Florence's best kept secrets
A city is always better explored when you've got a local by your side. But in case you don't happen to know anyone in Florence, then our curated city guide is the next best thing. Made in collaboration with The Social Hub community, these are the spots certified Florentines love to hang out.
Florence, with its history, architecture, parks, views, streets and squares, is regarded as one of the most romantic cities in the world. Situated in the picturesque Tuscan region with the rolling hills of the countryside and close to other important Italian cities, it’s a wonderful place to visit alone, or in combination with exploring the surrounding areas. It’s also a great place to come and live, as it's big enough to not feel claustrophobic but small enough to know your way around with ease and create connections with the locals.
The relaxed atmosphere of the city allows you to explore things at your own pace. There’s no reason to rush your gelato - allow yourself to get lost in a daydream as you people-watch or stroll around. After all, the phrase ‘la dolce vita’ comes from Italy, so indulge in every bit of sweetness that comes your way.
Music & Enertainment
A more casual approach, but still a whole load of fun
Florence’s relaxed atmosphere during the day isn’t an indication of a quiet nightlife. In this vibrant city, you can find a fair few spots to go and let your hair down. Locals would consider drinking in bars a good time – already starting with aperitivo hour as the gateway to a fun night out. Rex Cafe is an unpretentious favourite where you’ll find locals after dinner having a dance. But for more of a dedicated programme, have a look at Babylon Club’s lineup and see if anything tickles your fancy. Tenex is also a firm favourite since the 90s with its underground vibes and being open until the early hours of the morning…
Naturally, given the city’s history, classical music venues are very popular among all locals, including the younger generations. One of the most impressive venues is Museo dell’Opera, which is a museum, but if you visit the Cappella Musicale, you can also be lucky enough to catch a performance from esteemed composers. Teatro Della Pergola is a stunning venue to immerse yourself in too.
Food & Drinks
An aperitivo a day keeps the doctor away
Florence finds itself in the magical region of Tuscany, where the quality and flavoursome diet consists of bread, extra-virgin olive oil, meats, legumes, and unbelievably good wine. And unofficially, gelato. You’ll find the best selection at Donamalina Gelateria.
Aperitivo culture is a big part of daily life, so we recommend a spritz or negroni at Procacci, Fiaschetteria Nuvoli or Amblé (to name a few) and strike up a conversation with a local or the wait staff. The ritual of aperitivo isn’t just in the drink itself, but in the social aspect of it too. Often the best place to have it is in a humble spot, rather than looking for the best view or glassware.
Across the city, you can find fantastic restaurants that showcase the quality tastes of the region. A few spots you should know about include Trattoria Marione, Trattoria Mario, Antico Ristoro di Cambi and Il Latini. Each very unique in their vibes but unanimous on quality and flavour. Be aware though that meat features heavily across all menus, but there are delicious truffle pastas, ribollita stew and cheeses for vegetarians. And watch out for the unspoken rules too; never ask for your Florentine steak well done, and don't dare order a cappuccino (espresso only) after dinner. Many places in the city have small and intimate venues, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. Anywhere between 20:00 and 21:30 is acceptable by local standards. And when you’re heading out, be sure to dress up a little.
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Art & Culture
Modern day art and culture continues to thrive in its place of birth
While Rome is the cradle of civilisation, Florence holds the prestigious title of “birthplace of the Renaissance.” The entire city lives and breathes culture, from its architecture, to open spaces and the people themselves. Their historical significance on the evolution of the arts means that contemporary art and culture are extremely important here too, with a plethora of modern art galleries, independent creative spaces and museums dotted throughout. We particularly love the diverse program at Palazzo Strozzi and Museo Marino Marini. But if you really want to shake things up, then let the experience at Rifugio Digitale take you into the future with its innovative visual installations. It’s an exhibition space that uses technology to communicate creative ideas.
You can’t visit Florence without hearing the Medici family name at least once. The most powerful aristocratic family in Italy who ruled the Florentine region for decades, almost every single important building in the town is connected to them. For example, the Palazzo Vecchio used to be their workplace and Palazzo Pitti their home – both worth a visit to see the beautiful architecture and interiors. One of the lesser-known spots is the Corridoio Vasariano, a secret corridor passing over Ponte Vecchio so that the family wouldn’t have to walk through the crowds of people back in the day. The corridor is now part of the Uffizi Gallery, but it’s been closed for years due to renovations. And while we can’t promise you’ll be the only ones visiting the Galleria dell’Accademia or Bargello Museum, you ought to pay them a visit to the works from de Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli. Most museums will be closed on Monday, and be sure to check opening times. On the first Sunday of every month, you can score a free entrance to most cultural establishments.
Shops & Boutiques 
Whatever your personal preference, you can expect style and quality throughout
Italy is synonymous with fashion and style, with people coming from around the world to visit the biggest luxury fashion houses. (Did you know that Gucci is homegrown in Florence?) These kinds of spots are along the Via de Tornabuoni.
But if your budget or tastes don’t go that far, it’s more than high fashion that gives Italy its status for producing quality and craft. For centuries, artisanal craftspeople have been using their resources to produce some of the world’s best leather, textiles and jewellery. A local Florentine brand you should check out is Frenzlauer for designer leather bags, while you can find unique headgear (think fancy hats and veils) at Superduper hats. For an array of hipster hotspots, San Frediano has concept stores and independent designers to show the contemporary side of Florentine fashion. Check out the offer at Manufacta and Co-Exist Store. Whereas in Santa Croce, you’ll find a more eclectic fashion sense with boho artsy style being the general vibe, for example a crochet treasure trove Laura Biagini Handmade, or La Bottega Dei Cristalli where you’ll find crystal(like) pieces.
Though not much of a secret, the stalls along the Ponte Vecchio bridge are worth a visit, with the jewellery makers being super friendly and open to talk about their unique designs. The setting itself is also very romantic. The Ponte Vecchio area by the bridge is where you can find local Florentine crafts too. Locals love to do their grocery shopping at markets, so that’s always got a bustling atmosphere where you can pick up something to eat there and then, or take back as a nice memory. The biggest and most popular is Mercato Centrale.
Parks & Nature
Rose gardens, magical views and marble sculptures, walks in the park are a romantic dream come true
The parks in Florence are every bit as romantic as you’d imagine; plentiful rose gardens, sweet-smelling scents, Renaissance statues built in fountains and panoramic views across the city. No matter which green space you stroll through, you’ll be charmed and enamoured instantly.
The Giardino delle Rose is a must-see, as well as the Giardino Bardini which has the most stunning display of lilac wisteria in April. Explore the Botanical Gardens - the third oldest garden in existence - created and cared for by the Medici family back in the 1500s. There you’ll discover exotic, tropical and medicinal plants in a lush setting. Speaking of the Medici family, their (former) estate on the south side of the River Arno is one of the largest green spaces in the centre - the Boboli Gardens. Amuse yourself with the lavishly decorated stone structures and sneak a peak at the Pitti Palace.
It would be a shame to be in one of the most beautiful parts of Europe and not escape the urban centre. The Chianti region is just south of Florence, and has a plethora of humble vineyards for you to visit and sample the famous wine of the region. Why not make a reservation at Casa Chianti Classico or Castello di Volpaia. Both have affordable wine tasting options, a delicious menu and an unforgettable view of the rolling Tuscan hills.
