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The Best Local Restaurants in Florence

Looking for local Italian food in Florence? We've got you covered.

Updated on Apr 12, 2024 | World of Mouth team

You may come to Florence for the renaissance architecture, art and distinguished cultural heritage, but you'll stay for the food. This guide to the best local restaurants in Florence, crafted by those who know the city inside out like chef Karime López and food writer Edoardo Celadon, invites you to bypass the tourist traps and dive into the authentic tastes of Tuscan cuisine.

Stop by the Florentine institution that is Trattoria Cammillo , founded in 1945, or try the natural wines at Enoteca Spontanea . Keep reading to discover these and other great local restaurants in Florence.

Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura

P.za della Signoria, 10, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

This stylish osteria is a unique collaboration between Massimo Bottura and Gucci, located near the Gucci museum. It offers a playful yet sophisticated blend of Mexican, Italian, and Japanese influences, led by the talented chefs Karime and Taka. The menu takes you on a culinary journey around the world, with dishes that are beautifully presented and full of creative combinations.

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Food & Wine writer – Porto, Portugal

Via Giano della Bella 3rosso, Via Giano della Bella, 3/R, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

This farm-to-table establishment, C-ucina, offers a simple yet stunning culinary experience. The kitchen showcases fantastic produce, hinting at serious skill, with dishes such as rabbit with friggitelli peppers, whipped salt cod, and a unique cabbage dressed with honey and paprika. Traditional recipes, unusual produce discovery, and stimulating innovations blend together to create an inviting, homestyle cuisine.

Food Writer – London, UK

Trattoria Sostanza

Via del Porcellana, 25/R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

This cozy, small-sized restaurant, Trattoria Sostanza, is known for its simple yet superbly prepared dishes. Favorites among regulars include the Tortina di Carciofi, a delightful artichoke omelette, and the Butter Chicken, a dish so well-executed it's often the highlight of the meal. A visit isn't complete without trying the seasonal berries with cream, a refreshing end to a satisfying meal.

Chef – Florence, Italy

Cibrèo Caffè

Via Andrea del Verrocchio, 5R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Cibrèo Caffè is a longstanding establishment since 1989, recognized for its high-quality organic products that are crafted into unique dishes like stuffed chicken neck and tomato gelatine. The café offers a cozy refuge from dawn till dusk, enveloping visitors in the aroma of fresh coffee and warm croissants. You can also expect small appetizers from their gastronomy, including hand-cut prosciutto sandwiches, Florentine liver pate on bread bites, and a variety of other delicacies.

Founder, Most of Italy – Firenze , Italy

Enoteca Bruni - Wine Restaurant

Borgo Ognissanti, 25 Rosso, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A visit to Enoteca Bruni promises an elevated dining experience with a focus on fine wines. The restaurant is known for its excellent selection of natural wines and high-quality food, including real Mortadella, Burrata, and 4-year-old Parma Ham. Trust their sommelier to guide you through the menu and offer the best pairings for a memorable meal.

Sommelier – Berlin, Germany

Coquinarius

Via dell'Oche, 11R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Coquinarius is a restaurant that impresses with a fair balance between quality and price. The place offers a relaxing ambiance with music and lighting that create a positive vibe. A notable feature of the restaurant is its wine list, which includes a range of interesting bottles as well as a selection of natural wines.

Food writer – Spain , Spain

Enoteca Spontanea

Via Maggio, 61r, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Enoteca Spontanea is a natural wine bar that offers a relaxing atmosphere. It features a simple yet tasteful cuisine and a nice selection of bottled wines. The space is fresh and cool, providing a chill vibe for those who visit.

Locale Firenze

Via delle Seggiole, 12r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

With a thrilling tasting menu that ranks amongst the most exciting in the region, Locale Firenze is a unique dining experience. The chef, Simone Capponetto, brings a decade of global culinary experience to the table, crafting dishes that are both creative and deeply rooted in local Tuscan tradition. As the evening progresses, the restaurant transforms into a lively cocktail bar, making it a place where food, fun, and music come together.

L’Trippaio Fiorentino

Via Vincenzo Gioberti, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Specializing in true Florentine street food, L’Trippaio Fiorentino is known for its signature dish, the Lampredotto panino. This delicacy is prepared by slow cooking one of the cow stomachs in a spicy tomato broth, then serving it chopped up and hot in a crispy panino bun, French dipped in the broth with some salsa verde. Paired with an ice-cold beer, this affordable meal is a favorite among visitors and locals alike.

Creative Director – Helsinki, Finland

Semel Street Food

Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 44/r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

This small shop, Semel Street Food, nestled in Sant’Ambrogio market, is a go-to spot for street food enthusiasts. Known for serving some of the best paninis in Tuscany, they keep things interesting with a daily and seasonal change in offerings. It's a true culinary institution, loved by foodies and locals alike for its fresh and inspiring dishes.

CEO & Restaurateur – Helsinki, Finland

Trattoria Cammillo

Borgo S. Jacopo, 57/r, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

With a rich history dating back to 1945, Trattoria Cammillo is a cornerstone of authentic Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant offers a broad menu, featuring traditional dishes such as ribollita soup and bistecca alla Fiorentina, along with some unique offerings like gamberi al curry. Known for its unpretentious and genuine atmosphere, it's a place where you can feel at home and treat the staff like friends.

Vineria Sonora

Via degli Alfani, 39 r, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Vineria Sonora is a hidden gem offering a selection of artisanal, organic, and natural wines and beers, served alongside small dishes. It's a perfect spot for an aperitivo before dinner or an after-dinner drink in the charming Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood. The warm atmosphere is enhanced by their collection of vinyl records, adding a unique touch to your dining experience.

Via del Trebbio, 1r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Established in 1880 in the cellars of Palazzo Antinori, Buca Lapi is known as the oldest restaurant in its locale. It offers a glimpse into more than a century of history, thanks to careful restoration. The menu reflects the authentic flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine, with dishes like homemade pasta, wild boar with polenta, and steak cooked on sweet charcoal and drizzled with Tuscan extra-virgin olive oil.

Writer @BedouinFoodie – Dubai, UAE

Cibrèo Ristorante

Via Andrea del Verrocchio, 8r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Established in 1979, Cibrèo Ristorante is not your typical Italian eatery, but a blend of forward-thinking ethos deeply rooted in tradition. It offers a refined dining experience, featuring dishes such as sformato di patate e ricotta and timballo di tortellini, and is cherished by the local art, intellectual, and food scene. The Cibrèo family includes the main restaurant, a traditional Trattoria, a café, and Cibleo, a unique Tuscan-Oriental establishment, all offering diverse experiences and impressive wine lists.

Enoteca Pinchiorri

Via Ghibellina, 87, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

With a prestigious 3 Michelin star status, Enoteca Pinchiorri is renowned for its fine dining experience and an impressive selection of wines. It is recognized as a significant destination for wine connoisseurs. However, please note that the website is currently unavailable for further information.

I’Brindellone

Piazza Piattellina, 10, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

This restaurant, I’Brindellone, is known for its speedy service and traditional Tuscan cuisine. It's particularly popular for its La Bistecca, a local favorite. However, the Fagioli all’uccelletto, a special dish of beans cooked with sausage and tomatoes into a rich stew, also comes highly recommended.

Borgo Pinti, 99, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Immerse yourself in an elegant dining experience at Il Palagio, the flagship Michelin-starred restaurant situated on the ground floor of the iconic Four Seasons hotel. With a neoclassical décor that exudes charm and sophistication, the restaurant is helmed by Executive Chef Paolo Lavezzini who maintains a high culinary standard, attracting food enthusiasts with his philosophy of sourcing top-quality natural ingredients from small producers. The menu offers a delightful gastronomic interpretation of regional cuisine with a contemporary twist, complemented by a well-curated and extensive wine list.

Osteria Santo Spirito

Piazza Santo Spirito, 16/R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Known for its baked gnocchi, Osteria Santo Spirito is a place where you can enjoy this awesome dish. The restaurant doesn't provide any further details about its offerings or ambiance. Thus, for more information, it's recommended to visit in person and experience it firsthand.

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23 Best Restaurants in Florence

By Nicky Swallow

It pays to follow insider advice before you choose where to eat in Florence . Millions of visitors crowd into the city each year, and too many restaurants are content serving indifferent food to people who don’t know any better. But look beyond the ubiquitous menu turistico, the plastic panini, and mass-produced pizza sold by the slice, and you’ll find a dynamic, varied dining scene of everything from revered temples of gourmet cuisine to food trucks selling tripe sandwiches. 

While the beating heart of la cucina Fiorentina is the traditional, family-run trattoria serving up old favorites such as ribollita (bread-based soup with black cabbage and beans), and the mighty “bistecca alla fiorentina,” there is so much more on offer these days. A new generation of exciting young chefs is riffing on the recipes that their mothers and grandmothers taught them, using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. They are more widely traveled than their grannies, so dishes are sometimes macchiato (“stained”) with exotic flavors that were unknown on Florentine menus 15 years ago.

Top of the tree are the city’s six Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can expect a gourmet dining experience with all the bells and whistles—perfect for a special treat and that fancy-pants new outfit. At the other end of the spectrum is street food like lampredotto (the fourth stomach of the cow) sold to locals and curious visitors. In between there are contemporary osterias, gourmet sandwich bars, wood-fired pizzerias, and wine bars serving interesting nibbles. There’s something for every taste and all budgets; just remember to avoid those tourist menus—however tired your feet may be—and consider these best restaurants in Florence instead.

Read our complete Florence travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Regina Bistecca Arrow

The word is out. Dedicated carnivores, local gourmets, and visitors have been flocking to this place since it opened in September 2018. Regina Bistecca showcases Florence’s best-known signature dish, the bistecca alla Fiorentina , a vast T-bone priced by weight. Here you can choose the breed of your steak, from a generic European Selection to the highly prized (and highly priced) Tuscan Chianina. The previous occupant of this lovely space, located a short ways north of the Duomo, was a revered 140-year-old antiquarian bookshop, and the new owners have sensibly chosen to maintain the spirit of the place. Today Regina Bistecca’s main dining space has lofty vaulted ceilings, dark gray walls hung with paintings and prints in gilded frames, and a gallery running around the top. The cooking, serving, and eating of a bistecca is serious business, and here it gets reverential treatment, from being brought to the table raw for the client’s approval, to the flourishing presentation of a bone-handled knife with which to cut it. Under no circumstances ask for it to be well done; bistecca here is served very rare.

Essenziale Arrow

As its name suggests, Essenziale, on the Piazza del Cestello, has only the essentials: loud music, bright lights, stone floors, and bare tables save for water glasses and folded napkins. There’s nowhere to hide, and nothing masking the excellent food. Menus are based on seasonal, regional, and local ingredients; add the odd global influence, accomplished technique, and real flair into the mix and the results are always interesting—sometimes sensational. Chef Simone Cipriani has a loyal following among Florentine foodies and this is a serious restaurant; the prices are above average and the menu is edgy. In other words, this isn’t a place to simply refuel.

L’Angolo Del Mare Arrow

According to many local cognoscenti, L’Angolo del Mare, a small restaurant way off-the-radar in the northeastern outskirts of Florence, serves up some of the best fish and seafood in town. Owners Mirco and Carmelo used to have a restaurant on the Tuscan coast, and they still use the local suppliers to ensure daily deliveries of hopping fresh seafood. The short menu changes regularly, but offers the likes of seared tuna with soy, a killer tagliolini all’astice (lobster), spaghetti with clams and salty bottarga (mullet roe), and an impressive whole sea bass baked in a salt crust. (The salt seals the fish and keeps it perfectly moist during cooking.) There’s always a handful of specials, according to the daily catch. Desserts include a divine Champagne-strawberry tiramisu. Order a glass of dry Franciacorta fizz while you peruse the menu, then choose from the short but well thought-out list of affordably priced, mainly white wines from all over Italy and beyond. Carmelo is in charge front of house; he and his small team know their fish and are happy to advise.

Vini E Vecchi Sapori Arrow

Tiny, crowded and noisy, this traditional Florentine haunt is all wood paneling, rustic beams, and memorabilia-stacked walls. The “No pizza, no cappuccino, no ice, no takeaway” notices say it all. This is a place to feast on competently-prepared Florentine classics such as liver-topped crostini, pappardelle pasta with duck sauce, and peposo, a hearty, pepper-centric beef stew. But there are variations; the signature paccheri pasta with zucchini flowers and saffron is delicious, and there is the odd fish option like baccalà alla Livornese (salt cod in tomato sauce). At lunch time, expect a mix of foot-weary tourists (it’s a pigeon’s spit from the Uffizi Gallery ) and smartly-dressed functionaries from the Palazzo Vecchio town hall offices. There’s a dearth of good places to eat in this tourist hot-spot, so the top-notch earthy home cooking is much appreciated.

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Osteria dell’Enoteca Arrow

A contemporary space within the context of an ancient Oltrarno townhouse, Osteria dell’Enoteca excels at seasonal Tuscan fare with a modern twist. This place is under the same ownership as Pitti Gola e Cantina, an excellent nearby wine bar. You can expect dishes like chicken liver terrine with a vin santo reduction, potato soup and spicy octopus, gazpacho topped with burrata cheese in summer, and pappardelle with venison sauce and braised wild boar in winter. Steak is a big deal here; order a T-bone from various breeds, including the highly prized (and expensive) Fassona from Piedmont and Chianina from Tuscany. The cut is grilled over an open fire, and served rare; so if you like your meat well done, choose something else.

Il Santo Bevitore Arrow

A large former coach house in Santo Spirito with vaulted ceiling and dark wood paneling, Il Santo Bevitore is often full and quite noisy. Quietly groundbreaking when it opened in the early aughts, it’s no less popular today. The food combines creative Tuscan fare with a slow-food emphasis on seasonality and provenance. At “The Holy Drinker”—the restaurant’s name, translated into English—wine is important, and the carefully curated list is crammed with interesting and reasonably priced labels from Tuscany and Piemonte, plus a smattering of bottles from Alto Adige, Sicily, Ligura, and Sardegna. There’s also a better-than-average selection of by-the-glass choices.

Cantinetta Antinori Arrow

Housed in the vaulted ex-cellars of 15th-century Palazzo Antinori, the Cantinetta breathes aristocratic Old Florence. The atmosphere is upscale and slightly hushed; tables are laid with crisp white cloths, and crystal glasses gleam. Menus are based on Tuscan classics with some seasonal variation. Kick off with a fettunta (bruschetta, in Tuscany) topped with cavolo nero (black cabbage) before moving on to pappa al pomodoro (a thick, bread-based tomato soup), pasta with artichokes, ossobuco, and tagliata (sliced steak) topped with pecorino cheese. It all comes with liberal lashings of the peppery in-house olive oil, and comes to your table courtesy of an old-school, deferential staff suited in cream jackets with bow ties. This place appeals to an older crowd of well-heeled tourists looking for a quiet meal with top-notch service. There are also Florentines among the diners, many of them friends of the aristocratic owners.

Semel Arrow

Adjacent to the very local Sant’Ambrogio market, dapperly-dressed Marco Paparozzi’s squeeze of a sandwich shop (standing room only bar a couple of high stools) spills out onto the sidewalk when business is brisk—which is most of the time. It’s basically a counter laden with buns and a series of fillings which change daily; the choice is chalked up on a blackboard. Paparozzi’s soft white panini come with a series of seasonal fillings the likes of which you don’t normally find stuffed into a sandwich—think wild boar and polenta, figs and salame with a drop of balsamic for extra zing, sardines with orange and bitter chicory leaves, donkey stew (tastier than it sounds), and pecorino cheese with pears and truffle. You’ll almost certainly have to wait in line and there’s nowhere to sit, but this is some of the best street food in Florence.

