The best ice cream parlours in Florence

Where to enjoy the best artisanal gelato in town, blending tradition and creativity

Florence is considered the birthplace of artisanal gelato. According to tradition, it was in the 16th century that Bernardo Buontalenti created one of the first forms of gelato to impress the court of Cosimo I de’ Medici. Since then, gelato in Florence has become much more than just a dessert: it’s a true institution.

If you’re wondering where to find the best gelato in Florence, this guide to the best gelaterias in Florence will take you through historic spots, artisanal shops, and innovative new places. From the great classics to the most contemporary creations, here’s where to find the best artisanal gelato in Florence.

Vivoli
Via Isola delle Stinche, 7r
ph. +39 055 292334

It is the oldest ice cream shop in Florence. It all began in 1929, when Serafino Vivoli opened a small dairy that soon became a popular spot for a good cup of coffee. A few years later, together with his brother Raffaello, he began producing artisanal gelato: the natural ice came from Saltino, above Vallombrosa, where it was produced in the winter and stored in icehouses until summer, then transported at night to the city. Today, the heirs carry on the business with the same passion, complementing the gelateria with an artisanal pastry shop. While remaining true to family values, Vivoli has innovated intelligently, investing in technology without ever compromising the craftsmanship and quality that have made it famous. The year 2025 marks a special milestone: for its 95th anniversary, the first Affogato Bar is launched, a space entirely dedicated to the famous dessert (also known as La gran crema al caffè), where gelato blends with coffee, liqueurs, and gourmet ingredients in surprising combinations.

Vivoli (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Badiani
Viale dei Mille, 20r - ph. +39 055 578682
Via Tosinghi, 12 - ph. +39 331 8029584

The Badiani gelateria was founded in 1932 in Florence by Idilio Badiani and was taken over in 1993 by gelato maker Orazio Pomposi, who, together with his two sons Paolo and Patrizio, has led the brand to new heights. This renowned Florentine gelateria best represents the artisanal culture of gelato and is a true landmark in the city for high-quality artisanal gelato. It was here that the Buontalenti flavor was created, introduced during a contest held in the late 1960s to honor the famous architect. Even today, Buontalenti remains the most popular flavor here, available in a cone, in a cup, and in the pistachio and Dolcevita varieties. An ice cream that offers an intense yet balanced experience, where the creaminess envelops every bite without ever overpowering the delicacy of the original cream.

Badiani (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Gelateria della Passera
Via Toscanella, 15r
ph. +39 055 6142071

In the heart of the Oltrarno district, Gelateria della Passera combines passion, creativity, and premium ingredients. Among Cinzia Otri’s most iconic creations is chocolate with sour cherries, an ice cream born from the marriage of Dominican cocoa and wild black cherries from Cantiano, enhanced by swirls of whole and glazed sour cherries. The result is a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, leaving a lasting impression from the very first bite. Another house masterpiece is the Monnalisa, a tribute to the Mona Lisa and the Florentine Renaissance: a cream made with eggs, milk, and chestnut honey, enriched with apple purée, walnut kernels, raisins rehydrated in vinsanto, and scented with orange blossom water. Born from a desire to celebrate art through gelato, the Monnalisa has won awards and captured the hearts of Florentines, remaining available year-round.

Gelateria della Passera (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

La Carraia
Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25r
ph. +39 055 280695

In Piazza Nazario Sauro, we find La Carraia, an ice cream shop founded in 1990 and named after the famous Ponte alla Carraia. From the very beginning, the artisanal spirit here has been one of continuous improvement, interpreting the evolution of artisanal ice cream with a unique flair. La Carraia offers a perfect balance between new flavors and contemporary trends and the tastes of ancient Florentine tradition. Among the most beloved specialties are amarena, the classic crema, and the refined Sinfonia Carraia, a variegated cream with orange sauce and dark chocolate. Every cone or cup is an authentic taste experience, where the quality of the ingredients and the creaminess of the gelato speak to the artisanal passion that sets Florence apart in the world.

La Carraia (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Edoardo il Gelato Biologico
Piazza del Duomo, 45r
ph. +39 055 281055

Just a short walk from the Duomo, Edoardo - Il Gelato Biologico offers a sustainable take on gelato. Here, the ingredients are organic, and the flavors follow the rhythm of the seasons: from cinnamon stracciatella to dark chocolate, all the way to the original Chianti. The cones, made to order, complete an essential and authentic experience, designed for those seeking quality, lightness, and consistency. Special attention is given to vegan and gluten-free options.

