ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE: FLORENCE FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Last Updated on 21st February 2025 by Bejal

You’ve decided on visiting the beautiful Renaissance city and capital of Tuscany, Florence and want to craft your perfect itinerary to maximise your time in the city. Well, look no further as this guide on how to explore Florence for first-time visitors is your aid to the best things to see, where to eat and drink as well as where to stay in the city.

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Florence is a city that you can visit time and time again, we have been going consecutively for years and so have built up a great list of places, some a little hidden, whilst others are the not to be missed places in Florence. We explore the best places to eat and drink as a visitor to the city, from fine dining to casual affairs and little trattorias. Then there’s the incredible museums that have the secrets of the Medici’s buried within the city, along with the palaces that contain artefacts from the art era known as the Renaissance. Florence is also very well situated to take day trips into the smaller walled towns of Tuscany together with the the Chianti region and Liguria.

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When it comes to Florence, one half of us is very biased as Bejal has a love of Renaissance art and spent tireless nights at University trying to master the anatomical drawings of the great Leonardo da Vinci in preparation for anatomy class!

The Best Time to Visit Florence

We would highly recommend visiting in spring or autumn. Our previous visits have mainly been in autumn, around late September and October. There are noticeable fewer visitors in Florence from around late March to mid April as well as October and November. During this time the weather is still pleasant and easily bearable as well as great restaurants and hotel availability at reasonable prices.

Peak season in Florence runs from around the middle to end of May right to the end of August and prices for accommodation do soar and it feels very busy! August is also a very hot month in Florence and can feel quite suffocating coupled with the hoards of tourists.

How Many Days to Stay in Florence

Many people stay in Florence for three days, four nights but personally we’d recommend a lot longer, especially to incorporate some day trips into the Tuscany region. These may include an afternoon in Chianti, wine tasting or heading out for a full day discovering some of the medieval towns such as Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni. You may even want to spend a full day or half day in Pisa as it’s only a 40 minute train ride away. We would probably realistically say five full days and six nights is a good time if you intend to use the city as a base. Three days to explore Florence, remember going to the Uffizi can take half of the day depending upon your interests and two days allocated for day trips.

How to Get to Florence

Flights – Florence Peretola Airport

Airlines such as British Airways have direct flights from London City Airport into Florence’s airport of Peretola.

More Information is available at Florence Peretola Airport Website.

Transport from the airport into the centre of Florence or to your city centre hotel can be via taxi or we’d recommend jumping on the new tram which only costs €1.50 one way! Within 15 minutes, you’ll be at Santa Maria Novella (SMN) Florence’s main train station. From here, you can use Google Maps to walk to your hotel or opt for a taxi. The main city centre area is only a ten minute walk away.

We’ve found taxis can cost from the region of €20-25 here to centrally located hotels, so do bare that in mind.

Be-lavie Tip: Although the Uber app works in Florence, Uber is not in operation here. Local taxi drivers were being undercut heavily by Uber so it’s best to get a local provider. We found it easier just to get a regular local taxi as Uber understandably wasn’t reliable for us. Also supporting local is key during travel.

Flights – Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport

Many flights do not fly into Florence Peretola airport, but instead into Pisa’s Galileo Galilei Airport. This is most definitely the case for budget airlines. This airport is much larger and has many more flights arriving daily than Peretola in Florence.

Although Pisa Airport is a little further away, it’s really simple to get to Florence from here. Pre-book or buy a ticket on arrival via Trenitalia. It should cost no more than €15 depending upon time of day and takes around 40 minutes. Take the train to Santa Maria Novella train station from Pisa airport.

More Information is available at Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport Website.

Other Airports

If you are on a wider trip of Italy and are flying into maybe Rome, Milan or Naples, you can get the train to Florence quite easily. These airports are bigger hubs so they would have better more economical flight options.

Train times with Trentitalia, information depends upon time of arrival.

• Rome Fiumicino Airport – Florence Santa Maria Novella Station : 2h 30 mins (approx, €40-48).
• Milan Malpensa Airport – Florence Santa Maria Novella Station :3hr (approx €40-50).
• Naples Capodochino Airport – Florence Santa Maria Novella Station : 3-4hrs (approx €30-40).