La Ménagère Arrow

A contemporary, multi-purpose space housed in an ancient palazzo just north of the San Lorenzo market area, La Ménagère offers a little bit of everything. On the drink front, there’s good coffee (iced in summer), smoothies and fresh juices, fine wines, craft beers, and classic and signature cocktails. Breakfast and brunch dishes include poached eggs with hummus, avocado and spinach, and French toast. For lunch there is ceviche, fillet steak, club sandwiches, and burgers. To sop up the pre-dinner cocktails, expect tapas such as fried marinated octopus with kimchi mayo and lobster roll. The eclectic dinner menu is a step up in terms of price and sophistication—think oysters, beef tartare with sea urchin and fermented rhubarb, nettle ravioli, and sea bass fillet with Wagyu. And the crowds are just as varied as the food: In one sitting you may spot a lone smart-worker tucked away in a corner with a cinnamon bun and an espresso, a table of chatty Ladies who Lunch, and loved-up couples out for a romantic evening à deux.

Trattoria Cibrèo Arrow

Located at the heart of the buzzing Sant’Ambrogio market area, Cibrèo Trattoria occupies the annex to Cibrèo next door—the famous fine-dining mainstay on the city’s dining scene. Cibreino, as it’s known locally, does top-notch renditions of Florentine and Tuscan classics at a third of the price of its grown-up sister restaurant. Desserts are to die for, particularly the famous flourless chocolate cake. This place is great for an upbeat, food-focused evening with a small group (there are a couple of tables for four or six) or a date.

Borgo San Jacopo Arrow

Part of the Ferragamo-owned Hotel Lungarno , Borgo San Jacopo sits right on the south bank of the Arno. Mengoni’s cooking is intelligent, accomplished, and elegant but never over-fussy; perfect for a gourmet treat. A recent spring menu included calamarata pasta with scorpion fish, broccoli, and tarragon, and lobster with potatoes and provolone cheese. For meat eaters, there was roast suckling pig with salsify, port shallots, and Dijon mustard; and for dessert, an orange-soaked babà with mascarpone and lavender cream. BSJ, as it’s known, has made a name for itself among smart Florentine gourmets who come for the inventive cooking and enjoy the sophisticated yet relaxed surroundings. There’s a fair number of well-heeled visitors and guests of the Hotel Lungarno in the mix, too. Top tip: Try and bag a table on the tiny terrace, which has lovely views of the Ponte Vecchio.

Zeb is a small, sleek, diner-style restaurant in the San Niccolo district serving delicious traditional food in contemporary surroundings. Two long counters with high stools face each other across a narrow space where mother-and-son team Giuseppina and Alberto prepare, serve, and pour wine. Dishes of the day fill the serving counter, and shelves stacked with wines line the walls. The menu changes daily according to what’s good at the market, but you can expect fresh pasta like fat cappellacci stuffed with ricotta and fresh truffles, or pappardelle with wild boar sauce. Mains might include pork rib with dried apricots and prunes, stuffed roast turkey, or eggplant parmigiana. Then there are the delicious desserts, including cheesecake and a to-die-for chocolate cake.

Gurdulù Arrow

New management and a new chef at this Santo Spirito address have shaken things up, and Gurdulù has morphed from a high-end gourmet restaurant into a deli/takeaway/eat-in hybrid. The sophisticated retro decor (moody blues and grays, 1950s-style brass lamps, etc.) is still intact, but both the vibe and the menu choice are more relaxed these days. The choice of wines is interesting with a predominance of little known labels. Young, classically-trained chef Alessio Ninci whips up the likes of French-style paté en croute with pickles, zingy risotto al cedro (“citron,” a kind of giant lemon), and Wellington-style roast guinea fowl with foie gras. There’s not much choice of dessert, but the homemade cantucci served with vin santo are a good way to end a meal. In spite of its astonishingly good food and keen prices, Gurdulù remains delightfully under the radar.

Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino Arrow

Florence is famous for its offal dishes, and Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino—set on one of Florence’s prettiest squares, only steps from the Ponte Vecchio—is one of the best places in town to sample them if you have the, er, guts. The menu features tripe, either fried or alla Fiorentina (stewed with tomatoes and topped with parmesan); lampredotto (the fourth stomach of the cow) rolled into sushi or stuffed into ravioli and served with a sweet Tropea onion sauce; and mixed boiled meats with pungent salsa verde. If offal isn’t your thing, go for the maltagliati pasta with vegetable carbonara, eggplant parmesan, or rabbit alla cacciatora. The serious wine list here is composed entirely of Tuscan labels. Prices are extraordinarily reasonable, making it easy to order something special—say, a Brunello or a Super Tuscan from Bolgheri. If you don’t feel like splashing out, though, the house red (a Tuscan Sangiovese) is a perfect, rustic match for the hearty food.

Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Arrow

Part of Gucci creative director Alessandro Michele’s magical mystery tour that is the Gucci Garden museum and retail outlet, this jewel box of a restaurant is all forest green velvet, pea green boiserie, and custom-made Ginori porcelain in the brand’s pretty floral Herbarium design. Although Massimo Bottura’s name is on the menu, it’s Mexican chef Karine Lopez who’s in charge of the kitchen, and the dishes are a palate-teasing mix of reworked Emilian and world classics, along with influences form Lopez’s background. Highlights include “Come to Noto With Us” (a citrusy risotto with almonds and red Sicilian prawns), “Taka Bun” (a magically light steamed bun enveloping a slab of sticky pork belly oozing with spicy sauce), and Bottura’s signature tortellini in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. To finish, there’s “Red, White and Green” (a play on a Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomato, basil and strawberry) and the chocolatey-rich “Charley’s Dream,” which Bottura apparently invented for his son. Service from the smiley staff—dressed in preppy button-downs with floral aprons and Gucci trainers—is efficient and utterly charming. Timing is good and everyone knows the details and intricacies of the menu.

Il Guscio Arrow

Set on a residential street in the southern reaches of the Oltrarno, Il Guscio is a new-generation trattoria where the kids have inherited and updated their parents’ traditional restaurant. At the front, you’ll find a small bar area with a hissing coffee machine and shelves stacked with wines; in the back are two cozy rooms with stone-topped tables. It’s a real neighborhood hangout that’s always buzzy and always packed. Menus are based on the tried-and-tested local cuisine (both meat and fish) with the odd variation. Depending on the season, the menu might include tuna tartare with avocado and ponzu; grilled eggplant with mint, confit tomatoes, and soft goat cheese; risotto with vin santo pears, gorgonzola and chives; or house-special spaghetti alla trabaccolara (a mixed seafood sauce). Mains could be ossobuco or grilled octopus with grilled seasonal vegetables; carnivores have options like the super-rich house special filet of beef cooked in vin santo wine and topped with liver pâté.

Mercato Centrale Arrow

Florence’s late-19th-century steel-and-glass market building in San Lorenzo underwent a makeover in 2014 when the second floor was converted into a contemporary food hall. On the first floor of the soaring structure, traditional butchers, fishmongers, and fresh produce vendors still supply the Florentines with the wherewithal for their daily shopping. But climb the staircase to the upper level and enter Mercato Centrale, a food-lover’s heaven that showcases the very best of Italian regional cuisine. It’s a lively space offering sensual overload, and the range of gustatory delights is nothing short of eye-popping. The problem (if there is one) is that there’s too much choice—it’s all so good and varied (you can find everything from fresh truffles to sushi) that you really need several repeat visits to sample everything here. Our advice? Take a tour of the whole place and note which stalls tickle your tastebuds the most before deciding on your menu.

Da Ruggero Arrow

It may look modest, but Da Ruggero serves some of the best traditional food in town. The menu is stocked with perfectly prepared Florentine classics with the odd seasonal variation. The hand-written menu offers the likes of liver-topped crostini and platters of Tuscan salami, hearty soups like the bread- and cabbage-based ribollita, pasta with truffles or porcini mushrooms (depending on the season), and grilled salsicce (spicy sausages) with white beans. It’s all hearty and delicious. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek, as it’s located outside the city center. The off-radar location guarantees that not many tourists make it this far, but Ruggero is always packed with locals here for the good, honest home cooking (booking ahead is essential). Low-level chat accompanies serious chowing down; this is not a party spot, but a place to sample the best of the rustic local cooking.

Trattoria Sergio Gozzi Arrow

A rare relic of old Florence in the heart of the city, Trattoria Sergio Gozzi is the sort of no-frills trattoria where time seems to have stood still for several decades. The menu is printed with the day’s date, proving that, yes, everything is indeed ultra-fresh and seasonal. The handful of pastas and soups may include pici (thick, hand-rolled spaghetti) alla carrettiera (spicy tomato sauce) or ribollita, a traditional bread-, bean- and cabbage-based soup. For mains, there’s roast pork, peposa (a black pepper-spiked beef stew), fried polpette (meatballs), and—for the truly brave—trippa alla fiorentina (tripe in tomato sauce). Although there’s a wine list featuring mainly Tuscan labels, everyone orders the rustic local plonk here, sold by the quarter, half, or full liter. It’s a perfect match for the homey food. One note: It’s only open for lunch (Monday to Saturday).

Trattoria Sabatino Arrow

Sabatino is caught in a bit of a time warp: the Buccioni family has been serving good, honest home cooking at rock-bottom prices to locals (and latterly budget-conscious tourists) here in the western reaches of the Oltrarno since 1956, and little seems to have changed since then. Expect white walls, rustic beamed ceilings, checked table cloths, and a marble-topped counter at the entrance, where the desserts are served and bills are prepared. The menu is typed out daily on a vintage Corona—that says it all. Staunchly traditional, the menus here are as no-frills as the decor. Start with a plate of spaghetti al pomodoro or filling pasta e fagioli (pasta and bean soup) before moving on to roast guinea fowl, arista (roast pork), or rolled, stuffed chicken. Sides are basic but seasonal and fresh: mixed salad, white beans, and green salad. Desserts (tiramisu, torta della nonna) are homemade.

Trattoria Cammillo Arrow

Something of a Florentine institution, Trattoria Cammillo, located on the south bank of the Arno by the Ponte Vecchio, was founded in 1945 by the grandfather of Chiara Masiero, the present owner and part-time chef. Unusually long and varied, the menu consists of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes that change (to a certain extent) with the seasons and a handful of daily specials. Dishes such as gamberi al curry (curried shrimp) with rice and homemade mango chutney have been on the menu for decades alongside classics such as ribollita, lasagna (a nod to Chiara’s Emilian roots), and bistecca alla Fiorentina (T-bone). All desserts are made in-house; the tiramisu (made with persimmons in winter) is a great way to finish. Come here with anyone who wants to sample top-notch Florentine cooking in an unpretentious atmosphere.

Gunè San Frediano Arrow

Located in San Frediano, Florence’s coolest neighborhood (according to a well-known travel guide), Guné is a sophisticated yet relaxed restaurant with a retro-glam vibe which is steadily gaining a reputation as one of the city’s more interesting dining spots. People come here to eat and drink well. Award-winning bartender Eleonora Romolini has a real flair for mixology and a loyal local following among Florence’s cocktail crowd, with signature mixes like Basil Instincts (gin, basil, mandarin) and Artemide (with notes of porcini mushroom and wild fennel). The owners’ southern Italian roots and the chefs’ Florentine origins meet in a clever fusion of two regional cuisines. Basilicata is present in dishes such as paccheri pasta with francesina (meat sauce), moliterno cheese and “chutney” made from crusco (dried sweet red peppers), while the signature Valdarno pigeon three ways (including a fabulous little savory liver crème brulée) is pure Tuscany.

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Local Flavors: where to eat and drink in Florence

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

Taste the best of Florence's flavors with this local's guide to where to eat and drink (pictured Il Vegetariano, a popular local lunch spot) © Angelo Zinna

Food is big business in Florence , to the extent that the city council introduced a law limiting the opening of new bars and restaurants in the UNESCO-listed city center.

This measure was in response to concerns about the excess of tourist-focused dining options there, exacerbated by the tripling of restaurants in just 10 years between 2005 and 2015.

In the center of the Renaissance city, there is approximately one dining establishment for every 31 residents. While the array of options seems endless, Italians, generally being creatures of habit, tend to gravitate towards familiar foods. Lengthy queues outside TikTok-promoted venues are met with disapproval, and terms like "traditional," "authentic," and "genuine" have been so overused when describing new restaurants that they've lost their meaning.

For Florentines, no culinary novelty will outshine a reputation built over the years. We stick to what we know and are generally skeptical of everything else. Here are my tried and trusted places to eat and drink.

The day starts with a shot of bitter espresso – the first of many – at the nearest cafe. In my case, that’s Bar Piccioli, a dimly lit, old-school patisserie in Borgo Ognissanti.

Italian breakfast is quick. Many foreigners who arrive in Italy for the first time are often surprised that a sweet pastry and espresso, typically enjoyed standing up at the bar, are what locals consume to kickstart their day. But pastries can go a long way if done right, and Claudio, Piccioli’s owner, has been serving exquisite cornetti (croissants) and other morning delicacies fresh out of the oven for decades.

The daily changing variety of crunchy croissants – filled with anything from zabaglione (egg and Marsala custard) to pistacchio – are a safe bet, but depending on when you visit you may also find maritozzi (brioche buns) filled with whipped cream, custard and pine nuts, shortbread, and seasonal specialties such as rice frittelle (fried bites), prepared in early spring. 

I would love to feature Circolo Rondinella in every category of my list. It’s a place where you can easily spend the whole day, from breakfast to dinner. There's something special about sitting, coffee in hand, on the faux grass in the outdoor area, which overlooks the Arno River and the 14th-century Torrino di Santa Rosa. Here, you'll often find groups of elderly men gathering daily for a glass of wine and engaging in lively games of briscola, peppered with good-natured swearing.

In terms of food, don’t expect anything especially refined here. Coffee is your standard espresso shot and lunch is a changing menu of seasonal pastas and main courses. That’s the draw of Rondinella – not trying hard to be special in a city where hundreds of restaurants and cafes compete for people’s attention.

Circoli , or social clubs, are a cornerstone of Tuscan culture and are found scattered throughout the region. These clubs typically revolve around a cultural activity. Circolo Rondinella served as the former headquarters for the local calcio storico historic football team, a fact evidenced by the collection of memorabilia on display. They've long been a place for members of the community to come together and build ties. Rondinella stands out as one of the few circoli still operating in central Florence. 

When you visit, remember to order at the bar and pay in cash.

These days, most restaurants offer at least a couple of plant-based dishes on their menu, but eating in meat-centric Tuscany can get a bit repetitive for vegetarians. Il Vegetariano stands out with a daily changing selection of a dozen meat-free specialties inspired by local recipes and prepared with ingredients sourced directly from Florence’s surroundings. Look out for creative dishes like potato and black cabbage gateau with parmesan fondue.

Il Vegetariano, found behind the hand-carved wooden sign marking the entrance, has been operating since the early 1980s. It pioneered vegetarian eating before it was cool in a city known for its T-bone steak. This is not just a good vegetarian restaurant — it’s a good restaurant overall, as the flow of regulars sitting amid quirky decor shows. Don’t forget to try the cakes.

If you love your wine with a bit of background music — vinyl spinning on the turntable— and haven’t yet fallen for Aperol’s aperitivo marketing, Vineria Sonora is your wine-filled, pre-dinner drinking spot. This funky enoteca (wine bar) on Via degli Alfani is known for its impressive selection of natural, organic and biodynamic wines from independent Italian producers, and its weekend DJ sets. Stop by to start your night with unique wines, from an orange Trebbiano from Tuscany to a sparkling Pinot Noir from Northern Italy.

By 9pm, after a few glasses of wine, you might find yourself ready for something more substantial. Just around the corner from Vineria Sonora is Trattoria Accadì , the perfect place to continue your evening. The trattoria has a cozy feel with dark wood furniture and a hand-written menu featuring Tuscan classics including fried artichokes and hearty, traditional stews such as peposo (with spiced beef) and ribollita (with seasonal vegetables). Plus, you’ll find a few unexpected Japanese touches in the old-school decor, a nod to the chef, Toshifumi Mitsubiki, whose passion for Italian cuisine led him to move to the opposite side of the world and open Accadì.

