Best Restaurants in Florence

Casual & Authentic Tuscan

Perfect for a true Florentine experience

- Trattoria Mario – Rustic eatery famous for Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak).

- Ristorante Brandolino – Old-world eatery with distressed walls & vaulted ceilings, serving elegant Italian cuisine.

- Trattoria Za Za: A classic Florentine institution near the Mercato Centrale, beloved for its truffle-infused specialties, hearty Tuscan fare, and a cozy yet bustling atmosphere that captures the spirit of traditional Florence.

- Ristorante Alassio – The Hoxton: Located within The Hoxton hotel, Alassio offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience. Expect elegant plating, seasonal Italian ingredients, and a romantic ambiance—perfect for intimate dinners or stylish evenings out.

- All’Antico Vinaio – The most famous sandwich shop in Florence—expect a line, but it’s worth it!

- Trattoria Sostanza – Cozy spot known for butter chicken and artichoke omelets.

- La Giostra – A romantic, candle-lit setting serving truffle pasta and homemade dishes.

- Essenziale – Casual fine dining with contemporary spirits, Essenziale strikes a balance between the ancient canon of Tuscan cuisine and pushing the boundaries of creative and innovative styles.

- Vini e Vecchi Sapori –Around the corner from Piazza della Signoria, one of FLorence most scenic squares, is this soulful, rowdy trattoria with plenty of heart.

- Sophia Loren – Stylish, Sophia Loren-inspired restaurant offering upmarket pizzas, refined Italian plates & a bar.

Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred

For a more refined dining experience

- Il Palagio (Four Seasons) – Michelin-starred elegance with refined Tuscan flavors.

- Borgo San Jacopo – Fine dining by the river, offering contemporary Italian dishes.

- Osteria Gucci da Massimo Bottura – A blend of luxury, fashion, and exquisite cuisine.

Best Wine Bars & Cocktail Spots

Wine & Aperitivo Bars

Sip on Tuscany’s best wines

- Le Volpi e l’Uva – Cozy wine bar with small-batch Tuscan wines and cheese platters.

- Signorvino – Stunning Duomo views with a fantastic wine selection.

- Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina – Boutique-style wine tasting with perfect pairings.

Cocktail Bars & Nightlife

- Manifattura – A speakeasy-style bar with handcrafted Italian cocktails.

- SE·STO on Arno (Westin Excelsior) – Chic rooftop bar with breathtaking Florence views.

- Mad - Souls & Spirits – Florence’s best spot for creative cocktails and late-night fun.

Unique Experiences & Local Tips

- Bike along the Arno River – A scenic way to experience Florence at your own pace.

- Wine Tasting in Chianti – A half-day trip to Tuscany’s vineyards for an unforgettable wine experience.

- Mercato Centrale – Florence’s indoor food market, perfect for fresh pasta, truffles, and local specialties.

- Take a Pasta or Gelato-Making Class – A hands-on way to learn authentic Italian cooking.

This guide ensures you experience the best of Florence—art, food, wine, and unforgettable moments!

Luxury & Designer Shopping

Florence is home to flagship stores of Italy’s biggest fashion houses, many of which originated in Tuscany. The best streets for luxury shopping include Via de’ Tornabuoni and Via della Vigna Nuova.

Artisan Markets & Unique Local Finds

If you love artisanal shopping, antiques, and handcrafted goods, these markets and streets are perfect:

- San Lorenzo Market – A bustling open-air market full of leather goods, scarves, ceramics, and souvenirs.
Location: Near Mercato Centrale

- Oltrarno Artisan District – The best place to find handmade jewelry, ceramics, and custom shoes in local workshops.
Location: Santo Spirito & San Frediano neighborhoods

- Mercato delle Pulci (Flea Market) – A charming antique market where you can find vintage art, furniture, and unique collectibles.
Location: Piazza dei Ciompi