“Life is short, eat more gelato!” - Common Instagram quote.
Gentlemen, I have no idea who came up with the above saying. And whoever it was, they were right / brilliant.
Gelato is dessert heaven.
I’m sure a lot of us have had it here in our home countries, be it in Canada, the U.S., or wherever.
And there’s nothing quite like having it in its place of origin: Italy; specifically Florence. Supposedly, it was invented there in the 16th century by a guy called Bernardo Buontalenti, a Florence native.
And regardless of who invented it, gelato is brilliant. So I thought we’d go over some of the best places to have gelato in Florence, where the milk is just a bit fresher, and the tastes more authentic - because it’s f*****g Italy - than anywhere else in the world.
As such, here are five Florentine gelaterias that are known to make some of the finest, softest, milkiest, and tastiest gelato in the world:
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Photo by Jojo Yuen (sharemyfoodd) on Unsplash
This place, nestled in the heart of Florence on Via dei Neri - less than a five minute walk from the Uffizi Gallery - is celebrated among locals and visitors alike as one of the city's premier destinations for gelato indulgence. Here's what makes Gelateria dei Neri stand out as a top spot for savoring this iconic Italian treat:
First of all, it’s authenticity and tradition. Gelateria dei Neri prides itself on upholding the time-honored traditions of Italian gelato-making. With recipes passed down through generations, every scoop of their gelato is crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience that transports you to the romantic streets of Italy with every bite.
Since 1989, Gelateria dei Neri has been using some of the finest raw materials available to man to create its gelatos. That’s because at Gelateria dei Neri, quality is paramount, and they only use the finest ingredients in the creation of their gelato, sourced from local producers whenever possible. From fresh fruits and nuts to rich, creamy dairy, each flavor is made with premium ingredients to guarantee exceptional taste and texture.
While Gelateria dei Neri pays homage to classic gelato flavors, they also embrace creativity and innovation, constantly experimenting with new and exciting combinations to delight the palate. Whether you crave traditional favorites like pistachio and stracciatella or adventurous creations like ricotta and fig or dark chocolate and orange zest, Gelateria dei Neri offers a diverse array of flavors to satisfy every craving.
The gelato at Gelateria dei Neri is also handcrafted in small batches by skilled artisans who take pride in their craft. From churning the creamy base to meticulously layering in swirls of fruit or ribbons of chocolate, every step of the gelato-making process is executed with precision and passion, resulting in a product of unparalleled quality - just ask the owner!
Beyond its delicious gelato, Gelateria dei Neri is also known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a regular patron or a first-time visitor, you'll be greeted with a smile and treated like family by the friendly staff, who are always eager to help you navigate the menu and find the perfect flavor to satisfy your sweet tooth.
And as I mentioned earlier, Gelateria dei Neri is situated just steps away from popular landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery, meaning it is conveniently located for travelers exploring the historic center of Florence. After a day of sightseeing, there's no better way to cool off and recharge than with a refreshing scoop of gelato from this beloved local institution.
In conclusion, Gelateria dei Neri offers not just gelato, but an unforgettable culinary experience that embodies the essence of Italian craftsmanship, hospitality, and culinary tradition. Whether you're a gelato aficionado or simply seeking a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Gelateria dei Neri is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.
As they say on their website, this gelateria, “... has become much more than a place where you can enjoy one of the best ice creams in the entire area. In fact, ice cream becomes a reason for interaction, social exchange, a call of strong and pure emotions that unite those who come to the place and wish to delight themselves with a sweet treat at the end of a meal or with something fresh during a walk.”
Go to this place. You won’t miss out.
2. Embracing Sweet Thrills at RivaReno Gelato Firenze
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RivaReno Gelato Firenze (Firenze means Florence in Italian) is renowned for its exceptional combination of traditional craftsmanship with innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Since its inception in 2004, RivaReno has been taking pride in its artisanal approach to gelato-making, adhering to time-honored techniques and using only the finest ingredients to create a product of unparalleled quality. Each batch of gelato is crafted by skilled artisans who bring years of experience and expertise to the process, ensuring that every scoop is a true masterpiece.
Just like with Gelateria dei Neri, RivaReno’s gelato is made with fresh, natural ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers, with a focus on seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. From luscious fruits to rich, creamy dairy, every ingredient is carefully selected to guarantee exceptional taste and texture.
While RivaReno offers a range of classic gelato flavors, they also draw inspiration from Italy's rich culinary heritage. Their menu features unique and unexpected flavor combinations - such as persimmons, chocolate with rum, and eggnog flavors - that push the boundaries of traditional gelato. So whether you crave the timeless elegance of pistachio or the bold sophistication of dark chocolate, RivaReno has something to tantalize every palate.
They’re also committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices, ensuring that their gelato is not only delicious but also environmentally and socially responsible. They prioritize sustainability at every stage of the production process, from ingredient sourcing to waste reduction, and are dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities and ecosystems that support their business.
Beyond its delectable gelato offerings, RivaReno Gelato Firenze also provides a stylish and inviting atmosphere where guests can relax and indulge in their favorite flavors. The gelateria's sleek, modern decor and welcoming ambiance create the perfect setting for enjoying a sweet treat with friends or family.