Late-night drinking happens on the south side of the Arno River and, more specifically, in Piazza Tasso, where Circolo Aurora serves its cocktails under Florence’s ancient city walls. Removed from the crowded Borgo San Frediano and Piazza Santo Spirito – where most bars in this part of the city are found – Circolo Aurora draws locals to its bar with regular live jazz nights and open mic sessions. Choose your drinks from a list in a vintage photo album with actual vintage photos, a touch that is very much in line with the nostalgia-inducing decor of the bar, comprising '80s action figures scattered around the room, old advertising posters and a vintage bike hanging from the wall. Since the pandemic, Florence’s live music scene has experienced a sharp decline, but Aurora keeps culture alive, especially during summer months when tables spill on the square and music can be heard flowing from the bar.

Here is more expert guidance to help you plan your trip to Florence

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The 21 best Florence restaurants

The best restaurants in Florence exude elegance and rustic charm (or sell really good sandwiches)

Food will be high on your list for a trip to Florence, and we can assure you it will not disappoint. This city is known for its meat dishes, from wild boar pappardelle to tripe sandwiches, but vegetarians can get stuck into truffle pastas and ribollita. 

The restaurants here are tucked away in little corners, with flower-covered walls and cellars strewn with fairy lights. These restaurants are something special, and our local writers have scoured every one of them. Read on for the best in Florence. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Florence 🍦 The best  gelato in Florence 🏡 The best Airbnbs in Florence 🏨 The best  hotels in Florence

This guide was updated by Italy-based writer Silvia Marchetti .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  

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Best Florence restaurants

1.  Trattoria Marione

Two words: boar sauce. Old-school style in ambience and cooking techniques, Trattoria Marione  is perennially filled with Italians on their lunch break or out to dinner with friends. Make sure to order the seasonal specials and ask for the waiter’s recommendations. Call in advance to secure a table, especially during the Italian holidays. And make sure you order the Florentine ribollita. 

2.  Osteria dell’Agnolo

If you're after traditional, authentic Florentine dishes, this tavern is a must. Osteria dell’Agnolo is the spot to satisfy your palate and fill your stomach after sightseeing, and prepare for a culinary throwback: it’s been open since 1580. Iconic local dishes are reminiscent of those cooked by rural housewives back in the day, from savory  lampredotto  (boiled cow stomach  – don't knock it) to handmade pici short pasta, and ribollita  (tuscan bread soup) made from veggies and black beans.

3.  Trattoria Mario

This little trattoria offers family-style seating (you can learn some Italian while here!) at low tables. Join usual diners in ordering carafes of red wine to go along with the rich Tuscan dishes. Trattoria Mario  oozes pure Florentine cooking, serving traditional favourites that have been around for centuries. The menu changes daily, but make sure you get whatever’s got the ragù in or with it.

4.  Il Giova

This place is not for tourists: the eclectic decor and tightly packed tables don’t call to mind the sort of ambience that many look for when visiting. Il Giova is a family-run local lunch spot perennially crowded with folks craving the daily changing menu, concocted by the owners each morning depending on what’s found fresh at the San Ambrosio market across the street. If you notice the fried porcini mushrooms on the menu, you have struck gold.

5.  Ristorante Buca San Giovanni

When you dine at Ristorante Buca San Giovanni , you're dining underground. Like  stepping into a cave, the restaurant is found  inside a beautiful 1300s church crypt decorated with ragged stone archways and religious imagery. ‘Buca’ in Italian today means ‘hole’, but originally it was a place where pilgrims and knights stopped to eat. It was also a hiding spot for members of secret societies, and we'd say there’s still a certain mysterious vibe to the place. The food served has evolved into fancy twists: expect dishes like risotto with celery mousse and marrons glacés  (candied chestnuts).

6.  Caffé Italiano

Leaning towards the traditional side of things, Caffé Italiano is where locals go for pizza. This old-but-new joint still serves the pure Tuscan flavours that many people crave. There are only a few basic pizzas on the menu, but, trust us, they’re all you need to eat. On the move? The eatery offers takeout as well.

7.  Osteria Santo Spirito

This osteria sits right at the corner of one of the friendliest piazzas in all of Florence and one that many tourists miss because they don’t venture far enough into the other side of the river. Osteria Santo Spirito is worth the walk, trust us: the portions are larger than most (half-portions are also available...why would you want that?), the ambience is purely magical, and, most importantly, the sizzling truffle and cheese gnocchi is to die for.

8.  Antico Ristoro di Cambi

Florentines are meat lovers. How could they not be? In the fertile green plains of Tuscany graze premium Chianina cows that make unique, huge thick steaks, which Florentines love (usually opting for rare). The temple of Chianina is Antico Ristoro di Cambi , and a proper Florence experience, with fascinating vaulted ceilings, dangling pork legs and huge wine flasks. The T-bone steak is the centrepiece here: it overflows the plate, and definitely requires two people to finish it off. 

9.  Il Latini

Family run and a local favourite, walking into Il Latini feels like walking into the family kitchen and, well, you sort of are. The traditional Tuscan restaurant tucked into the narrow streets by Piazza Repubblica boasts a full menu of Florentine favourites, from crostini appetizers to a mixed roast platter or Florentine steak. Locals tend to quickly fill up the tables, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance. Bonus points: dogs are treated even more generously than their human counterparts here.

10.  Golden View

As the name suggests, Golden View is the place to go for a beautiful view. Perched precariously over the side of the Arno river, guests gaze at the famous Ponte Vecchio from the dining room through the large glass windows. Eat everything from oysters to liver crostini in a modernly decorated space that feels like a Renaissance painting. 

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The 38 Essential Florence Restaurants

Pasta and steak at a low-key trattoria, Massimo Bottura’s Michelin-starred tasting menu at the Gucci museum, a 19th-century aperitivo bar popular with kings and the fashion set, and more of Florence’s best meals

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Every year, Florence attracts millions of visitors who take in the splendor of the Duomo, browse the Uffizi Gallery, and walk the Ponte Vecchio. They have also propelled a multi-decade dining expansion in one of the world’s best-preserved UNESCO cities. Twenty years ago Florence had only one Michelin-starred restaurant (today’s three-star Enoteca Pinchiori) among its traditional mom-and-pop eateries. Today there are no fewer than eight, part of a dynamic food scene that includes dumplings, kebabs, and more.

At its heart, Florence is a hub of Tuscan cuisine, and the city is famous for its signature dishes like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina (T-bone steak). Nota bene: La Fiorentina steak is served by the kilo and rare (don’t ask for well-done); for smaller portions, opt for a tagliata cut. Street food culture is alive and well too, including the signature lampredotto, a cow’s fourth stomach traditionally slathered with green sauce and sandwiched in a bread roll. Due to taxes and salt wars with rival towns, for centuries Tuscans have made their bread saltless, so you’re often better off opting for schiacciata (Florence’s pizza bianca, not to be confused with softer Ligurian focaccia), which you can find plain or filled as panini.

Be sure to reserve ahead for the city’s best tables. Italian restaurants tend to do two turns at dinner, around 7:30 and 9 p.m. Go for the earlier seating to avoid waiting for locals, who tend to linger over their meals.

The war in neighboring Ukraine has affected food prices and utilities in Florence. Inflation and staffing challenges caused by the pandemic have hit Italy particularly hard too. Bring a bit of extra patience and budget for dining in the city, and keep enough cash for tips to show appreciation to a strained hospitality force inundated with mass tourism.

Coral Sisk is a sommelier, culinary tour guide, and writer with Italian and Persian heritage living in Florence, Italy. On the ground, she keeps up an Italian food travel blog and leads food tours in Florence and beyond.

Trattoria Da Burde Firenze

Outside the historic center, Da Burde is one of the city’s finest family-run institutions for traditional Florentine food. The trattoria has an atmosphere that’s both old-world wine bar and homey banquet, where sincere family recipes are earnestly prepared from scratch. The trek to Da Burde is worth it for diners in search for true Florentine relics, passed-down specialties like minestrone, meatballs, chickpea farinata, and grilled meats, all with incredible wines to match.

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Pizzeria Giovanni Santarpia

The Florentine culinary repertoire historically excludes pizza, but the city is still a magnet for exceptional pizza-makers. If you’re craving a well-crafted pie, look no further than Santarpia, which combines new-wave creativity with traditional heart. Pizza chef Giovanni Santarpia hails from Campania and has spent years earning feathers as one of the best pizzaioli in the country. He’s obsessed with dough and ingredient quality, fermentation, and warm hospitality. The craft beer selection is top-notch as well. Santarpia is outside the historic center of town, but worth the detour.

Trattoria Sabatino

Timeless restaurants like this make Florence special: Sabatino’s is a family-run, egalitarian joint that hasn’t changed much since it opened in 1956. Pasta dishes at this walk-in-only trattoria hover at 4.50 euros, while meaty mains like roast chicken clock in at a mere 5.50 euros. The simple homestyle cooking and bargain prices are a testament to Italy’s all-inclusive food culture. You don’t need to be well-off to eat well here.

La Vecchia Bettola

This unfussy Florentine trattoria lives up to its name (which translates as “old tavern”) with a kitschy, classico Italian dining atmosphere: hanging prosciutto, wood and marble decor, hollering waitstaff, and straw-wrapped chianti bottles. The honestly priced homestyle food and down-to-earth service match the surroundings perfectly. Dishes are true to the Tuscan repertoire, including local cured meats, fried rabbit, roast pork arista, and Tuscan bread-based pappa al pomodoro soup. Locals come for the bistecca alla fiorentina, vodka sauce penne, chicken liver crostini, and fried artichokes.

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Ristorante Il Guscio

You could throw a rock in any direction and hit a good restaurant in Florence, but it’s a little harder to hit a place with remarkable wine offerings too. Il Guscio has been around since 1986 and has a menu that takes homestyle Tuscan and Italian classics to gourmet status: gnudi dumplings made with scamorza and spinach pesto, Maldon-salted sliced sirloin with julienned vegetables, paccheri pasta with spicy Calabrian ’nduja and burrata, beet risotto. The wine list is rife with boutique, biodynamic, and terroir-centered producers, heavy on Tuscan wines balanced with an ample selection of crucial bottles from around the country, selections from France, and plenty of sparkling. Portions are hearty, so make sure you order to share, and save room for dessert, which is very much on point.

Trattoria Ruggero

Ruggero is described by locals as a tuffo nel passato (blast from the past). The time capsule trattoria hasn’t updated its decor since the ’70s, but the affordable local fare has held up. Come for quality options such as pici pasta, roast pork, tender filetto (tenderloin), and seasonal sides (porcini, zucchini flowers, artichokes). The calling card primo dish is spaghetti alla carrettiera, a dense red sauce preparation with a kick of chile, anchovies, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Ruggero isn’t quite in the historic center, but it’s worth the walk past the Porta Romana.

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Culinaria Bistro

Head to Piazza Tasso, comfortably away from the throngs of tourists, for a slow-food approach to Tuscan cuisine with global flair. Culinaria Bistro is owned by De Gustibus, a slow-food tour company hell-bent on promoting local producers who respect organic and traditional artisan practices. It’s easy to find something to like on the menu, which features creative dishes made with meticulously sourced ingredients: pork confit with heritage varieties of sweet onion, ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers, tortelli filled with burrata in saffron cream, grilled octopus with potatoes accented by herbs foraged from Chianti, vegetable tagines, Tuscan cured meat and cheese boards, and rich desserts like wine-soaked biscotti tiramisu.

Burro & Acciughe

Florence isn’t the ideal destination for seafood lovers, but this is a gem worth seeking out — if only for a break from meat-centric Tuscan cuisine. There isn’t one thing this seafood eatery doesn’t do well: risotto, luscious Sicilian gambero rosso shrimp pastas, tender grilled octopus, and seasonal catches of the day sourced locally and from regional Italian seafood bastions such as Sardinia. Service is hit-or-miss and the space could use more natural light, but the quality of dishes and location, hidden from tourist droves, more than make up for it. The wine selection is decent too.

Located in Piazza del Cestello, Essenziale challenges Florence’s otherwise sluggish experimental dining scene. As the name suggests, the restaurant focuses on the essential aspects of modernist dining, with a minimalist atmosphere that keeps attention on the plate. Chef Simone Cipriani is known for deftly diverging from the heavily regimented repertoire of Florentine cuisine and revisiting classic dishes, like turning pappa al pomodoro into a savory doughnut. Expect unusual shake-ups to Italian foundations with tacos slathered with ’nduja mayo, banana gnocchi, squab yakitori, riffs on panna cotta with almond and Sichuan pepper, and offal spins on classic pastas. The rotating themed tasting menu is exciting at various price points, starting from 65 euros.

Trattorias in Florence are usually lionized shells of some original decades-old greatness. Not Dalla Lola, co-owned by Matilde Pettini (daughter of iconic Cammillo owner Chiara Masiero) and tucked behind the Piazza Santo Spirito. The trattoria caters to locals with an edgy approach to nostalgic Tuscan dishes, utilizing nearly forgotten ingredients, such as obscure pasta shapes, alongside vegan and vegetarian options; think peak-season strawberry gazpacho with Pugliese burrata and fried Tuscan panzanella bread bits, Tuscan classics like tagliolini in sugo finto (ragu of minced vegetables in loads of tomato), and comforting fried braciole and roasted potatoes.

Enoteca Bellini

This enoteca (Italian for wine bar) is hidden in one of the most charming but often overlooked corners of Florence, but once you find it you’ll have a hard time leaving. The humble snack and wine bar is run by the owners’ daughter Camilla, who has an uncanny ability to match wines to your personal tastes. Don’t skip one of the tasty meat and cheese plates, a warm cheese crostini, and something bubbly from the Champagne fridge. The anchovy toasts are some of the best you’ll find — Camilla makes hers with hand-filleted anchovies from the Mediterranean cured in high-quality olive oil, topped with a curl of lemon zest. Like most boutique wine bars in Florence, this venue is best for small groups looking for light bites and drinks, not full dinner.

Trattoria Cammillo

Located in the bohemian Oltrarno (“other side of the Arno river”), Cammillo is an old-school trattoria serving straightforward Tuscan fare with white-tablecloth service. The prices are above average for homestyle dining, but it’s worth the extra money for expertly prepared rustic classics like winter ribollita soup finished with proprietary olive oil, warm root vegetable salads, bistecca fiorentina, and game meats. Trust the pasta offerings: The family that owns the place has roots in Italy’s pasta capital, Bologna.

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Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino

Adventurous eaters, Il Magazzino is your jam. Sample gourmet versions of Florence’s street food lampredotto in a sit-down osteria setting: fried meatballs of the gutsy stuff, lampredotto-filled ravioli topped with Tropea onion sauce, and even tempura-fried lampredotto sushi, which nods to chef Luca Cai’s stint in Japan. Everything on the menu is pretty stellar, except the steak. Stick to the pastas and organ meats, and you’ll land a one-of-a-kind meal. (Dining with a squirmy eater or vegetarian? Have no fear — non-offal options are also available.)

The canonical Buca Lapi is the kind of spot where you can rub shoulders with well-heeled Florentines and global dignitaries (former Japanese emperor Akihito dined here) over tender steaks, old-school buttered pasta, bitter greens, homey soups, and fine wines. “Buca” means hole, and venues with the name served historically as underground wine cellars, but they now tend toward white tablecloths. Buca Lapi has been serving locals and visitors since 1880 under the palace of the Antinori family (who named the space after the original innkeeper, Orazio Lapi) between the Duomo and the main train station. Advance reservations are a must and smart formal dress recommended.  

Procacci 1885

Procacci is a cornerstone of Florence’s aperitivo scene. In operation since 1885, the cafe catered to King Vittorio Emanuele III, and it has displayed a royal coat of arms from the House of Savoy since 1925. The truffle den is now owned by Antinori, Tuscany’s most historic wine-producing clan (30-plus generations strong), who supply all the wine. These days, it’s a good spot for people-watching during fashion trade shows; global fashionistas flock to dine on dainty mini paninos slathered with truffles, along with glasses of tomato juice or sparkling Franciacorta wine (Lombardy’s equivalent of Champagne). You should go further into the decadent menu options like foie gras, mortadella soaked in alchermes (an Italian liqueur), or egg with sliced truffle. Pick up a few gourmet souvenirs too, including truffle salts, truffle-infused anchovies, white truffle honey, aged balsamic vinegars, and fine chocolates.