Car Hire

Most airports have the option of car hire if you are confident in driving in Florence, car parking in the historic centre is a bit tricky.

To find reasonable places to park in Florence, head to the Parclick Website.

The Best Way to Get Around Florence

Florence is very much a walkable city and in our opinion, this is the best way t0 enjoy it! Discover the little hidden alleyways whilst you do so. It should take no more than 30 minutes to get from one end to another, including heading to Oltrarno, over the Ponte Vecchio.

Be-lavie Tip: take our advice and take comfortable flat pups or trainers. Florence has many cobbled stone streets which can get slippery depending upon weather. You’ll thank us later when you’re stiletto heel don’t get stuck in between the cobbles and street grids.

What You Need to See as a First Time Visitor to Florence

Here are our recommendations for what you should add to your itinerary when visiting Florence for the first time.

Map of Florence

How to use this map: This map accompanies this article and has all the places marked on it. To use click on the left hand side to reveal legend.

Admire Renaissance Art in The Uffizi Gallery

The ‘Galleria degli Uffizi’ is probably the most famous museum in the world and if like me you are a lover of Renaissance art in particular paintings from the greats of the time, then this will be a must see for you. The majority of artworks are from the Renaissance period and donated to the City of Florence by the prominent Medici family. The pieces are works of the great Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli and Raffaello to name a few. So now you know they weren’t just Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!! The gallery welcomes over a million visitors per year and for that reason it is a good idea to reserve a ticket online and then collect on the day of your visit opposite the gallery entrance. Although we purchased tickets for 08:30, the gallery announced they were having a team meeting until 10:00 so we needn’t had bothered rushing! When in Florence, just be as laid back as the Florentines!!

The Details

• Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze I Tel. +39 05 52 94 88 3.
• Find it Here: Map Location:
• Hours & Admission: Website.

Recommended Uffizi Tours

 

 

See Michelanleo’s David at The Accademia

Again if you’re into your arts then this is one for you. Whereas the Uffizi to me is more of an art gallery, the Accademia or the ‘Galleria dell’ Accademia’ concentrates more on sculptures. It’s the second most visited museum after the Uffizi and I’m sure in saying the reason for this is that it houses Michelangelo’s David.

The David was sculpted from marble between 1501 and 1504 and stands 14 Ft tall. It depicts the Biblical hero and warrior David represented as a tall standing nude male.

The Academia does also have a number of other sculpture, paintings and musical artefacts displayed in other sections of the museum.

We would recommend you purchase tickets online either directly or via one of the options below. and exchange them for tickets on the day of your visit. The ticket office is opposite The Accademia.

The Details

• Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze I Tel. +39 0 55 09 87 100.
• Find it Here: Map Location:
• Hours & Admission: Website.

Recommended Accademia Tours

 

 

Visit Piazzale Del Duomo & Tour Cathedral Santa Maria Del Fiore

This is the square on which sits Florence’s famous Renaissance dome cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore. It’s a gothic styled building built on a 7^th century church. Entrance into the cathedral is free so don’t be put off by the long queue, it does move along pretty quickly. If you go with a special tour or tour guide, there is the inclusion to visit the roof top terraces or you can choose to climb the steps up to the top of the Brunelleschi’s Cupola (the dome).

The cathedral is a stunning building but I defy you not to have to get up super early to take a people free photo outside it. We tried first thing in the morning, and in the evening!

The Details

• Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze I Tel +39 0 55 23 02 885.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Admission: Website.

Recommended Cathedral Santa Maria Del Fiore & Duomo Tours

 

 

Walk Across Florence’s Most Iconic Bridge: The Ponte Vecchio

Every photo you are going to see from anyone who’s been to Florence is going to have this iconic bridge as a back drop. The Ponte Vecchio or ‘Old Bridge’ was actually the only bridge across the River Arno in Florence until 1218. The bridge that stands today was rebuilt following a flood in 1345. If unlike me, you are a fan of gold then you will notice that there are many high end goldsmiths shops lined along the Ponte Vecchio where you can make purchases, worth of varying fortune! There are also some market stalls lined along the three arched bridge way.

