Florence, a spectacular Renaissance City in the foothills of the Tuscan countryside. A place that has been called home to some of the greatest artists to ever grace this planet, of which still to this day, is known for its amazing artisans, designers and artists alike.

One might feel as though they’ve entered into a tourist trap, and we would tend to agree with you. For the most part, the inner city is filled with cheap goods and average food, catering to the huge tourist population. However, if you know where to look, there’s some spectacular eateries and boutiques scattered throughout this city. So read on for our best recommendations.

Where to eat

For breakfast

S.Forno
Via Santa Monaca, 3r, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

A cute little bakery & corner shop serving delicious delicatessen style sandwiches and homemade pastries. Simply choose your bread and get them to slice up some fresh ham off the bone with cheese. We ate here almost every day!

Ditta Artigianale 
Via dei Neri, 32/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

A coffee spot worth visiting. Young and trendy locals who care about quality drops frequently here often, and we can see why. It’s set inside a huge, contemporary space which is rare in this part of town. They’ve also got a nice selection of breakfast dishes, just in case you were missing your avocado and eggs.

For lunch

Tamero Pizzeria
Piazza Santo Spirito, 7, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

A delicious local pizzeria serving proper Italian pies for next to nothing. The bases were our favourite in all of Florence, crispy right through to the middle. Keep it simple with fresh tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella.

La Ménagère
Via de’ Ginori, 8/R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A cool Instagram worthy cafe with a boutique florist inside, serving international style brunch with an Italian twist. A great spot for larger groups!

Mercato Centrale 
Piazza del Mercato Centrale – Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

In the heart of San Lorenzo, a food coma awaits. The ground floor of the market still hosts its traditional vendors offering fresh veggies, fruit and meat, however, the upstairs has a huge food court with some of the best (and cheapest) food in Florence.

My Sugar, Gelateria
Via de’ Ginori, 49/red, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A cute little artisan Gelateria serving a small run of fresh and seasonal gelato. It has won numerous awards in the past and we can see exactly why. I’m a big pistachio fan and this definitely hit the spot. Be sure to check this one out!

For Dinner

Gucci Osteria by Massimo Botura
Piazza della Signoria, 10, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

If you haven’t heard of Massimo Botura, you’ve been living under a rock. He took out the number 1 restaurant in the world at his Modena-based trattoria in 2016. Now, he has partnered up with Gucci to bring his delicious dishes to the streets of Florence. There’s only a capacity of 30 seats, so book well in advance.

Ristorante Il Guscio
Via dell’Orto, 49, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

A bustling and homely restaurant at the local end of Florence. This place served delicious homemade pasta for very reasonable prices. Don’t let the aesthetics fool you, this one’s an absolute winner.

Borgo San Jacopo Firenze
Borgo S. Jacopo, 62/R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

For the culinary connoisseurs, Borgo San Jacopo brings 2 uniquely crafted degustations with local wine pairings to match. Be sure to book in advance, as the small restaurant fills out quickly, especially in the busier months. This was easily one of our favourite dinners in Florence… Did I also mention it has a Michelin star too?

Where to shop

Bjork
Via dello Sprone, 25R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

A trendy concept store stocking seriously cool and quality clothing from across the globe. While Florence is known more for its sartorial style, Bjork delivers things you’d find more in Stockholm or Paris, a rarity here!

Frasi
Via dei Federighi, 7, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Florentine-born and bread, Righi has been in the business of men’s fashion for over a quarter of a century. Inspired by the aesthetics of his city, Simone brings the best that Italy has to offer. He has a range of beautiful knitwear, ties and jackets; as well as a made-to-measure service, for those interested. It’s not cheap, but nothing good is.

Shibumi 
Via di Santo Spirito, 11, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

In Japanese, Shibumi means subtle beauty or understated elegance. Which is, precisely what Shibumi Firenze embodies. Classic designs in a contemporary manner, with a focus on sound, quality garments. Known for their beautiful handmade ties, they also offer bespoke suiting, shirts and numerous mens accessories. Be sure to check this place out!

Where to drink

La Terrazza 
Vicolo dell’Oro, 6r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A beautiful rooftop bar above the Continental hotel with views overlooking the Arno, Brunelleschi’s Dome, San Miniato, Palazzo Vecchio and Forte Belvedere. It’s the perfect spot for apertitivo, however, it’s quite swanky so be sure to dress the part!

Colle Beretto
Piazza degli Strozzi, 5, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A young and trendy cocktail bar and lounge in the cities centre. It’s a got great atmosphere with fashionable clientele, another great spot for aperitivo.

Where to dance

While Florence isn’t really known as a party city, if you’re feeling a boogie, we can recommend the following.

Tenax 
Via Pratese, 46, 50145 Firenze FI, Italy

Playing mostly tech-house, Tenax is a club where real Florentines go, not the exchange students flooding the centre’s clubs. Expect a small line, but worth the wait if you need to groove.

What to see & do

National Museum of Bargello 
Via del Proconsolo, 4, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

While Uffizi and the Accademia are must see’s, Bargello is an often overlooked museum featuring a number of pre/ renaissance ceramics, paintings and sculptures. Worth a visit if you’re into art!

Chianti Wine Tour
Via delle Farine, 1, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Some of Italy’s best red wines are produced in this region. You can organise a day tour here, where they’ll pick you up and take you to the region that’s located halfway between Florence and Sienna.

Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

A great place to watch the sunset over Florence. It has a small climb, but well worth it for the view. Bring some takeaway paninis and crack open a few well-deserved beers (or a bottle vino).

Jonathan Korner

Where to stay

Florence is a small city, where everything is at arms reach. You won’t spend longer than 20 minutes walking for the most part. However, we do recommend staying close by Piazza del Duomo or the Ponte Vecchio bridge. This way you’ll have easy access to everything you want to see and do.

Travel tips

Uber doesn’t exist in Florence, and taxies are considerably expensive and it often takes just as long to drive than to walk. However, if you do require one, you can’t hail them on the street. You either need to call them (055 4242 or 055 4390) or head to one of the many designated taxi stands around the city, such as the most popular one in Piazza Della Republica.

 

This guide was last updated on the 16/07/2018.