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Le volpi e l’uva.

Tucked away off the Ponte Vecchio is one of the most revered wine bars in the country. Part shop, part bar and local hangout, Le Volpi pours and sells bottles that uniquely represent the Italian wine landscape, highlighting passionate producers. A crack team of winemakers, sommeliers, and wine educators staff the bar, and if they hook you up with a wine you love, you can join the wine club or ship bottles abroad. The bar serves choice meat and cheese plates and warm crostini toasts to accompany tastings. If you see wild boar fennel salami, snag a plate. And you can’t leave without having the crostino with melted lardo and asiago, or the finger panini with cured duck breast and butter.

Buca dell’Orafo

Another time-cherished eatery, this basement wine cellar-turned-restaurant is small on space but big on soul. Dive deep into true Florentine cuisine with mainstays like ribollita soup, gnudi, artichoke omelet, panzanella, maltagliati pasta, steak, and fried cow brain — plus a great wine list. Overlook the rough-around-the-edges service, and you’ll find one of the best meals Florence has to offer.

Fiaschetteria Osteria Nuvoli

A stone’s throw from the Duomo, Nuvoli is one of Florence’s remaining vinaino, wine sellers who also serve simple snacks. Housed inside a 200-year-old palazzo (including a basement level that dates back to the 1100s), the business has been run by the Nuvoli family since 1986 and has become a popular hangout for locals. Lunch service includes boar pappardelle, ribollita, slow-cooked stews, and charcuterie boards, but the real culinary gems are the crostini, housed in a case on ground level. Smeared with chicken liver, truffle, artichokes, raw sausage, and other options, the toasts make optimal aperitivo snacks.

Trattoria Sergio Gozzi

If the chaotic, crowded local trattorias aren’t your thing, head to 150-plus-year-old Sergio Gozzi for a similar slice of ambiance and culinary history — but with more space and less waiting. A true Florentine trattoria, Sergio Gozzi changes up its renowned fried offerings based on the seasons: fried zucchini flowers in the summer and artichokes in the winter. Also keep an eye out for porchetta, peposo (beef stew slow-cooked in wine and whole peppercorns), and one of the best pappa al pomodoro soups in town. Only open for lunch, Gozzi offers traditional homestyle food at reasonable prices.

Trattoria Mario

Trattoria Mario in San Lorenzo, near Mercato Centrale, is equally liked by guidebook-clutching travelers and locals. It’s one of the few trattorias left in the historic center that delivers on budget, soul, and unfussy rib-sticking Tuscan fare. Order anything fried, Tuscan bean- or bread-based peasant soups, la bistecca alla fiorentina (T-bone), gamey ragu-coated pastas, or juicy arista (roasted pork loin). The vegetables are predictably overcooked, but you’re not here for vitamins. Arrive as early as possible, as the best menu items sell out quickly.

Veteran gelato makers, who have been crafting exceptional scoops for decades, have sustained Florence’s gelato cred in the face of an onslaught of tourist traps serving mountains of artificially produced gelato. But, one of the newer gelato shops is a noteworthy example of the younger generation bravely carrying the torch in the city considered to be the birthplace of gelato. Run by a husband-wife duo, My Sugar meticulously churns out classic flavors like bittersweet chocolate and Bronte pistachio, seasonal fruit like kid-approved strawberry and watermelon, and more worldly flavors including black sesame, green tea, pure peanut, and dark chocolate spiked with local chianti. Tip: Gelato should never be scooped from a mound, but instead from pans where it lays flat or ribboned. Ideally, it’s served from carapine, covered metal cylinders that sit under the counter.

Ristorante Persiano Tehran

International food offerings are growing at a modest pace in Florence, and the city’s Iranian population is well represented by Ristorante Persiano Tehran. Situated in Piazza dei Cimatori, aka “Dante’s Neighborhood,” this restaurant proudly serves Iranian specialties, like ground beef koobideh, marinated spiced joojeh chicken kebabs, hearty herb and lamb stew ghormeh sabzi, Persian bastani, and rose-, saffron-, or pistachio-flavored ice cream. The decor pays homage to the owners’ home country and offers a Persian escape in the midst of Florence’s Renaissance-heavy center.

Coquinarius

Eating and drinking well near the Duomo isn’t impossible thanks to places like Coquinarius. This bistro with a vintage feel is perfect for diners who treat wine as the main course and food as the garnish. The selection is ample (almost overwhelming if you don’t ask for help) and constantly renewed with hard-to-find wines. Pair your glass with pastas like burrata-filled ravioli in pistachio pesto, comfort food classics like wine-braised beef cheek and whipped potatoes, various tartare options with salads, or charcuterie platters and crostini. A second location in Fiesole is a good stop if checking out the Roman and Etruscan ruins in the scenic town perched above Florence.

Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

A short walk from the Uffizi Gallery, this tiny eatery makes its intentions clear on the handwritten menu outside: no pizza, no ice, no cappuccino, and no steak. This osteria serves traditional Tuscan food, and is known for its pappardelle in duck ragu, ribollita soup, fragrant saffron pasta tossed with zucchini flowers and a touch of cream, and meat-based mains like tomato-stewed cod and rolled, stuffed pork. This soulful Florentine institution is heavily frequented by locals — reservations are necessary.

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Gucci Osteria

Mexico meets Japan in Florence at Massimo Bottura’s one-Michelin-starred outpost at Gucci in the city’s historic political center, Piazza della Signoria. It’s helmed by Mexican chef Karime Lopez with Japanese husband Takahiko Kondo (Bottura’s long-time right hand at Modena’s Osteria Francescana), who channel their respective home countries and their impressive experience in renowned kitchens around the world. The kitchen utilizes seasonal Tuscan ingredients, prized Italian produce like Sicilian citrus, and obscure finds such as Umbrian purple corn in ceviche tostadas. A meal here is definitely a splurge (as one might expect from the names Bottura and Gucci), but you won’t leave hungry or underwhelmed thanks to a thoughtfully crafted menu that isn’t overly esoteric. A la carte and tasting options are available for lunch and dinner. Book well in advance.

Libreria Brac

Tucked off a hidden street in the Santa Croce zone, Libreria Brac is equal parts cafe, restaurant, and modern art gallery with an eclectic library of books, vintage magazines, and choice music. The vegetarian menu shows influences from the chef’s travels around the world (he’s especially fond of cities like San Francisco); expect microgreen salads with avocado and almond lemon dressing, and tangy tomato and buffalo mozzarella-layered casseroles topped with crispy pane carasau, a traditional wafer-thin flatbread from Sardinia. Locals go for the mixed platters, which include a pasta — such as the ginger- and potato-filled tortelli with arugula pesto or radicchio risotto — a salad, and a slice of savory pane carasau, all for less than 15 euros. Brac is also a coveted spot for an Anglo-style weekend brunch of pancakes and scrambles. The drinks list is dominated by organic teas and coffees, though you’ll also find smoothies and juices (rare in Florence) and a list of natural wines from all over Italy.

Located in a Renaissance-era palace once owned by the Medici family, Locale is fine dining for craft-cocktail enthusiasts, with stellar service under original frescos. The avant-garde cocktail lounge (which won a spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2022) boasts towering shelves of specialty spirits and an undercurrent of experimental flair. Along with the drinks, emerging young chef Simone Caponnetto prepares an inventive modernist seasonal tasting menu that features items like wild Tuscan herbs paired with smoked teas, chard millefoglie, and savory gelato; the kitchen also hosts occasional pop-ups by Italian chefs of similar vision. Below the main space, there’s an underground science lab, where bartenders concoct carrot-infused vodkas, redistilled gins, house-made kombucha with obscure local dried flowers, and CBD-vaporized cocktails.

Club Culinario Toscano da Osvaldo

Tuscan cuisine is the foundation at this “culinary club,” but diners revel in finding specialties from across the boot on the menu. The owner and head chef inspires memories from nonna's kitchen, using obscure regional ingredients and materie prime (raw materials) from the most idyllic producers in the country, like one that supplies cheese aged in Etruscan-era caves. The fried polpette di bollito (beef croquettes) are must haves, as are charcuterie boards, rabbit and olives, and the potato-filled tortelli with various options of ragu (the goat is a win).

Arà è Sicilia

Savvy Sicilian chef Carmelo Pannocchietti is a fixture in Florence. His Sicilian street food outposts can satisfy a cannoli craving, but Arà also makes notably generous ragu-filled arancini, slabs of Sicilian pizza, granitas, and arguably the best Bronte pistachio gelato in town. Pannocchietti has expanded his venture into a bit of an empire, with pop-up stands along the river in the summer, an outpost on the top floor of the Mercato Centrale food hall, and a sit-down fast-casual deli (similar to a tavola calda). Don’t sleep on the natural wine list, which has some mind-boggling delicious options sourced from the eponymous island.

In the heart of San Niccolo, just below the steps leading up to the panoramic Piazza Michelangelo square, is one of tastiest carb bars on the planet. Fresh cappellaci is the specialty at this mother-and-son operation, where it’s offered with a myriad of stuffings, like winter squash and ricotta, and toppings, like green kale pesto sauce or freshly shaved truffles, when in season. You’ll also find tavola calda - type offerings, like sliced roasted meats and caramelized vegetables, all with a unique Champagne and natural wine selection.

Vineria Sonora

A treasure trove for natural wine lovers, Vineria Sonora combines a vinyl record store with a bar-bistro setting, featuring both DJs and winemakers. Nowhere else in Florence houses such an immense selection of minimal-intervention Italian wines, including plenty of obscure garage-based makers and cult favorites. The food features artisanal specialty ingredients from across the country, with a sprinkling of Calabria where owners Laura Giovinetti and Andrea Marsico hail from. Simple yet adventurous small plates include wild game tartares, roasted porchetta, rustic lasagna with wild boar, Calabrian chile ’nduja crostini, and seasonal accouterments like baked squash and artichokes. Giovinetti and Marsico also run a spillover bar across the street, Lato B (B-Side), which serves aperitivo with bar bites, vinyl records, and zines for sale.

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La Divina Pizza

For Roman-style pizza by the slice, La Divina Pizza is worth a visit. Made with high-quality local ingredients, pizza here comes topped with thoughtful combinations of artisan cheeses, meats, and seasonal produce. Try the fresh fig and burrata or the spicy sliced salami with plump purple olives. A few slices is ideal for a quick lunch with a glass of beer or prosecco.

Cibrèo Trattoria

Cibrèo is a cluster of Tuscan eateries congregated at the gate of the city’s most genuine Florentine food quarter, Sant’Ambrogio. The restaurants were founded by culinary icon Fabio Picchi and Benedetta Vitali; after Picchi’s death in 2022, their son Giulio now oversees the business. Across six outposts, Cibrèo celebrates the region’s bounty and flavors while adhering to certain cornerstones of the Florentine and Tuscan repertoire. The offerings at the trattoria are dedicated to rustic Tuscan cooking, like rib-sticking soups, roasted game, and obscure offal preparations like stuffed chicken neck. Creativity shows through in the popular ricotta and potato sformatino souffle and in some out-of-the-box riffs on Florentine staples, like a budino made with turmeric and lemon Greek yogurt. Don’t come expecting pasta and pizza.

Tripperia Pollini

While Florentines debate about the best lampredotto stand, family-run Pollini is the most iconic option. Not to be conflated with tripe, lampredotto is cow stomach classically cooked in a savory broth and served chopped, stuffed in bread, and topped with a green herb and chile sauce. Across from the ancient Sant’Ambrogio church and in view of the stunning Synagogue of Florence, Tripperia Pollini (aka “Da i’ babbo e figliolo” or “by pop and son”) prepares the dish in a notable range of sauces — tomato with artichoke, beef cheek guanciale, chard, porcini in season — plus classic tripe in tomato sauce. All are best washed down with a goblet of wine or a beer on the corner, while the proprietor hollers out orders into the hustle and bustle.

Trattoria da Rocco

Young Florentines are molding the dining scene into something more refined and international, and there are few places left in the city where you can experience an old-fashioned, family-run greasy spoon, complete with the staff hollering at each other as if they were in their own living room. For that, head to this trattoria inside the Sant'Ambrogio market. Beat the crowds by going before 1 p.m., or join them in the small booths for dirt-cheap plates of panzanella in the summer, pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup) in the spring, and everything else in between, like simple pastas, meat and potatoes, and hearty desserts of caramelized pears.

Panini at Semel

For the best sandwich in the world, according to obviously biased owner Marco Paparozzi, head to his tiny panino stall perched on the curb of the Sant'Ambrogio market. Fillings here break the usual meat-and-cheese mold, drawing from Tuscan-inspired flavors and dishes: Think stewed donkey, pear, pecorino, and truffle; wild boar sausage and broccoli rabe; and, at times, carb-on-carb taglierini pasta panino. Select your filling from the rotating chalkboard menu and Paparozzi or his nephew will promptly whip up a flavorful panino and insist it be washed down with a small glass of wine.

Dolci e Dolcezze

On the lip of Sant’Ambrogio in Piazza Beccaria, you’ll find the fanciest pastry spot in the historic center. The decor is like being in a ballroom, colored old-school with teal and featuring classic ceramics and glassware. This spot is beloved for its dedication to artisanal raw ingredients, such as Valrhona cacao for its flourless chocolate cake and cherry-picked figs and forest fragoline (wild strawberries) from the local markets for its mini seasonal fruit tartlets. The cafe also procures Florentine classics like puff pastry sfoglia and budino di riso (rice pudding in shortbread crust). It’s tiny inside, with a few tables on the curb, but it’s worth it to squeeze in. It also has an espresso machine in what appears to be a closet, but within is specialty coffee from Cafe Piansa, an institutional craft roaster. This is the ideal place for Italian breakfast, and if you insist on having a cornetto and cappuccino, this spot does them properly.

Antico Forno Giglio

Now in their fourth generation, the family of fornai (bakers) that owns this bakery seems totally uninterested in winning over new customers with gimmicks or gourmet improvements on classics. Instead, they’re fixated on sourcing locally grown flour and ancient grains for breads, and peak-season fruit for cakes. They aren’t shy with oil for their salty schiacciata, patience for their naturally fermented and risen loaves, butter for their pastries, Nutella for their biscotti, and love for everything else they make. While the bakery is definitely off the beaten path, it’s worth stopping by at lunch for a schiacciata panino with porchetta, mortadella, or fennel finocchiona, or for a sweet treat in the afternoon like chestnut flour flat cakes, rice custard fritters (a carnival specialty), or buttery puff pastries braided with chocolate.

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• Eating and Drinking
• Eating out in Florence

Eating in Florence, Italy like a Local

Top choices for enjoying the local cuisine.

Eating like "a local" changes every year — especially once visitors to the city of Florence hone in on the top restaurants cited by so many as “the best” and fill the tables! These restaurants are still delicious, but we are always listening to the locals for a few new comments (2019) to keep you ahead of the touristy crowd, especially those with fresh and delicious menus highlighting the local recipes, flavors, and ingredients.

Since eating out is so subjective - it depends on what you like (and what you don’t like), how much you want to spend and how dressed up you want to get ( though in Florence “getting dressed up” is subjective, you go from the height of trending fashion to simple and comfortable ).  

Our selection of restaurants touches a bit of everything - places where you can dress down or dress up, budget-friendly and particularly romantic.  It's your choice, we just hope to offer a bit of insight into the long list of restaurants.  

And if you don't find what you are looking for here, then you might want to try looking at the listings with our partner The Fork , this site lists loads of Florentine restaurants, offering easy online booking and special discounts.   You can even book right up to the last minute and get special discounts !

The list below is a combination of places that either come highly recommended by the locals - or that I have personally been to and eaten like a local (and loved it!)

Trattoria la Casalinga

Address: Via dei Michelozzi, 9r, 50125 Official Website

The name practically says it all - casalinga translates into "the housewife", or homemade meals. The area of San Frediano has been well known in Florence as an authentic corner where the locals can hang and feel like they are in control. This little corner of culinary deliciousness is practically in front of the amazing church of Santo Spirito and offers lunch and dinner all week (except on Sundays).