During our recent visit, we rediscovered that across the top of the Ponte Vecchio is a portion of the Vasari Corridor built for the Medici family by the Renaissance painter, Vasari. The enclosed walkway leads from the Palazzo Vecchio and Uffizi, across the top bridge to the Pitti Palace, located on the other side of the river.

The Details

• Location: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Admission: N/A (open all day).

 

 

 Catch The Famous Sunset Panorama From Piazza Michelangel0

This is the place where you see postcard perfect views, which are depicted in glossy books and cards of panoramas of Florence. You are positioned high up above the city overlooking the fortified walls, the river Arno, the Palazzo Vecchio tower and the red dome of the Duomo. You can literally stand here for hours just looking down at the views, identifying the buildings and palaces. It’s also a great spot for people watching as you’ll see many photographers bringing couples here for romantic wedding pictures!

If you are a keen photographer you could spend forever here during the day but this is the place you need to be during sunset. Although, get there early as the best photo spots will be taken early on and there’s also another copy of Michelangelo’s David in the middle of the square.

The Details

• Location: 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Admission: N/A (open all day).

Related Article: 9 amazing postcard-worthy views of Florence

 

 

Climb The Steps Up to Basilica San Miniato Al Monte

Florence has many beautiful churches but none will give you the breath taking vistas that San Miniato al Monte can boast. It sits high above the city in the hills and all the climbing will make it totally worth it for the views! Inf act we had this as our location for our Flytographer photoshoot and when we arrived, we realised why the photographer chose this spot.

The church is named after Saint Miniato who is said to have died at the church. The interior of the church features a stunning multi coloured marble and 13^th century mosaic over the altar. There is a monastery next to the church, which sells produce prepared by the monks such as honey, liqueurs and ice cream. There is a 15^th century cloister around the church as well as a cemetery where the creator of Pinnochio, Carlo Collodi, is buried.

The Details

• Location: Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze I Tel. +39 0 55 23 42 731.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Admission: Website.

 

Relax in The Giardino Delle Rose & Admire the Views

To get away from the busy city, there is an oasis of calm and serenity to escape to in the form of the Giadino delle rose. During the months of May and June, the roses are in full bloom but you can visit the rest of the year as there is an array of sculptures by a Belgian artist. The garden also gives some further stunning sweeping views of the city as it is located not too far from Piazalle Michelangelo.

The Details

• Location: Viale Giuseppe Poggi, 2, 50125 Firenze I Tel. +39 0 55 23 42 426.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Admission: Website.

 

 

 Mooch Around the Mercato Centrale

One of our favourite past times is to mooch around markets so it’s not surprising that we enjoyed taking in the sights and sounds of The Mercato Centrale. There are other more quainter markets but this one has the largest number and varieties of stalls.

This indoor food market consists of stalls selling fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables, fish, meats, poultry, cheeses, preserves etc and also a large scale food court on the first floor. Here you can purchase ready to eat Italian fare made by up and coming chefs serving, pizza, pastas, stews, cold dishes, wines, beers, aperitivos gelatos and lots more. Each outlet specialises in different food. There is a seating area accommodating up to 500 guests and free access to WIFI too.

The Details

• Location: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 50123 Firenze I Tel. +39 0 55 23 99 798.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Details: Website.

People Watching on The Piazza Della Signoria and Pallazzo Vecchio

This is the most central point and square in Florence and is home to the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence. This building is a medieval fortress with a tower with a forecourt that has a copy of Michelagngelo’s David sculptor. It’s possible to climb up inside the Palazzo Vecchio and get some fantastic views of the city.

The Details

• Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze I Tel. +39 05 52 76 8325.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hours & Details: Website.

Recommended Palazzo Vecchio Tours

Take a Stroll in The Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace

Situated right behind the prestigious Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens are an exquisite example of gardens created by the Medici family, that later went on to shape many European gardens and courts.

