The 19 Best Shops in Florence

A city of philosophers, artists, architects and academics, the Florentines have long been brimming with innovative ideas.Nowhere is this more evident than in their love to create—be it sculptures, fashion, housewares or toiletries—all with a detailed eye for beauty and luxury.Craft guilds in Florence have played an integral part in the city’s social and economic makeup since the 12th century. The Corporazioni di Arti e Mestieri (Guilds of Arts and Crafts) served as a way to organize the city’s craftspeople: cobblers, jewelry makers, furriers, painters and pretty well every type of creator imaginable.Each artisan and their respective guild played a crucial role in society, responsible for their part in ensuring that Florence’s reputation as one of the utmost quality and skill could never be rivalled.This sense of dedicated artistry and pride still rings through today with high-end garments, hand-hewn furnishings, exquisite paper, delicate porcelain and much more still made in Florence, using talents passed down throughout generations.Compact and wonderfully walkable, it’s easy to get around Florence by foot, doubling your shopping venture into a self-guided walking tour (though once your bags start accumulating, you may want to consider a taxi).A quick note on taxis, they can’t be flagged down on the street like in other cities. Taxis are instead stationed at designated stands. If you’re unsure, you can always check with the store owner or ask them to call one to the shop.<h2>The Iconic Road In Florence</h2><h3><a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=Via+de%27+Tornabuoni,+50123+Firenze+FI,+Italy&amp;ftid=0x132a56aa679b379d:0x471b39b1e7ad072e">Via de’ Tornabuoni</a></h3>Named after a prominent Florentine aristocratic family of the 15thC, Via Tornabuoni is Florence’s answer to Rodeo Drive and Fifth Avenue.Here you’ll find all of the major luxury boutiques: the first Salvatore Ferragamo store and museum, Gucci, Pucci, Versace, Pomellato, Hermes, Tiffany and Cartier, just to name a few. Even if you don’t plan on opening your wallet, it’s worth taking a look at the edgy window displays alone.It also makes a great place to people watch; keep an eye out for the most fashionable locals who frequent the road.<h2>Florentine Fashion Shops</h2>While Milan is famous worldwide for its strides in the fashion world, people tend to forget that the original birthplace of Italian style is Florence.After all, this is the home of Catherine de Medici, perhaps one of the most celebrated style icons of all time, and some of<a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy"> Italy’s</a> most iconic luxury brands like Ferragamo, Gucci, Pucci and Roberto Cavalli.Not to mention, Firenze holds the biggest menswear event on the fashion calendar, the Pitti Uomo shows. Many of these labels have their flagship stores in the city, which are often accompanied by a museum dedicated to the designer’s life. Here are the classics.<h3><a href="https://www.ferragamo.com/museo/en/usa/">Salvatore Ferragamo Flagship &amp; Museum</a></h3>Housed in a five-story medieval castle purchased by Ferragamo himself in 1938, the Salvatore Ferragamo flagship store boasts a larger collection of Ferragamo shoes than any other store in the world.&nbsp;

The shop is an art gallery unto itself, with beautifully curated displays of his classic flats to limited-edition reissues, amid vestiges from the building’s imperial past like wrought iron gates and archways lined with Coats of Arms.Venture to the store’s basement museum for an exhibition of shoemaker’s vintage wares from 1927 up until his death in 1960 for a peek into his personal and professional life through film and photograph.<h3><a href="https://www.gucci.com/us/en/st/stories/inspirations-and-codes/article/gucci_garden">Gucci Garden</a></h3>The son of an Italian leather maker, Guccio Gucci initially didn’t have much interest in adopting his father’s trade.Upon leaving his home in the north of Italy, he moved to London where he worked at the prestigious Savoy Hotel.During his time here as a lift attendant, he was seduced by the lifestyle of the rich and famous; in particular, the stunning pieces of luggage they toted.He was almost 40 years old when he returned to Florence, bringing with him a newfound appreciation for style and fashion. He decided to follow in his father’s footsteps after all and take up leather making. He opened the first Gucci shop in Florence in1921.

At the Gucci Garden, a former palace on the Piazza della Signoria, you’ll find a three-storey museum dedicated to some of the brand’s quirkiest one-offs like the legendary Tom Ford era of the late ‘90s, archived animal-printed pieces of luggage, vintage garments displayed in nature-themed rooms and a handful of gowns made for and worn by celebrities.A small theatre plays restored films that offer a glimpse into his beginnings and a Gucci store on the main floor bears one-of-a-kind pieces that can only be found here.Since its redesign in 2017 by Maria Luisa Frisa, it also features a gourmet restaurant, Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, helmed by the three-Michelin-starred chef, Massimo Bottura.<h3><a href="https://www.emiliopucci.com/">Emilio Pucci – Firenze</a></h3>Florentine noble, the Marquis Emilio Pucci di Barsento, better known as Emilio Pucci, was born in 1914 to one of the city’s most distinguished families, priming him from a young age for a life of glamour. He departed for <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/switzerland">Switzerland</a> to become a ski instructor in Zermatt when the post-war economy in Italy was crumbling.&nbsp;Tired of unstylish and bulky ski wear, he created a trim piece for him and his elite circle of friends to hit the slopes in style. The outfit was captured by a fashion photographer and published in Harper’s Bazaar USA and gained so much praise that Pucci went on to design women’s clothing fulltime, setting up an atelier in his family’s palazzo.&nbsp;Florence is a shoppers' paradise — and we know it well. Browse our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy">Italy</a> trips or reach out to <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/courtney-mundy">Courtney Mundy</a> to start planning your perfect bespoke adventure.

