Italian Food and drink

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is also celebrated for its distinctive and delicious cuisine. The city’s culinary scene reflects its rich history and culture, with a plethora of traditional dishes that are as much a part of Florence as its iconic architecture and art.

Tuscan cuisine, known for its simplicity and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, is at its best in Florence.

Among the city’s most popular dishes are bistecca alla Fiorentina, a T-bone steak grilled rare; pappa al pomodoro, a thick tomato soup made with stale bread; and ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup. Other local favorites include lampredotto and trippa, both made from cow stomach, and Coniglio, a rabbit dish.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Florentines love their pastries stuffed with apricot jam (albicocca), blackberry jam (mora), wildberry jam (frutti di bosco), or honey (miele).

When it comes to dining, Florence offers a multitude of options. Trattoria Da Burde Firenze, Pizzeria Giovanni Santarpia, Trattoria Sabatino, and La Vecchia Bettola are among the city’s essential restaurants. For those who prefer a more casual setting, the Caffe Rivoire and Caffe Gilli offer great coffee and sweet treats.

Navigating the city’s dining scene can be a delight, with a range of options from fine dining establishments to rustic trattorias and bustling food markets. Whether you’re a gourmand, a casual foodie, or someone just looking to savor the flavors of Florence, the city’s culinary scene offers something for everyone.

Accommodation in Florence

Florence offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. For those on a budget, the city offers affordable options like B&B Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace al Ponte and Hotel Toscana, which provide comfortable lodgings at reasonable prices.

On the other hand, for those seeking luxury, there’s no shortage of high-end hotels such as the St. Regis Florence and Hotel Lungarno, which offer top-notch amenities and services.

Location is a crucial factor when choosing accommodation in Florence. The city center, particularly around the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, is a popular choice as it places guests within walking distance of major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio.

For a quieter yet still convenient location, the Oltrarno district, located across the River Arno, offers a more local feel with its artisan shops and small piazzas.

Additionally, consider the amenities and services offered by the hotel. Most hotels in Florence offer free Wi-Fi, and some even provide complimentary breakfast.

Some luxury hotels also offer additional services like concierge and laundry services, and may even have their own restaurants or bars. Regardless of your budget or preferences, Florence’s diverse accommodations ensure that every visitor can find a place to stay that suits their needs.

Getting around in Florence

Getting around Florence is relatively straightforward thanks to its compact size and the availability of various transportation options. The city is best explored on foot, with most major attractions such as the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery within walking distance of each other. In fact, you can walk from one end of the city to the other in about 30 minutes, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore.

Public transportation is also a viable option for getting around Florence. The city has an efficient bus and tram system that covers the entire city and outlying areas. Tickets can be purchased at machines or tobacco shops before boarding.

If you plan to use public transport extensively, consider purchasing a transport pass for unlimited travel within a certain time period. Taxis are another option, although they tend to be more expensive. They can be hailed on the street, taken from taxi ranks or booked in advance.

When navigating Florence, it’s essential to be aware of the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), a restricted area in the city center where only authorized vehicles are allowed. Unauthorized entry into the ZTL will result in hefty fines.

Therefore, if you have a rental car, it’s best to park outside the ZTL and explore the city on foot or by public transport. Furthermore, it’s advised to avoid tourist traps by steering clear of restaurants and shops in the immediate vicinity of major attractions, where prices tend to be inflated. Instead, venture off the beaten path to discover local gems and authentic Florentine experiences.

Practical information

When planning a trip to Florence, there are several practical aspects to consider. Italy uses the Euro (€) as its currency, and it’s usually easy to find ATMs in the city if you need to withdraw cash. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to keep some cash on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept cards. Non-EU visitors may need a visa to enter Italy, so it’s advised to check the current requirements with your local Italian Embassy or Consulate before traveling.

Safety is generally not a major concern in Florence, which is considered one of the safer cities in Italy. However, like any tourist destination, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, keep your personal belongings secure, and be wary of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general emergencies, or 118 for medical emergencies.

Communicating with locals in Florence is typically straightforward, as many people speak English, especially in areas frequented by tourists. However, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. Simple phrases such as “Buongiorno” (Good day), “Grazie” (Thank you), and “Dove si trova…?” (Where is…?) can be incredibly useful during your stay.