An insider’s guide to Florence, one of Italy’s most enchanting cities
Curate your ultimate itinerary in one of Italy's most enchanting cities with exclusive insights from our very own Chiara Lucci. From must-visit museums and art galleries to hidden gems serving the city's best plate of pasta, Chiara shares her top picks for experiencing Florence like a true insider.
"These are the places close to my heart, where every moment becomes extraordinary – where you can savor the essence of the city, indulge in delicious cuisine, uncover ancient wisdom, and bask in the magic of Florence."
CIBREO CAFFE
Via del Verrocchio, 5r
Cibreo effortlessly combines traditional Florentine aesthetics with a modern twist. Pasta is not on the menu, and there is no written list of offerings. Instead a waiter personally walks you through the options crafted by chef Fabio Picchi, the culinary maestro renowned for his inventive flair and dedication to Tuscan gastronomy.
TEATRO DEL SALE
Via dei Macci, 111 r
Another hidden haven, curated by Fabio Picchi, beckons patrons into a world where gastronomy and theatre seamlessly intertwine. Akin to a carefully choreographed performance, the Teatro del Sale captivates its audience with an ever-evolving menu that mirrors the seasons, celebrating the richness of Tuscan flavours. The avant-garde spirit is not confined to the plate alone; within its walls, the theatre hosts a spectrum of live performances, from experimental plays to eclectic musical acts, creating an immersive experience that transcends the conventional boundaries of dining.
TRATTORIA CAMMILLO
TRATTORIA CAMMILLO
Borgo S. Jacopo, 57/r
Cammillo is a culinary gem that has stood the test of time, enchanting diners with its timeless charm and exquisite Tuscan cuisine since its inception in 1945. Stepping into Cammillo is like stepping into a bygone era, where the walls adorned with vintage photographs and the rustic wooden furniture exude a sense of nostalgia. Renowned for its traditional Florentine dishes and impeccable service, Cammillo offers a dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.
OSTERIA VINI E VECCHI SAPORI
Via dei Magazzini, 3/r
A hidden gem tucked away in the historic streets of Florence, offering a truly authentic taste of Tuscan cuisine. With its intimate and cozy atmosphere, this charming osteria feels like a welcoming embrace from the moment you step inside. Run by the affable and passionate chef, Franco, and his family, the restaurant exudes a warm and familial ambiance, making diners feel like cherished guests in their home. The menu is a celebration of traditional Tuscan flavors, with dishes crafted from the finest locally-sourced ingredients paired with a carefully curated selection of wines from local vineyards.
buca mario
BUCA MARIO
Piazza degli Ottaviani, 16r
In the heart of Florence lies a culinary treasure trove that beckons every visitor to indulge in its iconic dish: the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Even those with vegetarian inclinations may find themselves tempted by this colossal slab of prime beef, and one of the city's most renowned purveyors of this delicacy is the venerable Ristorante Buca Mario. The name 'Buca' evokes its origins as a 16th-century wine cellar, nestled in a quaint street between the bustling piazza della Repubblica and the charming piazza Ognissanti. Within its series of luminous, vaulted chambers adorned with arches and rustic brickwork, impeccably attired waitstaff dart about each evening, delivering plates brimming with the finest traditional fare Florence has to offer. Since its inception in 1886, Buca Mario has been a bastion of authentic Florentine cuisine. Today the Pasquetti family proudly upholds this legacy ensuring that every guest's experience is nothing short of exceptional.
IL SANTO BEVITORE
Via di Santo Spirito, 64/66
A warm glow emanating from countless flickering candles or the impressive display of wine bottles adorning the rustic wooden walls. Alternatively, it could be the anticipation of an exceptional dining experience that draws us back to this enchanting venue time and time again. Seize the opportunity to kickstart the evening with a glass of locally-produced bubbly at the nearby Santino, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.
