History is around every corner in Florence, but what’s better than taking it a step further and actually wearing some of that historical goodness? Wait, what? Don’t worry, we’re not talking about breaking off a piece of the Santa Croce, just perusing the many vintage shops this city has to offer.

Let’s be real, there’s not a much cooler answer to, “Where’d you get that jacket?” than, “Oh, it’s vintage…I picked it up in Italy.” Casual. While none of us want to think about leaving this place yet, knowing you’ll have authentic keepsakes to take with you and remind you of your time as an Italian resident might help to soften the blow a bit.

So where to pick up these treasures? The Santa Croce area is rich with antique finds. Stop by Vintage di Antonio Alessandra (Piazza Calamandrei Piero, 2), located in the very tiny Piazza Calamandrei Piero for starters. This little shop appears no bigger than a shoebox but a walk downstairs reveals shelves stocked with sweaters and racks of jackets, dresses, blouses, and more to sort through.

On a side street off the Santa Croce, you’ll find L’Chiodo Vintage Store (Via dell’Anguillara, 30R), a little hallway of a shop chock-full of appealing flannels, pants in every pattern, funky sunglasses, and more.

Stroll across the river to Celeste Vintage (Piazza San Felice, 1R) for a cozy little boutique with some high-end pieces at surprisingly low prices. The clothing is organized by color and includes finds from Gucci to Ferragamo, as well as many more classy, made-in-Italy garments. There’s also a large assortment of chic purses, trays of baubles, and striking shoes, so you can be outfitted in Italian finery from head to toe.

If you want to browse antiques of all kinds, check out Piazza dei Ciompi, an outdoor flea market open year round. You’ll find trinkets and treasures ranging from lamps to postcards to books and everything in between. You’ll also find some more moderate prices than at many vintage stores, which makes it a perfect place to pick up souvenirs for yourself and friends and family at home. Bringing back a legit piece of Italian history in the form of a vintage record just might be the coolest gift your dad has ever gotten.

Still hungry for more? Venture out to Via de Pilastri to check out Lady Jane B, a quaint little shop packed to the brim with vintage goodies. If you’re feeling fabulous, Boutique Nadine (Via de’Benci, 32R) yields treasures galore, but isn’t ideal for bargain hunters–expect to spend a pretty penny here. Melrose Vintage (Via de’Ginori 18) is another appealing option with racks upon racks of leather jackets, fedoras, sweet kicks from combat boots to sneakers, and much more.

The best part about vintage shopping is, of course, that you never know what you might find. So get out there and discover Florence in what might be my personal favorite way to explore any place: through shopping. And keep an eye out for the coveted saldi signs–there’s nothing better than taking home some one-of-a-kind finds at sale prices!