Florence

🔥 Hotspots

Florence is a city famous for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, offering options from affordable bites to more gourmet experiences.

All’Antico Vinaio $$: This sandwich shop is an absolute must for anyone in Florence. Famous for its huge, delicious panini made with fresh, local ingredients and served on focaccia bread, it’s a quick and affordable option near the Piazza della Signoria.
Trattoria Mario $$: Located near the Mercato Centrale, this traditional trattoria is popular for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) and pasta dishes. Go early, as it fills up fast!
Mercato Centrale $$: Inside this bustling food market, you’ll find everything from pizza and pasta to sushi. The upstairs has a food court where you can enjoy different dishes from various vendors.
Trattoria ZaZa $$: Known for its warm ambiance and Tuscan classics like ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup) and truffle pasta. Reservations are recommended as it’s very popular.
Gelateria La Carraia $: One of Florence’s best gelato shops, located near Ponte alla Carraia. With authentic flavors like pistachio and fig, it’s an affordable treat after sightseeing.
Sergio Pollini Lampredotto $: For a true Florentine street food experience, try the lampredotto, a traditional sandwich made with slow-cooked tripe. This stall near San Lorenzo Market is a local favorite.

Florence has a vibrant café culture, with cozy spots to grab an espresso or relax with friends.

Caffè Gilli: Situated in Piazza della Repubblica, this elegant café is one of Florence’s oldest. The coffee is top-notch, but the ambiance is even better.
Ditta Artigianale: A modern, specialty coffee shop popular with locals and students, offering everything from espressos to cold brews. They also serve excellent brunch options.
La Menagere: Known for its unique interior combining a florist, café, and restaurant, this spot offers great coffee and a selection of pastries.
Shake Café: If you’re looking for a place with a casual, modern vibe and plant-based options, Shake Café serves excellent coffee along with smoothies and light bites.
Rivoire: Close to the Uffizi Gallery, Rivoire is famous for its luxurious hot chocolate. A bit touristy, but it’s a beautiful spot for a break.

While Florence is more known for its art and history, it also has a lively nightlife scene.

The Blob Club: Located in the Santa Croce area, this quirky bar and club are popular with students and travelers. The vibe is relaxed, and it’s a great place to meet other young people.
Space Club: A popular nightclub among students and travelers, known for its dance floor, themed parties, and karaoke. Space Club stays open late, making it a favorite for night owls.
Rex Café: A quirky cocktail bar with eclectic decor. It’s an excellent spot for a more laid-back night with friends.

Florence offers endless cultural experiences, from famous museums to beautiful parks and historic neighborhoods.

The Uffizi Gallery: Florence’s most famous art museum, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Book tickets in advance, as it’s one of the most popular sites in Italy.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo): The city’s iconic cathedral, known for its magnificent dome by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for incredible views over Florence.
Ponte Vecchio: A must-see bridge lined with jewelry shops, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the city. Great for an evening stroll as the sun sets.
Boboli Gardens: Behind the Pitti Palace, these Renaissance gardens are perfect for a peaceful afternoon walk. They offer beautiful views and impressive sculptures.
Accademia Gallery: Home to Michelangelo’s David, this museum is smaller than the Uffizi but equally impressive. Go early to avoid long lines.
Piazzale Michelangelo: For panoramic views of Florence, head up to this square overlooking the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.

Florence is surrounded by the beautiful Tuscan countryside and makes a great base for exploring nearby towns.

Fiesole: Just a short bus ride from Florence, Fiesole offers ancient Etruscan ruins, Roman baths, and fantastic views of Florence from its hilltop location.
Chianti Wine Region: Known for its rolling hills and vineyards, Chianti is perfect for a day trip to explore local wineries and enjoy wine tastings. Many tours depart from Florence.
Siena: A medieval town with stunning architecture and narrow streets. It’s famous for its Palio horse race and the stunning Siena Cathedral.
Lucca: Known for its Renaissance walls and cobbled streets, Lucca is a charming, peaceful town. Rent a bike to ride along the city walls for a unique perspective.
Cinque Terre: A bit farther but doable as a day trip, this picturesque seaside area with colorful villages is perfect for hiking and photography.

Accommodation:

Private rental: Rent in Florence is moderate compared to other Italian cities, with one-bedroom apartments in the city center typically costing between €800 and €1,500 per month.
Student housing: University residences and shared apartments are available, with costs usually between €300 and €700 per month, depending on the location and amenities.

Groceries:

Florence has various supermarkets, with Coop and Conad being popular chains for affordable groceries. Local markets like Mercato Sant’Ambrogio and Mercato Centrale are great for fresh produce and Tuscan specialties.

Transportation:

Public transport: Florence is compact, and many people choose to walk. However, buses are available, with a monthly pass for students costing around €35.
Bikes: Florence is bike-friendly, and many students rent or buy bikes to get around. Be sure to lock it well, as bike theft can be an issue.
Trains: Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station offers easy access to other Italian cities like Pisa, Bologna, and Milan.