Placing his focus on freedom of movement, he revolutionized and patented stretch fabrics in a fashion era that was ripe with heavy and stiff material. At the Pucci boutique on Via de’ Tornabuoni, find a collection of garments with his signature magic eye-like patterns as well as handbags, shoes and eyewear.To learn more about his regal upbringing, you can also pay a visit to his ancestral home, the Palazzo Pucci, a 16thC mansion with frescoed ceilings and adorned with Renaissance paintings and sculptures.<h2>Florence's Health and Beauty Shops</h2><h3><a href="http://www.smnovella.com/">Santa Maria di Novella</a></h3>One of the oldest pharmacies in the world, Santa Maria di Novella was founded around the year 1221 by Dominican friars who would grow medicinal herbs in their monastic gardens.From these herbs, the monks would create salves, medications and balms for their infirmary.By the 1600s, word spread outside of Florence about the pharmacy and their innovative treatments, and the shop opened its doors to the public in 1612.&nbsp;While many think of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/france">France</a> as the innovators of perfume, it’s argued that the Florentine are, in fact, the pioneers of fragrance.At the age of 14 years old, the influential queen, Catherine de Medicis, is said to have commissioned from the Santa Maria di Novella apothecary her signature scent, ‘Acqua della Regina’ or ‘Water of the Queen’: a citrus-based elixir which can still be purchased today.Today, it remains a top choice for beauty in the city and doubles as a museum dedicated to the history of the pharmacy industry.You could get lost for hours exploring the gold-gilded rooms with frescoed vaulted ceilings and glittering chandeliers, each presenting traditional soaps, candles, perfumes and other toiletries like works of art in wood cabinets and precious jars.They have also just opened a small cafe inside the store which makes for a great place to linger and enjoy the atmosphere.<h2>Florentine Accessories&nbsp;</h2><h3><a href="https://www.aquazzura.com/en/world-of-aquazzura/boutiques/florence.html">Aquazzura</a></h3>Contrasting classic Florentine architecture with stark black and white patterns and emerald green (their signature colour), Aquazzura combines the tradition with modernity, a habit that’s reflected in their timeless yet creative footwear.&nbsp;

