Best Gelato
in Florence

Verdict: Widely considered one of the best in the city for its silky textures. Their signature "Santa Trinita" flavor (mascarpone with hazelnut chocolate) is legendary. Their Black Sesame and Ricotta & Fig are also highly recommended. The view from the bridge with your gelato is one of the best in Florence. — Oltrarno

Queue: Directly across the bridge from the historic center.

Go: Sunset; grab a cone and walk 10 steps to the Ponte Santa Trinita bridge.

Price: $

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Verdict: Established in 1929, Vivoli is the oldest gelateria in Florence. They are famous for a strict "no cones" policy—only cups are served to ensure the focus remains entirely on the quality of the gelato. Their vanilla and crema are the stuff of legend, but they are most famous for their "Affogato"—gelato "drowned" in a perfect shot of espresso. — Santa Croce

Queue: Tucked into a side street near Santa Croce.

Go: Morning or early afternoon; it’s a historic pilgrimage site.

Price: $

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Verdict: Badiani is the birthplace of the "Buontalenti" flavor. While many shops now serve a version of this cream-based flavor, the Badiani family created the original for a 1960s competition. It is rich, dense, and the ultimate expression of Florentine gelato history. They now have smaller outlets in the center, but the Viale dei Mille shop is the historic heart. — Campo di Marte

Queue: Outside the historic center toward the stadium.

Go: Afternoon; it’s a bit of a trek but the original "Buontalenti" is worth it.

Price: $

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Verdict: A tiny, artisanal shop that focuses on extremely high-quality, often seasonal ingredients. The flavors are subtle and sophisticated—think Pear & Ricotta, Mojito, or Lavender. They use traditional carapine and are often cited by food critics as the most genuine artisanal gelato in the city. — Oltrarno

Queue: Centrally located in the Oltrarno.

Go: Evening; the small piazza is one of the most atmospheric spots in the city.

Price: $

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Verdict: "Why not!" has been serving natural gelato since 1939. They were pioneers in using only natural ingredients without preservatives or artificial fats. Their honey and sesame flavor is a cult favorite, and they offer an excellent range of vegan sorbets. — Center

Queue: Halfway between the Duomo and Signoria.

Go: Lunch; centrally located for a mid-day energy boost.

Price: $

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Verdict: Known for offering incredible value and some of the creamiest gelato in the city. The lines can be long, but they move very fast. Their "Delizia alla Carraia" (white chocolate and pistachio) is highly recommended. — Oltrarno

Queue: Directly next to the Ponte alla Carraia.

Go: Sunset; eat your gelato while watching the light change on the Arno.

Price: $

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Verdict: The first organic gelateria in Florence. Everything here—from the eggs to the milk and fruit—is certified organic. They are famous for their warm, handmade cones which are baked right in front of you. The "Il Saggio" (cinnamon and apple) is a standout flavor. — Duomo

Queue: Directly on the Duomo square.

Go: Afternoon; you can smell the fresh-made cones from blocks away.

Price: $

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Verdict: A modern, award-winning shop run by a young, passionate team. Their flavors are exceptionally clean and vibrant. Their Black Sesame and creative tea-based flavors have won multiple local awards. — San Lorenzo

Queue: Near the Medici Chapels.

Go: Lunch; a perfect refreshing stop in the market district.

Price: $

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Verdict: This shop brings a tropical twist to the Florentine tradition. They are famous for their Acai bowls and tropical fruit gelatos (like Mango and Passion Fruit) alongside the Tuscan classics. — Oltrarno

Queue: Near the Ponte Vecchio.

Go: Afternoon; a great stop after crossing the Ponte Vecchio.

Price: $

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Verdict: A relatively new addition that has quickly become a local favorite. They use high-quality milk from their own farm and focus on pure, intense flavors. Their "Sbrino" flavor is a top-secret cream creation that is highly addictive. — Oltrarno

Queue: In the heart of Oltrarno.

Go: Evening; a favorite for locals in the Santo Spirito area.

Price: $

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Verdict: Named after the famous family, this shop prides itself on its noble and refined approach. The flavors are elegant and the presentation is impeccable. It is widely considered one of the top high-end gelaterias for locals who want to avoid the city center crowds. — Statuto

Queue: North of the historic center.

Go: Afternoon; an elegant and refined shop.

Price: $

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Verdict: While Grom is a global chain, their quality control remains exceptionally high. They use only top-tier ingredients (like Piedmont hazelnuts and lemons from Amalfi) and maintain a very traditional texture. It’s a reliable, high-quality choice when you’re in the most touristy parts of the city. — Center

Queue: Steps away from the Duomo.

Go: Afternoon; reliable and centrally located.

Price: $

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Verdict: Venchi is a luxury chocolate brand, and their gelato reflects that. They are most famous for their chocolate-wall and their rich, chocolate-heavy gelato flavors. While more expensive than local artisanal shops, it is a decadent experience for chocolate enthusiasts. — Center

Queue: On the main pedestrian street between Duomo and Signoria.

Go: Afternoon; for the chocolate lovers.

Price: $$

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Verdict: Rivareno is known for its incredibly creamy, dense texture. They use a high percentage of cream and maintain their gelato at a slightly higher temperature to enhance the silkiness. Their "Contessa" (almond and amaretti) is a particular favorite. — Santa Croce

Queue: Between the Duomo and Santa Croce.

Go: Afternoon; centrally located in a beautiful historic street.

Price: $

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Verdict: Carabè specializes in Sicilian-style gelato and granita. If you’re looking for authentic Sicilian pistachio or a refreshing citrus granita, this is the place. It’s a great refreshing contrast to the heavier Florentine cream-based gelatos. — Accademia

Queue: Directly on the street of the Accademia Gallery.

Go: Afternoon; perfect for a refreshing break after seeing the David.

Price: $

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Verdict: Another Sicilian specialist, famous for serving their high-quality gelato inside a warm, soft brioche bun. It’s a rich and satisfying way to eat gelato that provides a different experience from the typical cone or cup. — Center

Queue: Near the Accademia.

Go: Lunch; try the "gelato in brioche."

Price: $

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Verdict: Bompiani is a high-quality neighborhood pasticceria that also makes exceptional gelato. It’s a favorite for locals in the southern part of the city and is known for its pure, traditional flavors and excellent pastries. — Outer

Queue: South of the Porta Romana.

Go: Afternoon; a local neighborhood secret.

Price: $

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Verdict: Gilli’s gelato is served with the same elegance as their pastries. While more expensive, the setting is grand and the quality is impeccable. It is the best place for a "formal" gelato experience in a historic setting. — Center

Queue: Directly on the Piazza della Repubblica.

Go: Late afternoon; the most elegant setting in the city.

Price: $$$

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