This green space is like an outdoor museum all on its own with Renaissance statues and other stone work and comprises of many grottos. Don’t miss the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Ocean. There is a terrace area with an eighteenth century pavilion, named the Kaffeehaus, showcasing Rococo architecture in Tuscany. The Lemon House is another talking point and was completed in 1778.

Visiting the Boboli Gardens is a must after touring the stunning Pitti Palace.

The Details

• Location: 50125 Florence I Tel. +39 0 55 29 48 83.
• Opening Times: Website.
• Find it Here: Map Location.

Recommended Tours of The Boboli Gardens

We think these are great ways to see the Boboli Gardens. If you can spare the time, we’d definitely press you to also take a tour of the stunning Pitti Palace.

Bardini Gardens

These gardens are a bit of a gem in our opinion as they are quite and almost like a little insider secret as we’ve never seen them busy on our visits. They provide a wonderful tranquil green space and beautiful terracing. We’d say that they offer some. of the best views over the city which you will often have all to yourself. They are a much smaller scale compared to the Boboli Gardens but are intimate and quite romantic. Well worth a visit to see the different styles of the garden as well as enjoy the peaceful location.

The Details

• Location: Via de’ Bardi, 1, 50125 Firenze I Tel. +39 0 55 26 38 599.
• Opening Times: Website.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Admission: €10 for adults and includes joint access to Boboli Gardens. Under 18’s are free. The first Sunday of each month is also free to visit.

Day Trips From Florence

As mentioned previously, Florence is the perfect place to take day trips due to it’s location. Here are some of the best day trips we’ve taken from the city as part of guided tours to maximise our time in the city.

Pisa

A destination which deserves to be visited as a separate city break, Pisa has way more going for it than just the Leaning Tower! The university city is packed full of history, wonderful architecture as well as great places to eat and drink. It’s easily accessible by train form Florence and takes around 40 minutes but there are some really great tour options available to.

Related Article: How to best spend one day in Pisa

 

Recommended Pisa Tours

Chianti Wine Tasting

If you are a fan of Chianti wine and vineyards, then a trip into the Tuscan region is a great idea. A guided tour means that you are free to taste as many wines that are on offer as the guide will drive you and your party. As well as visiting vineyards, you will also have the opportunity to see and experience smaller Tuscan towns and villages such as Montefioralle and Greve in Chianti.

Related Article: Explore Tuscany With Chianti Wine Tours

 

Recommended Chianti Wine Tours

Medieval Tuscan Towns and Villages

For those who love historical quaint Tuscan towns and a relaxed day in the countryside, why not take a trip to close by towns such as Siena, San Gimignano and many others. We would recommend a full day tour so you can get a little taste of the towns before you decide upon your next Tuscany escape.

Related Article: How To Best Explore Tuscany’s Medieval Towns From Florence

Recommended Tuscan Towns Tour

Lucca & Arezzo

Two of our most favourite walled cities, close to Florence are Lucca and Arezzo. They are perfect to visit for a one day trip and direct trains from Florence, Santa Maria Novella are regular throughout the day. For more information, hit the related posts below. These are towns you can explore on your own without a guide or take a guided tour with transport if you don’t fancy taking the train.

Related Article: How to spend a perfect day in Arezzo & Ultimate guide to one perfect day in Lucca

Recommended Lucca Tours

Cinque Terre

If you do want to visit Cinque Terre, the famous landscapes of ‘five fishing villages’ located in Liguria, we’d highly recommend a guided tour. This option will save you time in transport as you will be driven there and you will also get transfers between the five towns. Cinque Terre is also a little tricky to get to via public transport in a day. Just bare in mind that on a one day tour you will not be able to see all five villages and the tour operators will choose for you. We would suggest spending at leat three to five days exploring Cinque Terre as a separate trip.

Related Article: A guide to the 5 beautiful villages of Cinque Terre

Recommended Cinque Terre Tour

Luxury Florence Experiences

If you are visiting Florence for maybe a honeymoon or special occasion, these luxury experiences may be useful.