Find their standalone shop on Palazzo Corsini, which houses their entire collection plus made-to-order services.<h3><a href="http://www.madova.com/">Madova</a></h3>The Donnini family has been in business since 1919 and continue to run the only shop in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe">Europe </a>that still produces and sells strictly gloves made of leather.One of the family members will be there to guide you through your experience, ensuring that you select the right size in order to avoid stretching.Gloves for both men and women are crafted with Nappa leather, which is noted for its soft texture, and are lined with cashmere<h3><a href="http://leatherschool.biz/en/">Leather School of Santa Croce (Scuola del Cuoio)</a></h3>Leather making is a time-honoured craft in Florence. Head straight to the source with a visit to the Leather School of Santa Croce, found behind the Gothic Church of the Holy Cross.&nbsp;&nbsp;The school has been training people in the art of leatherwork since the end of the Second World War and showcases a selection of wallets, key rings, briefcases, purses, backpacks, travel bags, journals and more.For those who like to DIY, you can sign up for a course and assemble your own unique piece!<h3>Temporary Store</h3>A great place for fun and affordable bags with vivid designs and leather accessories. Keep your eyes peeled for their small store on the corner of Via Della Vigna Nuova in the middle of Florence.<ul><li>Address: Via della Vigna Nuova, 52r</li><li>Phone: (39) 055- 265 4306</li></ul><h2>Department Stores In Florence</h2>Prêt-à-porter fashion has deep roots in Florence. During the 1940s, Florence became a top destination for American and <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/united-kingdom">British</a> tourists.This influx of gave rise to American-style department stores and catered to visitors looking to take home a ready-to-wear piece of Florentine fashion.The department store experience here is a little different than back home, complete with cafés and independent designers rather than mass-produced products lining the shelves. These are a few of the best.<h3><a href="https://www.rinascente.it/rinascente/it">La Rinascente</a></h3>The Italian version of Harrod’s, La Rinascente bears six floors worth of quality shopping from ready-to-wear apparel to high-fashion, plus accessories, housewares, beauty and specialty foods.For dinner, an aperitivo or a mid-shopping coffee break, consider their rooftop Caffé La Terrazza which offers a panoramic snapshot of the city and a particularly stunning glimpse of the cupola of the Duomo.<h3><a href="https://www.luisaviaroma.com/en-ca">Luisa Via Roma</a></h3>The trendiest concept store in town, Luisa Via Roma is at the forefront of men’s and women’s fashion.Step into its massive brick-and-mortar store just a stone’s throw from the Duomo that stocks mostly Italian designers, both established and up-and-coming.You can also shop online, but why would you want to?<h3><a href="https://www.giovanniraspini.com/en/boutique_florence">Raspini</a></h3>Originally a small independent shoe shop, Raspini is now a multi-brand and globally-recognized department store with several locations in the city.The shop on Via Martelli is the original location from 1948 and is arguably the most beautiful, offering views of the Duomo and the Giotto bell tower.&nbsp;The recently modernized space sees clothing collections for both men and women as well as the brand’s lauded shoe line.Raspini Vintage, another location found on Via Calimaruzza, is a great place to scope out the previous seasons’ discounted stock.<h2>Vintage Florentine Shops</h2><h3><a href="http://www.boutiquenadine.com/">Boutique Nadine</a></h3>Peruse hand-selected pieces, sophisticated fashions by up-and-coming Florentine designers and other treasures at these perfectly-edited concept shops.Boutique Nadine has two addresses in Florence; the Lungarno location along the Arno river features vintage clothing and accessories for women, while the Via de Benci shop sees clothing, furniture, notebooks and other accessories.Be sure to check our their in-house clothing brands that can only be found here: a womenswear line named Odette for romantic, airy and feminine dresses, Vigliano, a selection of men’s cotton swimwear and Second Floor for cotton and linen shirts, sweatshirts and wool jackets.<h3><a href="http://marieantoinettefirenze.com/">Marie Antoinette</a></h3>This tiny shop behind the Arno Hotel, founded in 2014 by a pair of stylists with an eye for avant-garde looks and fabulous finds, is known to covet vintage pieces, both pre-loved and unworn, at fair prices from luxury labels like Prada, Chanel, Marni, Bulgari and Valentino.It’s worth taking a look to see what designer shoes, purses, dresses or accessories you may end up stumbling upon. If nothing else, stop by to say hello to Livio, the darling pup that greets you at the door.<h3>Nove Rosso</h3>Step out of Florence and into the medina as you pass through the doors of this small yet well-curated shop filled with vintage and contemporary jewelry as well as over-the-top statement pieces with major bling.Also in Paolo’s (the store manager) collection are purses, clothing housewares and even ancient pieces of art. A visit here is truly an adventure!<h2>DESIGNER OUTLETS IN FLORENCE</h2>Think twice before turning your nose up at these exclusive Italian outlets; you may just find some incredible designer steals that you can’t find back home.<h3><a href="https://www.themall.it/en/outlet-italy/homepage.html">The Mall</a></h3>Don’t be fooled by the name—the mall is anything but your run-of-the-mill shopping centre.Set in the Tuscany countryside in a sleek and modern complex, this open-air, luxury outlet is a collection of multi-level shops including Gucci, Lanvin, Givenchy, Fendi, Burberry, Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, Ferragamo, Valentino, Stella McCartney and more at reduced prices.A destination for true shopaholics, you’ll have to venture a bit out of the city to get here—it’s around a 30-minute drive from central Florence.<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Space-PRADA-outlet/168441409851999">Space (Prada Outlet)</a></h3>If you find yourself at The Mall and in search of some Prada, you’ll need to head to their standalone outlet, also known as Space, found a 20-minute drive from The Mall.With clothing and shoes for both men and women, plus handbags, luggage and accessories, with some determination and a keen eye, you’re likely to come across a steal. Its rise in popularity has resulted in an increase in prices, but you can still manage to find up to 50% off the original price tag.The store is open from 9:30 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 2 p.m to 7 p.m. on Sundays.Only 100 customers are allowed to enter at one time, meaning your wait could be long if you visit on the weekend (so try to visit on a weekday instead). Arriving early is a good idea.<h2>Shope for Home &amp; Office in Florence</h2><h3><a href="http://www.ilpapirofirenze.it/">Il Papiro</a></h3>Purchasing handmade paper in Florence is a must! However, boutiques that are still dedicated to the craft are increasingly difficult to come by. Il Papiro is one of the city’s last remaining sources where you can find beautifully-designed paper crafted by hand.Their specialty is block print paper which, traditionally, used hand-carved wooden blocks to stamp sheets with alternating patterns.Nowadays, they use laser-cut blocks to lessen imperfections and produce perfect results. Along with block print, find marbled paper plus cards, leather-bound journals and stationery.Bespoke options are available if you want something tailor-made to keep on your desk, and paper marbling and bookbinding class are on offer for those who want to try their hand at the skill.<h3><a href="https://www.richardginori1735.com/it">Ricardo Ginori</a></h3>The story of Ginori’s works of white gold trace back to 1735 when the Marquis Carlo Andrea Ginori opened his porcelain factory in Doccia, just north of Florence, where production continues today.The Ginori name is internationally-acclaimed, synonymous with inimitable pieces that have graced both museums and dinner tables across the globe, from ornately hand-painted vases to classic all-white serving ware.Some items are available online but for the full experience, head to the beautiful showroom where you can see its entire range.<h3><a href="https://www.riccardobarthel.it/en/about/history">Riccardo Barthel</a></h3>Riccardo Barthel’s story began when his passion for interior design was confronted with a lack of high-quality products and a dwindling of Florentine craft traditions.Taking charge of the situation, he began his own luxury furniture business, opening his headquarters on Via dei Serragli in 1994. Interior designers know to source vintage or restored gems here, although new items also make up part of the collection.The best is visiting the showroom, located in a restored boathouse. Along with pieces for the home, they also specialize in accessories and furnishings for yachts old and new.<h3><a href="https://www.ippogrifostampedarte.com/">L’ippogrifo Stampe d’Arte</a></h3>For beautiful etchings and artwork&nbsp;to decorate your home in Florentine flair.&nbsp;<h2>For A Break…</h2><h3><a href="http://www.gelateriasantatrinita.it/index_ing.html">Gelateria Santa Trinita</a></h3>What’s better than meandering the streets and bridges of Florence on a sunny day? Doing so with a gelato in hand, and here is one of our favourites places to get your scoop!Located in the Frescobaldi Palace, facing the Santa Trinita bridge, this cotton-candy pink shop serves all the typical flavours you’d expect plus unique and seasonal ones such as yogurt with strawberries, and honey with dark chocolate sesame. You might have to come back on multiple occasions to taste them all!

