Florence is a city that feels like an open-air museum—every street corner whispers of Renaissance brilliance, from Michelangelo’s David to Brunelleschi’s dome. But let’s be honest: while your eyes feast on the art, your stomach will eventually want a feast of its own. If you’re anything like most travelers, after spending on flights, accommodation, and perhaps even a day trip or two (like a Pompeii day trip from Rome), you’ll want to keep your meals delicious yet affordable. That’s where knowing the best places to eat in Florence Italy on a budget becomes priceless.
Florence is brimming with trattorias, osterias, pizzerias, and markets where authentic Tuscan flavors meet wallet-friendly prices. Whether you’re craving a plate of pasta drenched in rich ragu, a perfectly crisp pizza, or a quick panino stuffed with local cured meats, you’ll find options that won’t break the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore the top places to eat in Florence Italy that keep both your taste buds and your budget happy.
Places to Eat in Florence Italy
Table of contents
- Places to Eat in Florence Italy
- 2. Authentic Trattorias Without the Tourist Price Tag
- 3. Panini Shops – Quick, Cheap, and Delicious
- 4. Pizza and Pasta Spots That Won’t Break the Bank
- 5. Street Food in Florence – Cheap and Authentic
- 6. Gelato – Sweet Treats Without the Guilt (or Price Tag)
- Making the Most of Your Budget in Florence
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1. Florence’s Beloved Food Markets
When exploring places to eat in Florence Italy, the city’s vibrant food markets are a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. The most famous is Mercato Centrale, where the ground floor showcases fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and baked goods. Upstairs, you’ll find a buzzing food court with everything from handmade pasta to artisanal pizza, all at reasonable prices.
Another great stop is Sant’Ambrogio Market, less crowded and more local. Here you can grab a quick panino with prosciutto, pick up fresh fruit, or enjoy a sit-down meal in one of the market’s small eateries. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also gives you a glimpse into daily Florentine life.
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2. Authentic Trattorias Without the Tourist Price Tag
The best places to eat in Florence Italy often hide in plain sight—small, family-run trattorias tucked away on side streets. Trattoria Mario, for example, has been serving locals and travelers for decades with hearty Tuscan classics at affordable prices. Their ribollita (a Tuscan bread and vegetable soup) is filling, flavorful, and kind to your budget.
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Another hidden gem is Trattoria da Rocco, located inside Sant’Ambrogio Market. With daily specials under €10, you’ll find rustic dishes like pasta al pomodoro, roast chicken, and hearty soups—all made with seasonal ingredients. These spots give you not just a meal, but an authentic slice of Florence.
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3. Panini Shops – Quick, Cheap, and Delicious
Sometimes, the best way to explore Florence is with food in hand. The legendary All’Antico Vinaio is one of the most famous panini shops in the world, known for giant sandwiches stuffed with Tuscan cured meats, cheeses, and truffle spreads. Prices hover around €5–€7 per sandwich, and one is enough for two if you’re not starving.
Other excellent panini shops include I Fratellini, where you’ll find over 30 varieties of panini paired with a glass of house wine—perfect for a budget-friendly snack while strolling near the Duomo. Panini shops are among the most iconic places to eat in Florence Italy on a budget, especially for travelers on the go.
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4. Pizza and Pasta Spots That Won’t Break the Bank
No trip to Florence is complete without pizza and pasta, and luckily, budget travelers don’t have to compromise on quality. At Pizzeria Da Gherardo, you’ll enjoy wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza at affordable prices. Pasta fans should head to Osteria All’Antico Ristoro di Cambi, where dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) are generous, flavorful, and reasonably priced.
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And if you’re taking inspiration from other Italian adventures—like exploring things to do in Bologna or even following a Sardinia itinerary—you’ll notice that pizza and pasta culture is deeply rooted everywhere in Italy. Florence, however, brings a unique Tuscan twist to these classics.
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5. Street Food in Florence – Cheap and Authentic
One of the most underrated places to eat in Florence Italy is the street food stalls. Florence has its own street food specialty: lampredotto, a slow-cooked tripe sandwich served with salsa verde and spicy sauce. Don’t let the ingredients scare you—locals swear by it, and it costs just a few euros.
You’ll find lampredotto stands around the city, often surrounded by locals grabbing a quick bite. Pair it with a small glass of wine, and you’ve just had a true Florentine experience for the price of a coffee in a touristy café.
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6. Gelato – Sweet Treats Without the Guilt (or Price Tag)
When hunting for places to eat in Florence Italy on a budget, don’t overlook gelato. Authentic gelato shops like Gelateria dei Neri or La Carraia serve creamy scoops starting at just a couple of euros. Pro tip: avoid gelato shops with giant neon signs or brightly colored mounds stacked high—they’re usually tourist traps. The best gelato in Florence is freshly made, stored in covered metal containers, and tastes as authentic as the city itself.
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Making the Most of Your Budget in Florence
Florence is not just about food—it’s a gateway to discovering more of Italy. If you’re extending your travels, you might check out hotels near the Trevi Fountain in Rome for a stop in the capital, or craft a cultural escape with a Palermo itinerary. To dive even deeper into the country’s treasures, this full guide on things to do in Italy offers inspiration from north to south.
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Places to Eat in Florence Italy on a Budget: In Conclusion
Florence may be one of Italy’s most visited cities, but that doesn’t mean dining here has to empty your wallet. From lively markets and hidden trattorias to famous panini shops, street food stalls, and authentic gelato stands, there are countless places to eat in Florence Italy on a budget without sacrificing taste or experience.
Eating well in Florence is about more than food—it’s about immersing yourself in Tuscan culture, savoring flavors passed down through generations, and discovering that some of the best meals in Italy come at the simplest price. So next time you find yourself wandering past the Duomo or across Ponte Vecchio, know that your next affordable feast is just around the corner.