The menu is a who’s who list of classical and popular dishes among the locals including antipasti, homemade pasta dishes and main courses that include fish, grilled meat and fresh vegetables. Be prepared for a very casual atmosphere, run by “Mom & Pop” and a busy, busy kitchen!

Ristorante Perseus

Address: Viale Don Giovanni Minzoni, 10/R, 50129 Official Website

This restaurant is a member of a group that specializes in valorizing the specialties of the area. The Ristorante Perseus, is just outside of the historical center — but not too far that you can’t walk it, if you wanted too, taking you into an area that is still very much residential among the locals.

The consensus is that they specialize in the “bistecca fiorentina” but there is so much more to the menu. When in-season you will find porcini mushrooms and zucchini flowers - and of course, the wine is local and abundant!

Classic Standbys to Keep Handy

Address: Via de' Vellutini, 1r, 50125 Official Website

With both inside and outside dining, this restaurant will give you a very special feel about Florence. Set in a quaint little courtyard just a hop, skip and a jump away from Palazzo Pitti, it is a happening area. Get there early and splurge on a spritzer at one of the local bars. You will need to reserve at the restaurant (unless you get lucky). Its the fun and quirky menu featuring local specialties that makes it one of my personal favorites.

I know when on vacation it is hard to say where you will be and at what time...but make a reservation, I bet you will love the results.  I have eaten here several times and I love the way they keep the classic recipes on the menu for the locals.

Trattoria Zazà

An icon in the Florentine restaurant world. Located close to the train station and Mercato Centrale, even the locals don’t mind fighting the tourist for a seat. They offer a combination of pizza and local dishes - all served fast, hot and delicious.

Zazà offers both inside (air conditioning) and outside seating in a square that is open to (mostly) the walking kind of traffic. It is picturesque, a bit loud and sometimes even rowdy — but always good.

Piazza del Vino

Click here to check reviews & book online

Address: Via della Torretta, 8

Official Website

Definitely a bit outside of the city center — so you will probably want a taxi. But if you are looking for something a little more low keyed, geared for the locals who enjoy wine and regional fare, then this is one of the places that you should put on your "to dine list." Carved out of a warehouse, the decor is open and rustic.

The wine collection literally lines the walls and the menu is a fun combination of classical dishes from all around Italy. My choice was the pistachio crusted tuna from Sicily...melt in your mouth delicious. Check out their website for happy hours and wine tastings with a theme and sometimes you can find offers on Groupon.

Trattoria Vittoria

I missed my chance to go here with the “girls night out” but, no worries they proceeded to fill me in on all the delicious dishes I missed out on.... I would be crying in my wine if it weren’t for the fact they promised me, we will be going back soon.

The decor is nothing to write home about but the dishes of seafood are spectacular, fresh and unforgettable. Especially fun, sometimes they just decide to bring you a sampler of their bontà ...who can say no to that!

Trattoria Cammillo

Highly recommended by the locals for the high quality of the meats & vegetables as well as, the authentic local recipes. This restaurant has been apart of the Florentine landscape since 1945 - three generations have been at the helm, preserving a family-like atmosphere where the service is friendly, warm and welcoming. It is a trattoria and the decor is reminiscent of times gone by, price is a little upscale but the food receives rave reviews and in my opinion, that is what really counts.

Ristorante Latini

For those who are looking forward to savoring the famous Bistecca Fiorentina, this is definitely a restaurant to keep in consideration. The boast a long and active presence in Florence and for many - especially the locals - it is considered an integral part of the landscape - and they also boast long lines, so reserve!

A classic Tuscan restaurant with a bit of touristic fanfare in the decor, it offers a classical menu that will tempt your taste buds. The newest addition is the wine cellar, a romantic setting in the cantina , with a modern decor and famous...and more important delicious… vineyards from all over.

l’Ortone

Address: Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 87-red, 50122

Click here  for special discounts, check reviews & book online

My latest find. I showed up for happy hour because they were advertising jazz night. (I love a bit of live jazz, a beer in hand - or a glass of local bubbly — and a relaxing atmosphere). They offer outdoor and indoor seating for happy hour, and the restaurant has a modern yet country feel to it. The menu had me extremely happy — featuring classical dishes, cooked with criteria and sometimes  bit of fantasy.

Located right behind the Sant’Ambrogio market it is an easy walk. It attracts a mixed crowd of locals, tourists and college students. So if you are looking for some local color, authentic menu and honest prices, then definitely stop by.

Cantinetta Antinori

The restaurant is located inside the elegant 15th-century palazzo that serves as the administrative offices for the Antinori winemaking family in the city center of Florence. The food is upscale versions of traditional Tuscan favorites that change with the seasons, such as country pâté with truffles served on bread and crayfish and prawn salad with shaved raw artichokes on the menu.

And of course, a great selection of wine...but only Antinori wines are available. If you don't make it to the restaurant in the city - check out their cantina near San Casciano

Mercato centrale

Not really a restaurant, but more a culinary field trip. The setting has been recently restored to preserve its antique beauty. A stroll (at all hours) will have you basking in the perfumes and colors of the Florentine menu. Read our article about the Mercato.

Some may ask why in the world eat a pizza, when there are so many great things to savor in Florence? Because — a pizza is one of those great things to savor. Check out our article about Pizzerias in Florence to see where the locals go

Bistecca Fiorentina

If you are looking to stick to tradition then you will be looking to enjoy one of the more popular dishes for the locals, the Italians, and the tourists. This thick juicy steak is called the "T-bone" in English and includes the soft succulent meat of the filet mignon and the New York Strip with its classic defining strip of fat down the side. Thicker than thick, it is cooked on a live flame and it is huge. Check out this article for our top choices of where to eat this wonder.

We would never want to discourage you from ordering a “dolce” when at a restaurant...however if nothing really catches your eye you can always rely on a great gelato to fill that hole. Read here to find our favorite gelaterias . Besides...we all know that gelato is a meal in itself ;-)

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The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is also considered Tuscany's spiritual home for rustic food and bold red wines. The medieval city's flourishing culinary scene has long been a draw both for serious gourmands and for hungry travelers on every budget.

That said, it's easy to find a mediocre meal in Florence, with lots of restaurants more concerned with tourists' euros than their tastebuds. So to avoid a disappointing meal during your stay in this Tuscan city, we present our picks for the 15 best places to dine in Florence.

Best High-End Florentine Cuisine: Buca Mario

Buca Mario 

Right in the historic center of Florence, Buca Mario is where you'll find the finest in traditional Florentine cuisine. Occupying a 16th-century buca (a typical cellar often found beneath stately palazzos), the dining room's vaulted ceilings and exposed sandstone walls are a classic backdrop to an authentic Tuscan dining experience. Start with their cave-aged pecorino served with apples and chestnut honey, and end the meal with handmade delights from the dessert trolley. This is a great place to experience a bistecca Fiorentina , the thick-cut, local steak served very, very rare.

Best Pizzeria: Fermento 1889

Fermento 1889 

Call ahead if you want to secure a seat at this Neapolitan-style pizzeria. Fermento 1889 (referring to the year that pizza was invented) is so popular that it attempts to accommodate customers by offering three seatings a night: 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. Located in the Oltarno district, Fermento serves classic wood-fired pizzas that have charred, chewy crusts and abundant, savory toppings. For dessert, there's traditional babà: a rum-soaked and syrupy delight. Takeout service is available.

Best Special Occasion Dining: Ora d'Aria

Ora d'Aria 

Booked solid most nights, Ora d'Aria (hour of air) is located not far from the Ponte Vecchio — the iconic bridge that stretches across the Arno River. The interiors are warmed with honey-colored parquet floors, adding modern touches like tulip chairs skirting square, linen-topped tables. The kitchen is headed by Chef Marco Stabile, who's touted as the "local boy made good." He personally curates delicacies using artisanal local products, so expect to open your wallet for this Michelin-star dining experience.

Best Seafood Spot: Ristorante Vivo

The fact that Florence is a land-locked city doesn't mean you can't find places where good fish is served. Ristorante Vivo, in the Sant'Ambrogio neighborhood is such an establishment. Inspired by French bistros, the folks at Ristorante Vivo wanted to bring the raw seafood movement to Italy. With two other locations: one along the Tuscan Coast in Capalbio (summer only) and another in Milan, they've attracted quite a loyal following. Pick from a raw oyster menu or feast on their interesting but select daily specials. Do call ahead for a table. They also offer takeaway.

Best Lunch on a Budget: Trattoria Giovanni

Trattoria Giovanni

Thank goodness for places like Trattoria Giovanni. A long morning traipsing through the awe-inspiring and vast Uffizi Gallery can really work up one's appetite. This little spot, in the Santo Spirito area, is lined from floor-to-ceiling with terracotta bricks and serves traditional Tuscan fare on the cheap — price-wise, not quality-wise, that is. Try their tasty ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup) or sirloin with green pepper sauce. Here you can go ahead and order three courses without breaking the bank.

Best Wine Bar: Signorvino

Signorvino 

Set along the Arno River and with a commanding view of the Ponte Vecchio, cozy Signorvino is a nice place for a pre-dinner glass of vino. They have a decent selection of local wines and top regional varietals and a menu perfect if you're in the mood for a light dinner. Book a space at one of their wine tasting and dinner events or pop into the wine shop for a bottle to go.

Best Pub: Brewdog

The craft beer scene in Italy has been around for some time now, hitting its stride in the mid-2000s. Well-known Scottish beer company, Brewdog, opened this punky outpost (the only one in Italy) in 2014. Located near Santa Maria Novella station, the spot has become a popular hangout for locals hipsters and the international crowd. The kitchen makes pub grub until midnight.

Best Breakfast: Le Vespe

When the traditional Italian breakfast of a cappuccino and a pastry isn't quite enough to kick-start your day, head to Le Vespe for a North American-style breakfast. This bright and cheery cafe's morning menu includes such classics as eggs and bacon, stacks of pancakes (dripping with authentic Canadian maple syrup), bagels with cream cheese, and even avocado toast. They have plenty of gluten-free and vegan options, too.

Best Burger Joint: Drogheria

At Drogheria you can sip cool cocktails and chow-down on juicy gourmet beef or fish burgers served and handmade potato chips. A local haunt, it has really great prices and it's just a 10-minute stroll from the Piazza del Duomo.

Best Traditional Tuscan: Il Latini

Il Latini is legendary for its food and for bringing people from all walks of life together at communal tables. Here, country-style Tuscan cooking meets family-style dining to create an atmosphere where, at the end of the meal, everyone knows your name. The dining room is always packed to the gills because the food is consistently delicious. Don't miss their specialty: bistecca alla fiorentina — a 2-inch-thick steak grilled to rare perfection. The cured hams hanging from the ceiling only add to the restaurant's down-home charm.

Best Place to Take Kids: Foody Farm

Foody Farm 

While virtually all restaurants in Italy are child-friendly, Foody Farm is a place that will produce giggles from kids and their parents. Enjoy gourmet comfort foods like fried chicken, burgers, and crunchy onion rings; the menu is broken down in categories: from the vegetable garden, the farm, and the pasture. The spacious dining room is bright and child-friendly, using reclaimed wood and cushy banquet seating. Every item comes in full or half orders. Celiacs and vegetarians are welcome.

Best Sushi: Il Cuore

Billed as an authentic taste of Japan, Il Cuore is a lovely, rather pricey sushi restaurant that presents plates that are almost too pretty to eat. Choose from two tasting menus that include a generous array of sashimi, veggies, assorted cooked bites, plus rice, miso soup, dessert, and tea or coffee. For those who prefer to eat light, you can order à la carte.

Best Panino Place: Semel

Jean-Claude Winkler/Getty Images

In your never-ending pursuit of Florentine art, you might not want to waste your time languishing over lunch, preferring instead to grab a quick panino (sandwich) on the run. At Semel, you won't have to sacrifice taste for fast service. Pick from a small number of unique filling — these little sandwiches are wrapped in paper for easy takeaway. They serve wine, too. Semel is across the street from the Sant'Ambrogio market. They're open for lunch only.

Best Place to Get a Quick Meal: Mercato Centrale

Mercato Centrale

Opened in 2014, Mercato Centrale takes up space on the first floor of the historic San Lorenzo market. Food artisans are set up in stalls throughout the iron and glass structure, creating a lively and fun atmosphere where you can try a bunch of different, high quality eats to your heart's content. Dine in or take away.

Best Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant: Il Vegetariano

There's no question that Florence is a meat-consuming city, but there are a surprising number of options for vegetarian and vegan diners. Opened in 1981, Il Vegetariano was the city's first. Drawing on regional cuisine, they present a wonderful assortment of vegetable plates, salads, and desserts. The ambiance is nothing to write home about, but the food is delicious, healthy, and reasonably priced.

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7 Must-Visit Traditional Restaurants in Florence

Traditional florentine restaurants offer visitors a chance to sample the earthy regional cuisine with dishes that include bruschetta topped with white beans; tuscan ribollita; pappardelle pasta with hare sauce; roast pork with garlic and rosemary; and, of course, bistecca alla fiorentina, or florentine steak, a vast t-bone cooked the traditional way over olive wood and eaten almost raw. here’s where to find the best authentic home cooking in florence..

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16 Saporium Firenze

17 osteria del fiore, 18 le vespe cafè, 19 cloud 59, 20 museo della bistecca, 21 pizzeria giovanni santarpia, 22 atto di vito mollica, 23 antico forno giglio, 24 saporium firenze, 25 la terrazza rooftop bar.

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26 Colle Bereto

27 obicà mozzarella bar - firenze, 28 acqua al 2, 29 cucina torcicoda, 30 caffè italiano, 31 view on art rooftop cocktail bar, 32 la pentola dell'oro, top searches in florence, popular road trips from florence, what's the weather like in florence.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Florence for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Florence in January
• Weather in Florence in February
• Weather in Florence in March
• Weather in Florence in April
• Weather in Florence in May
• Weather in Florence in June
• Weather in Florence in July
• Weather in Florence in August
• Weather in Florence in September
• Weather in Florence in October
• Weather in Florence in November
• Weather in Florence in December

All road trips from Florence

• Florence to Rome drive
• Florence to Venice drive
• Florence to Paris drive
• Florence to Milan drive
• Florence to London drive
• Florence to Barcelona drive
• Florence to Prague drive
• Florence to Naples drive
• Florence to Berlin drive
• Florence to Amsterdam drive
• Florence to Budapest drive
• Florence to Vienna drive
• Florence to Bologna drive
• Florence to Turin drive
• Florence to Genoa drive
• Florence to Verona drive
• Florence to Madrid drive
• Florence to Pisa drive
• Florence to Munich drive
• Florence to Nice drive
• Florence to Lisbon drive
• Florence to Ravenna drive
• Florence to Istanbul drive
• Florence to Edinburgh drive
• Florence to Dublin drive
• Florence to Assisi drive
• Florence to Brussels drive
• Florence to Vatican City drive
• Florence to Rimini drive

Explore nearby places

• San Vivaldo
• San Quirico in Collina
• Monterappoli
• Bagno a Ripoli
• Castelnuovo d'Elsa
• Sesto Fiorentino
• San Donnino
• Campi Bisenzio
• Lastra a Signa
• Molino del Piano
• Strada in Chianti
• San Casciano in Val di Pesa
• Pontassieve
• Mercatale di Val di Pesa
• Santa Brigida

All related maps of Florence

• Map of Florence
• Map of Reggello
• Map of San Vivaldo
• Map of Vitolini
• Map of San Quirico in Collina
• Map of Galluzzo
• Map of Monterappoli
• Map of Bagno a Ripoli
• Map of Covigliaio
• Map of Fiesole
• Map of Scandicci
• Map of Settignano
• Map of Grassina
• Map of Castelnuovo d'Elsa
• Map of Tavarnuzze
• Map of Sesto Fiorentino
• Map of Mosciano
• Map of Compiobbi
• Map of San Donnino
• Map of Impruneta
• Map of Campi Bisenzio
• Map of Lastra a Signa
• Map of Molino del Piano
• Map of Calenzano
• Map of Strada in Chianti
• Map of Signa
• Map of San Casciano in Val di Pesa
• Map of Pontassieve
• Map of Mercatale di Val di Pesa
• Map of Malmantile
• Map of Santa Brigida

Florence throughout the year

• Florence in January
• Florence in February
• Florence in March
• Florence in April
• Florence in May
• Florence in June
• Florence in July
• Florence in August
• Florence in September
• Florence in October
• Florence in November
• Florence in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Florence?