<h3><a href="https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/individuals/travelling/travellers-leaving-eu/guide-vat-refund-visitors-eu_en">A Note on Tax Refunds for Non-EU Shoppers</a></h3>Don’t forget to ask the shop about providing VAT (tax) form if you make any purchases of at least 175 euros (from one shop, you cannot accumulate purchases from different stores to this amount). You’ll need to present a photo ID or your passport to prove you are not a citizen of the EU, and you may be asked to show your departing flight ticket as well.You’ll need to fill in a form with all necessary details, and the shop will be required to fill in their part, too.Upon departing the last EU country you’re visiting, you must show the invoice provided by the store plus the refund form and the goods purchased to the customs offer at the airport. The officers will need to stamp the form as proof of export.The refund is sometimes immediate at customs, and other times it can take a few weeks to be processed to your card, depending on the service used by the shop. Often, it will not be the full tax cost returned, as there is usually an administrative fee incurred. Overall, you can expect a return of about 16% of the price of your purchases.

Discover the 19 best shops in Florence—from iconic fashion boutiques and historic perfumeries to artisanal leather studios and design stores. A local guide to Florence’s finest shopping destinations.

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Explore the gorgeous (and little known) Alpe di Siusi. Experience the region’s remarkable people, unforgettable hikes, and sumptuous cuisine. Your taste buds will never, ever forget the gastronomic surprises in store, the perfect reward after an invigorating (and jaw-dropping) alpine hike. B&amp;R Travel Expert Georgia Yuill was named Top Travel Specialist for the Dolomites 2020 by Condé Nast.

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Our Super Tuscan has been finely crafted for the traveller who delights in truly exquisite accommodation, exceptional wine and wants to suss out the idyllic countryside through a well-structured blend of activity—pedalling past hilltop hamlets, ambling among vines tended by generations of winemakers and (optionally!) rising to salute the famous Tuscan sun on a yoga mat. In between, you’ll savour traditional cuisine made from the freshest ingredients. It’s a robust build. Fancy a taste?B&amp;R Experience Designer Courtney Mundy has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

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Our Super Tuscan has been finely crafted for the traveller who delights in truly exquisite accommodation, exceptional wine and wants to suss out the idyllic countryside through a well-structured blend of activity—pedaling past hilltop hamlets, ambling among vines tended by generations of winemakers and (optionally!) rising to salute the famous Tuscan sun on a yoga mat. In between you’ll savour traditional cuisine made from the freshest ingredients. It’s a robust build. Fancy a taste?

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Nowhere does slowing down feel more appropriate than Piemonte, the birthplace of 'Slow Food', where epicurean delights await around every corner and verdant vineyards abound. On this trip, you'll indulge in fresh cuisine paired with many of the best vintages (on us, naturally), ride through UNESCO-listed villages and sparkling wine hubs, then kick back at your intimate and gorgeous stay.&nbsp;

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Nowhere does the slowing down feel more apropos than Piemonte, the birthplace of Slow Food, where epicurean delights await around every corner and verdant vineyards abound. We pair our meals with many of the best vintages (on us, natch), then kick back at the intimate and gorgeous La Villa.

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Discover one of the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world as you saddle up on an electric-assisted mountain biking journey through the Dolomite Mountains. Nestled in the north of Italy, this alpine land offers a unique blend of cultures and cuisines, stunning landscapes, always inviting hospitality and endless fun and exploration through its peaks and valleys. Pedalling through two of the region’s corners, the Alta Badia and the Alpe di Siusi, your rides can be as moderate or challenging as you wish, all guaranteed to be backdropped by craggy peaks, tranquil meadows and delightful (and delicious) mountain huts.B&amp;R Experience Designer Georgia Yuill has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

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The Dolomites are like the Alps’ charismatic cousin. Spin through Alta Badia’s dreamy valleys and Alpe di Siusi’s peaceful pastures, customizing each route to your preferred level of comfort (or bravado). Recharge at rustic mountain huts, savour hearty alpine fare, and soak in views so jaw-dropping you’ll be glad you had an electric assist.

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Prepare to savour some of the best meals of your life. Did we say meals? We meant wines (think Barolos and Barbarescos). Wait – we meant views (think Italian Riviera). Oh, shoot, no. We meant hotels (there’s a reason they call them Splendido).

In Tuscany and Umbria, slow down to a gentle pace of life and wander from golden-hued horizons to lush, verdant lands. Your journey begins tracing the hills of Montepulciano and Val d’Orcia, travelling along age-old routes that were carved into the landscape step by step. Pass vines tended by generations of winemakers and travel through Pienza, a picturesque Renaissance town. In Umbria, indulge in local cuisine and crostata made with our friend Agnieska, and spend a day exploring&nbsp;endless olive groves, flowering meadows and forests. At the end of each day, spend time relaxing at your beautiful hotels—from the brand-new Casa Newton to Monastero di Cortona, a converted monastery, and Hotel Castello di Reschio, a thousand-year-old castle.

