Florence: Artisanal Crafts and Workshops Guided Tour
Santa Maria Novella, Florence
Discover the art of goldsmithing, leather working, bookbinding, perfumery, and carving on a guided tour of Florence. Visit historic workshops and see art masters at work.
Florence Traditional Arts and Crafts Guided Tour
This guided tour in Florence suits travelers interested in historic workshops and traditional artisan crafts, including goldsmithing, leatherwork, and perfumery.
Description
Discover Florence's traditional arts and crafts on a guided visit to historic workshops, where artisans demonstrate techniques such as leatherworking, goldsmithing, gem-smithing, bookbinding, and perfumery.
Florence has a long history of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Skilled artisans created jewelry and refined frames to complement fine paintings, continuing traditions dating back to the Etruscan age.
Visit the Scuola del Cuoio inside the Santa Croce complex to admire leatherwork. Other notable leather workshops include Il Bisonte and Stefano Bemer’s boutique. Observe goldsmithing and gem-smithing at Arlo Haisek's workshop and the Lastrucci family workshop, known for the Florentine “commesso” technique, located in the ancient Spedale di San Francesco.
Enter the Santa Maria Novella pharmacy, the oldest pharmacy in the world, founded in 1221 by Dominican friars. This historic apothecary inspired master perfumer Renato Bianco, who created scents for the French Court. Purchase fragrances at the nearby Aquaflor store.
For woodcarving and framing, visit Bottega d'Arte Maselli, renowned for framing masterpieces by artists such as Da Vinci and Rosso Fiorentino.
Highlights
- Discover goldsmithing and semi-precious stone craftsmanship in Florence
- Visit the oldest pharmacy in the world, Santa Maria Novella
- Admire leatherwork at the Scuola del Cuoio inside Santa Croce
- Explore wood carving at Bottega d'Arte Maselli
- Learn about bookbinding and perfumery traditions in Florence
Includes
- Guided tour of historic Florentine workshops
- Admission to Scuola del Cuoio and Lastrucci family workshop
- Visit to Santa Maria Novella pharmacy
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Personal shopping expenses
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes due to moderate walking involved
- Photography is usually allowed inside workshops
- Food and drinks are not permitted inside workshops
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to historic locations
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your place. Morning tours offer better lighting for photography. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture artisans at work.
