shopping in florence

For jewelry, try the Ponte Vecchio. Basically if you just walk around the center of the city thousands of shopping opportunities will leap out at you. You will find lots of leather goods at the outdoor markets, and vendors selling tempting copies of designer handbags off of blankets -- (though both or these things are not top quality).

I also found very pretty stationery, it's lightweight & packs easily & friends loved it. Some people really do still write letters or notes!

Florence is known for its leather goods. My husband and his cousin both bought good quality leather jackets, hers was "like buttah," and the prices are soft. They got discounts for buying two, and travelers we met in Florence did the same at the same store. Sorry I don't remember the name of the street or the store, but it is a main shopping thoroughfare within walking distance of the Duomo and train station.