PALAZZO STROZZI
Piazza degli Strozzi
A celebrated culinary destination offering a blend of traditional and innovative cuisine. Situated in the historic heart of the city, this charming restaurant welcomes diners with a cozy ambiance, flickering candles and stylish decor. Led by a team of talented chefs, Il Santo Bevitore's menu showcases a diverse array of seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. From inventive pasta creations to succulent meat and seafood dishes, each plate is a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses.
villa bardini
VILLA BARDINI
Costa S. Giorgio, 2
Perched on the hills overlooking the Renaissance cityscape of Florence, this meticulously restored 17th-century villa seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary allure. Beautiful lush terraced gardens, with sculpted hedges and vibrant flora create an enchanting backdrop for al fresco gatherings. Inside, the interiors curated with an artful eye showcase a harmonious fusion of period furnishings and modern design, echoing the city's rich artistic legacy.
MANIFATTURA TABACCHI
Via delle Cascine, 35
Manifattura Tabacchi, a former tobacco manufacturing plant, has been transformed into a cultural oasis blending history and innovation. The industrial charm of its brick buildings provides a captivating backdrop for a diverse array of artistic endeavours and gastronomic delights. Visitors can explore artisanal boutiques, sip coffee in chic cafes, and immerse themselves in contemporary art exhibitions.
UFFIZI GALLERY
Piazzale degli Uffizi
In the labyrinthine streets of Florence, where history and art converge, the Uffizi Gallery is a testament to the Medici legacy, beckoning visitors into a realm where masterpieces unfold like chapters of a novel. Beyond the ornate facade, the Uffizi Gallery unveils a curated symphony of artistic genius, echoing the harmonious resonance of Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" and the poetic allure of “Caravaggio's Chiaroscuro Mastery”. Here, each brushstroke carries the weight of centuries, and every marble sculpture tells a silent tale of artistic evolution.
OFFICINA PROFUMO DI SANTA MARIA NOVELLA
VIA DELLA SCALA, 16
A renowned fragrance house with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Famous for its exquisite perfumes, skincare products, and home fragrances, each creation is meticulously crafted using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, resulting in timeless scents that captivate the senses.
GINORI 1735 @valentinabarabuffi
GINORI 1735
VIA DEI RONDINELLI, 17
Ginori 1735 legacy spans over three centuries. Founded in 1735, this iconic brand has been synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, captivating connoisseurs worldwide with its exquisite tableware and home décor collections. Situated in the heart of Florence, Ginori 1735 continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, blending heritage techniques with innovative design to create pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. From intricately hand-painted patterns to modern minimalist designs, each creation reflects the brand's commitment to quality and refinement.
I VISONARI
PIAZZA NAZARIO SAURO
A curated selection of handcrafted eyewear, where design meets individuality. I Visionari showcases a diverse array of eyewear creations, each a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of independent brands. Discover a world of independent brands, artisanal craftsmanship, rare finds, collector's items, and unmatched eyewear designs, all within a landscape defined by creativity, originality, and authenticity.
UB FIRENZE
VIA DEI CONTI, 4
A dynamic concept store offering a curated selection of fashion, lifestyle, and design items, UB Firenze is a haven for shoppers seeking unique and innovative products. From cutting-edge clothing and accessories to stylish home decor and artisanal goods, the store showcases a blend of local craftsmanship and international flair. With its modern aesthetic and carefully curated collections, UB Firenze provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that celebrates creativity and individuality.
gallery photo credits: photo 1: @giannifontana, Photo 2: @manifatturatabacchifi, photo 3: @nic.tanzi, Photo 4: @palazzostrozzi, photo 6: @lucillesse83, Photo 7: @maggiomusicale, photo 8: @iamjoeewong, photo 9: @maria.dusicka, photo 10: masa yamamoto, photo 11: @dianaribeiro3, photo 12: @doorsofitaly, photo 13: @conibrie, photo 14: @bucamariofirenze, photo 15: @vini_e_vecchi_sappori, Photo 16: @valentinabarabuffi