Get inspired for your trip to Florence with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Florence Itinerary
• 2-Day Florence Itinerary
• 3-Day Florence Itinerary
• 4-Day Florence Itinerary
• 5-Day Florence Itinerary

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in San Casciano in Val di Pesa
• Top things to do and attractions in Fiesole

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Campi Bisenzio
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Reggello
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Fiesole

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

A Guide to 3 Days in Florence, Italy

You can experience an amazing blend of art, history, culture, and culinary experiences over 3 days in Florence, Italy!

As the “birthplace of the Renaissance,” and home to Michelangelo and da Vinci, Florence is essentially an open-air museum, showcasing the most famous works of art in the world.

Add to that, Florence’s history as a center of trade and culture during the Renaissance, and the intricate facades of cathedrals and palazzos.

While Florence isn’t known for its seafood, the pasta, meats, and wines will create a gastronomic journey for any fine-paletted foodie (or amateur, like myself!).

Florence is also a haven for shoppers, who could spend 3 days just strolling the cobblestone streets for Italian leather goods.

This 3-day itinerary is for people who want to experience Florence , and also the surrounding smaller towns, rolling hills, and vineyards in Tuscany, Italy .

The Best Tours in Florence

Over 3 days in Florence, you can choose to be your own guide, or take a tour with a historian or local expert. 

These are the top 3 tours I’d recommend for famous sites in the city, and great road trips in Tuscany:

➡️ Book: The Duomo, David, & More: Skip the Line Tour

➡️ Book: Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano Day Trip

➡️ Book: Tuscan Wine Tour

Where to Stay in Florence on a 3-Day Trip

Florence is a walkable city, which is relatively small. As long as you’re staying between the main train station (Firenze Santa Maria Novella) and the river, you’ll be in a great location. Even the other side of the Arno River has great rental and hotel options.

If you’re looking to do day trips using the excellent train system , I’d recommend staying on the north side of the river, just for convenience.

You can use this interactive map to plug in your dates and see the rates available for your visit. It includes the top hotel sites, like Booking.com and VRBO:

Florence Walking Tour Map

The map below lays out an ambitious day in Florence, which will take you to the most famous sites in the city.

The entire route is between 3 and 4 miles, and is largely flat, aside from the climb to the overlook at Piazzale Michelangelo.

Of course, you can choose to go in any order, and omit whichever stops you’d like. 

If you’re not an art lover, you can follow this walking tour to see all of the most famous buildings and views in Florence! For people who fall into that category, you’ll still see plenty of statues and artwork just walking around. 

3 Days in Florence: Day 1: The City

Let’s go a bit more into detail about the sites mapped above.

These are brief descriptions. You can read more about the history of each down below in this post.

Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Start your day with a visit to the Duomo, Florence’s Cathedral. Marvel at its stunning architecture, including the red-tiled dome by Brunelleschi, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery’s famed bronze doors.

Piazza della Signoria

Wander through this historic square, surrounded by impressive sculptures and the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall. Admire the open-air museum of statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Uffizi Gallery

Explore one of the world’s most renowned art museums, the Uffizi Gallery. Home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, among others.

Ponte Vecchio

Stroll to the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge spanning the Arno River. It’s largely a covered bridge, filled with jewelry shops.

FOOD TIP : Stop at Gino’s across the bridge for a delicious Italian pastry and coffee!

Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens

Across the Ponte Vecchio, you’ll reach the Palazzo Pitti, a Renaissance palace with a vast art collection. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens behind the palace, featuring beautiful landscapes, fountains, and sculptures.

The Best View in Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo

It’s a hike (or a taxi ride) up to Piazzale Michelangelo, but it’s worth the walk for the stunning view! 

Consider stopping here for sunset on your first day. It’ll give you an appreciation for the beauty and the layout of the city of Florence.

Plus, if you’ve skipped seeing the original “David,” there’s a bronze replica here in the plaza to check out.

Basilica of Santa Croce

This Franciscan church is known for its beautiful frescoes, and as the burial site of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.

There are often markets in the plaza in front of the cathedral.

3 Days in Florence: Day 2: Tuscany Road Trip

As the capital of the Tuscany region, Florence serves as an excellent base for exploring the picturesque Tuscan countryside, dotted with vineyards, rolling hills, and charming towns like San Gimignano, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca.

Tuscany Road Trip Tours

These are three day trip tours I’d take through Tuscany from Florence. Each has excellent reviews:

➡️ Book: Florence to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano

➡️ Book: Florence to Cinque Terre

➡️ Book: Small Group Vineyards Wine Tasting

Renting and Driving Yourself

Driving in Florence is easy, and there are convenient car rental options at the airport or just outside the train station. Personally, I’d choose to rent from the area around the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.

Usually in Europe, I use Discover Cars . They provide the big international rental brand options, along with very good local rental companies.

➡️ Check Florence Rental Cars

Map of Day Trip Destinations from Florence

You can see on the map how close these smaller cities and towns are to Florence:

This itinerary makes for a great road trip on day 2 of your 3 days in Florence:

• Start from Florence:  Depart early to make the most of your day. Tuscany’s roads wind through beautiful countryside, so driving allows you to savor the scenery.
• Drive to San Gimignano:  The drive to San Gimignano takes around an hour, depending on the route you take. Enjoy the scenic roads flanked by vineyards, rolling hills, and cypress trees.
• Explore San Gimignano:  Arrive at San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers that dominate the skyline. Wander through the charming streets, visit the Piazza della Cisterna, and climb one of the towers for panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
• Lunch:  Enjoy lunch at one of the local trattorias or restaurants, sampling traditional Tuscan cuisine. Sample the local Vernaccia wine, famous in this region.
• Scenic Drive:  After exploring San Gimignano, consider a drive through the countryside, through the olive groves and vineyards to other nearby towns like Volterra.
• Siena:  By car, Siena is less than an hour from San Gimignano. Head to Piazza del Campo, surrounded by historic buildings and medieval architecture. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step inside the Siena Cathedral, famous for its intricate marble work and frescoes.

Look for roadside stands or local markets for fresh produce, olive oil, or wine to take back as souvenirs.

Day 2 Alternate: By Train

You could easily take the train from the Santa Maria Novella Station in Florence to Siena. It’s about a 90-minute ride each way on the Trenitalia line.

I’ve been using Trainline to book trains in Europe. It’s simple to search, and avoids the kiosks in the train stations. They send you a QR code to your text and email, which you have scanned at the station to board.

➡️ Click to Book Train Tickets in Italy

I’d recommend San Gimignano, if you’ve never been to the area. It’s crowded in the summer, but you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite among tourists!

Florence to San Gimignano by Train

From Santa Maria Novella in Florence, you’ll take the train to Poggibonsi. It’ll be about 9 Euros each way.

The train usually leaves once an hour from Florence.

In Poggibonsi, you can walk outside the train station and take Bus #130 up the hill to San Gimignano.

It’s a 25-minute bus ride.

Alternatively, you can look for a taxi outside the train station. The general going rate for a ride from Poggibonsi to San Gimignano is 35 Euros.

San Gimignano to Florence

You might find a taxi at the gates of San Gimignano. If a driver isn’t waiting, you can buy a bus ticket at the Tabacchi store on the main street in town. It’ll be 3 Euros for the ride back down to Poggibonsi.

Buses can be intimidating in foreign countries, but I promise: this one’s pretty easy to navigate!

3 Days in Florence: Day 3: Pisa & Lucca Road Trip

You can easily take the train, take a tour, or drive yourself to Pisa and Lucca for a day trip on day 3 of your time in Florence.

Pisa Tour from Florence

This is a PRIVATE tour option I’d choose from Florence to Pisa and Lucca, with excellent reviews:

➡️ Book: Florence to Pisa & Lucca

Rent and Drive Yourself

The drive to Pisa is a little over an hour from Florence.

While the city has its own rich culture, if you only have 3 days in Florence, you can “see” Pisa in a morning. 

• Depart from Florence:  Start your road trip early to make the most of your day. 
• Visit the Leaning Tower:  Upon arrival in Pisa, head straight to Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), where you’ll find the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral (Duomo), and the Baptistery. If you’re going during a busy season and want to climb the tower, buy advanced tickets. 
• Mid-Day:  Wander through the charming streets of Pisa adjacent to the Piazza dei Miracoli, and stop in at one of the cafes for lunch.

• Drive to Lucca:  Lucca is only 45 minutes from Pisa. You’ll find massive Renaissance walls encircling the city, and can rent bicycles and cycle along the top of the walls for panoramic views.
• Visit Lucca’s Highlights:  Explore the historic center, visit the Cathedral of St. Martin (Duomo di San Martino), climb the Guinigi Tower for a view of the city, and wander through the picturesque streets lined with charming shops and cafes.

Day 3 Alternate: By Train

This is another day trip from Florence which is easily accomplished by train .

Florence to Pisa by Train

From Florence’s Santa Maria Novella, you’ll find multiple departures heading toward Pisa. 

PRO TIP: Don’t go to Pisa Centrale . Get off at Pisa S. Rossore .

The train tickets are about 10 Euros.

Pisa to Lucca by Train

The train ride to Lucca is only about 30 minutes from Pisa. Trains depart every 30 to 40 minutes.

Lucca to Florence by Train

From Lucca, it’ll take about 90 minutes to get back to Florence by train.

Florence Restaurants

I have four I’ll recommend, but you’ll be able to find delicious Italian food anywhere in the city.

Make reservations here if you want a special meal. It’s a small, intimate setting in a historic building which used to be a garage or warehouse for the carousel!

They’ll likely bring out prosecco or an appetizer on the house.

Don’t skip dessert, no matter how full you are! The “tiramisu su su” is unlike any tiramisu I’ve ever had!

All’Antico Vinaio

Translated to “the ancient winemaker,” this is a viral sensation in Rome and now New York City, too. You’ll often find long lines out the door, but it’s well-organized so the crowd moves quickly.

All’Antico Vinaio is a great place for lunch, if you’re looking for a massive sandwich big enough for 3 people to share! 

While the sandwiches run $20 in NYC, they’re just 7 to 9 Euros in Florence.

During lunchtime, the line always goes out the door!

For excellent pizza options in Florence, head to Berberè. There are several locations in Italy, but it doesn’t feel like a chain at all.

Gino’s

At the end of the Ponte Vecchio (bridge), you’ll find Gino’s, which is famous for tiramisu and other Italian desserts. It will not disappoint.

Favorite trattorias among locals in Florence include:

• Coquinarius
• Za’ Za
• Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori
• Cantinetta Antinori
• Osteria dell’Enoteca

More expensive restaurants which come highly recommended by locals in Florence include:

• Enoteca Pinchiorri
• Borgo San Jacopo
• Ora d’Aria
• ZEB (Zuppa e Bollito)

Getting to Florence

You can certainly fly directly to Florence, but if you plan to spend 3 days there, you’re likely planning to visit other parts of Italy (or Europe in general).

Italy’s excellent train system, Trenitalia , connects the major cities and small towns. The trains make it easy to visit multiple parts of Italy in one trip.

For example, one rail line runs all the way from Venice down through Florence, then Rome , and ultimately Naples. (Keep in mind, the train schedules will read that route as: Venezia, Firenze, Roma, and Napoli).

I’d recommend downloading the Trenitalia App before your trip. While Google Maps also lists train schedules, I found: the Trenitalia App seems to have more options and up-to-date information. It’s free to use, and if you book tickets through the app, it’ll send the QR codes you’ll need to board right to your phone.

Rome to Florence (Roma to Firenze)

If you’re looking to save money on flights, it’s often less expensive to fly from the USA to Rome or Milan, and then take the train to Florence. 

From the massive Roma Termini station in Rome, it’s less than two hours to Florence’s Firenze Santa Maria Novella. 

Milan to Florence (Milano to Firenze)

There are several types of trains running between Milan and Florence. The fastest and most common are the high-speed trains:

• Frecciabianca and InterCity:  These are slightly slower than Frecciarossa trains but also connect Milan and Florence with a few more intermediate stops.
• Frecciarossa:  These are the fastest and most direct trains between Milan and Florence, offering frequent departures and a travel time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.

You can purchase tickets in advance, if you like, online through the Trenitalia or Italo websites.

Naples to Florence (Napoli to Firenze)

Trains depart from Napoli Centrale, the main train station in Naples.

Similar to the Milan to Florence route, there are different types of trains available for the Naples to Florence journey.

• Frecciarossa:  These high-speed trains provide a fast and direct connection, typically taking around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Venice to Florence (Venezia to Firenze)

Trains depart from Venezia Santa Lucia, the main train station in Venice.

Similar to the other routes, you have different types of trains available for the Venice to Florence journey:

• Frecciarossa:  These high-speed trains offer a direct connection and are the fastest option, taking around 2 hours to 2.5 hours to reach Florence.
• Frecciabianca and InterCity:  These trains might take slightly longer due to more intermediate stops but still offer a comfortable journey.

Best Time to Visit Florence

Florence is mild year-round, though slightly cooler than Rome . Once in a while the city will see light snowfall, but even in the winter temperatures remain in the 50s for daytime highs.

The best time to visit Florence really depends on what your plans and goals are.  

The grape harvest in late summer and fall is a great time to visit Tuscany.

In December, the city glows with Christmas lights strewn above the shopping boulevards and big displays in plazas.

For me, personally, I always recommend “shoulder season” trips to Europe. I know, it’s difficult (or impossible) for people with certain work schedules to vacation in May, September, or October. But the late spring and fall months deliver great weather in Florence, plus much smaller crowds than you’ll find in the summer.

Florence Weather Month by Month

Again, the weather is mild enough in Florence throughout the year that you’ll enjoy a 3-day visit whenever you get the chance!

If you have some flexibility, here’s some guidance about temperatures and rainfall, month by month in Florence:

• Average High Temperature: 52°F (11°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 36°F (2°C)
• Average Rainfall: 2.7 inches (68 mm)
• Average Rainy Days: 10 days
• Average High Temperature: 54°F (12°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 37°F (3°C)
• Average Rainfall: 2.4 inches (61 mm)
• Average Rainy Days: 9 days
• Average High Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 41°F (5°C)
• Average Rainfall: 2.8 inches (71 mm)
• Average High Temperature: 65°F (18°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 46°F (8°C)
• Average Rainfall: 3.1 inches (79 mm)
• Average Rainy Days: 11 days
• Average High Temperature: 74°F (23°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 53°F (12°C)
• Average Rainfall: 2.6 inches (66 mm)
• Average High Temperature: 81°F (27°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
• Average Rainfall: 2.2 inches (56 mm)
• Average Rainy Days: 8 days
• Average High Temperature: 88°F (31°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 64°F (18°C)
• Average Rainfall: 1.6 inches (41 mm)
• Average Rainy Days: 6 days
• Average High Temperature: 80°F (27°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 58°F (14°C)
• Average Rainy Days: 7 days
• Average High Temperature: 70°F (21°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 50°F (10°C)
• Average Rainfall: 4.1 inches (104 mm)
• Average Low Temperature: 42°F (6°C)
• Average Rainfall: 4.0 inches (102 mm)
• Average High Temperature: 53°F (12°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 38°F (3°C)
• Average Rainfall: 3.0 inches (76 mm)

The History of Florence’s Top Attractions

Here’s some brief background information on some of the top sites to see in Florence:

Michaelangelo’s David

Michelangelo’s David is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture created between 1501 and 1504. The 17-foot marble statue represents the biblical hero David before his battle with Goliath. Originally placed at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio, it was later moved to the Galleria dell’Accademia for preservation.

As I said earlier, if you’d like to see it but don’t want to spend time in the museum, you can see a replica at Piazzale Michelangelo, overlooking the city.

