Florence: workshop tour – brass working since 1963

If you’re considering a visit to Florence and want to step beyond the usual sightseeing to explore something truly unique, this brass workshop might just be your thing. It’s not your average tourist attraction — instead, it’s a chance to peek into almost six decades of Florentine craftsmanship, where artistry meets innovation. Whether you’re into handmade objects, curious about traditional techniques, or simply eager to try your hand at something different, this short but sweet experience offers a lot.

We really appreciate how this tour isn’t just about looking — it’s about doing. The chance to touch and create something with your own hands makes it memorable. Plus, the small-group setting means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. A potential downside? The 1.5-hour duration is quite brief, so don’t expect to become a master brass artisan overnight. Still, it’s a wonderful way to gain insight into Florence’s artisan roots without a huge time commitment. This experience is especially suited for craft lovers, curious travelers, or those looking for a personalized souvenir from their trip.

Key Points:

• Hands-on involvement: You get to touch, try, and assemble your own piece of brass art.
• Traditional meets modern: Techniques range from manual craftsmanship to cutting-edge methods like 3D printing.
• Personalized souvenir: For an extra fee, you can craft your own brass paperweight, adding a tangible memory to your trip.
• Intimate atmosphere: Small groups mean more interaction and personalized attention.
• Family discounts: Good value for families wishing to share this creative experience.
• Accessible and flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Brass Workshop Tour in Florence

Walking into Bronzetto’s workshop, you’ll immediately notice the sparkling brass environment. Long brass bars, partially completed chandeliers hanging overhead, and the scent of metal fill the space, giving it a genuine artisan’s touch. It’s easy to feel inspired just by looking at the gleaming pieces and the organized chaos of buckets filled with brass powder ready for recycling.

The guide, Simone Calcinai, is the son of the founder, which adds a genuine family touch to the tour. His insights help demystify the entire process, from initial design to final polishing. The journey begins with sketches — imagining your piece before transforming it into digital models and prototypes, sometimes using modern techniques like 3D printing. You get to see how creativity is balanced with precision, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary tools.

Moving through the workshop, you’ll visit different stations — welding, assembly, cleaning, and polishing. Each stage highlights the manual skill that goes into making each brass piece, whether it’s a lamp, a vase, or a decorative element. It’s fascinating to observe the meticulous work involved; the attention to detail is clear. Several reviews mention the “fascinating path” through which each product takes shape, emphasizing how engaging it is to follow the process step by step.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to create your own brass keepsake. For an additional fee, you’ll be supervised as you assemble a small brass paperweight, attaching a cast knob of your choosing. Several visitors found this part “really rewarding,” saying it feels like a true handmade souvenir they can keep forever.

The Artistic Environment and Workshop Atmosphere

The workshop itself is a visual treat. The environment is filled with the shimmering glow of brass, and the organized chaos makes it clear that craftsmanship is alive here. It’s also a very inviting space — not overly sterile or intimidating, but warm and inspiring. You can tell that many of the pieces produced here are artful and unique, thanks to the combination of traditional and modern techniques.

Many visitors comment on how the environment sparks creativity. You don’t need to have any prior skill in metalworking, and the guide is always ready to help and explain. It’s an experience that’s as much about learning as it is about creating. The fact that it’s a private group experience means your attention isn’t split, and you get to ask plenty of questions.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, which feels just right for a hands-on activity that’s both engaging and manageable within a busy Florence itinerary. It’s offered in multiple languages — Italian, English, and French — making it accessible for a broad range of visitors. The booking process allows for flexibility, with options to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

The location is easy to spot — look for images of lamps, vases, and the words “Il Bronzetto” on a white background, at coordinates 43.75780487060547, 11.240710258483887. The workshop is on a street, but it’s clearly marked and welcoming.

As for accessibility, the workshop is wheelchair accessible, which is great news for those with mobility needs. However, it’s worth noting that children under 95 years or those with visual impairments might find the environment less suited to their needs, as the tour focuses heavily on manual work and visual details.

The Cost and Value

Pricing isn’t explicitly listed here, but considering the experience includes not only the guided tour but also the opportunity to create a personalized brass item (for an extra fee), it offers good value for those interested in craftsmanship. It’s a uniquely local activity that provides insight into Florence’s artisan traditions, which are a big part of the city’s appeal.

The small-group setting makes it more intimate and allows for more personalized guidance, which many reviews highlight as a major plus. The option to cancel easily also makes it a low-risk activity, especially if your plans change.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and want a meaningful souvenir. It suits craft lovers, art enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Florence’s artisan roots. If you’re traveling with a partner or a small group of friends, you’ll find the atmosphere warm and friendly. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a high-energy or physically demanding activity — it’s quite relaxed and educational.

If you’re traveling with children, the workshop’s focus on manual work and detail might be more suitable for older kids or teenagers, especially since some reviews suggest it’s a calming, detailed experience rather than an energetic one. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small-group, private experiences over large tours.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Florence brass workshop is a genuine, intimate look into the city’s centuries-old craftsmanship, updated with modern techniques. It offers a rare chance to see how traditional skills are still very much alive today, and to create a personalized, tangible memory of your visit. The experience’s focus on participation makes it stand out from more passive sightseeing options.

While it’s not a lengthy or overly elaborate tour, it packs a punch in terms of insight, interaction, and fun. It’s a good fit for those who appreciate craftsmanship, enjoy creating things with their hands, or want a meaningful keepsake from Florence. The small group setting, friendly guide, and the chance to make your own brass piece make this a worthwhile addition to your trip.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and memorable activity that immerses you in Florence’s artisan spirit, this workshop could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the workshop is wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for visitors with mobility needs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which makes it easy to fit into a busy Florence schedule.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there discounts available?
Yes, there are discounts for families, making it a good option for traveling groups.

Is this experience appropriate for children?
While not explicitly designed for children under 95 years or visually impaired people, older kids and teenagers interested in arts and crafts might enjoy it.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in Italian, English, and French, catering to a broad range of visitors.

What is included in the main tour?
You’ll explore the workshop, see the process, and observe the craftsmen at work. For an additional fee, you can create your own brass paperweight.

Is the tour held in a private group?
Yes, this experience is offered as a private group, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Where is the workshop located?
It’s located on a street marked by images of lamps and vases, with coordinates 43.75780487060547, 11.240710258483887.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for manual activity; all tools and guidance are provided. No need to bring anything special.

If you’re curious about craftsmanship, enjoy hands-on activities, or want a unique keepsake from Florence, this brass workshop offers a satisfying and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: