Top 3 Gelaterias in Florence
Go shawty, it's sherbert day.
by TAYLER BRADFORD ★ JUNE 1, 2018
When you’re in Italy, there is never a wrong time to indulge in a cup or cone of gelato. In fact, because you are only there for a limited amount of time, do not feel guilty about ordering gelato multiple times each week! Because of the endless amount of gelaterias in Florence, here are the top three near Syracuse University Florence, the Duomo and the Arno.
1. Gelateria Badiani
Viale dei Mille, 20/r, 50131 Firenze FI, Italy
You just finished your classes for the day and are craving something. Satisfy that craving with the best gelato Florence has to offer. Just a 10 to 12 minute walk from SUF, Badiani is a cute ice cream parlor that serves 20-30 unique flavors. You can get one scoop for one euro, two scoops for two euros, and so-on. Needless to say, the inexpensiveness of this gelato is a bit dangerous, especially considering Badiani’s close proximity to SUF’s campus.
Known for its trademarked flavor Buontalenti, Badiani makes this flavor in-house. Pair Buontalenti with the creamy Mousse that melts in your mouth. What an unreal combination. If you've done a lot of walking today, treat yourself to an amazing pastry or tiramisu as well.
Pro Tip: This is definitely a local gelateria, so try your best to speak Italian when you order. It’s super easy! Simply say “vorrei” and then the flavor(s) you want. “Vorrei” means “I would like” in Italian. Also, if you are a first-timer, make sure to pay first and then hand an employee behind the gelato counter your receipt. Ordering before you pay is a rookie mistake.
2. Don Nino
Piazza del Duomo, 11, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Photocredit: Olivia Mowrer
It’s your first time seeing the Duomo. Want to make your experience more enjoyable? Stop by the gelato window at Don Nino, located right across from the Duomo. You can literally stare at the Duomo as you order. Not to mention, this gelateria puts a cookie, sometimes dipped in chocolate, on top of each order. Nothing beats scooping a complimentary cookie into delicious gelato. Although on the pricier side, Don Nino has a convenient location that is hard to beat.
Not only is Don Nino a gelateria, but it also doubles as a pasticceria. So if you aren’t in the mood for gelato, go for one of its beautiful desserts or its thick, rich hot chocolate.
Once you order, you can admire one of Florence’s most magnificent pieces of architecture and one of Florence’s best desserts at the same time.
3. La Carraia
Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25/r, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy
If you have been exploring Florence on the other side of the Arno, you have probably passed La Carraia. It’s the gelateria that always has a line out the door. But the wait is totally worth it. The staff is super friendly and the smooth consistency of its gelato is refreshing. Order the Cookie flavor, it is to-die for. Most importantly, don't forget to snap a picture of your gelato with the Ponte Vecchio in the background! Afterward, sit on the ledge and enjoy the view.
You will have the best gelato of your life in Italy. So make sure to stop by these three places.