The Uffizi Gallery was designed by Giorgio Vasari in the 16th century as offices for Florentine magistrates. Over time, the building evolved into a prominent art museum, housing an extensive collection of priceless works, especially from the Renaissance period, bequeathed by the Medici family to the city of Florence.

The Florence Cathedral / Duomo

Construction of the cathedral began in 1296, overseen by architect Arnolfo di Cambio. It was intended to signify Florence’s economic and political power. ​​​​​​​ 

One of the cathedral’s most striking features is the iconic dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The construction of the dome began in 1420 and was a groundbreaking engineering feat, employing innovative techniques without the use of scaffolding. Completed in 1434, the dome remains the largest masonry dome in the world.

The cathedral’s exterior is an intricate marble façade, adorned with sculptures and decorative elements.

Throughout its history, the cathedral has undergone numerous restorations to preserve its structural integrity and artistic elements. Modern efforts continue to maintain and conserve this iconic symbol of Florentine history and culture.

Accademia Gallery

Founded in the 18th century, the Accademia Gallery initially served as an art school. It’s most renowned for housing Michelangelo’s David, attracting visitors worldwide to admire this iconic sculpture. The gallery expanded its collection over time, displaying other notable works by artists such as Botticelli and Giambologna.

Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio, originally known as Palazzo della Signoria, has been the seat of Florentine government for centuries. This fortress-like palace dates back to the 14th century and bears the marks of various architects.

Its impressive halls and chambers house significant artworks and serve as a testament to the city’s history.

Even the walls and ceilings in the entrance are stunning.

Ponte Vecchio Bridge

The Ponte Vecchio bridge was originally constructed during Roman times, and has undergone several reconstructions due to floods on the Arno River. 

The current structure, dating back to the 14th century, is distinct for its three arches and the unusual feature of shops built along the bridge itself. Initially hosting butchers and other merchants. The shops were eventually replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers during the 16th century on the orders of the Medici family, who sought to elevate the bridge’s aesthetic.

You’ll notice: the bridge has a second floor above. Known as the Vasari Corridor, it was commissioned by the Medici family to connect the Palazzo Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti, providing a private route for the ruling family. 

These days, the businesses on the bridge sell gold and jewelry.

Despite the destruction of other bridges during World War II, the Ponte Vecchio remained unharmed, preserving its historic and architectural significance. 

Santa Croce

Founded by the Franciscan Order in the 13th century, Santa Croce was built on the site where St. Francis of Assisi reportedly preached during his visit to Florence. Construction began in 1294 and continued for more than a century.

Santa Croce holds the tombs and memorials of numerous influential figures from Italian history and culture. Notable burials include Michelangelo Buonarroti, Galileo Galilei, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Dante Alighieri (though Dante’s actual burial place is debated).

The basilica houses significant artworks, including Giotto’s frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis, Cimabue’s Crucifix, and Donatello’s Annunciation. 

The plaza in front of the cathedral hosts Florence’s largest Christmas market each December.

Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, were designed in the mid-16th century by Niccolò Pericoli, known as Tribolo. Commissioned by the Medici family, the gardens served as a private space for the ruling family to relax and entertain guests.

The gardens cover around 111 acres, covered in terraces, pathways, sculptures, fountains, and a variety of plant species. Notable sculptures include works by Giambologna, such as the “Bathing Venus” and “Hercules and the Centaur.” The gardens also showcase elaborate fountains, including the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of Ocean.

Today, the gardens are open to the public.

The Medici Family

Since the Medici Family is connected to several of Florence’s famous sites, here’s a brief history of their prominence and influence.

Rise to Power:  The Medici family emerged as wealthy bankers and merchants in the 15th century, effectively becoming the de facto rulers of Florence through their financial influence.

Patrons of the Arts:  The Medici were renowned patrons of the arts, who supported and commissioned works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.

Political Influence:  The Medici family held key positions in the Florentine government, with family members serving as rulers, diplomats, and popes, including Lorenzo the Magnificent and Pope Leo X.

Palaces:  The Medicis commissioned architectural projects, including the construction of palaces such as Palazzo Medici Riccardi and Palazzo Pitti, as well as the Vasari Corridor, connecting the Palazzo Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti through the Ponte Vecchio.

Even as the family’s direct rule in Florence came to an end in the 18th century, their legacy as patrons of the arts, cultural influencers, and shapers of Italian history endures to this day.

The tower at the Palazzo Vecchio can be seen from most parts of the city.

10 Off-the-Beaten-Path Sites in Florence

Here are a few off-the-beaten-path places to check out in Florence, if you’ve already seen the make sites:

• San Miniato al Monte:  This church sits atop a hill overlooking Florence, offering breathtaking views of the city, along with beautiful frescoes and intricate mosaics.
• Bardini Gardens:  Often overshadowed by the Boboli Gardens, the Bardini Gardens offer a quieter experience with panoramic views.
• Palazzo Davanzati:  A lesser-known museum, this medieval palace provides an authentic glimpse into Florence’s history, showcasing the daily life of the city’s noble families during the Renaissance.
• Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano):  While not entirely off-the-beaten-path, this enclosed passageway connecting Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti is a unique experience, offering views over the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River.
• Museum of San Marco:  This former monastery houses remarkable frescoes by Fra Angelico, away from the crowds.
• Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella:  One of the oldest pharmacies in the world, dating back to the 13th century, where visitors can explore historical medicinal products and perfumes.
• Florence’s Street Art:  Wander through the Oltrarno district or other less touristy neighborhoods to discover vibrant street art and murals adorning walls and alleys.
• Stibbert Museum:  A unique collection of armor, weapons, costumes, and art from various cultures housed in a villa that once belonged to an English collector.
• Le Cascine Park:  This expansive park along the Arno River offers an escape from the city center, perfect for picnics, cycling, or walks.
• Orsanmichele Church and Museum:  This former granary transformed into a church showcases impressive sculptures on its exterior and houses artistic masterpieces inside.

FAQs About Spending 3 Days in Florence, Italy

Let’s tackle a few more frequently-asked-questions about spending 3 days in Florence, Italy. Many of these have already been answered above.

Is Florence a walkable city?

Absolutely. You can arrive at the train station, and take a cab if you have a lot of luggage, but otherwise you’ll be fine on your feet!

What should I pack for 3 days in Florence?

Of course, it depends on the season. In the fall, winter, and spring, pack layers which you can shed as the sun warms the day.

Regardless of the season, I’d pack:

• an umbrella
• an electrical converter
• comfortable walking shoes (that won’t slip on the stone streets)

Should I stay in a hotel or rent an Airbnb in Florence?

Florence has many great apartments to rent in historic buildings. 

If you’re traveling with friends or family, I’d definitely recommend renting an apartment with multiple bedrooms. It’ll give everyone space and privacy, plus a gathering point to hang out. It’s more economical than renting multiple hotel rooms, too!

What are other good day trip destinations from Florence or Rome?

In addition to San Gimignano, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Siena, Pisa and other spots from Florence, I’d recommend day trips to the gorgeous hilltop towns of Orvieto and Assisi (pictured below). They’re easy to get to from Rome!

Wrap: Is 3 Days Enough in Florence?

For me, 3 days is never enough in most cities, and that’s certainly true in Florence.

I envy all of the college students who choose to study abroad here, and get to really know the streets and the culture.

For the rest of us (with jobs and other responsibilities in life) three days can provide a wonderful introduction to Florence and the surrounding cities in Tuscany. 

It’s worth prioritizing your interests and choosing the attractions you connect most with. If it’s shopping, great! If it’s art, great!

Whatever your priorities and whichever path you choose over 3 days in Florence, I promise: every meal will be memorable!

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Zurich or Florence?
• Which is Cheaper, Zurich or Florence? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Florence?

• When to Visit Zurich or Florence?

Should you visit Zurich or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Florence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Florence: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Impressive beauty
• Less popular with backpackers
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)

Is there more to do in Zurich or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Zurich and Florence are roughly the same size, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums, food, and impressive beauty, while Zurich is more popular for its nightlife, music, and shopping. Florence is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Zurich different from Florence?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Florence?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Is the Food Better in Zurich or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Zurich has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Zurich and Florence.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Florence?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Zurich draws large crowds to its stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Families?

Zurich is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zurich is very family-friendly. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Students?

Zurich and Florence are both world-class destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zurich is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Zurich can get you to some places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Zurich or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Florence or Zurich?

How long in zurich or florence.

Both Zurich and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Zurich . Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Florence. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zurich, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Zurich. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Zurich if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.

• How many days in Zurich or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay Zurich 2-5   Florence   2-7

One day in Zurich or Florence?

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Florence?

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Florence?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Florence?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , and The Best Budget Tours to Italy .

Which place is cheaper, Florence or Zurich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Zurich Prices Switzerland Prices Florence Prices Italy Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Zurich $ 268 Florence $ 165

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, while the average daily cost in Florence is $165. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zurich and Florence in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Zurich $ 170 Florence $ 93
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Zurich $ 340 Florence $ 186

Compare Hotels in Zurich and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zurich

Hotels in Florence

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Zurich $ 36 Florence $ 23

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:

• City Pass (2) $ 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

• ST. Moritz Luxury Private Transfer to Zurich Airport: $1,425
• SUV LUXURY TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT ZURIGO to MILANO MALPENSA: $1,094
• TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT MILANO MALPENSA TO ZURIGO: $1,094
• Switzerland: Private Transfer to Interlaken & Grindelwald: $994
• Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Scuol: $866
• Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Gstaad Saanen: $657
• Private Transfer From Zurich Airport to Adelboden: $648
• TRANSFER VAN LUXURY DA AIRPORT ZURIGO A BASEL: $646
• Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Disentis: $643
• Privat Transfer Zurich Airport to Interlaken: $641
• Private Transfer Interlaken to Zurich Airport: $641
• Private Transfer From Zurich Airport to Thun: $620

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:

• Taxi Ride Within City $ 8.57
• Taxi from Airport $ 27
• In City Parking (Full Day) $ 32
• Bus Pass (Full Day) $ 5.36
• Bus From Airport $ 5.36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• From The Mall Firenze Shuttle Transfer: $15
• Shared Bus Transfer to/from Pisa Airport: $16
• Private Departure Transfer: Florence Train Station: $35
• Private Arrival Transfer: Florence Train Station: $35
• Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
• Florence Airport Private Departure Transfer: $48
• From La Spezia: Round-Trip Bus Transfer to Florence: $53
• Private Florence Airport to Hotel Transfer: $59
• Private Transfer: Florence City Center to Peretola Airport (FLR): $63
• From Round Trip Transfer to Cinque Terre: $64
• Private Oneway Transfer Florence Airport to Florence Hotels: $66
• Florence to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Departure Private Transfer: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Zurich change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Zurich $ 62 Florence $ 38

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:

• Breakfast for 2 $ 13

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:

• Panini Sandwich $ 6.96
• Casual Lunch (for Two) $ 18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $29
• Florence Street Food Tour, Market and City Center: $31
• Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $33
• Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
• Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
• Virtual Italian Meatballs Cooking Class, Live from Tuscany: $37
• Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $41
• Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
• Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $59
• Cooking Art Brunelleschi : $59
• 3- Cooking Making Spaghetti & Lasagna: $59

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Zurich $ 36 Florence $ 32

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

• (STTZ01) - Zurich Open Top Bus Sightseeing Tour : $24
• 007-Elegance: Exclusive Private Tour Schilthorn from Zürich: $633
• 3 Hours Private Tour Around Zurich: $222
• 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg: $100
• Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Zürich: $656
• Alpine Majesty:Zürich to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $808
• Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich: $128
• Best Intro Tour of Zurich with a Local: $155
• Best of Zürich & Surroundings: Walking Tour, Cable Car and Ferry: $89
• Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.95
• Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride : $73
• Bike Private Tour with Pickup and Drop off From Zurich: $115

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Admission to Uffizi $ 12
• Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi $ 4.29
• Firenze Card (for Two) $ 107
• Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two) $ 21
• Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee $ 6.43
• Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee $ 7.50

Tours and Activities in Florence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.

• Dark Mysteries and Legends Guided Walking Tour: $2.69
• Relive the Renaissance on a Guided Walking Tour: $2.69
• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
• Florence Walking Tour: $3.26
• The Best tour in Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER: $3.26
• Sunset Walking Tour: $3.28
• Private Tour to the Laboratory of Artistic Ceramics in Tuscany: $3.28
• Smartphone self guided Tour: $4.29
• Florence Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.50
• Galleria dell' Accademia Audio Guide (Ticket NOT included): $5.99
• Uffizi Gallery Highlights Audio Guide (Ticket NOT included): $5.99
• Florence and Pisa self guided tour: $6.45
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Zurich $ 29 Florence $ 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $33
• Informative wine tasting with Italian appetizers in the secure wine cellar: $155

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:

• Glass of Chianti $ 4.50
• Bottle of Wine $ 8.04

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
• Wine Tasting Activity at Chianti Rufina: $23
• Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $25
• Sip, Savor, Save! Youth Wine Tasting Tour with Appitisers: $28
• Wine Tasting Experience with Three Types of Tuscan Wine: $29
• Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
• Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
• Private Wine Tasting Experience in the heart of Tuscany: $33
• Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
• Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
• Wine Tasting Experience in Florence city centre: $44

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Florence, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Florence.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zurich Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive? .

Florence has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Zurich or Florence?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Florence. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Zurich 21°C (70°F)   Florence   25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zurich is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Florence. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Zurich 13°C (56°F)   Florence   16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Florence. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Zurich 3°C (37°F)   Florence   7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Florence. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

Zurich is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Florence during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Zurich 12°C (53°F)   Florence   14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Zurich

Related articles for zurich, related articles for florence.

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Zurich & Lucerne 3-Day Itinerary: Swiss Charms Unveiled

April 22, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through the picturesque cities of Zurich and Lucerne. Begin your Swiss adventure in Lucerne, where the Glacier Garden awaits with its fascinating monuments and museums, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient glacial history. Just a stone's throw away, pay homage to the iconic Lion Monument, a tribute to Swiss Guards. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, soaking in the historical ambiance before marveling at the Chapel Bridge, a testament to Lucerne's military heritage. On day two, ascend the Musegg Wall for panoramic views, then enjoy a leisurely City Train tour around Lucerne's landmarks. Spiritual serenity can be found at the Court Church of St. Leodegar, followed by a sweet adventure at the Swiss Chocolate Adventure. Conclude the day with an exploration of the Swiss Museum of Transport, a haven for enthusiasts. Zurich calls on day three, starting with the stained glass beauty of Fraumunster Church. The twin towers of Grossmunster stand as a historic beacon, leading you to the peaceful Lindenhof. Zurich's Old Town offers a journey back in time, and the Swiss National Museum caps off the itinerary with a deep dive into the country's rich heritage. This 3-day itinerary is designed to immerse you in the essence of Swiss culture and history, with each attraction revealing a chapter of the story that is Switzerland.

• Day 1: Discovering the Timeless Charms of Lucerne

Glacier Garden of Lucerne

Begin your Lucerne adventure at the Glacier Garden, a fascinating window into the city's ancient past. Just an hour at this unique attraction will transport you back in time with its array of geological monuments and intriguing museums. Nestled at Denkmalstrasse 4a, the Glacier Garden promises a journey through the remnants of a prehistoric landscape, right in the heart of Lucerne.

Attraction Info

• Denkmalstrasse 4a, 6006 Luzern, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Lion Monument

A short stroll from the Glacier Garden, the Lion Monument stands as a poignant tribute to the Swiss Guards. This emblematic sculpture, carved directly into the rock face, can be fully appreciated in a brief 10-minute visit. Located at Denkmalstrasse 4, the monument's powerful presence serves as a silent yet stirring narrative of Lucerne's history.

• Denkmalstrasse 4, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 10-15 minutes
• Open 24 hours

Immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Lucerne with a 2-hour exploration of the Old Town. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, you'll encounter a tapestry of historic buildings and charming squares. The Old Town, broadly defined by the area around the Perl Bridge, is a living museum where every corner tells a story, inviting you to become part of its ongoing legacy.

