DINING ON A BUDGET IN FLORENCE

Florence is famous for Renaissance art, historic architecture, and unforgettable cuisine—but you don’t need a luxury budget to eat like a local. Whether you’re after quick bites or sit-down trattoria experiences, there are plenty of ways to eat affordably in this beautiful city. Here’s your guide to budget-friendly dining in Florence, filled with taste, not tourist traps.

All’Antico Vinaio

Type: Panini / Street food
Why Go: One of Florence’s most iconic sandwich shops. Their massive schiacciata sandwiches are filled with Tuscan meats, cheeses, and fresh spreads.

Prices:
Panini from €5–€8
Address:
Via dei Neri, 74R, 50122 Florence
Pro Tip:
Expect a line—but it moves fast. Perfect to grab and eat on the steps of Piazza della Signoria.

Trattoria da Rocco (Sant’Ambrogio Market)

Type: Traditional Tuscan / Market-style lunch
Why Go: A local institution serving real Tuscan dishes at low prices inside the Sant’Ambrogio Market.

Prices:
First courses from €5–€7, mains from €7–€10
Address:
Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 50122 Florence
Pro Tip:
Go for lunch early—seating is communal, and it fills up fast!

Gusta Pizza

Type: Neapolitan-style pizza
Why Go: Great quality pizza at student-friendly prices. One of the most popular cheap eats in Florence.

Prices:
Pizzas from €6–€9
Address:
Via Maggio, 46R, 50125 Florence
Pro Tip:
Grab a takeaway and head to Piazza Santo Spirito to eat outdoors with a view.

I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti

Type: Sandwich shop / Tuscan specialties
Why Go: Tasty panini, friendly service, and big portions. A less touristy alternative to All’Antico Vinaio.

Prices:
Panini from €5–€7
Address:
Via dei Cimatori, 23R, 50122 Florence

Pinos Sandwiches (Salumeria Verdi)

Type: Deli / Sandwich bar
Why Go: A favorite among students and budget travelers. Pino’s sandwiches are flavorful, fast, and customizable.

Prices:
Panini from €4–€6
Address:
Via Giuseppe Verdi, 36R, 50122 Florence

Il Bufalo Trippone

Type: Wine bar / Small bites
Why Go: Great for a budget-friendly aperitivo or light dinner with wine, meats, and cheeses.

Prices:
Plates from €6–€10, glasses of wine from €3
Address:
Via della Condotta, 17R, 50122 Florence

Mercato Centrale (Food Court)

Type: Food hall / Market
Why Go: An upstairs food court offering pizza, pasta, burgers, and gelato—all under one roof. Downstairs, buy ingredients for your own picnic.

Prices:
Meals from €6–€12
Address:
Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 50123 Florence
Pro Tip:
Grab something to go and eat outside in nearby Piazza San Lorenzo.

Da Vinattieri

Type: Local takeaway
Why Go: Tucked in a small alley, this tiny spot offers panini and lampredotto (Florentine street food made from tripe).

Prices:
Panini from €4–€6
Address:
Via Santa Margherita, 4R, 50122 Florence
Cultural Tip:
Trying lampredotto is a true local experience—served with salsa verde on a bun.