Our Florence Favourites: Nine Spots That Show a City Living Up to the Hype

Florence has a reputation for being impossibly beautiful, historically rich, and, of course, a little touristic. But beyond the postcard-worthy stuff, some places and experiences truly deliver, even after all the hype. These are the ones that stick with you long after you’ve left.

Il Santino Wine Bar – Via Santo Spirito

Blink, and you’ll miss it. Il Santino is small, relaxed, and effortlessly Florentine. A 50-minute stroll from Stadio Artemio Franchi, pop in for a glass of Tuscan red or a spritz, grab a couple of crostini, and ease into the evening.

It’s the kind of place where you start with one drink and stay for three: no pretence, just great wine and the right atmosphere. Glasses start from €5.

Trattoria Za Za – Piazza del Mercato Centrale

A Florence institution for a reason. Yes, it’s popular with visitors, but locals still eat here too, which is always a good sign. The menu covers all the classics, the portions are generous, and everything feels reassuringly traditional.

It’s loud, lively, and full of energy. The walk-in queue can be as long as two hours, so we recommend making a reservation.

Piazzale Michelangelo

You’ll hear about this view constantly, and it still manages to exceed expectations. Head up in the early evening, find a spot on the steps, and watch the city shift from warm terracotta to soft evening blues.

As the sun sets, there’s a shared sense that everyone knows they are witnessing something special.

Pino’s Sandwich Bar – Via Giuseppe Verdi

Simple and ridiculously tasty, Pino’s has been serving sandwiches for decades, and the line-up outside speaks for itself. The ingredients are fresh, the bread is excellent, and it is just perfect for a quick lunch when sightseeing takes priority over fine dining and elaborate menus. Half an hour from Stadio Artemio Franchi, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite before the game.

Mercato Centrale – Piazza del Mercato Centrale

This is perfect for when everyone wants to eat something different. With artisan stalls selling a variety of dishes and cuisines, it’s a great place to try lots of things without committing to a long sit-down meal. The real standout is the fresh pasta: quick and full of flavour.

Osteria Pastella – Via della Scala

Known for its truffle pasta tossed in a giant wheel of pecorino, Osteria Pastella blends theatre and traditional flavours. The table-side spectacle is great fun, and the creamy pasta lives up to the hype. Rich, indulgent, and perfect for a memorable evening meal.

Giunti Odeon Cinema & Library – Piazza degli Strozzi

A beautiful old cinema that’s also a bookshop and café – it sounds chaotic, but somehow it all makes perfect sense. Whether you’re watching a film, browsing books, or just sitting with a coffee, it’s a calm, cultured break from the busy streets outside. A real Florentine hidden gem.

Cantina de’ Pucci Wine Window – Via de’ Pucci

Florence’s historic wine windows are a charming historical throwback, and Cantina de’ Pucci does it best. You knock, order, and a glass of wine appears through a tiny window. It’s quick, slightly surreal, and wonderfully Florentine – a small moment that captures the city’s character perfectly.

Vivoli –  Via Isola delle Stinche

Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Vivoli is famous for its affogato. A scoop of proper vanilla gelato moulded to the side of a cup with hot, intense espresso poured in the middle. Simple, yet perfectly executed. It’s rich, bitter, creamy, and utterly addictive. Walk off the sugar rush with a 35-minute walk to the stadium.

Our best advice for Florence? Have a plan, eat well, walk everywhere, and let these spots show you why the city’s reputation is so firmly deserved.