Day Tour: Artisans of the Oltrarno, Florence, Italy
Discover the Oltrarno district and visit the workshops of its artisans. See shoes, jewellery and etchings carefully crafted by hand and learn how the skills have been passed on generation to generation since Mediaeval Times.
£50
Greentraveller’s Top Tips: The greener way to reach Florence from the UK is by rail, so hop abroad the train at London St Pancras scenic overland journey to the Tuscan capital via Paris. Once there, Florence is a small, compact city, best explored on foot: most of the historical and cultural landmarks within walking distance of each other. Walking also gives visitors an opportunity to discover the charms and magic of everyday life in Florence. We recommend exploring the Boboli gardens behind Pitti Palace; an excellent choice for a stroll and picturesque views of the city.
>> For full details on transport, see: Train from London to Florence
Details of Urban Adventure in Florence: Artisans of the Oltrarno
Long central to the culture and identity of Florence is the tradition of creating handcrafted, artisinal goods. Deeply embedded in the city’s visual and economic history for centuries, its unique skills have been handed-down from generation to generation.
On a guided walking tour, you'll get the chance to visit a few characteristic workshops in the ancient area of Oltrarno. This is the neighbourhood where many of Florence’s artisnal shops are found, including leatherworkers, silversmiths, shoe manufacturers and hat makers. You will have a rare chance to look behind the scenes and see the artisans at work, using the same tools of the trade that have been used for centuries. Furthermore, you'll be able to learn how important it is to maintain and nurture these precious trades in these times of mass-production.
This is a tour aimed at someone who wants to really go beneath the surface of Florence. It is not just a shopping tour, but a detailed look at the heart, the reality of a precious industry and the importance of preserving and promoting a dying art.
What price includes
- English speaking guide
- Donation to Context Foundation for Sustainable Travel
- (The donation aids ongoing apprenticeships in the Oltrarno)
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
In front of Bar Ricchi, located at Piazza Santo Spirito #8/9r
Florence Santa Maria Novella
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
It is around 15 minutes' walk from Santa Maria Novella station to Piazza Santo Spirito, just across the Ponte Santa Trinita bridge.
How to get there:
Train from London to Florence
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
In front of Bar Ricchi, located at Piazza Santo Spirito #8/9r
Florence Santa Maria Novella
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
It is a 15 minute walk across the Santa Trinita bridge and north-west across the city centre to Santa Maria Novella Station.
How to get back:
Train from Florence to London
