Florence, a city renowned for its art, culture, and history, offers the perfect gifts for anyone seeking something extraordinary this holiday season. Whether you’re drawn to artisanal traditions, luxurious craftsmanship, or the elegant flavors of Tuscany, Florence provides a wealth of options that embody the essence of Italian heritage. From the fragrant rose waters of centuries-old pharmacies to the exquisite wines and handcrafted treasures, these gifts offer a taste of Florence’s rich cultural legacy, making them an ideal way to celebrate the magic of Christmas.
Acqua di Rose: A Historic Gift from Santa Maria Novella
Nestled in the heart of Florence, the historic boutique of Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella at 16 Via della Scala offers a timeless gift for the holiday season: Acqua di Rose.
This iconic boutique is referred to as one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, it traces its origins back to 1221, when Dominican monks from the adjoining Santa Maria Novella monastery began crafting herbal remedies and perfumes.
The exquisite rose water, first distilled during the 14th century at the height of the Black Death as a natural antiseptic to cleanse homes and protect against illness, its effectiveness and delicate fragrance elevated it to an object of desire across Europe. Its recipe, preserved in the archives since 1381, is a testament to the Dominican monks’ ingenuity in blending beauty with healing.
Today, this historic rose water is a symbol of elegance and versatility, offering a luxurious way to hydrate and perfume the skin—especially during the dry winter months. A visit to this iconic perfumery is more than shopping—it’s stepping into the legacy of Italian artistry and history, where the whispers of Catherine de’ Medici’s court still linger. For a gift that at the same time captures the spirit of Florence and the magic of Christmas, Acqua di Rose from Santa Maria Novella is a timeless choice.
📍Location: Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze FI
A Bottle of Chianti Classico: Tradition in Every Sip
For a Christmas gift steeped in Florentine tradition and timeless elegance, look no further than a bottle of Chianti Classico from the legendary Antinori family winery, Cantinetta Antinori. With a winemaking heritage spanning over six centuries and 26 generations, the Antinori family embodies the perfect blend of innovation and tradition. Chianti, one of Italy’s most iconic wines, is crafted primarily from the Sangiovese grape, offering a vibrant bouquet of red fruits, earthy undertones, and hints of spice. Their wines, produced in the heart of Tuscany’s rolling hills, reflect the region’s soul, balancing bold flavors with refined complexity. Housed in the historic Palazzo Antinori, a landmark symbolizing their enduring legacy, each bottle is a celebration of Italian artistry and passion. A gift of Antinori wine is not just a taste of Tuscany—it’s a toast to history, craftsmanship, and the joy of the season.
📍Location: Piazza degli Antinori, 3, 50123 Firenze FI
Mattei’s Biscotti: A Sweet Slice of Florentine Tradition
For a truly delightful Christmas gift, look no further than the iconic Biscotti di Prato from Biscottificio Antonio Mattei. With over 160 years of baking tradition, these almond biscuits, along with classic treats like Cantucci all’Anice, have been beloved by locals and visitors alike since 1858. Made with the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Mattei’s biscuits are still crafted using traditional methods, offering the perfect crunchy texture and rich almond flavor. The biscuits come in the signature Blu Mattei packaging, a unique shade of blue that has been a symbol of authenticity since the 1880s. In addition to the timeless classics, newer creations like the Brutti Buoni have also gained popularity, offering a delicious variation while maintaining the brand’s commitment to quality. This holiday season, Mattei’s biscuits are not only a sweet treat but also a slice of Tuscany’s rich culinary heritage, making them the perfect gift for any occasion. Although the company originated in Prato, you can now visit its store in Florence, which was opened to celebrate the company’s 160th anniversary!
📍Location: Via Porta Rossa, 76, 50123 Firenze FI
Il Papiro: Artisanal Gifts of Timeless Craftsmanship
For a Christmas gift that reflects Florence’s rich artisan tradition, consider the exquisite creations from Il Papiro, a renowned Florentine workshop specializing in handmade decorative paper. Since opening its first store on Via Cavour on Christmas Eve 1976, Il Papiro has been dedicated to preserving the techniques of 17th-century craftsmanship, including paper marbling and woodcut printing. Thanks to their dedication and professionalism, their exquisite creations can now be found in several other streets across Florence. Their collection features beautifully crafted items like marbled paper diaries, photo albums, and notebooks, as well as elegant desk accessories and stationery. Each piece, from ex libris bookplates to classic leather-bound items, is a testament to the timeless beauty of Italian artistry. A gift from Il Papiro is not just practical but a work of art—perfect for adding a touch of tradition and sophistication to the holidays.
