Eat and Go: The Florentine 3-Hour Street Food Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to taste your way through Florence without spending hours in cafes or wandering aimlessly, the Eat and Go: The Florentine 3-Hour Street Food Tour might just fit the bill. This guided experience promises to introduce you to some of the city’s most beloved dishes, all while soaking in the sights of Florence’s bustling historic center. From flavorful flatbreads to hearty soups and iconic sandwiches, this tour offers a curated taste of Florence that’s perfect for curious food lovers.

What we particularly like about this tour is its small-group setting—limiting participation to just 10 people—which means you’ll get plenty of personal interaction with your guide and a more intimate experience. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully selected, blending sightseeing with authentic culinary stops. The possibility to finish at Sant’Ambrogio Market also makes for a flexible way to continue exploring local flavors on your own afterward.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite food-focused, so if you’re after a full sit-down meal or more extensive tastings, you might find it a bit on the light side. It’s also priced at around $103 per person, which is reasonable considering the number of tastings, wines, and guided insights included.

This experience suits travelers who want a blend of history, culture, and cuisine—perfect for those who enjoy sampling local dishes in a lively, small-group setting. It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer guided tours that focus on food and are interested in exploring Florence’s iconic squares and markets along the way.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and interaction with your guide
• Multiple tastings include traditional dishes, wine, and dessert, providing good value for the price
• Cultural insights complement the food, adding context to each stop
• Flexible finish at Sant’Ambrogio Market for independent exploration afterward
• Ideal for food lovers who want an authentic experience without a lengthy commitment
• Moderate walking and stops in Florence’s historic areas make it accessible and engaging

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Why It Matters

Starting Off at Piazza della Signoria

The tour kicks off in one of Florence’s most iconic squares, the Piazza della Signoria. Here, we loved the laid-back vibe, giving us a chance to soak in the grand surroundings before diving into food. The visit to a renowned local spot for schiacciata, a traditional flatbread, highlights the importance of simple, flavorful ingredients in Florentine cuisine. The fact that the ticket is included makes it easy—no extra fuss.

Savoring Ribollita on Via dei Calzaiuoli

Next, the group heads to Via dei Calzaiuoli, a bustling street filled with shops and history. Here, you’ll taste Ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup that’s a winter staple but just as delicious in summer. The guide’s insights about how this dish was historically a winter comfort food give extra flavor to each spoonful. This stop also emphasizes the regional roots of Florence’s food culture.

Piazza di San Lorenzo and the Lampredotto

The third stop takes you into Piazza di San Lorenzo, where your guide offers a quick history lesson about Florence and its landmarks. The real highlight here is the famous lampredotto sandwich—an unconventional choice for some but a true Florentine classic. Paired with a glass of local wine, it’s a bold, satisfying bite that gives a true taste of local street food. Several reviews call this part of the tour a “must-try,” especially for those open to trying something different.

Wrapping Up at Mercato Centrale with Cantucinni and Vin Santo

The final tasting outside the Mercato Centrale is a sweet note to end on: crunchy Cantuccini cookies dipped in Vin Santo. The casual outdoor setting makes relaxing with dessert and wine easy. We appreciated the free access here, giving us the chance to browse further if we wanted. Many say the market’s lively ambiance complements the tour’s overall experience.

What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

For $103, you’ll enjoy four different stops, each offering a taste of Florence’s culinary staples. The tour includes a glass of wine and Vin Santo, along with soda and water for those underage or preferring non-alcoholic drinks. It’s a balanced lineup of food, drinks, and cultural insights that make the price feel reasonable.

The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to Florence’s street food scene. The small group size of no more than 10 travelers ensures that your guide can really focus on answering questions and sharing stories, making the experience both educational and personal.

The Experience on the Ground

The stops are well-planned to blend sightseeing with tastings, and the walking is manageable—just enough to keep the experience lively without becoming tiring. The start point at Piazza di San Firenze is centrally located, making it easy to reach by public transportation. Because the tour ends back at the starting point, you have the option to continue exploring or head to the nearby markets or cafes.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

Joseph, one of the recent reviewers, called it “highly recommended,” praising the “skip-the-line style experience” and the quality of food. He appreciated that the tour hit the “hottest food spots,” and the fact that the guide was knowledgeable and engaging made a big difference. His comment about sampling “amazing food” resonates with what many others seem to enjoy—authenticity, local flavor, and personal attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers eager to sample Florence’s iconic dishes without committing to long meals or complicated cooking classes. It’s also ideal for those who want a small-group setting, where the focus is on quality interaction and personalized insights. The combination of sightseeing and tasting makes it perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to learn about local culture through its cuisine.

While it’s not aimed at families with very young children, older kids interested in food and cultural stories might find it engaging, especially since the stops include interactive food tastings and cultural tidbits.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed way to explore Florence’s culinary scene while strolling through its historic squares, this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of four tastings, two wines, and a knowledgeable guide creates a well-rounded experience that balances flavor, culture, and sightseeing. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it intimate and personal—which many travelers find adds to the enjoyment.

For the price, you’re not just getting a meal but an engaging, guided introduction to Florence’s street food culture. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local specialties, enjoy good storytelling, and want to avoid the tourist trap feel. The flexible ending at the market is a bonus for anyone keen to explore further on their own.

All in all, it’s a straightforward, satisfying way to taste Florence’s best bites and learn about what makes the city’s cuisine so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
You get four food tastings—schiacciata, ribollita, lampredotto, and cantuccini—plus two glasses of wine or Vin Santo, and water or soft drinks for underaged guests. The tour also includes an outdoor experience at the market.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
The tour’s focus is on traditional Florentine dishes, so if you have specific allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to check with the provider ahead of time. The information provided doesn’t specify accommodations for special diets.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who are interested in food and culture might enjoy it. However, minors under 18 can’t consume alcohol, which is part of the experience.

How many people participate in the tour?
The group is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza di San Firenze and concludes back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your day around it.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed accordingly, offering flexibility if needed.

If you’re looking to add a flavorful, cultural twist to your Florence visit, this tour is a practical, engaging choice that balances food, history, and vibrant city life.