Edoardo il Gelato Biologico (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Gelateria de’ Medici
Via dello Statuto, 3 - ph. +39 055 475156
Piazza Beccaria, 7r - ph. +39 055 386 0008

With two locations - one on Via dello Statuto and one on Piazza Beccaria - Gelateria De’ Medici combines a warm and elegant atmosphere with a passion for artisanal gelato. The gelateria offers a wide range of flavors—including the delicate almonds and figs, the creamy Pistachio Cremino, and the intense Moro—all made with high-quality ingredients and the artisanal care that makes all the difference. At De’ Medici, gelato is a sensory experience: unexpected combinations, custom creations, and a commitment to Florentine tradition transform every cone or cup into a small masterpiece. With 44 flavors on display, plus cakes and single-serving portions, every visit is an invitation to discover the art of gelato in its most authentic form.

Gelateria de’ Medici (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Gelateria dei Neri
Via dei Neri, 2/11r
ph. +39 055 210034

A constant search for new and authentic ingredients, artisanal production rooted in tradition, and a wide variety of flavors—these are the hallmarks of this famous gelateria just a stone’s throw from Piazza Santa Croce. Among the specialties at Gelateria dei Neri, you’ll find truly original flavors, such as Gorgonzola and Walnuts, Mexican Chocolate—made with pistachios and chili peppers—or Ricotta and Figs. You’ll have to try it to believe it.

Gelateria dei Neri

Cantina del Gelato
Borgo La Croce, 30r
ph. +39 055 5320334

Located in Borgo la Croce, Cantina del Gelato is an oasis of deliciousness where artisanal gelato meets creativity and quality. Among the most popular flavors are the refreshing mango and strawberry, the classic Buontalenti cream, and the indulgent Gusto della Cantina, available in a cone or a cup. In addition to gelato, the shop offers original alternatives, such as organic açaí bowls and gluten-free sweet and savory crepes, designed for everyone, from athletes to little ones. With indoor and outdoor seating and delivery service, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing break after exploring the city’s wonders.

Cantina del Gelato (ph. Andrea Dughetti)

Il Procopio
Via Pietrapiana, 60r
ph. +39 055 2346014

This artisanal gelateria in Florence stands out for the high quality of its ingredients and its sophisticated flavors. Be sure to try the Sicilian citrus almond, the “Follia” flavor with caramelized figs and dried fruit, the Sacher, and the chocolate made with three varieties of cocoa. The menu is rounded out by a selection of semifreddi, crepes, granitas, and fresh fruit popsicles.

Il Procopio

Carabè
Via Ricasoli, 60r
ph. +39 055 289476

Carabè brings the tradition of artisanal Sicilian gelato to Florence, featuring authentic recipes and high-quality ingredients. Founded in 1980 by Antonio Lisciandro, it offers rich flavors such as the citrus-based “Spirito Siciliano,” fragrant creams infused with jasmine flowers, and excellent 100% natural granitas and cremolatas.

Carabè

Gelateria Santa Trinita
Piazza Frescobaldi, 11-12r
ph. + 39 055 2381130

Located on the left bank of the Arno, it is one of the most popular gelaterias thanks to the quality of its ingredients, such as IGP hazelnuts from the Langhe and Bronte pistachios. It offers up to 38 flavors, including ice creams and sorbets, with original options like black sesame, ricotta and figs, and dark chocolate. The fruit-flavored ice creams are made with fresh, seasonal fruit.

Gelateria Santa Trinita

Sbrino – Gelatificio Contadino
Via dei Serragli, 32r - ph. +39 055 8358758
Via Senese, 1r - ph. +39 055 0122286

Sbrino – Gelatificio Contadino is a must-visit for anyone looking for artisanal gelato with a contemporary twist. It offers 18 gelato flavors, 8 sorbets and granitas, as well as the original Aperisbrino creations inspired by cocktails. There is also a wide selection of vegan and gluten-free flavors, made with fresh, carefully selected ingredients.

Sbrino

Gelateria La Carraia in Santa Croce
Via dei Benci, 24r
ph. +39 055 241284

Gelateria La Carraia in Santa Croce is a sure bet for anyone looking for a wide variety of flavors, artisanal craftsmanship, and quality. A suggestion? Try the Luna di Miele, with honey, caramel pralines, white chocolate, and cream, or the utterly delicious Delizia la Carraia, with white chocolate and pistachio swirl.

Gelateria La Carraia in Santa Croce