Markets
There is a market here in Chianti every day of the week, and dozens of markets daily all over Tuscany. They tend to offer a mixture (or all of) the following:
- fantastic selection of local produce, including all in-season fruit and veg, several butchers and fish-mongers (excellent fresh fish!), as well freshly roasted chickens, rabbit, and pork-roast
- excellent prosciutto, salami and cheeses
- excellent linens, including table-cloths, sheets, towels, bed-spreads, and so on - look out for excellent quality lace
- clothes for every taste
- great value Italian shoes - some real bargains here if you look closely
- plants and flowers
- pots, pans, crockery, porcelain and other kitchenware
- tools and other hardware
All these are within a half an hour or so of Patrignone.
Market days in Tuscany
Near us, these are the markets we tend to use the most:
- Monday is San Casciano,
- Tuesday Poggibonsi
- Wednesday Certaldo and Siena (one of the biggest)
- Thursday Tavernelle, San Gimignano, Castelnuovo Berardegna, Monteriggioni
- Friday Colle Val D’Elsa (one of the largest local markets)
- Saturday Castellina in Chianti and Greve
All these are morning markets and will be shut by 1pm approx.
Antquie markets in Tuscany
There are lots of other markets that are worthwhile exploring:
- On the first Sunday of each month there is an arts, crafts and antiques market in Panzano in Chianti
- On the 4th Monday of the month Radda in Chianti has its market.
This link has a good list of antique markets and flea markets, if that's your thing. (Thanks to Linda B. for the info.)
This is not an exhaustive list and there are several markets in Florence selling various wares every day of the week. It is a great opportunity to sample local cuisine as the stall holders are keen for anyone to try before they buy.
Market tours inTuscany
We'e found this great looking market tour that runs on a Monday in Florence. Not tried it ourselves yet but it looks fantastic fun!