Where To Stay in Florence

As first time visitor to Florence, you will be quite new to the layout of the city and for this reason we’d recommend staying centrally, if you like being within a stones throw of all the action. This can also means that hotels are a little bit more pricier than staying a tiny bit out of town. We have concentrated on the more luxury end of hotels and ones we have stayed in personally.

If you prefer to stay in a more local area, then we would recommend Oltrarno which is just over the River Arno but has some fantastic gems and even former palaces at affordable luxury prices.

Be-lavie Tip: We always use the Duomo as a central meeting location so a hotel within 20-30 minutes walking distance of the Piazza del Duomo is perfect for first time visitors

The Bernini Palace Hotel

• Style: Old world Luxury.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• What to expect: A classic luxury hotel with impeccable service and an old world palatial feel. Opulent decoration with a feeling of being in a small haven in the hustle and bustle of Florence.
• Perfect For: Those who like a traditional, classic Florentine experience.

Related Article: A luxury stay at the beautiful Bernini Palace Hotel

Lungarno Vespucci 50 Hotel

• Style: Mid range luxury for Florence.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• What to expect: A mid range luxury hotel located with views of the River Arno is a stunning residence. The look is modern yet maintaining it’s frescoed ceilings and impeccable service. All suites are spacious and the service is truly wonderful here.
• Perfect For: Couples who want a quite stay with River Arno views but traditional Florentine architecure and service.

SoprArno Suites

• Style: Affordable Luxury.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• What to expect: A sixteenth century former palace beautifully restored with antiques and quirky decoration. This stylish bed and breakfast has an honesty bar and high ceilings all throughout for a grand feel.
• Perfect For: Couples and those who love antiques and interior design.

Related Article: SoprArno Suites, A Beautiful Boutique Hotel in Florence

Ad Astra Florence

• Style: Affordable Luxury.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• What to expect: A French inspired Hotel Particulier, set in Europe’s largest private walled garden, the Giardino Torrigigani. The sister property to SoprArno Suites, Ad Astra is also a bed and breakfast with stunning individually designed rooms, antiques as well. as views of the stunning gardens.
• Perfect For: Couples and those who love a slice of privacy.

Related Article: Ad Astra: A Beautiful Hotel Located in Private Gardens

Belmond Villa San Michele

• Style: High end Luxury.
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• What to expect: This sympathetically renovated monastery is perched upon. a hilltop in the town of Fiesole, just a 15-20 minutes drive from the centre of Florence. A stunning hotel with classy yet modern rooms with terraces, a fine dining restaurant, a pool and the best panoramas over Florence. If you’re thinking of splashing out, this is the place!
• Perfect For: Couples, families and those who want a special relaxing break out of the city area. Perfect for special occasions.

Related Article: Belmond Villa San Michele: A Stunning Luxury Hotel in Fiesole

Where To Eat & Drink in Florence

Florence is full of delicious places to eat and drink. Our top tip would be to look a little bit out of the main tourist areas for more affordable options as you will see more of the locals dining here. The below have all been tried and tested by us and our personal recommendations of places we head to when we are in Florence.

** Map locations are linked to the venue names.

Be-lavie Tip: head more out of the tourist hotspots for affordable and more authentic options. Oltrarno, San Frediano and San Niccolo are fab options.

Coffee Shops & Cafe Culture in Florence

Here are some of our favourite Cafes in Florence, perfect for a morning coffee, some breakfast or even some light food.

• Caffè degli Artigiani – Dating back to 1945, this traditional cafe serves great homemade cakes and sandwiches along with aperitivo and fab coffees.
• La Drogheria – Newly refurbed spot that serves. a good coffee and delicious lunchtime and dinner options around nice interiors.
• Caffè Gilli – Dating back 270 years, Cafe Gilli is the oldest cafe in the city and serves wonderdul artisanal sweets, savouries as well as hot and cold drinks.
• Caffè del Verone – Cafeteria on the top of the Istituto degli Innocenti museum. Enjoy a coffee and food during the day or evening with wonderful views.
• Caffè La Terrazza De Rinascente – located on the rooftop of department store Rinascente, and for that you do pay a premium but you have the best view of the Duomo and the Piazza della Repubblica. The hot chocolate is indulgent!

