Cycling Through Florence's Historic Ice Cream Shops: An Itinerary from Cicli Sergio Bianchi
A Journey Through Taste on Two Wheels
Florence isn't just Renaissance art and architecture: it's also the capital of Italian artisanal gelato. Starting from our headquarters at Cicli Sergio Bianchi, we propose a cycling itinerary that combines a passion for vintage cycling with a discovery of the city's most iconic gelato shops.
The Path
This tour will take you through Florence's historic center, passing the gelaterias that have shaped the history of artisanal gelato. The route is perfect for vintage or city bikes, with mostly flat terrain and suitable for all levels.
First Stop: Gelateria dei Neri
Distance from Cicli Sergio Bianchi:2.5 km
Located on Via dei Neri, just steps from Piazza della Signoria, this artisanal gelateria is famous for its creamy flavors and premium ingredients. Must-try: the Bronte pistachio and the Florentine cream.
Second Stage: Vivoli
Distancefrom Cicli Sergio Bianchi:1.9 km
Since 1930, Vivoli has been an institution. Tucked away on Via dell'Isola delle Stinche, this historic gelateria serves gelato in cups (no cones here!) following traditional recipes passed down through generations. The rice and cream toppings are legendary.
Third Stage: La Carraia
Distancefrom Cicli Sergio Bianchi:2 km
Across the Arno River toward Piazza Nazario Sauro, La Carraia offers creamy gelato at affordable prices. Perfect for a stop overlooking the river. Their tiramisu and hazelnut gelato are unmissable.
Fourth Stop: Santa Trinita Ice Cream Shop
Distancefrom Cicli Sergio Bianchi:3 km
Located in Piazza Frescobaldi, this gelateria combines tradition and innovation with seasonal and organic flavors. Don't miss the fresh fruit sorbets.
Fifth Stage: Grom
Distancefrom Cicli Sergio Bianchi:2 km
Even though it's a chain, Grom maintains extremely high standards, using organic ingredients and a controlled supply chain. The location on Via del Campanile is the perfect place to end your tour near the Duomo.
From the center to the outskirts of Florence
🍦 Badiani: The Icon of Buontalenti
Located in the Campo di Marte area (but now also present abroad), Badiani is famous worldwide for a specific reason: theBuontalenti taste.
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The Specialty: Buontalentiflavor(a frozen cream made with cream and egg custard). It takes its name from the Renaissance architect Bernardo Buontalenti, credited with inventing gelato. Badiani's is considered the modern original, protected by a registered trademark.
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Why go:If you want to taste the history of Florentine gelato in its purest and most velvety form. It's a simple flavor but technically perfect.
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The atmosphere:it's a historic pastry shop/ice cream parlor, popular with Florentines, perfect for an elegant break away from the chaos of the tourist center.
Practical Advice
When to go: Spring and autumn are ideal to avoid the summer crowds
Estimated time: 2-3 hours with ice cream stops
Recommended bike: City or vintage bike, perfect for the historic center
ZTL: Beware of limited traffic zones, but bicycles can pass through
The Return to Sergio Bianchi Cycles
After this tasteful tour, come back to share your experience. And if your bike needs maintenance after your ride, our workshop is always available!
This itinerary celebrates two Florentine gems: cycling and artisanal gelato. Because the beauty of Florence is best discovered by pedaling, one cup at a time.