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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 06 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Nicky Swallow

For centuries, the Oltrarno neighbourhood south of the river has been known for its artisan workshops, originally established to furnish and decorate the grand palazzi that were built in the area by local aristocrats.

While bureaucracy and rising rents have forced many to re-locate, the narrow streets around Piazza Santo Spirito, Piazza della Passera and Borgo San Frediano are still home to cabinet makers, furniture restorers, picture framers, upholsterers, book-binders and so on.

It’s fun to wander and observe these master craftsmen and women at work; most are happy for you to go into their workshops and have a chat.

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Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 2-3 hours

Getting there & doing it

The best place to start is pretty Piazza della Passera (just southeast of Ponte Santa Trinita). From here, you can explore the narrow streets that radiate from the square and wander across Via Maggio and into Piazza Santo Spirito near which there are more workshops. Or sign up for a guided tour.

When to do it

Any time of the year is good although in winter, you’ll probably have the streets to yourself. Note that many of the workshops close in August and most close at lunchtime and on Sundays (some on Saturdays too) throughout the year.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Hotel Lungarno Florence

Florence, Tuscany, Italy[0.1 miles]

Set on the south bank of the Arno River, the Ferragamo-owned Lungarno is a central, stylish and luxurious place to be based for a stay in Florence.

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Hotel Continentale Florence

Florence, Tuscany, Italy[0.3 miles]

Cool, edgy Ferragamo-owned design hotel by the Ponte Vecchio in the heart of the city – the perfect base for sightseeing.

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Hotel Palazzo Guadagni

Florence, Tuscany, Italy[0.3 miles]

Set on lively Piazza Santo Spirito, this charming three-star hotel has bags of character in addition to modern facilities and services. The top-floor loggia is a magical spot for an aperitivo.

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Helvetia & Bristol

Florence, Tuscany, Italy[0.5 miles]

A historic hotel well-deserving of its five-star status, the Helvetia & Bristol enjoys a fabulously central location and offers sumptuous rooms, bags of atmosphere and top-notch service.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Tuscany

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The astonishingly beautiful region of Tuscany has it all: art cities and ancient hill towns, high mountains and long sandy beaches, alongside luxurious hotels and some of Italy’s best food and wine.

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