• Libreria Cafè La Cité – This book store is the perfect place to cuddle up in an armchair and get stuck into a book with a nice drink.
• Sottarno Commestibili – Located on the ground floor of the hotel SoprArno Suites, this cute little cafe in Oltrarno serves delicious food and coffees and is a lovely quiet spot.
• La Ménagère – A concept store with flowers, homewares, a restauranst and bar, La Ménagère is beautiful and their coffees and food is always good. If you love instagram spots, this is the one!
• Ditta Artiglianale – With town locations, Oltrarno and Santa Croce, these guys make the best Espresso in my humble opinion.

Fine Dining Restaurants in Florence

Some of our top picks for fine dining spots in Florence which are perfect for special occasions and include Michelin starred recommendations.

• La Bottega del Buon Caffe – This one Michelin starred restaurant overlooking the San Niccolò Tower is a really special place, they do creative tasting menus for vegans and vegetarians too with enough notice. The vaulted building is also a very special surrounding.

Related Article:Michelin – Starred Dining at La Bottega del Buon caffe

• Il Locale – housed in a former Medici Palace, this restaurant has. a number of private dining rooms as well as a very creative menu. The cocktails at the bar are some of the best we’ve had in Florence.

Related Article: Il Locale: Contemporary Dining In Historical Suuroundings

• Il Barretto – The first Harry’s Bar of Florence, this place dates back to the sixties and still has all the ambiance and charm. Popular with locals and tourists, serving traditional and modern Florentine fare.
• Ora D’aria – Head chef Marco Stabile has a reputation for exciting, contemporary food that reimagines many of Tuscany’s classic dishes. The menu is modern, the surroundings are minimalistic and they do a separate Vegetarian Taster menu.
• Konnubio – A fantastic level of service and traditional Tuscan dishes, headed by Chef Beatrice Segoni. The restaurant has also been nominated in fine dining food awards and it’s apparent to see why. A fantastic restaurant and wine bar if you fancy quite a special evening out.

Related Article: Eat at the best fine-dining restaurants in Florence

Fancy But More Casual Places to Eat in Florence

Some great fine dining recommendations but at a more affordable price point.

• BRAC – A vegetarian restaurant tucked behind a book store serving the most deliciously made dishes which are well thought out. Take a seat in the cute courtyard at the back.
• . Bistrot Cafe 1926 – Away from the major tourist spots, this cute French/Italian Bistro serves hearty lunches and dinners and have the largest choice of rums we’ve seen in Italy!
• Cibrèo Caffè – the laid back café style of this restaurant is so welcoming. Grab a table outside, of course weather permitting and spend a late afternoon tucking into one of their set lunchtime menus which includes fantastic pasta dishes.

• – The sister restaurant to BRAC, Santarosa has a wonderful location close to the Arno which is quite casual but. the food is far from casual. The pasta dishes are exquisite as is the hazelnut Tiramisu.
• Il Parione – Located a few steps away from the Ponte Vecchio, is this traditional Tuscan Trattoria style restaurant owned by the lovely Giovanni. The open kitchen unfinished terracotta walls and quirky atmosphere inside it is definitely a draw for tourists as well as locals. But more tourists have been frequenting here over the years than locals! The food is hearty and comforting with a fine selection of Chianti wines!
• La Ménagère – A concept store incorporating a flower and homewares area as well as a bar and restaurant. The food is delicious, beautifully presented. There are also private dining rooms and the decor is dreamy to say the least.
• L’OV – This Vegetarian restaurant serves a mix of traditional regional dishes revisited for an old time tavern, in the heart of Oltrarno.in Florence. The food is colourful, delicious and creative.

Related Article: Where to eat the best vegetarian-friendly food in Florence

Casual Places To Dine In Florence

If you don’t fancy a lot of food or just want to eat more like the everyday locals, here are some of our favourites.