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Walk your way through Tuscany and Umbria, where every trail feels like a love letter to slowing down. Trace ancient paths through Montepulciano and Val d’Orcia, bake crostata with our friend Agnieska, and wander olive groves that roll on forever. With castle stays, Renaissance towns, and a thousand golden horizons, this is Italy at its most soul-soothing.

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Spend 5 nights hiking between Cortona and Umbria's green valleys in a small group. Truffle-hunter trails, hilltop medieval towns and a converted monastery as

Tuscany & Umbria Walking Tour: Cortona, Truffle Trails & a Monastery

Discover the true magic of old Italy, surrounded by olive groves and our charming local friends. We make every step count with routes featuring sublime coastal roads, cobbled paths that weave through whitewashed towns and distinctive stone trulli. End your journey with two nights in UNESCO-listed Matera, with its ancient cave dwellings inhabited for thousands of years.

The magic of old Italy

Bask in olive groves and gorgeous whitewashed villages as you stroll along the aquamarine Adriatic in one of Italy’s most blissfully low-traffic corners (we’re the only walkers here!). Back at hotel Sant’Angelo – a B&amp;R exclusive in UNESCO Matera – feast on the freshest seafood you’ve ever had while you quaff luscious local Primitivo.

Savour a feast prepared by our local friends—and enjoy it in their backyard. Take in the evening energy of Siena and join in the laughter radiating from the piazza. Dine under the stars, at a winery, on a meal prepared by our private chef. We don't just visit Tuscany—we bring its story to life.Please note the hotel lineup for 2024:May 5th: Villa di Piazzano, Grand Hotel Continental, Pieve AldinaFor all other departures: Villa di Piazzano, Grand Hotel Continental, Le FontanelleFor information about the hotels assigned to your departure, kindly contact your Travel Advisor. You can also download the detailed itinerary to view the complete hotel lineup.

Exceptional Wines 

Tuscany was made for two wheels. From the vine-striped ridgelines of Chianti Classico to the chalk-pale crete approaching Siena, then south through Montepulciano's hilltop streets and on into Umbria — this is the long version of Tuscany, the one they left out of the guidebook. Ride with friends who have been making biodynamic wine in these valleys for generations. Stay at COMO Castello Del Nero and Villa di Piazzano. Sit down to dinners that happened to be exactly what you'd order if you knew. This is where the word dolce actually means something.

Explore Italy's most exalted region

Savour a feast prepared by our local friends—and enjoyed in their backyard. Take in the evening energy of Sienna and join in the laughter radiating from the piazza. Dine under the stars, at a winery, on a meal prepared by our private chef. We don't just visit Tuscany—we bring its story to life.

Spend 5 nights biking Tuscany's estate-lined hills in a small group. Chianti direct from the cellar, private villa access and routes no map puts you on.

Tuscany Bike Tour: Private Hilltop Estates, Chianti & Cypress Roads

To truly understand Italy’s most enigmatic island, we explore it by sea, setting sail in an exquisite&nbsp;gulet&nbsp;that will serve as our home during our voyage. Biking or hiking off the ship each day, we explore sheep-covered hills, vertiginous limestone cliffs that plunge into the cobalt sea, and the glam of Costa Smeralda. Unforgettable? Cruising to La Maddalena and Corsica.B&amp;R Experience Designer Georgia Yuill has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.Please Note! This trip offers 12 available spaces, so book early to secure your spots. Or, get in touch with a Travel Advisor to Privatize the departure for an exclusive journey with your crew.

Italian Coastal Wellness

To truly understand Italy’s most enigmatic island, we explore it by sea, setting sail in an exquisite&nbsp;gulet&nbsp;which will serve as our home during our voyage. Biking or hiking off the ship each day, we explore sheep-covered hills, vertiginous limestone cliffs that plunge into the cobalt sea, and the glam of Costa Smeralda. Unforgettable? Cruising to La Maddalena and Corsica.

B&amp;R’s Women’s Only trips are designed by women, for women to experience new regions, cultures and communities from female perspectives. Venture straight to the heart of Italy through the regions of Tuscany and Umbria, laden with history, cuisine and natural beauty. Wander on foot and by bike through the Tuscan landscape across fields of wheat, rolling emerald hills, stretches of sunflowers and sun-drenched vineyards&nbsp;connecting from one picturesque village to the next. Immerse yourself in your peaceful surroundings with&nbsp;morning yoga and step into our friend Margot’s estate to savour exquisite wines. Cross into Umbria via shady wooded paths and hills blanketed in wildflowers to your hands-on&nbsp;crostata&nbsp;cooking class. Retreat to Reschio, Italy’s finest hotel, and explore its enchanting grounds before dining in the castle. By the end of this journey, you’ll feel a deep connection to this serene and magical corner of Italy.

Local Connections

Active Adventure

Cycle, stretch, sip, repeat—this is Italy at its most rejuvenating, reinvigoratinng and remarkable. Pedal through sunflower fields, wander wildflower trails, and find your flow with morning yoga. Bake crostata in the hills, toast fine wines at Margot’s estate, and retreat to dreamy Reschio, one of Italy's best hotels. It’s a multi-active escape with just the right dose of magic (and vino).

Wander through the idyllic countryside

Tuscany & Umbria Women's Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

Savour a feast prepared by our local friends—and enjoyed in their backyard. Take in the evening energy of Sienna and join in the laughter radiating from the piazza. Dine under the stars, at a winery, on a meal prepared by our private chef. We don't just visit Tuscany—we bring its story to life.



