Florence is famous for Renaissance art, Tuscan culture and centuries-old leather craftsmanship. For men looking for quality footwear, the city also offers everything from handmade Italian leather shoes and classic dress styles to modern options and budget-friendly leather shops.
The best part is that you can see the difference between mass-produced footwear and traditional Italian craftsmanship when you know what to look for. This guide covers the best men's shoes in Florence where to shop, which styles to consider and how to choose genuine Italian leather shoes without overpaying.
Why Florence Is Known for Handmade Men's Shoes
Florence has a long connection with leatherworking and traditional shoemaking. Local craftsmanship is especially associated with quality leather, careful construction and classic designs.
When shopping for handmade men's shoes in Florence, look for:
Italian leather: Quality leather can develop a natural patina and become more comfortable with wear.
Handmade or welted construction: Traditional construction can make shoes more durable and easier to repair.
Made-to-order options: Some specialist shoemakers offer custom sizing, fittings and personalized designs.
Small-batch production: Smaller workshops may provide more attention to materials and construction than mass-market footwear.
Not every shoe sold in Florence is handmade or produced locally, so it is worth asking where the shoes are made before buying.
Quick Comparison of Men's Shoe Shops in Florence
1. Stefano Bemer
Stefano Bemer is a well-known Florentine shoemaking house associated with bespoke and handmade footwear. The brand offers classic men's styles including Oxford and Derby shoes as well as boots, with options for customers looking for a more personalized experience.
Best for: Bespoke and high-end handmade shoes.
Look for: Oxford shoes, Derby shoes, boots and made-to-order footwear.
2. Roberto Ugolini
Roberto Ugolini is known for its artisanal approach to men's footwear and personalized fitting. It is an option for shoppers who want a more individual experience rather than a standard off-the-shelf purchase.
Best for: Custom and highly personalized footwear.
Look for: Handmade men's dress shoes and custom designs.
3. Saskia
Saskia offers a more contemporary approach to traditional shoemaking. Its style can appeal to shoppers who want handmade craftsmanship without choosing only classic formal designs.
Best for: Modern handmade footwear.
Look for: Contemporary men's shoes with traditional craftsmanship.
4. Mannina
Mannina is a Florentine name associated with traditional leather footwear and classic men's styles. Its range can suit shoppers looking for shoes that work with both smart and everyday outfits.
Best for: Classic and versatile footwear.
Look for: Loafers, Derby shoes and other traditional leather styles.
5. Benheart
Benheart offers leather footwear and other leather goods with a more accessible approach than some high-end bespoke shoemakers. It can be a practical choice for shoppers who want Italian leather footwear without committing to a full bespoke experience.
Best for: Accessible Italian leather footwear.
Look for: Leather shoes, boots and casual styles.
6. San Lorenzo Leather Market
The San Lorenzo area is popular with visitors looking for more affordable leather goods. Shoes and other products are available from different vendors, but quality can vary significantly.
Best for: Budget shoppers.
Tip: Check the stitching, leather quality, construction and place of manufacture before. Shoe Styles to Buy in Florence
Florence is a useful place to shop for different types of men's footwear. The right style depends on where and how you plan to wear it.
Italian Leather Loafers
Loafers are a versatile choice for travel because they can work with smart-casual outfits and formal clothing. Look for comfortable construction and quality leather if you expect to wear them frequently.
Italian Shoes Company Classy Leather Black Oxford Shoes
A classic black Oxford design made for formal and professional outfits. It features leather construction, hand-painted detailing and a choice of leather or rubber sole.
Oxford Shoes
Oxford shoes are a classic formal option. They work well with suits, business outfits and other polished looks.
Hockerty Cap Toe Boots in Brown Suede
These brown suede cap-toe boots offer a smart yet versatile look for casual and dressed-up outfits. They are a good option for men looking for stylish boots with a classic European-inspired design.
Derby Shoes
Derby shoes have a more open lacing system than Oxfords and can offer a slightly more relaxed look. They are useful when you want one leather shoe that works across several occasions.
Bruno Marc Downing Wide-01 Oxford Shoes
A classic Oxford-style shoe with a wide fit, cushioned insole and flexible design. It is a practical choice for work, formal events and everyday smart outfits.
Handmade Boots
Italian leather boots can be a practical choice for cooler weather and travel. Check the sole construction and leather quality if durability is a priority.
Italian Shoes Company Classic Leather Horsebit Loafer
A dark brown leather loafer with a classic horsebit buckle and slip-on design. Its leather sole, memory-foam insock and full-grain leather upper make it a stylish option for formal and smart-casual outfits.
Casual Italian Shoes
Not every Italian shoe needs to be formal. Sneakers and casual leather footwear can give you the craftsmanship and materials associated with Italian shoemaking in a more everyday design.
How to Tell Quality Handmade Shoes From Tourist Buys
Florence attracts many visitors, so it is important to look beyond words such as "Italian leather" or "genuine leather."
Before buying, check:
Leather: Ask what type of leather is used and where it comes from.
Construction: Look at the sole, stitching and overall finishing.
Place of manufacture: Ask whether the shoes are made in Florence, elsewhere in Italy, or outside Italy.
Fitting: A proper fitting is especially important for expensive or made-to-order shoes.
Repairability: Ask whether the shoes can be resoled or repaired.
Price: Very low prices do not automatically mean poor quality, but unusually high prices should come with clear information about materials and construction.
You can also ask whether the shoes are ready-made, made-to-order, or fully bespoke. These terms describe different levels of customization and production.
Handmade vs. Ready-to-Wear Shoes
Choosing between handmade and ready-to-wear footwear depends on your budget, time and fitting needs.
Handmade or bespoke: Better suited to shoppers who want personalized fitting, traditional craftsmanship and customization.
Ready-to-wear: More convenient if you need shoes immediately and want a wider range of prices and styles.
For international travelers, remember that made-to-order and bespoke shoes may require additional production and shipping time.
When to Shop for Men's Shoes in Florence
Florence can be busy during major events such as Pitti Uomo which takes place in January and June. These periods can attract more menswear shoppers and visitors.
If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, consider traveling outside the busiest periods. Before visiting a specific workshop, check its current opening hours and appointment requirements, especially for bespoke fittings.
Tips for International Buyers
If you are buying shoes in Florence and taking them home, keep a few things in mind:
Get measured in-store rather than relying only on your usual US or UK size.
Ask about international shipping if the shoes will be made after your visit.
Confirm the production timeline for made-to-order footwear.
Keep your receipt and any fitting or care information.
Ask about returns or exchanges before purchasing.
For expensive shoes, ask about leather type, construction and repair options.
How Much Do Men's Shoes Cost in Florence?
Prices vary widely depending on the brand, materials, construction and level of customization.
Ready-to-wear Italian leather shoes can be considerably less expensive than bespoke footwear, while handmade and fully bespoke shoes can cost much more. Rather than judging a pair by price alone, compare the leather, construction, fitting service, customization and after-sales support.
Always check the current price directly with the store because prices and collections can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you value quality materials, craftsmanship and personalized fitting. For everyday use, ready-to-wear shoes may be more affordable.
Check the leather, stitching, sole and finishing. Also ask where the shoes are made and what type of leather is used.
Check the fit, construction, price and return policy. For handmade shoes, also confirm production time and shipping options.