentine-y Zabaione (similar to eggnog). Plus Meringue – which is my fav here!
Other items they offer include cookies, rice puddings, tarts, and traditional Florentine frozen desserts like Marengo (puff pastry, house-made meringues, and sponge cake) and their run-away hit, the Affogato!
- Vivoli, Via Isolla delle Stinche, 7r, 50122
Gelateria La Carraia
Rightly earning its place in the best gelato places, this gelateria is named in honor of Ponte alla Carraia, the city’s second-oldest bridge that it’s located next to.
One among the many flavors that’ll blow your mind here is Delizia Carraia (with white chocolate pieces and pistachio sauce dribble). There’s also Biscottini, Salted Peanuts, Cantuccino (cream with Tuscan Biscotti), and Marmo di Carraia.
Grab your gelato cones and wander onto the bridge to view the Arno River while relishing your frozen treat; it’s a sight to behold.
They also have a second location on Via dei Benci close to Piazza Santa Croce but with a limited selection.
- Gelateria La Carraia, Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25/r, 50124
Perchè No?
A small shop that sells artisan ice cream, Perchè No is a family-run gelateria located smack dab in the center of Florence, making it perfect for grabbing some great gelato, especially during the summer months. Expect a long line, though.
They’re known for the truly special flavors they’ve been whipping since 1939. Some popular seasonal flavors include Pomegranate, Persimmon, Lavender, and Rose. Then, there’s my all-time personal favorite – their After Eight. Other fruit flavors made at this small gelateria using only seasonal fruit include Mango and Lemon.
They also have a daily special taste of the day. On Mondays, there’s Rose, Pine Nuts, and English Trifle; on other days of the week, there’s Matcha Green Tea, Apple Pie, Cheesecake, and Ginger.
If you find yourself walking around the city center between Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza Signoria and wondering whether you should indulge in gelato, “Perchè No?” (translates to Why Not?).
- Perche No?, Via dei Tavolini, 19r, 50122
Cantina del Gelato
Enjoy the views of the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Vasari Corridor while enjoying natural, artisan-made ice cream at Cantina del Gelato (the cellar of gelato).
The traditional flavors include Tahiti Vanilla, Coffee, Bronte Pistachio, and Dark Chocolate. As for the delicious fruit flavors, ask for Turmeric with Fig or Acai Berry; you can also blend these into smoothies.
Other sumptuous flavors include Peanut Butter, Whiskey and Cinnamon, Mascarpone and Nutella, and Gorgonzola and Walnuts. The star flavor is the Taste of the Cellar (hazelnut base with Nutella and caramelized almonds).
Their second location is on Borgo La Croce near Piazza Beccaria.
- Cantina del Gelato, Via de’ Bardi, 31, 50125
Edoardo
Organic ice cream with a view of the Duomo is what you’ll be treated with at this gelato spot. Not only do they use natural, fresh ingredients, but they’re also certified Biologico (organic), which is a big deal here in Italy. They offer organic and vegan flavors and ice creams for celiacs.
Stop by this tiny gelateria after climbing the Duomo’s dome. You’ll be wowed with their different flavors that are interesting and quirky. Their sorbets are made with fresh, seasonal fruit; surprisingly, even the fruit’s peel is included in the ice cream-making process, which lends an excellent flavor and fiber.
Some must-try flavors include Zabaione di Nonna Antonietta (with fresh eggs, sugar, milk, and Passito white wine) and Gianduja Secondo Edoardo (with hazelnuts and incredibly creamy chocolate).
- Gelateria Edoardo, Piazza del Duomo, 45/R, 50122
Gelateria Santa Trinita
Located at the foot of the Santa Trinita Bridge, this charming gelateria offers stunning views of the Arno River alongside its artisanal gelato. Known for its rich and creamy textures, Santa Trinita specializes in traditional flavors like pistachio and stracciatella, but also delights with unique offerings such as sesame and matcha.
The gelato here is made with high-quality ingredients, free of artificial additives, ensuring a pure and authentic taste. The shop’s spacious interior provides a comfortable spot to savor your scoop, but many opt to enjoy their treat while strolling across the historic bridge, making for a quintessential Florentine experience.
- Gelateria Santa Trinita, Piazza de’ Frescobaldi, 11/red
Gelateria dei Neri
A favorite among both locals and tourists, Gelateria dei Neri is celebrated for its bold flavors and generous portions. The texture of the gelato is luxuriously smooth, and standout flavors include ricotta and fig, salted caramel, and their decadent chocolate varieties.