“A dream place"—that’s how Steinbeck described Amalfi. And when you take in the Path of the Gods, the hotels (we stay at Le Sirenuse, just like he did), the food and the Limoncello, you’ll understand why. Dream place? More like fantasy land—but who are we to correct a Nobel laureate?B&amp;R Experience Designer Courtney Mundy has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

“A dream place"—that’s how Steinbeck described Amalfi. And when you take in the Path of the Gods, the hotels (we stay at Le Sirenuse, just like he did), the food and the Limoncello, you’ll understand why. Dream place? More like fantasy land—but who are we to correct a Nobel laureate?

In the Footsteps of Gods

Spend 5 nights hiking Capri, Ravello and Positano in a small group, with a stay at Le Sirenuse. Path of the Gods and the Amalfi's most dramatic clifftop trails.

Amalfi Coast Walking Tour: Path of the Gods, Capri, Positano & Le Sirenuse

Crowning Italy’s northern border, the Dolomites are widely regarded as one of the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world. Trails wind between massive peaks, offering new vistas at every turn and charming rifugi (mountain huts) that welcome hikers and bikers alike.&nbsp;Evenings are a delightful mixture of South Tyrolean and Ladin cultures, where you can dine on distinctive culinary specialties and savour the region's fine wines.

The Dolomites are where alpine drama meets Italian flair. Hike jagged peaks, cycle storybook valleys and fuel up on pasta with a side of strudel. With luxe lodges, a dash of Austrian charm and views that redefine “breathtaking,” this UNESCO gem is mountain magic—served with a glass of Südtirol’s finest.

Experience the Italian Alps 

experience the italian alps

Explore the towering peaks of the Dolomites

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Ski tour, rock climb or hike the Dolomites on a tailor-made itinerary. UNESCO peaks, expert mountain guides and access to a landscape that rewards every season.

Dolomites Private Tours: Ski Touring, Rock Climbing & UNESCO Peaks

Vineyards, grottos, and whitewashed villages set against the Adriatic: myriad landscapes await you in Puglia, the historic hunting grounds of marauding royalty and occupying forces (who clearly come for the nosh). Foodies, get ready to swoon for fresh, local ingredients and rich wines in Puglia and Basilicata, the gardens of Italy.

Ride through southern Italy where ancient history meets Adriatic eye candy. Spin past olive groves, stone Trulli, and sun-bleached villages that look plucked from a dream (or a very trippy postcard). Explore fortified farms, feast like a local, and cruise serene coastal roads. Matera to Puglia delivers the rarest form of la dolce vita—one that's blissfully free of crowds.

See Puglia at your pace

Experience designer

$5,395 based on two travellers. $4,995 based on four travellers. $4,595 based on six travellers.

Cycle Puglia's Adriatic coast on a tailor-made itinerary. Cave-dwelling Matera, whitewashed Ostuni and masseria estate dinners most visitors never find.

Puglia Cycling Tours: Matera Cave Dwellings, Ostuni & Adriatic Estates

Explore Pienza and Siena with Carlo, a Tuscan native, and expand your palate with local wine-maker Elisabetta. From tiny Montefollonico to lordly Montepulciano, Tuscany embodies the good life. Revel in a cyclist’s paradise as our friends reveal its many charms.B&amp;R Experience Designer Courtney Mundy has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

Tuscany’s calling—and this self-guided spin lets you answer at your own pace. Cycle past cypress-lined hills to storybook towns like Pienza and Montepulciano, sip from sun-soaked vineyards, and feast at trattorie that know their way around a wild boar ragu. With local tips for living la dolce vita, Tuscany never felt so personal.

Your pace, our routes, Italy's pleasures

$6,395 based on two travellers. $5,995 based on four travellers. $5,795 based on six travellers.

Ride from Pienza to Siena on a tailor-made Tuscany cycling itinerary. Chianti estate access, hilltop town stops and a converted Tuscan monastery as your base.

Tuscany Cycling Tours: Pienza to Siena, Chianti & a Monastery Stay

Natural Beauty

Time Travel

Puglia is sun-soaked, salt-kissed and straight-up irresistible. Ride through olive groves, past whitewashed towns and cone-roofed trulli, then feast on seafood and sip wine under the stars. Pair it with neighbouring Matera in Basilicata, with its ancient stone beauty, and you’ve got Italy at its most soulful. History, flavour and southern charm—served with extra olive oil, of course.

Experience old-world Italy in the heel of the boot

In Puglia, the spirit of old-world Italy comes to life

Bike Baroque Lecce, hike ancient Matera and eat at trulli restaurants most visitors miss. Southern Italy's finest, tailor-made and privately guided for you.

Puglia Private Tours: Baroque Lecce, Ancient Matera & Trulli Restaurants

Travel beyond as we're the only ones who will take you to both the crystalline waters of Lake Como and over to the stunning Swiss side, wandering through charming Lugano and Ticino. Soak in the incredible views from the water on not one, two, but three separate boat cruises.Please note the 2025 hotel lineup: Grand Hotel Victoria, Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola &amp; Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees &amp; Spa

Unforgettable Experiences

Italy’s lakes: where nature shamelessly shows off, truffles beg to be found, and villa-hopping by speedboat feels totally reasonable. Wander Lake Como’s garden-lined shores, scale castles with postcard views, and savour lakeside meals with Alice, our favourite local foodie. Swim crystal-clear Mergozzo, hunt for truffles with a seasoned tartufaio (and his adorable dog), and unwind each night in style.

