Looking for Italian antiques or interested in just perusing medieval finds while walking through an old historical village in Tuscany? This is one of the best ways to immerse in culture, talk to the locals, and explore local towns. Below is a schedule of all the local markets in the area. The best time to go is between 9am and 1pm before afternoon siesta. There are many more markets but these are some of the best.
Arezzo
This is the largest and one of the best antique markets outside of Florence. Every month (first weekend of every month) is the market in Arezzo. You can find everything from beautiful wooden Italian furniture to rugs to lights, art, and much more. Park at the Arezzo train station and walk into the historic town center from there.
Cortona
Fourth Sunday of the Month in Piazza Signorelli.
Siena
Piazza del Mercato on the third Sunday of every month, except in August.
Florence
Every 3rd Saturday and Sunday of the month (except July and August) an antique market takes place in the gardens of Fortezza da Basso, in Viale Strozzi.
The famous flee market of Florence is located in the Piazza dei Ciompi every day starting at 9am.
Lucignano
Every Thursday morning you can street vendors with fresh veggies, fruits, fish, clothing, and sometimes a porchetta and cheese truck.
The best of Italy refurbished-antique shops:
Sestini e Corti: Looking for inspiration or do you love perusing old antiques that have been transformed like old doors turned into mirrors, work benches turned into tables, and wine barrels turned into bars? This is definitely the place. Many of the items at Cipresso e Pietra were purchased or custom built from this amazing shop. Located about 15 minutes from Lucignano in Bettolle.
Biagiotti Ferro Battuto: Even if you are not in the market for iron pieces, this is a mesmerizing place to walk through. Located in Pienza, about 30 minutes from Lucignano (the drive is beautiful), is a local ironworks shop. Everything is completely handmade and created onsite in a traditional way with fire and hammer. Think sculptures, lighting, tables, mirrors, bed frames, doors, fountains, hooks, knobs, and much more all inspired by the classics of the Renaissance. Lighting and other pieces at Cipresso e Pietra are from this shop. We fell in love with the quality, creativity, and passion distilled in the work the moment we walked in.
Photos from: Biagiotti Ferro Battuto