Beyond the grand cathedrals and marble masterpieces, Florence holds another treasure—its living tradition of artisanship. This intimate tour invites you into the quiet workshops and tucked-away studios where master craftsmen carry on centuries-old skills, shaping beauty with their hands, one piece at a time!
Wander through the winding backstreets of Florence’s Oltrarno district, a neighborhood steeped in history and soul. Here, behind unmarked doors and ivy-covered courtyards, artisans continue the legacy of Renaissance guilds—each one a guardian of a unique craft passed down through generations.
Step inside a leather workshop, where skilled hands cut, stitch, and emboss with a reverence for material and detail. Smell the rich aroma of tanned hides and watch as bags, journals, and belts are shaped with patience and precision, just as they have been for centuries.
In a nearby goldsmith’s studio, tiny tools and delicate gestures bring precious metals to life. You’ll witness the art of Florentine filigree, an intricate dance of wire and flame that transforms gold into lace-like beauty.
This tour might take you to a bookbinder’s atelier, where marbled paper swirls with color and antique presses emboss covers with gold leaf. Or into the world of scagliola, where artisans create faux marble inlay using colored powders and plaster—a Florentine technique once reserved for palaces and cathedrals!
Watch a woodcarver shape frames and furnishings, or see artisans at work restoring frescoes and paintings, their every movement preserving history one brushstroke at a time. Each encounter is a reminder that true luxury lies not in speed, but in care, tradition, and timeless design.
What makes this tour truly special is the chance to meet the makers—to hear their stories, learn about their techniques, and understand the pride they take in their work. Many of these artisans welcome questions, demonstrations, and even hands-on experiences, offering an unforgettable connection between visitor and craft.
In a world of mass production, Florence’s artisans remain fiercely devoted to the art of the handmade. This tour offers more than a glimpse into their world—it’s a celebration of creativity, heritage, and the enduring power of human touch.
By the end, you’ll see Florence not just as a city of museums, but as a living workshop, where the spirit of the Renaissance continues to beat in every hammer’s tap and painter’s stroke!
This tour involves walking and standing for extended periods. While most routes are accessible, some areas may include stairs or uneven surfaces. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know at the time of booking, and we will provide guidance on suitability and alternatives.
The exact meeting point for this tour will be confirmed upon booking. Locations may vary depending on tour logistics, but all details, including directions and arrival time, will be provided in your confirmation email.
The duration of this tour may vary slightly based on the itinerary and selected experience. Estimated tour length will be provided at the time of booking, and final details will be communicated in your confirmation.