Where grandeur and elegance go to relax

Go beyond the crystalline waters of Lake Como as we’re the only ones who pop over to the stunning Swiss side, wandering through charming Lugano and Ticino. Soak in the incredible views from the water on not one, two, but three separate boat cruises.

Spend 5 nights hiking Lakes Como, Lugano and Maggiore in a small group. Lakeside trails, clifftop gardens and private villa access that takes months to

Italian Lakes Walking Tour: Como, Lugano & Maggiore with Private Villa Access

With no shortage of pristine wineries and charming landscapes punctuated by UNESCO-listed vineyards, the Prosecco hills are a wine lover’s dream. Although known as the place where Italy’s most famous DOCG wine grapes grow, you’ll soon discover this region has so much more to offer. Pedal through medieval towns, learn how to make pasta from scratch and savour the gastronomic delights around every corner. Here, the culinary adventures are as extraordinary as the scenery!

Great Rides

Art and History

In the Prosecco Hills, the bubbles are just the beginning. Ride through rolling vineyards, sip Grappa (slowly) where it was born, and wander medieval towns where even the artwork feels tipsy on beauty. With DOCG vines, Michelin-worthy meals, and landscapes that practically toast you back, this region pairs perfectly with every kind of adventure.

Epicurean escapades along ancient paths

Spend 5 nights biking the Prosecco Road in a small group self-guided trip. Steep vine terraces, Palladian villas and Asolo's medieval centre at your own pace.

Prosecco Self-Guided Biking Tour: Vine Terraces & Palladian Villas

Venture to the vine covered slopes of the South Tyrol wine country to the heights of the Italian Alps and discover the Dolomites—a breathtaking mountain range often regarded as the most beautiful in the world. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, verdant valleys, and picturesque alpine villages, the Dolomites beckon to be explored on two wheels. On your e-mountain bike, begin your journey in the charming town of Bolzano, pedalling through the Adige Valley toward the prestigious vineyards of Lake Caldaro. Immerse yourself in the beautiful Alpe di Siusi, reached by cable car whisking you to the peaceful high alpine meadows. Witness the charms of mountain life as you bike through the enchanting village of Ortisei, and hike along the Fassa and Duron Valleys, where an incredible backdrop of the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto peaks accompanies you. After a day of adventure, retreat to luxurious hotels and rejuvenating spas, where you’ll quickly feel the serenity of this beautiful pocket of Italy.&nbsp;This trip is capped at 14 travellers.&nbsp;

Exceptional Wines

In Italy’s Dolomites, every ride and hike feels like a dream. Pedal through vineyard-covered valleys, soar by cable car to high alpine meadows, and spin past storybook villages framed by towering peaks. Hike along a panoramic ridge overlooking the Fassa and Duron Valleys, then unwind in luxurious hotels and soothing spas surrounded by serene beauty.

Cycle peaks and valleys 

Spend 5 nights biking and hiking the Dolomites in a small group. Iconic cycling climbs, alpine meadow hikes and rifugio lunches across a UNESCO World

Dolomites Multi-Active Tour: Cycling Climbs, Meadow Trails & Mountain Huts

Authentic Cuisine

Tuscany is where vineyard-laced hills meet timeless towns and every meal tells a story. Ride through Chianti’s golden landscapes, walk through vineyards guided by passionate female winemakers, and linger over long lunches with women who’ve perfected the art of Italian hospitality. From homemade pizza in the vines to private tastings in storied cellars, this is Italy at its most soulful.

Spend 5 nights biking and hiking Val d'Orcia in a small women's group. Cypress hill roads, private farmhouse access and a Tuscany that rewards those who go

Tuscany Women's Multi-Active Tour: Val d'Orcia Cycling & Farmhouse Stays

Here, sweeping mountain vistas and the spectacularly placed Caesar Augustus (your Relais &amp;&nbsp;Châteaux away from home) conspire to make the sirens sing. Go at your own pace—with local guides at your beck and call—as you traverse the glittering coast (on foot and by private boat), and take in Amalfi’s idyllic mix of luxury and rustic charm.B&amp;R Experience Designer Courtney Mundy has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

Unique Gastronomy

Experience By Sea

Amalfi’s beauty runs deeper than postcard-perfect vistas (though they’re delightful, too). Wander at your leisure along cliffside trails, discover why lemons grow as big as your head, and eavesdrop on goats gossiping hillside secrets. From glittering coastlines to charming mountain paths, experience the luxurious-yet-rustic rhythm of life that inspired Steinbeck, and still beckons the Sirens to sing.

Amalfi's stunning coastline

$11,995 based on two travellers. $11,595 based on four travellers. $11,095 based on six travellers.

Spend 5 nights hiking Capri, Ravello and Positano self-guided in a small group. Walk the Path of the Gods at your own pace, with hidden grottos throughout.

Amalfi Coast Self-Guided Walking Tour: Capri, Positano & Path of the Gods

While we’ve been travelling to Tuscany for decades, this is the first release in our challenging trip series. We’ve paired famous race trails with the&nbsp;crème de la crème&nbsp;of gravel bikes. The payoff is not just the challenge of riding along gravel with heart-pounding ascents and thrilling descents, but also the unbelievable places it takes you.

