If you’re visiting Florence, you absolutely must try as much Gelato as you possibly can (yes even if it’s winter). It is the birthplace of this delicious treat after all.
Gelato, which literally means “frozen” was created right here in Florence in the 16th century. It’s not entirely proven who thought up this tasty sweet but Bernardo Buontalenti is credited with presenting it to the court of Catherina dei Medici and it became wildly popular quickly after.
Ice cream lovers may be wondering what all the fuss is about, but if you ask any Italian they will quickly inform you that the two frozen deserts are in fact very different.
Gelato is made more slowly and with less butterfat but more sugar than ice cream. By churning slowly, it reduces the amount of air that is incorporated into the desert, producing a more rich flavor.
Now since you came here for Florence travel tips, let’s get into it! In the list below I’ve included everything from the oldest to the most authentic gelato in Florence to help you pick.
1. Gelateria dei Neri
Location: Via dei Neri, 9/11R
Super popular amongst locals and tourists alike, Gelateria dei Neri serves up a huge range of flavors from the more classic fruits, all the way to berry cheesecake and beyond. Note that the lines may be long because of it’s prime location but there is also a small section of indoor seating.
In summer they also have granitas (frozen flavored ice snacks) and semifreddo which are a type of frozen custard if you are looking to try something a little different.
2. Perchè No
Location: Via dei Tavolini, 19r
Founded in 1939, this family-run shop is one of the oldest gelatos in Florence. While the building itself is not particularly exciting, you don’t come here for the decor.
The huge gelato counter takes pride of place at Perche No (translates to “why not?”) and all of their delicious flavors are handmade every day using seasonal ingredients. Since they were founded before modern refrigeration was readily available, they also boast a range of semifreddo desserts.
3. Gelateria Pasticceria Badiani
Location: Viale dei Mille, 20/r
If you’re looking for the most authentic gelato in Florence, you’ve come to the right place. Florence held a competition In 1979 to see who could best recreate the original gelato recipe and Gelateria Pasticceria Badiani was awarded the winner. Try their creamy Buontalenti flavor that was named after the creator!
Aside from a large range of fresh Gelato, this spot also offers pastries and cakes baked daily to really satisfy any sweet tooth.
4. Gelateria Della Passera
Location: Via Toscanella, 15/red
While this hole-in-the-wall place doesn’t have as huge of a selection as some of the others on this list, its rotation of flavors includes some incredibly delicious and unique options, plus its location in Piazza della Passera is very picturesque.
Another reason this cute gelateria should be on your list is the affordable prices, you can get twice as much for the same price as you would pay at a larger establishment.
5. La Sorbettiera
Location: Via Mazzetta, 9/a and Piazza Torquato Tasso, 11r
The owner of La Sorbettiera is fully hands-on at this great shop with two locations and his passion for creating this delicious dessert can be tasted in the product.
With innovative flavors blending old and new, while pushing the boundaries of what many people would consider normal for this sweet treat, it’s no surprise that there is often a line of locals waiting for dessert each night.
6. Venchi
Location: Via Calimaruzza, 2-4, Via dei Calzaiuoli & Piazza della Stazione, 18
While Venchi is well known for being a deluxe chocolate brand in Italy, they also serve gelato! With many locations throughout the city, the shops themselves are a site to see with huge chocolate walls and colorful displays.
Of course, being first a chocolate shop, you simply must pick one of the many delicious chocolate-flavored gelatos here!
7. Gelateria Pasco
Location: P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 16r
While Gelateria Pasco doesn’t make it onto everyone’s list, this cute little shop is a great place for Vegans looking for delicious gelato. With many different vegan and nonvegan flavors to choose from, you can’t go wrong at Gelateria Pasco.
What’s more, you’ll enjoy great prices and friendly service in a very central location, what’s not to like?
8. Vivoli
Location: Via Isola delle Stinche, 7r
Officially the oldest gelato in Florence, Vivoli goes all the way back to 1929 and its attention to detail can be seen in everything from the handmade tiles, beautiful wooden decor, and artisanal gelatos.
Everything bar the pistachios and hazelnuts is made or grown by the owners themselves and their flavors are crafted with all-natural ingredients so you can be assured you’re eating nothing but the best here.
They also offer a number of additional Florentine desserts and sweet treats so you can try something new every day of the week!