And if you feel like going for a walk while having your gelato, then it too is located in the center of the city, less than a ten minute walk from the Florence Cathedral, as well as other iconic landmarks and attractions. Whether you're wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic center or taking in the sights along the Arno River, RivaReno is never far away, making it the perfect pit stop for a refreshing gelato break.
In summary, RivaReno Gelato Firenze offers a truly exceptional gelato experience that combines artisanal craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and innovative flavors to create a culinary journey that delights the senses and satisfies the soul. Whether you're a gelato connoisseur or simply seeking a sweet escape from the heat of the day, RivaReno Gelato Firenze is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your memories of Florence.
3. Roaming Flavor Realms at Gelateria La Carraia
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Gentlemen, Gelateria La Carraia, nestled along the Arno River, right next to the Ponte alla Carraia bridge, is renowned for its delectable gelato offerings that capture the essence of traditional Italian flavors.
Since its inception in 1990, this gelateria has been priding itself on preserving the time-honored tradition of Italian gelato-making, with recipes passed down through generations. Their gelato is crafted with care and expertise to ensure an authentic and flavorful experience that pays homage to Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Not only do they source only the freshest, most local ingredients - which means a better tasting ice cream -; offer a wide array of flavors - ranging from creamy staples like stracciatella and pistachio to bold and inventive creations like tiramisu and Nutella -, but they also serve incredibly large portions, which makes it a lot more worth it to buy from them.
Some places have great ice cream, and they serve terribly small portions. That’s not the case here.
One of their hallmarks is the oversized cones or cups that are sure to satisfy even the most voracious appetite for dessert. Whether you opt for a single scoop or a towering cone piled high with multiple flavors, you can expect a generous serving of creamy, indulgent gelato that hits the spot every time.
Now as I mentioned, Gelateria La Carraia’s Arno River location offers stunning views of the river, as well as many iconic landmarks, including the Ponte Vecchio - which is less than a 10 minute walk away - and the historic city center. Whether you choose to enjoy your gelato while strolling along the riverbanks or seated at one of the outdoor tables overlooking the water, this gelateria’s scenic location adds an extra layer of charm to the gelato experience - as well as experiencing Florence as a whole.
And finally, perhaps the most rewarding part: despite its prime location, and high-quality ingredients, Gelateria La Carraia remains INCREDIBLY affordable. With reasonable prices and generous portions, it's easy to indulge in your favorite gelato flavors without breaking the bank. While their website doesn't currently show prices, I remember the costs being somewhere between €3 - €8, depending on the size of ice cream that you get.
Just a heads up, Florence in general is kind of known to have the most expensive gelato, and trust me… you’re going to want to eat it anyway.
4. Conquering Chocolate Peaks at Venchi
Perhaps my favorite place to get gelato across all of Italy - because it’s a chain and is available in multiple locations everywhere, kind of like McDonalds -, this company offers some of the tastiest, freshest, and most generous portions of gelato anywhere.
Don’t be turned off by the fact that Venchi is a chain, their gelato is extremely good, and not any worse because it’s not a local brand.
They also have tons of other offerings like chocolate and whatnot; as a matter of fact, they’re primarily known as a chocolate manufacturer, and have been since their inception in Turin in 1878.
With over a century of experience in the art of chocolate-making, Venchi brings a legacy of craftsmanship and quality to its gelato offerings. Each batch of gelato is crafted with the same attention to detail and dedication to excellence that has made Venchi a beloved name in the world of confectionery.
Just like our previous picks, Venchi prides itself on using only the finest ingredients, sourcing high-quality dairy, fresh fruits, and premium chocolate from trusted suppliers. With a commitment to quality and authenticity, Venchi ensures that every scoop of gelato is bursting with rich, natural flavors and creamy goodness.
Venchi's gelato menu features a tempting array of classic and innovative flavors, from timeless favorites like stracciatella and hazelnut to indulgent creations like dark chocolate and salted caramel. Each flavor is meticulously crafted to perfection, using time-tested recipes and the finest ingredients to create a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
As a renowned chocolatier, Venchi brings a unique perspective to its gelato creations, infusing each scoop with the rich, intense flavors of premium chocolate. Whether it's a chocolate-hazelnut swirl or a decadent chocolate gelato with chunks of cocoa nibs, Venchi's gelato offerings are sure to satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lover.
In addition to its exquisite flavors, Venchi's gelato delights the senses with its artful presentation. Each scoop is carefully sculpted and elegantly presented, creating a visual feast that is as delightful to behold as it is to devour. Whether you opt for a classic cone or a decadent sundae, Venchi's gelato is sure to make a lasting impression.
Situated in the heart of Florence's historic center, Venchi offers three prime locations for indulging in gelato while exploring the city's iconic landmarks: the one located near the Piazza della Signoria, another on Via Calzaiuoli - one of Florence’s main shopping streets -, and yet one more near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Each of these locations maintains the same commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and flavor that Venchi is renowned for, ensuring that guests can experience the exceptional gelato that has made Venchi a beloved name in Florence and beyond.