📍Location: Piazza del Duomo, 24-red, 50122 Firenze FI
Via Camillo Cavour, 49, 50129 Firenze FI
Via de’ Guicciardini, 47r, 50125 Firenze FI
Antico Setificio Fiorentino: The Ultimate in Luxury Gifts
For a Christmas gift that combines true luxury with rich history, Antico Setificio Fiorentino offers an extraordinary option. Founded in 1786, this prestigious Florentine workshop is known for its masterful craftsmanship, creating exquisite silk and textile products using ancient techniques, including looms originally designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Every item—from opulent fabrics to bespoke home furnishings—showcases centuries of artistry and attention to detail.
Choosing ASF means gifting more than just a luxurious product; it’s offering a piece of Italy’s rich cultural legacy. Each piece is crafted to perfection, reflecting the same level of artistry that has adorned the homes of Europe’s nobility for generations. The factory’s esteemed clientele, including designers like Stefano Ricci and Dolce & Gabbana, highlights the unrivaled quality and exclusivity of their creations.
This holiday season, give the gift of something timeless—a unique, one-of-a-kind creation that celebrates Florence’s tradition of craftsmanship, a gift that will be cherished for years to come.
📍Location: Via Lorenzo Bartolini, 4, 50124 Firenze FI
Angela Caputi Giuggiù: Bold, Artistic Jewelry from Florence
For a unique Christmas gift, choose the timeless creations of Angela Caputi Giuggiù, whose workshop is located in Florence’s historic Palazzetto Mediceo. Inspired by 1940s American cinema and her passion for fashion, Caputi’s handcrafted bijoux are renowned worldwide. Her striking designs, made from synthetic resins, combine bold colors, geometric lines, and timeless elegance, bridging modernity with traditional craftsmanship. Worn by Haute Couture stylists and showcased in museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Caputi’s jewelry is a true work of art. A gift from Angela Caputi is a statement of creativity, style, and luxury—perfect for any special occasion.
📍Location: Borgo Santi Apostoli, 44/46r, 50123 Firenze FI
Rivoire Chocolate: A Luxurious Gift of Sweet Elegance
For over 150 years, Caffè Rivoire in Florence has been a symbol of Italian craftsmanship, offering some of the finest chocolates in the world. Founded in 1872 by Enrico Rivoire, the café quickly became renowned for its Piedmontese-style chocolate and luxurious cioccolata calda (hot chocolate), beloved by locals and visitors alike. As an official supplier to the Royal House of Savoy, Rivoire’s reputation for quality and elegance has endured for generations.
Today, under the guidance of entrepreneur Carmine Rotondaro, Rivoire continues its legacy of exclusivity and prestige, crafting luxurious chocolate products that are perfect for any occasion, especially Christmas. From their famous hazelnut cream-filled red boxes to handmade chocolate eggs wrapped in beautiful packaging, Rivoire chocolates embody the perfect combination of tradition, artistry, and indulgence.
Give the gift of Rivoire chocolate this holiday season—an exceptional treat that represents the best of Florence’s heritage and Italian excellence. It’s more than just chocolate; it’s a taste of history, prestige, and luxury in every bite.
📍Location: Piazza della Signoria, 5/R, 50122 Firenze FI
La Via del Tè: The Perfect Tea Gift for the Holidays
For a truly unique Christmas gift, consider the Firenze Collection from La Via del Tè, a Florentine gem with over 60 years of history. Founded in 1961 by Alfredo Carrai, whose adventurous spirit took him on journeys to discover the rarest and finest teas, La Via del Tè remains a family-run business dedicated to craftsmanship and innovation. Their Firenze Collection, launched in 2012, celebrates the heart of Florence with blends like The Legend of Boboli, The Secret of the Medici, and A Date Near Ponte Vecchio. Each blend captures the romance and elegance of the city, balancing exquisite flavors with the artistry of Florentine tradition. Perfect for tea lovers, it’s a gift that warms both heart and cup this holiday season.
📍Location: Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 22/23r, 50122 Firenze FI
Florence’s rich artisan traditions and centuries-old craftsmanship make it an ideal destination for finding the perfect Christmas gift. From luxurious silk creations and historic perfumes to wines, chocolates, and artisanal treats, these gifts not only celebrate the beauty of Florence but also offer a timeless piece of its heritage. This holiday season, share the magic of Florence with a gift that will be treasured for years to come.
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