An Essential Guide to Meal Costs in Florence

When budgeting for a trip to Florence, amidst the accommodation and travel costs, you’ll likely be considering how much to set aside for your food budget. After all, the Tuscan capital is the birthplace of gelato and Florentine steak, so knowing the prices of these bites will help you plan for your budget.

Much like most Italian cities, I’ve found that food prices vary immensely in Florence. Budget travelers who stick to more backpacker-friendly spots may find much more affordable trattorias than those venturing to restaurants near the likes of Ponte Vecchio or the Duomo.

However, having crafted numerous Florence food and drink excursions, I’ve gotten to grips with the average prices of meals in the Renaissance city. From casual bakeries to three-course dinners, I’ve detailed everything you need to know below.

Selected Price Guides for Travelers

We find that understanding the difference between “al banco” and “al tavolo” prices is key to managing your daily food expenses. While dinner at a prestigious restaurant is a wonderful splurge, our city offers incredible street food for just a few euros. Each recommendation we provide is based on ensuring you get an authentic experience that feels like money well spent. Book a food tour with us to learn more.

Average Cost of Breakfast in Florence

Breakfast in Florence is easily one of the more budget-friendly meals, and I’ve rarely spent more than €3 (~$3.20) or €4 (~$4.30) on it. Although plenty of restaurants serve sizable breakfasts, most Florentines stick to a simple combination of coffee and a pastry.

Whenever I fancy something light, I usually swing by one of my trusted cafes and grab a soft and buttery brioche for less than €2 (~$2.10). When I opt for a cappuccino, it typically costs about €1.40 (~$1.50), while the price of an espresso is €1 (~$1.10) on average.

If you’re anything like me, now and again, you’ll have a hankering for something a little more hearty, such as a stack of pancakes or a veggie-packed omelet. When the mood strikes me, I usually head to one of my go-to spots for brunches in Florence.

These are noticeably more expensive, costing two or three times the price of a classic Italian breakfast. However, you get much more food, so they’re usually reasonably priced. For an international-style breakfast, you should expect to pay around €10 (~$10.70) or €15 (~$16.00).

The average breakfast cost in Florence is between €4 (~$4.30) and €8 (~$8.60).

Average Cost of Lunch in Florence

Though not quite as inexpensive as a standard Florentine breakfast, the average meal cost in Florence for lunch is still affordable compared to other cities in Europe. If you’re happy to pick up some street food or casual grub, it can come in at less than €10 (~$10.70) per person.

My favorite lunchtime delight is meat and cheese-filled schiacciata farce. This sandwich is made from focaccia-style bread and generally costs around €7 (~$7.50) from a local deli. Lampredotto, a cow’s stomach lining, is also a popular panini filling and usually goes for €6 (~$6.40).

Another midday staple is pizza al taglio, which costs about €2 (~$2.10) or €3 ($3.20) a slice. Alternatively, a whole pizza or traditional pasta dish in a trattoria costs around €10 (~$10.70) for lunch. More often than not, I finish this up with a cup or cone of gelato for about €2.50 (~$2.70).

These prices reflect the average prices in a typical establishment or food stand frequented by locals. Should you spot these snacks or dishes on a menu in the city center or along the banks of the Arno River, they may cost significantly more, sometimes doubling in total.

Average Cost of Dinner in Florence

Dinner in Florence can be cheap and cheerful or incredibly lavish, but average prices tend to hover at around €15 (~$16.20) for a main course at a mid-range restaurant. The neighborhood you choose can impact the cost, and averages vary in different parts of the city.

A three-course meal in Santa Croce, a rather local neighborhood, can be under €30 (~$32.00). Adding on a glass of wine will cost another €3 (~$3.20), though this can be less if you go for the house wine. This can be substantially higher in a more touristic corner of the city.

If I had a relatively tight budget, I’d move out from the center. Whenever I ventured out of the busier hotspots, I regularly found pizza or pasta for about €10 (~$10.70) or €12 (~$12.80). Street food isn’t so common in the evening, so this is the most suitable option for an economical dinner.

Prices can skyrocket at upmarket eateries. The average meal cost in Florence at such venues is upwards of €100 (~$107). Nonetheless, for me, it has often totaled up to much more depending on the bottle of wine I chose or where the restaurant was situated.

Average Cost of Aperitivo and Drinks in Florence

Enjoying some aperitivos with a gorgeous Tuscany sunset as your backdrop is the perfect way to spend an evening. These alcoholic beverages help to stimulate your appetite and, as such, are almost always accompanied by some snacking plates.

After years of running my Florence food and wine tours here, I’ve become familiar with the average prices of aperitivos in the city. The term itself refers to refreshing drinks like an Aperol Spritz, but these days, beer, wine, and other cocktails can all be considered aperitivos.

In many wine bars in Florence or locally-loved haunts, an aperitivo will set you back between €5 (~$5.30) and €9 (~$9.60). Trendy, tourist-centered bars may charge more than €12 (~$12.80) per drink.

These prices include servings of various nibbles, including crostini, olives, and nuts. On a few occasions, I’ve found aperitivo spots with buffets included. For the most part, these buffets consist of everything from tasty cured meats and Italian cheeses to bite-sized sandwiches.

The average grocery store price for wine is €5 (~$5.30) or €0.90 (~$1) for a local beer. For budget-conscious travelers, this is a great alternative and can help you keep costs low while still indulging in Italian favorites.

The average cost of an apertivo and drinks in Florence is between €5 (~$5.30) and €9 (~$9.60).

Florentine Dining Etiquette

When dining in Florence, we suggest checking the menu for a “coperto” or cover charge, which is a standard fee per person for bread and service. You should be aware that ordering bottled water is the norm, as asking for tap water is still relatively uncommon in many traditional restaurants. It is also important to remember that prices for coffee and snacks are significantly lower if you consume them standing at the bar. Tipping is not required by law, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for exceptional service is a appreciated local gesture.

Pricing History in Florence

The tradition of the affordable “menù del giorno” dates back to the industrialization of the city when workers needed a quick, nutritious, and cheap midday meal. We see these fixed-price lunches as a continuation of the city’s commitment to social dining and accessible, high-quality nutrition for everyone. Historically, the cost of bread was even controlled by the local government to ensure it remained a staple for all Florentine citizens. Understanding these economic roots helps explain why food remains such a central and respected part of daily life for every budget.

Conclusion

If you’ve been wondering about the average meal cost in Florence, Italy, I hope this guide has given you an insight into how far your euros can go here.

You might prefer to stick to street food, or perhaps you’re eager to check out the city’s high-end eateries. Either way, understanding the average price of a meal in Florence can help you put together a budget for all your exciting foodie experiences.