• Perl bridge can be regarded as the old city of Lucerne in a broad sense
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour

Chapel Bridge

Conclude your day with a visit to the iconic Chapel Bridge, a testament to Lucerne's military heritage. A mere 15-minute visit is enough to marvel at this historic bridge, which spans the Reuss River with its distinctive water tower. The Chapel Bridge, located at Kapellbrücke, is not just a crossing point but a landmark that captures the essence of Lucerne's storied past.

• Kapellbrücke, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 15-30 minutes

Where to Stay Tonight

Hotel des alpes, boutique hotel weisses kreuz - adult only hotel.

• Day 2: Lucerne's Historic Walls to Sweet Delights

Musegg Wall Lucerne

Kicking off the second day in Lucerne, step back in time with a visit to the Musegg Wall Lucerne. This historic site, nestled within the heart of the city, is a half-hour journey into the past. The well-preserved ramparts and towers offer a glimpse of medieval Lucerne, and the panoramic views from atop are a photographer's delight. It's a perfect start to the day, setting the tone for the cultural treasures ahead.

• Auf Musegg, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 4/1-11/1,8:00am-7:00pm

City Train Luzern

Next, embark on a charming ride with the City Train Lucerne, a sightseeing tour that offers a unique perspective of the city's landmarks. Over the course of an hour, you'll be whisked through the bustling streets and quaint alleys, all while soaking in the narratives and anecdotes that bring Lucerne's history to life. It's a leisurely way to transition from the ancient walls to the spiritual serenity of your next stop.

• Schweizerhofquai, Lucerne
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour

Court Church of St. Leodegar

Continuing the day's exploration, the Court Church of St. Leodegar awaits. Spend an hour marveling at this iconic church, a testament to Lucerne's religious heritage. The church's twin spires dominate the skyline, while its intricate interiors are a showcase of craftsmanship. The peaceful ambiance provides a reflective respite from the day's adventures, inviting visitors to admire its art and architecture.

• St. Leodegarstrasse 6, 6006 Lucerne
• Open from 7:00am-7:00pm

Swiss Chocolate Adventure

As the afternoon unfolds, indulge in the Swiss Chocolate Adventure, a delectable journey housed within a planetarium-like setting. This one-hour experience is a feast for the senses, blending the rich history of Swiss chocolate with interactive exhibits. It's a sweet interlude that promises to be as educational as it is tasty, perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages.

• Lidostrasse 5, CH-6006 Lucerne

Swiss Museum of Transport

Conclude your day with an extended visit to the Swiss Museum of Transport, the largest museum of its kind in Switzerland. Over two hours, dive into the fascinating world of mobility and communication. With its vast collection of vehicles, interactive displays, and hands-on exhibits, it's a place where history meets innovation. It's an ideal finale to a day filled with discovery and delight in Lucerne.

• Lidostrasse 5, 6006 Luzern, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 1/1-12/31(Winter),10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 1/1-12/31(Summer),10:00am-6:00pm

Villa Maria

Grand hotel europe.

• Day 3: Divine Architecture and Historical Splendor in Zurich

Fraumunster Church

Begin your final day with a serene visit to Fraumunster Church, an iconic Zurich landmark renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall. Nestled in the heart of the city at Münsterhof, this church isn't just a place of worship but a canvas of vibrant colors and artistry that captures the morning light in a celestial dance. Spend an hour here, and let the tranquility set a contemplative tone for the day.

• Münsterhof 2, Zurich 8001 Switzerland
• Open from 3/1-10/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status on special dates is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Grossmunster

Just a short walk from Fraumunster, the majestic Grossmunster awaits as your second stop. This twin-towered church is not only a testament to Romanesque architecture but also a cornerstone of Zurich's history. With its doors open to history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike, spend an hour exploring the site where the Swiss-German Reformation was ignited, and enjoy panoramic views of Zurich from its Karlsturm tower.

• Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zurich
• Open from 3/1-10/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status during special opening hours is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

After delving into Zurich's ecclesiastical heritage, take a leisurely stroll to Lindenhof, an oasis of tranquility amidst the city bustle. This historic hilltop area offers a peaceful respite along with a picturesque vantage point overlooking the old town and the Limmat River. Spend an hour here, absorbing the stories etched into its pavements, and bask in the same spot where Roman castles once stood.

• 8001 Zurich, Switzerland

Next, immerse yourself in the cobblestone charm of Zurich's Old Town. As you wander through the narrow alleys for a couple of hours, let the echoes of the past guide you through a labyrinth of medieval buildings, bustling squares, and quaint shops. Each corner of this historic site is a narrative waiting to be discovered, making it the perfect setting to conclude your cultural exploration.

• Zürich, Switzerland

Swiss National Museum

Cap off your Zurich journey with a visit to the Swiss National Museum, housed in a fairy-tale castle at Museumstrasse. With just an hour to spare, dive into Switzerland's cultural history, from ancient times to the present day. The museum's extensive collection showcases the nation's artistic and historical treasures, providing a fitting finale to your three-day adventure through Zurich and Lucerne.

• Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
• Open on Thu,10:00am-7:00pm;Open on Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status during special opening hours is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Hotel Bristol Zurich

Hotel continental zurich mgallery by sofitel.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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• Global Tastemakers

10 Top US Cities for Food and Drinks, According to the Experts

Hawaii's capital and Maine's waterfront food hub make the list.

SARAH KARLAN/The New York Times/Redux

For the 2024 Global Tastemakers list of the Best Cities for Food and Drinks in the United States, New York retained the No. 1 spot. We’re also excited for some newcomers gaining recognition: Honolulu; Portland, Maine; and Washington, D.C., nabbed our panel's attention and have asserted their place among the finest food cities in the country. Here's the full list of where to travel and taste this year.

New York City

Melina Mara/The Washington Post via Getty Images

It’s hard to find another American city that can satisfy any food craving as easily as New York. From a burrata slice at L'Industrie Pizzeria , to Pearl Pie at Superiority Burger , to dreamy drinks at Sappe , New York City possesses the uncanny ability to deftly balance classic cuisine with the latest trends. Korean fine dining restaurants have enjoyed a surge of new openings, with Meju , Coqodaq , Naro , and Nōksu leading the way.

New Orleans

Andriy Blokhin / Alamy

New Orleans dining is all about seamlessly bridging the old and the new. You’ll find classic Creole fare at stalwarts like Dooky Chase Restaurant and Brigtsen’s , while Dakar Nola , Wild South , and 2022 F&W Best New Chef Ana Castro’s highly anticipated Acamaya are contributing to the city’s modern culinary culture.

MICHELLE LITVIN/The New York Times/Redux

No matter your budget or appetite, Chicago’s wonderfully diverse food scene has you covered. Try a Filipino tasting menu at Kasama , a Cambodian fried chicken sandwich at Hermosa’s , tacos at Birrieria Zaragoza’s , or a classic Italian beef sandwich at Al’s or Johnnie’s , for a sample of the endless options.

Austin rose to the No. 4 spot from 10 on this year’s list. Home to 2023 F&W Restaurant of the Year Birdie’s as well as 2023 F&W Best New Chef Edgar Rico of Nixta Taqueria, each year the city manages to find new ways to impress. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out Rico’s guide to the best of Texas’ capital, from baguettes to ramen.

Los Angeles

LAUREN JUSTICE/The New York Times/Redux

Few cities champion boundary-pushing concepts better than Los Angeles. Crowds snake down the block at Anajak Thai for 2022 F&W Best New Chef Justin Pichetrungsi’s Thai Taco Tuesdays, while 2023 F&W Best New Chef Hannah Ziskin crafts thick pan pizzas and layer cakes at Quarter Sheets. If you’re looking for one of the city’s best wine bars for pours without pretension, The Ruby Fruit offers a smart selection of natural wines from an easy-to-miss strip mall location.

Peter Frank Edwards/Redux

Given its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston is renowned for its fresh seafood and abundance of notable raw bars such as Leon’s Oyster Shop and The Ordinary . There are loads of other iconic dishes you shouldn’t pass up as well, including Bertha’s Kitchen’s okra soup, whole-hog barbecue at Rodney Scott’s , and Peninsula Grill’s coconut cake.

ALFONSO DURAN/The New York Times/Redux

Miami has always been a deeply international city, and the range of its food scene has only grown in recent years. At Maty’s in Midtown, 2023 F&W Best New Chef Valerie Chang turns out bold Peruvian plates (huancaina-smothered choclo, oxtail saltado), while MiMo’s Phuc Yea mashes up Vietnamese and Colombian flavors (think Wagyu Churrasco with lemongrass ponzu). As for who makes the best Cuban sandwich? That’s a never-ending debate, and many locals endorse Sanguich De Miami .

Washington, D.C.

Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post via Getty Images

Though Bad Saint shuttered in 2022, the trailblazing Filipino restaurant that thrust D.C.’s culinary scene into the national spotlight almost a decade ago inspired a new wave of dining in the nation’s capital that continues today. Kevin Tien’s Moon Rabbit now carries the torch for inventive and uniquely modern Vietnamese food, while charming pizza bar The Little Grand offers eclectic pizza and wine pairings. Other highlights include 2022 F&W Best New Chef Rob Rubba’s vegetable-centric Oyster Oyster as well as 2023 F&W Best New Chef Isabel Coss and Matt Conroy's new Pascual , where wood-fired Mexican fare has piqued the interest of diners from D.C. and beyond.

Portland, Maine

Quickly becoming one of the premiere culinary centers of the Northeast, Portland, Maine, offers can’t-miss dining opportunities like the wallet-friendly omakase at Izakaya Minato , sourdough Neapolitan pizza at Quanto Basta , and housemade rigatoni tossed in meat ragu and dandelion greens at Leeward . At Cocktail Mary , most evenings evolve into an impromptu dance party — one that’s inclusive, affordable, and most importantly, fun.

MICHELLE MISHINA KUNZ/The New York Times/Redux

An ideal day in Hawaii’s capital might begin with a hearty breakfast at chef Lee Anne Wong’s Koko Head Cafe before slowly making your way to Helena’s Hawaiian Food for a late lunch, where the no-frills institution sends out earthen-oven cooked Kalua Pig and Poi. Last, Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka’s MW Restaurant is a dinner destination renowned for stylish takes on Hawaiian comfort food and whimsical desserts like Michelle’s MW Candy Bar.

Plus One: Seattle

RUTH FREMSON/The New York Times/Redux

In recent years, food entrepreneurs have made their mark across the Emerald City with clever concepts including the Asian-inspired cake cafe Paper Cake Shop , “Seattle Soul” destination Communion , and trendy sister bars La Dive Queen Anne and Rich Rich . For further recommendations, 2023 F&W Best New Chef Aisha Ibrahim, fine dining institution Canlis' first female executive chef in 74 years, shares her Seattle city guide .

Global Tastemakers is a celebration of the best culinary destinations in the U.S. and abroad. We asked more than 180 food and travel journalists to vote on their favorites, including restaurants and bars, cities, hotels, airports, airlines, and cruises. We then entrusted those results to an expert panel of judges to determine each category's winners. In many categories, we've included a Plus One, hand-selected by our expert panel, to shout out more culinary destinations we don't want our readers to miss. See all the winners at foodandwine.com/globaltastemakers .

Related Articles

• Switzerland
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Zurich, Switzerland

While Zurich is the financial and business capital of Switzerland , there is still plenty to see and do in and around the city, from relaxing in quiet, peaceful parks to exploring quirky shopping areas in refurbished industrial sites. Here are 19 of the must-visit attractions that you don’t want to miss.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Zurich Old Town

If you head to the Lindenhof area on the River Limmat’s left bank, you’ll reach the heart of the city’s old town . Many of Zurich’s must-sees (Grossmünster, Fraumünster, St Peterskirsche and the Bahnhofstrasse) dot its streets.

Many decades ago the Paradeplatz was a livestock market, but now it’s home to banking headquarters and some of the most expensive pieces of real estate in Switzerland. The square, in the centre of the Bahnhofstrasse, is also the site of a perilous X-crossing for trams, which looks like an accident waiting to happen.

Zurich Opera House

Since 1891, the Zurich Opera has made its home inside a neoclassical building, adorned with busts of famous musicians, poets and playwrights; Shakespeare, Mozart and Wagner are just a few of the faces on display. The Opera House is also the home of the Zurich Ballet. It always has a wide array of shows and performances.

Kunsthaus Zürich

The Kunsthaus Zürich contains more than 4,000 paintings and sculptures, along with tens of thousands of prints and drawings, and is the best place in the country to explore pieces by Swiss artists . Alongside the homegrown talent, the museum displays plenty of works by world-famous artists as well. It’s easy to while away a few hours here.

Head to the top of Zurich’s local mountain, the Uetliberg, to take in panoramic views of the city, Lake Zurich and the not-too-distant Alps. It’s accessible all year round, but the best time to visit is in the spring when the mountain flowers begin to blossom.

It may not have the allure of the glitzy Bahnhofstrasse, but the Viadukt has more charm. Shops and restaurants of all kinds sit under the archways of a railway viaduct, turning an otherwise bland industrial scene into a quirky shopping street worth exploring.

Lake Zurich

There is no better way to enjoy Lake Zurich than along the lakeside promenade. During summer, it’s always bustling with people, including skaters, cyclists and walkers. Along the path, there are incredible views from the Bürkliplatz, while towards the Seefeld quarter is the splendid Chinese Garden.

Bahnhofstrasse

This world-famous shopping street is packed with designer outlets, banks and restaurants. Whether you’re in the market for something fancy or just want to window-shop, you’ll find yourself here at some point walking along its 1.4km (1mi) promenade.

Rieterpark is Zurich’s biggest public park, and on clear days, the Glarus Alps glimmer on the horizon. It’s also home to the Museum Rietberg ; it lies inside a 19-century villa near the centre of the park and contains a unique collection of art from around the world.

FIFA World Football Museum

Spread over three floors, the FIFA World Football Museum is a sports lover’s paradise. You can easily spend an afternoon here, wandering through its halls decorated with more than 1,000 exhibits, which includes items from the very first World Cup tournament in Uruguay in 1930.

Chinese Garden

Gifted to Zurich in 1993 by its Chinese partner town Kunming, the Chinese Garden is dedicated to the “Three Friends of Winter”, representing pine, bamboo and plum blossom. Sitting along Lake Zurich, the garden is one of the best Chinese gardens outside China.

While smaller than Rieterpark, Platzspitz is no less beautiful. At the tip of the triangular-shaped park is where Zurich’s two rivers, the Limmat and the Sihl, meet. While it was overrun with drug addicts in the 1990s, the park of today is a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Grossmünster

This famously austere church sparked the Protestant Reformation in Switzerland in the 16th century, but the building dates back even further – to the 12th century. Due to its part in creating the Switzerland of today, it is considered to be one of the most important churches in Zurich.

MoneyMuseum

Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world. In 2020, it tied with Paris as the fifth most expensive, so there is perhaps a no better place to learn about the history of money. The MoneyMuseum is part of a private collection and includes many unique items, such as antique coins, that you won’t see anywhere else.

Botanical Garden

If you want to immerse yourself in the scents of the Amazon or explore the flora of the Alps, Zurich’s Botanical Garden is the place to visit. Maintained by the University of Zurich, it holds more than 7,000 different plant species within 53,000sqm (570,487sqft), meaning you’ll have plenty to explore.

Cabaret Voltaire

Cabaret Voltaire is where Dadaism was born , and it retains the same quirkiness as when it first opened more than 100 years ago. Take in the genre-breaking artwork, sip some absinthe and you may begin to understand Dadaism – but probably not.

Swiss National Museum

The Swiss National Museum comprises three museums and a collection centre, all of which hold more than 860,000 artefacts, from the start of civilisation to the present day. It’s the most visited museum complex in the country for good reason.

Zoological Museum

Discover the native fauna of Switzerland at the Zoological Museum, which has more than 1,500 animals from across the country and beyond. The first floor displays those species found in Switzerland, many of which are now endangered, meaning you’re unlikely to see them in the wild.

St Peter’s Church

Not to be outdone by the history of Grossmünster, the St Peter’s Church boasts an 8.7m (28.5ft) clock face, the largest in Europe. It’s also the oldest church in Zurich, with its foundation dating back to the ninth century.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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