Dari’s distinctive and creative jewelry is legendary in Florence. Glimpse some of the action in his workshop while perusing his showroom.

This tiny, family-owned place does leather shoes and sandals for men and women.

A variety of leather accessories, including briefcases, handbags, and notebooks.

The market has a number of vendors selling all manner and quality of clothing, leather, jewelry and more.

The “new market” dates from the 16th century. Though it once housed items such as wool, silk and gold, today it’s largely a collection of vendors selling shamelessly cheap (often Chinese-made) souvenirs, leather goods and seasonal flowers. The bronze Piglet Fountain (Fontana del Porcellino), on the south side, dates from the 17th century which is a copy of the original...

Charmingly housed in the ground floor of the medieval Torre dei Marsili, this shop sells a variety of wine and swanky gourmet food, including truffles, cheese, salami and olive oils. There’s also a wine bar for tastings.

In business since 1612, this combination perfumery/pharmacy still sells remedies, dietary supplements, smelling salts and digestive aids, based on concoctions developed by the monastery’s Dominican friars since 1221. A variety of potions purport to cure ailments such as hysterics and joint pain, as well as assisting in weight loss. A free museum goes into the history of perfumery/pharmacy.

Up front is a delicatessen, with fancy and fragrant food and the occasional spectacle of watching a guy halve a gargantuan wheel of cheese. In back is a truly special restaurant, with a super daily lunch menu (18 euros) comprised of a photogenic plate of flavorful cold hams, cheeses and mousse, with a glass of wine or water, and a...