Determined to get past the obvious tourist sites, we looked for the best places in Florence for the long-term traveler. We tread down each flag-stoned alley and peered into into the recesses of every shady establishment. The search might have been sketchy at times, but in the end we found food, fashion, and vinyl—this guide to 17 hidden gems of Florence has it all, even has amore. Just click on the titles to get the full story.
Berberè is my favorite Pizzeria I’ve been to during my time here in Florence. Through the huge glass windows outside, you can see into this restaurant. That’s what drew me to it. From such an inviting look to the immediately welcoming waitress, I knew I would enjoy my experience.
Sant’Ambrogio Market Flea Market
Whats better than experiencing a hidden gem in a city? How about finding the perfect, one of a kind ring to bring home to your little sister? Or a vintage scarf that
will make you stand out from the tourists, but blend in to the stylish locals? You can find all of this and more at this local market, swarming with Italian character and perfect prices.
Craving a cappuccino drizzled with chocolate and made with love? In need of a bagel? Or what about something healthy such as an omelette or handmade crepe? Take a break from the city center and wander off to discover this hidden gem. It may not seem like much from the outside, but I can assure you, you will not be dissapointed. Make sure you say thank you to Mauro and you might just get something special as you leave.
Maintaining any hair type can be difficult. If your hair isn’t to your liking, it can be upsetting, causing you to become a little bit more self-conscious. Since study abroad programs lack information for 3-4 hair types, it may be confusing or even difficult to know what’s best for you. Finding a shop that carries you hair products may be hard while traveling, but Black Beauty is the store to go to if you cannot find anything for your curly hair.
Tucked away, far from any tourist traps, La Citè is in a world of its own. This café is not meant to just satisfy your caffeine needs, rather it is also a bookstore and wine bar. This quaint coffee shop is almost unrecognizable after sundown. The quiet and concentrated nature of La Citè transforms into a lively atmosphere. La Citè is a local’s favorite for that mid-morning cappuccino or an evening nightcap.
Looking to indulge your sweet/savory tooth or feed your immense craving for caffeine? If so, then it’s time to take a quick detour to Gino’s Bakery. Whether it’s a crispy croissant, caprese sandwich, or a steaming cappuccino that has your tummy turning, this man and his enticing oasis are here to help.
Lady Jane B. Boutique
Love vintage clothes but sick of breaking the bank? Looking for a homey boutique full of unique pieces? Lady Jane is ready to offer you a warm and vibrant trip into the 20th century. You might just find your new favorite piece of clothing, vintage style.
Italy is filled with iconic love stories: Romeo and Juliet, Audrey Hepburn and that other guy in Roman Holiday, Lizzie McGuire and Paolo- we know them, we love them. But do you know about the couple that inspires love even today in Florence? I’m talking about Dante and Beatrice, the star-crossed lovers who never quite got their happy ending but are still in the spotlight of this city. Tucked away on the quiet street of Via Santa Margherita is a tiny church you’d never know was there unless you were looking for for it; here you can write a letter to Dante’s infamous muse and love Beatrice, asking for advice or protection of your love.
Give your tastebuds a break from Italian cuisine and enter a new realm of mouth-watering flavors at La Cova. There is a wide array of dishes when it comes to Spanish food, and La Cova successfully delivers a sense of authenticity to each of their dishes. With such an extensive variety of tapas, you can choose dishes from patatas bravas (fried potato served with aioli sauce and salsa brava), to melt in your mouth croquettes. You (and your tastebuds) will not be disappointed!
Take a break from the many miles you’ve walked around Florence and stop in this
warm and welcoming cafè! Run by married Rudolf and his wife Sylvia, you’ll feel safe and comfortable away from the madness of this touristy city.
With delectable pastries and great coffee, a nice break is in the future for you! While it is a hole in the wall, it provides a great sense of authenticity and true Italian culture. Each of the workers there is so very joyful and always happy to help with tough decisions on which pastry to try first!
Holding no comparison to the cliche of America’s “Old McDonald’s,” Giotto and his farm exhibit the humblest impression of Italy I have yet to find. Tucked right outside the metropolitan city of Florence, Giotto’s Farm creates an escape within its rolling fields and olive trees. Join in alongside seasoned basket weavers eager to lend a helping hand, many four-legged friends, and the man himself to learn to time-old craft of wicker basket weaving. But don’t forget…Have f
Imagine dress up…but for adults. This vintage boutique has every item that you’ve ever scoured for on E-bay (I would bet you five dollars this is true). With five different themed rooms and mirrors of different sizes spread throughout the shop, you can have fun here even if you don’t have the commitment, or cash, to purchase anything. I bought a metallic dirndl…what will you find?
Bar Pitti has an aura about it. The kind where you feel a certain sense of warmth, and genuine happiness within the people who occupy the space. From the twinkle lights inside to the soft kind smiles of the staff who happened to be all family, Bar Pitti is a one-stop-shop for all of your Italian meals.
Ready to get away from those American Bars? Want an authentic experience with cool drinks and yummy snacks without taking a hit to your wallet?
Look no further and consider Bulli and Balene for your Florentine Aperitivo experience! Go for the dainty sandwiches that pack a punch more than typical bar peanuts and 4 euro cocktails. It’s really everything you would want from a wine bar- good drinks with even better company, plus it fits your instagram aesthetic. Coming from my experience all of your friends will have major FOMO when they see all of your posts on your story. If you are anything like me and are a big fan of wine bars over touristy bars Bulli and Balene hits all the high notes, and if your still not sold based on this short paragraph, click to read more.
Looking for anywhere to let your musical yearnings free, those whose heart beat to a tune will find this to be one of the most extraordinary places. If you’re in the town of Florence make sure to take a pit stop at this unique record shop. Genres range from heavy metal all the way to country with many others in-between. It’s a great place for anyone to go, and maybe it’ll even spark your interest in vinyl records!
Tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Ready to savor a little taste of the famous Tuscan hills? Why not spend an afternoon hiking in woods just north of Florence?
Sometimes people will come in and want two of the same thing, but it is almost impossible because no matter what, it will always be slightly different. Everything is a creation of its own and you can be ensured that what you buy will be one-of-a-kind.