Venchi's gelato offers a tantalizing fusion of heritage, craftsmanship, and flavor, inviting guests to experience the art of Italian gelato-making at its finest. These shops also provide the perfect pit stop for weary travelers seeking a sweet treat to recharge and refresh. With premium ingredients, artisanal flavors, and prime locations in the heart of Florence, Venchi promises a gelato experience that is as unforgettable as it is delicious and affordable - usually starting at €3 for a small cup or cone, and going up to about €8 for the largest one. Keep in mind prices are always changing / usually going up.
5. Gelato Trailblazers: Tasting Tradition at Sbrino - Gelatificio Contadino
Sbrino - Gelatificio Contadino, a hidden gem located just a seven minute walk from the Pitti Palace, is a unique gelateria that stands out for its commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and locally sourced ingredients - even more so than the others.
The owners pride themselves on their "Contadino" (farmer) approach to gelato-making, sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients directly from local farmers and producers. By prioritizing locally sourced fruits, nuts, and dairy products, the owners of Sbrino ensure that every scoop of gelato is bursting with the vibrant flavors of Tuscany's fertile land.
At Sbrino, gelato is made in small batches to ensure maximum freshness and quality. This means that each batch is carefully crafted by hand, using traditional techniques and time-honored recipes that highlight the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients. The result is gelato that is creamy, flavorful, and utterly delicious.
Sbrino's menu changes with the seasons, reflecting the bounty of Tuscany's agricultural landscape throughout the year. In the spring and summer, you might find refreshing flavors like strawberry and basil, while autumn brings offerings like fig and chestnut. No matter the season, Sbrino's gelato is always made with the freshest ingredients available.
While Sbrino offers classic gelato flavors like chocolate and vanilla, they also delight customers with inventive and unexpected creations that showcase the creativity of their gelato artisans. From aromatic lavender honey to tangy citrus sorbets, each flavor is a unique expression of Sbrino's dedication to innovation and quality. It also means more variety for you to choose from.
Tucked away on a charming street - Via dei Serragli - in Florence's historic center, Sbrino exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to linger and savor their gelato experience. Whether you choose to enjoy your treat at one of the outdoor tables or take it to go as you explore the city - which is what I most often do -, Sbrino provides the perfect setting for indulging in creamy, flavorful gelato.
In summary, Sbrino - Gelatificio Contadino offers a truly unique gelato experience that celebrates the flavors of Tuscany's countryside while showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of its gelato artisans. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, seasonal offerings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Sbrino invites guests to savor the essence of Italian gelato culture in every delicious bite.
6. Bold Scoops: Embracing Gelato Thrills at Perché no!...
And last but not least, we have Perché no!..., which is considered by many locals - and tourists - to be THE best family owned gelato shop in all of Florence.
Established in 1939, this gelateria - run by the Cammilli family - has a rich heritage that spans generations. In other words, being around for almost a century has caused them to EARN their spot as one of - if not THE top - gelaterias in Florence.
Just like the other places on this list, this gelaterria’s ingredients are fresh & locally sourced; the gelato is handcrafted in small batches to ensure the highest quality of flavors.
It too offers traditional and creative flavors, from seasonal fruit sorbets to decadent chocolate combinations. I’ve heard of people recommending ginger, curry with mango and peaches, Sacher cake, green tea, lavender, and salted caramel flavors in addition to the classical flavors, like pistachio nut, Florentine cream and milk cream with honey and sesame. Whatever suits your taste buds!
Beyond its delicious gelato offerings, Perché no!... is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular patron, you'll be greeted with a smile and treated like family by the friendly staff, who are always happy to help you navigate the menu and find the perfect flavor to satisfy your cravings.
Situated in the heart of Florence's historic center, Perché no!... is located INCREDIBLY close to such landmarks as The Florence Cathedral, and the Piazza della Signoria, to name just a few. It’s not only delicious and worth the money and time; it’s also an incredibly convenient location for when you’re exploring the city and its attractions.
Whether you're wandering the cobblestone streets of the city or taking in the sights along the Arno River, Perché no!... provides the perfect pit stop for a refreshing gelato break.
The prices are also really low, with small cups / cones starting as low as €2.70, going up anywhere to €18 if you get really picky. They also offer gluten free options.
In summary, Perché no!... offers a truly authentic gelato experience that celebrates the timeless traditions of Italian craftsmanship, hospitality, and culinary excellence. With its dedication to quality ingredients, artisanal craftsmanship, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Perché no!... invites you to savor the flavors of Italy and create memories that will last a lifetime.
And it also just tastes really f*****g good.
Alright, guys, that’s it for this blog post.
In case nobody else told you today, we love you and hope you have a great time backpacking.
Gelato is unmissable when you’re in Italy - or really anywhere; Italy specifically, and Florence even more so because that’s where it originated -, and if you plan smartly, you can have it every day without breaking your wallet - I know I did.
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Until next time, stay safe, resilient, and have an awesome time out there; we’ll see you all next week.