Poetic Discovery

Sicily is Italy turned up to eleven—grittier, tastier, sunnier and somehow even more charming. Hike through ancient ruins, lunch by sparkling salt pans and toast under the stars with volcanic wine that tells a thousand-year story. With layered history, knockout landscapes and the warmest welcome in the Med, Sicily doesn’t just charm—it conquers.

Sicily’s charm seduces all who visit 

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Bike, hike and eat across Sicily on a tailor-made itinerary. Baroque Noto, ancient Taormina, Palermo's street markets and private access throughout.

Sicily Private Tours: Baroque Noto, Ancient Taormina & Palermo Street Food

Our decades-long love affair with the Amalfi Coast has us feeling like members of the Amalfitano family, so don’t be surprised if the barmen or concierge greet you like old friends. Here, nature forces life to slow down. Grapes are harvested by hand on terraced plots, then shuttled by mule along trails that connect colourful fishing ports. Boats cruise to Capri only when the Mediterranean is calm enough to allow it. And pizzas are garnished with hand-picked, wild herbs. If superb accommodation, challenging walks and ocean views are what you seek, then a bespoke trip to the Amalfi Coast is for you.&nbsp;

La Dolce Vita in Amalfi

Scenic Walks, Stunning Views

Exclusive Local Experiences

The Amalfi Coast doesn’t rush—so neither should you. Hike cliffside trails where grapes ride mules, boats only sail when the Med says so, and pizzas come topped with wild herbs and sea air. From family adventures to romantic honeymoons, limoncello to luxe lodgings, Amalfi is a love letter to slowing down in luxurious, spectacular style.

The allure of southern Italy's colourful coastline, Amalfi   

immerse yourself in the elegance of amalfi

Hike the Path of the Gods, boat sea caves and dine on clifftop terraces on a custom Amalfi itinerary. Italy's most photogenic coastline, accessed beyond the

Amalfi Coast Private Tours: Path of the Gods, Sea Caves & Clifftop Dining

Head to Veneto—where the prosecco is local, the pasta is rolled fresh, and the sun-drenched hills go on for miles. On this journey, cycle from the UNESCO landscape of the Prosecco hills, through charming villages and historic towns to the shimmering Lago di Garda. Dine with the Count of Vidor in their abbey, savour the taste of Grappa in its homeplace and indulge in the art of cooking authentic ravioli with our friend Serena. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in Veneto’s rich history—in Asolo, one of Italy's most charming historic centres, in Piave River and Salò, important WWI and WWII landmarks, and the Museum Gipsoteca Antonio Canova, where you'll witness the stunning works of the renowned Neoclassical sculptor.&nbsp;

Veneto serves up sun-soaked hills, fresh pasta, and more postcard moments than your camera can handle. Pedal from the bubbly beauty of the Prosecco hills to sparkling Lake Garda, enjoy a private dinner in a historic abbey and roll ravioli with our friend Serena. History, hospitality, and a whole lot of dolce vita? Yes, please.

From the hills to the shores

Featured Stays

Some of the best things in life are enjoyed slowly, which is how we approach our exploration of the Veneto; a region that encompasses the area just south of the central Alps and Dolomites. We begin in timeless Venice, amid the palaces of a bygone era, with the renowned city of canals mere minutes from the start of our first ride. From here, we head west through the Po River valley along an ancient trade and military route—the Roman Road—via Postumia. The Veneto is the breadbasket of Italy, and naturally, the gustatory adventures here are unrivalled: the Prosecco is local, vegetables come straight from the field and pasta has been rolled the morning of. Salute!

Spend 5 nights cycling the Prosecco Hills to Lake Garda in a small group. Vine terraces, Palladian villas and a finish on shores of Italy's most spectacular

Prosecco to Lake Garda Bike Tour: Vine Terraces & Italy's Largest Lake

La Dolce Vita

Pastel villages cling to cliffs along the Cinque Terre coast, while Portofino glows with dolce vita glamour and superyacht sheen—the Italian Riviera is a masterclass in effortless elegance. Hike ancient mule tracks through terraced vineyards, where winemaking is more art than agriculture. Wander seaside towns washed in gelato tones, where every faded shutter and baroque balcony tells a story. Plunge into pools as blue as the Ligurian Sea, letting the Riviera wash over you.&nbsp;

Hike Cinque Terre's five villages, boat between headlands and swim hidden coves on a Ligurian itinerary. Italy's most photographed coastline, privately

Italian Riviera Private Tours: Cinque Terre on Foot & Hidden Coves by Boat

Glorious mountaintops wreathed in mists. Fairytale villages with overflowing flower boxes. The bulbous domes of Baroque churches. In the Dolomite mountains, you'll find breathtaking beauty and rustic charm around every corner. Hike to the highest peak, spend the day indulging in culture, or savour the cuisine—here, you can’t make a wrong turn.B&amp;R Experience Designer Georgia Yuill has been named a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler.

If Mother Nature had favourites, the Dolomites might top her list—misty peaks, absurdly pretty villages, and trails ranging from blissfully lackadaisical to ambitiously sweaty. On this self-guided adventure, hike at your leisure, savour rustic culinary delights, and mingle with locals who practically invented hospitality. Warning: real life feels alarmingly dull after this.

The 19 Best Shops in Florence

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