| Florence offers a wonderful
shopping experience. Since the Middle Ages when shoemakers and goldsmiths
were as important as sculptors, Florence has been a center for craftsmanship.
You can find handcrafted leathers and marbled paper, among other wonderful
products provided in shops. Santa Croce homes leather makers, and Oltrarno
houses gold and silver workshops. There are also many designer boutiques
scattered around Florence. Some of Italys finest designer creations
can be found in upscale boutiques. If budget rules your world, you can
find designer copies in shops around the San Lorenzo Market in Piazza San
Lorenzo. Food markets are also in abundance. Fresh olives, hams, cheeses,
and vegetables can be found in various locations throughout the city. Antiques
and collectibles are found at the flea markets at Piazza dei Ciompi.
Specialty shops are also found,
and well worth a visit, in Florence. The Officina Profumo Farmaceutica
di Santa Maria Novella is found in a frescoed chapel that was founded in
the 16th century by monks. Here you will find many lotions, potions, and
herbal remedies all encased in the most elegant of packaging.
At Francesco you will find
handmade shoes of fine craftsmanship and made in a time honored tradition.
Most shops are open during the day, until late evening, but close for about
two hours during midday, although larger shops and stores are open all
day. Normally shops that sell food are closed on Wednesday and Saturday
afternoons.
The sales tax in Florence
runs between 12% and 14%, depending on the products that you purchase.
Non European citizens should keep receipts for anything purchased over
EUR 155 to reclaim their VAT.
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