• Gusta Pizza – This hole in the wall pizza serves up the most authentic Tuscan pizza I’ve had for a fraction of the price of restaurants. The queues wrap round the street and that is all the convincing you should need to grab one of their small selection of pizzas.. This is a great take out option.

• Trattoria La Casalinga – Just off Santa Spirito Squares lies what is probably one our all time favourite dining. It’s most definitely a hangout for locals and tourists alike and is popular for its traditional Italian home cooking style of Tuscany. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable. Plus the staff are super friendly and make you feel totally at home, you’ll feel Nonna will be coming out soon!!

Aperitivo/ Bars in Florence

As aperitivos are a big thing in Florence, drinks and tapas style snacks, we thought we’d include some that we frequent at when in the city!

• Osteria Nuvoli – A fab place for lunch, Aperitivo or even small and simple plates. Full of locals and a fantastic vibe during the day and evenings, the food is traditional local and trust me, they can rustle up anything with little waste. That’s just the Tuscan way. The owner is super friendly.
• Il Locale – Not only is it THE most beautiful bars we’ve ever set our eyes on, the bar tenders are ON POINT! Seriously, you say what the palette desires and they mix the alcohol and flavours! THE best Espresso Martini I’ve had in Florence, period!
• Le Volpi E L’uva – A definite favourite of the locals in Oltrarno is this small wine bar tucked in a small square off the main road to the Pitti Palace. Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. They even do wine tasting but we were here for aperitivo and opted for a couple of glasses of red with a cheese and ham board. There’s a lovely bustling atmosphere in the square and the wines are exquisite.

• Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta – A new garden has blossomed in the historic centre of Florence, thanks to the passion and care of Serre Torrigiani. A garden refuge where it’s possible to relax completely in a magical atmosphere. What I can only describe as a small oasis in the hustle and bustle of the historic centre featuring an urban garden, street food, art installations and live music.
• Soul Kitchen – When it comes to aperitivos and your love your cocktails, I have to say for value for money as well as delicious concoctions, Soul Kitchen have you covered! I mean, don’t these names just sounds like something you want to drink? The Mezcal Gingerita and Chilicano?!! Also they serve small plates if you’re interested in a pre dinner snack or just a light dinner.
• Procacci – Serving Tartufo since 1885, and boy is this truffle cafe, a treat. They also serve drinks and cake but it’s definitely the truffles you need to go for. They are spread onto quaint finger sandwiches and are served with a glass of fizz. It’s probably the most expensive cafe snack we’ve ever had but probably the most decadent!

Gelatarias In Florence

We’re not really ice cream or gelato fans but here is our most favourite place to head for and it and is pretty well priced. You’ll see a lot of the places in Florence for gelato can be quite extortionate!!

• Gelateria La Carraia – Located in Piazza Nazario, this Small, family owned store serves generous portions of classic & creative ice cream. The prices are so much lower than in the more touristy spots of Florence. In fact a large cone with two to three scoops is around €2.50! We love any of the pistacchio varieties here!
  

Recommended Food & Drinks Tours in Florence

These tours can be tailored by the guides to concentrate more on Vegetarian friendly food in Florence. Speak to the company when booked as well as the tour guide so they can make things suit your dietary requirements.

Related Article: The Cooking Lab: A private cookery class with a view in Florence

Florence For First Visitors FAQS

Florence For First Time Visitors: A Round Up

We hope this guide gives you the inspiration to craft your own itinerary to visit Florence. The key thing is to include what is of interest to you and your party and not try and do too much in one day. Remember to leave full days for day trips as often you can underestimate how tiring travelling can be, even if you are being chauffeured around! One of our top tips is that if you are short of time in Florence, then pick your must do activities and pre purchase skip the line tickets. This will cut down so much time not having to queue for entry. Also make a loose plan on what you’d like to do so you’re not wasting any of that precious time when in the city. We hope this guide leaves you with enough pointers and ideas to have a memorable trip to one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Florence.

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Resources To Help Plan Your Trip

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