Florence Travel Guide

Where should I begin? There’s so much to say about my beautiful city. The best place to start is probably right back at the beginning.

First things first: Florence literally saved my life.

For those who don’t know me personally, I have lived in Florence since 2018. And yes, there’s a romantic story behind my decision to move to Tuscany.

Now that you know me a little bit more, I feel it’s time for me to open up.

Before Florence, I lived in Milan, studying and working as a stylist. I know what you might be thinking: what an amazing life! In reality, I was far from happy. I was super stressed, surrounded by fake friends, and dealing with both personal and health issues at the time.

But guys, let me tell you this: everything in life happens for a reason. Even if at the very beginning, we don’t realise it.

When I was at university, I met a girl from Florence. We immediately became close friends, and she invited me on a trip to Florence. (This might sound a bit Twilight, but do you believe in personal imprinting? I knew straight away that’s what happened here – there’s truly no other way to describe it.) I remember the exact moment like it was yesterday. My friend and I riding on her moped at night, driving through the streets of Florence. I immediately felt a sense of freedom, happiness and joy. I thought to myself: “I don’t know why, but I feel I’m home”.

Intense, right? It might sound super cheesy, but that’s exactly what I experienced.

Two years later when university was over, I had no doubt as to where I wanted to move. Unfortunately I’d lost all contact with my Florentine friend, but I will always be thankful to her. And yes – after I moved here, I had no more health issues, no more negativity, and no more stress.

I honestly don’t know if I will stay in Florence forever. Probably not – at the end of the day, I’m still a curious and exploring Sagittarius. The only thing I know is that I will always come back. Home is where your heart is.

I hope my romantic story has set the scene, and will help you understand why Florence is so magically special. Who knows – maybe you’ll fall in love here, too.

Where to eat in Florence

La Menagere

In my opinion, this is the most aesthetic place in the city. Given a fresh makeover in 2021, La Menagere is a romantic restaurant and bar in the center of Florence. Its French vibes will immediately capture your heart. Prepare to be surrounded by beautiful flowers (there’s a flower shop inside!) and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Open from 8.00am to 2.00am, any time of day feels magical there. 

https://www.instagram.com/la_menagere/

Floret

There’s no healthier place than Floret in town. Located in the Luisa Via Roma terrace and inspired by a mix of cultures, the menu is made up of nourishing superfood plates. Floret’s holistic approach to cooking is a unique experience you cannot miss.

https://www.instagram.com/floret_tribe/

Cibreo

Cibreo is one of the most iconic restaurants in Florence. Created by the successful chef Fabio Picchi, the restaurant is the main meeting point for Florentine people. Cibreo isn’t just a restaurant: it’s a concept, where you’ll find the best interpretation of the classical Tuscan menu. Cibreo has locations in several parts of the city, so make sure you choose

the location you like the most. Craving Asian food during your stay in Florence? Head to CIBLEO, a restaurant part of the same concept but based around oriental cuisine.

https://www.instagram.com/cibreo_firenze/

La Giostra 

My favourite place in Florence! Open only at night, the nocturnal romantic atmosphere there is just adorable. It’s the perfect location for those who want to eat excellent Tuscan cuisine surrounded by a cozy Italian vibe. Last but not least, the owner it’s super cool!

https://www.instagram.com/lagiostrafirenze/

Gucci Osteria 

In collaboration with the famous Italian chef Massimo Bottura, Gucci opened the first Gucci Osteria in Florence. It’s a culinary experience that communicates Italian creativity and talent taken from both worlds: fashion and food. The executive chef, Karima Lopez, created a gourmet menu where she expresses her own culinary universe. Make sure to reserve a table, and let yourself be transported by this passionate experience, made up of creativity, style and taste.

https://www.instagram.com/gucciosteria/

Atelier de Nerli

If you’re looking for a bohemian atmosphere, Atelier de Nerli is definitely the right place for you. It makes you feel as though you’ve been frozen in time, with the retro Parisian vibe transporting you to another dimension. The menu is composed of simple but excellent dishes, created with high quality ingredients and ideas.

https://www.instagram.com/atelierdenerli/

Ristorante Buca Mario

The most traditional restaurant in Florence. You can’t miss it! There’s no place quite like Buca Mario, where you can taste real Tuscan cuisine and the iconic Fiorentina. Enjoy!

https://www.instagram.com/bucamariofirenze/

Locale 

A magical place where you feel you escaped from the city for a while. Its stylish and international vibe perfectly matches with the high-level gourmet menu. It’s the perfect location to sip a cocktail after dinner on a Friday night.

https://www.instagram.com/localefirenze/

Rasputin

The bar that doesn’t exist. Inspired by the Speakeasy bars during Prohibition, this secret location can be found somewhere in Santo Spirito. Let me know if you find it! I can’t say more, but do a little research and you’ll discover it.

https://www.instagram.com/rasputinfirenze/

Osteria delle Tre Panche

For those of you who love truffle… this is your place! While the incredible truffle menu both looks and tastes fantastic, the location is even more beautiful. Located in the Hotel Hermitage Terrace, tuck into your dinner while staring at the beautiful Ponte Vecchio.

https://www.instagram.com/osteriadelletrepanche/

Santa Cocktail Club

A new cocktail bar, where you can order a delicious drink while eating a sophisticated dinner.