Situated on a bustling side street near the Uffizi Gallery, this gelateria often has a line out the door, a testament to its popularity. Despite the crowds, service is quick and friendly, ensuring that every customer gets a taste of some of the best gelato Florence has to offer.
- Gelateria dei Neri, Via del Neri, 9/11R
Il Procopio
Tucked away from the busiest tourist areas, Il Procopio is a hidden gem known for its creative and indulgent gelato flavors. Their signature “Procopio” flavor, a rich mix of Sicilian almonds, candied orange, and chocolate, is a must-try.
The gelateria takes pride in using top-tier ingredients, and it shows in the depth of flavor and silky consistency of their gelato. Whether you’re craving something fruity like mango and passion fruit or a nutty classic like hazelnut, Il Procopio delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
- Il Procopio, Via Pietrapiana, 60R
Gelateria della Passera
This tiny yet beloved gelateria is tucked into the charming Piazza della Passera, offering a selection of handcrafted flavors made in small batches. Despite its size, Gelateria della Passera is big on quality, using fresh, natural ingredients to create intensely flavored gelato.
Their seasonal flavors keep customers coming back, with options like fig and honey or saffron-infused cream adding a unique twist to the traditional lineup. It’s the perfect stop for those exploring the artisan-filled streets of the Oltrarno district.
- Gelateria della Passera, Via Toscanella, 15/red
Gelateria Badiani
Badiani is legendary for its “Buontalenti” flavor, a tribute to the Florentine architect Bernardo Buontalenti, who is often credited with inventing gelato. This rich, custard-like creation made with eggs, cream, and sugar is a local favorite and a must-try for any gelato enthusiast.
Beyond its famous signature flavor, Badiani offers an excellent selection of classic and inventive options, all made with top-quality ingredients. Located slightly outside the tourist-heavy center, it’s a destination worth seeking out for those in search of authentic, award-winning gelato.
- Gelateria Badiani, Viale dei Mille, 20/r
Grom
Grom has gained international recognition for its commitment to all-natural ingredients, and its Florence location upholds the brand’s high standards. Their gelato is made without artificial flavors or preservatives, focusing on simplicity and quality.
Classic flavors like pistachio, stracciatella, and dark chocolate shine due to the use of carefully sourced ingredients. Though now a global chain, Grom’s Florence shop maintains a charming atmosphere, conveniently located near the Duomo for a refreshing break while sightseeing.
- Grom, Via del Campanile, 2
Gelateria de Medici
With two locations in Florence, Gelateria de’ Medici is known for its sophisticated flavors and luxurious texture. Their creations include unique combinations such as pear and caramel or walnut with honey, alongside well-executed classics.
Their gelato is dense and intensely flavored, a testament to their dedication to traditional Italian techniques. A little off the beaten path, this gelateria rewards those who seek it out with some of the most refined gelato in the city.
- Gelateria de Medici, Via dello Statuto, 3/5r & Piazza Cesare Beccaria, 7R
Gelateria La Sorbettiera
Located in the less touristy San Frediano district, La Sorbettiera is a small but mighty gelateria that has developed a cult following. The shop’s philosophy is simple: use the best raw ingredients to make small-batch, high-quality gelato.
Their fruit sorbets, made with seasonal produce, are particularly refreshing, while their rich, creamy options like fior di latte and hazelnut are equally exceptional. It’s a true local favorite and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Florence beyond the usual tourist spots.
- Gelateria La Sorbettiera, Piazza Torquato Tasso, 11r
La Strega Nocciola
La Strega Nocciola, or “The Hazelnut Witch,” specializes in smooth, natural gelato made with top-quality ingredients. Their hazelnut gelato is a standout, perfectly creamy and packed with nutty flavor.
With locations near the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, it’s a convenient and delicious stop for visitors exploring Florence’s historic center. Their commitment to organic ingredients and traditional techniques ensures an authentic and satisfying gelato experience.
- La Strega Nocciola, Via Ricasoli, 16R & Via de’ Bardi, 51/r
The fact that Florence is the birthplace of gelato is a sufficiently good reason to go gelato hopping here. Good gelato is always a stone’s throw away in Florence. And if you’re a gelato lover, you’ll be bowled over by the city’s unique flavors. Once you’re done with this list, you’ll be leaving with not one but many favorite gelato shops.
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