Located in the gorgeous Santa Maria Novella square, this is the perfect location for those who want to be surrounded by an effortlessly cool atmosphere for the night.

https://www.instagram.com/santacocktailclub/

Procacci

Situated on the fashion street Via Tornabuoni, Procacci is a historical bar well known for its high quality selected wines and truffle. Founded by Leopoldo Procacci in 1885, the old gastronomy has become a meeting point where you can enjoy your aperitivo while eating truffle tapas. Cheers!

https://www.instagram.com/procacci1885_firenze/

#RAW

As you can probably tell from the name, Raw is a health cafe based on a 100% raw menu. It’s minimal interior emits a sense of calm – the same calm we need to taste food at its best and promote good digestion. It’s a holistic temple where food is not just a meal, but a way to nourish ourselves.

https://www.instagram.com/hashtagraw_/

Where to stay in Florence

The Place

The Place recently opened its doors again, after a big renovation to the amazing Piazza Santa Maria Novella. The hotel emits a sense of modern elegance and intimacy, with made-to measure hospitality dedicated to passionate travelers. I highly recommend trying the outdoor restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh food while admiring the Santa Maria Novella church. Last but not least, the entire table set is made in collaboration with Ginori.

https://www.instagram.com/theplacefirenze/

Four Season Florence

Located in the majestic Della Gherardesca garden, the hotel is like an Eden on earth. If you’re planning a relaxing getaway, I highly recommend you stay in this beautiful botanical escape. Enjoy a calming massage in their beautiful spa, and then take a walk in the garden. The main restaurant, Il Palacio, offers a high quality seasonal menu created with local and selected ingredients. During spring and summer time, the pool restaurant Al Fresco offers a delicious light menu under the shadow of the pool trees. Four Seasons also offers several experiences, like truffle hunting and private tours.

https://www.instagram.com/fsflorence/

Villa Cora

Villa Cora is a luxury hotel located in the Florentine hills, perfect for memorable holidays or relaxing staycations. There are two restaurants: one in the majestic room of the Villa, and the other next to the pool. The restaurants both offer an international menu, made with fresh ingredients and creative composition. The brunch at Villa Cora is the best I’ve ever tried! I highly recommend going during Christmas time, when the atmosphere is warm and cozy.

https://www.instagram.com/villacorahotel/

Belmond Villa San Michele

Located in the beautiful hills of Fiesole, Belmond is known to select beautiful historical locations to express its timeless elegance. Perfect for a romantic dinner at La Loggia or a relaxing staycation, the view up there is just breathtaking.

https://www.instagram.com/belmondvillasanmichele/

Where to shop in Florence

Luisa Via Roma

Luisa Via Roma is a multi-brand store, and one of the most important digital marketplaces in the fashion scene. It’s a luxury contemporary concept store where you can browse the latest trends and the coolest brands in the fashion industry.

https://www.instagram.com/luisaviaroma/

Boutique Nadine

For those who love vintage and retro styles… Boutique Nadine is sure to become your favorite shop! It’s a very special place in Florence, where you can discover unique pieces from cute brands mixed with vintage accessories.

https://www.instagram.com/boutiquenadine/

Officina Profumo Santa Maria Novella

This is an old pharmacy from 1221, that has recently expanded their range to include the worlds of cosmetics, fragrances and wellness products. I highly recommend going to admire their majestic location while testing their special fragrances.

https://www.instagram.com/santamarianovella1221/

Gucci Garden 

As Florence is where the House of Gucci was born, the brand decided to open their one and only concept store in Piazza Signoria. You can expect to find not only Gucci special collections, but also books, design pieces and special gadgets. It’s a contemporary cabinet de curiosite that expresses the talent and the vision of Alessandro Michele, creative director of Gucci. Immerse yourself in the Gucci world by visiting the Gucci Museum upstairs, and sampling the delicious menu at Gucci Osteria.

https://www.instagram.com/gucci/

Bjork

Bjork is a contemporary concept store located in Oltrarno, where you can find an expansive selection of alternative brands and a small fashion archive upstairs. It’s an independent minimalist space with an impressive range of international designers. Pretty cool.

https://www.instagram.com/bjork_florence/

That’s it for now, but I have the feeling this is just the first article I’ll write about Florence! There’s just so much to visit and explore, but let’s do it step by step.

Let me know if you’re following any of these recommendations, and if you’re coming to Florence… well, let me know and let’s grab a coffee!

Good vibes only, 

Viky