Florence
Stay
L’Antica Torre (The Ancient Tower)
My parents and I stayed in L’Antica Torre and we loved it! The apartment is beautiful and so interesting with all of its history. We loved to meet the owner, Gianni and learn the history of the tower and how he renovated it. The apartment is spacious and incredibly clean. I could not believe the location, it is smack in the heart of everything. We enjoyed walking across any of the bridges to get out of the city center a bit and found prices for food less and a bit less touristy. The tower is a 5 story walk up which made us feel like we could indulge in pasta and gelato.
www.airbnb.com
Eat
*All dinners in Florence it is best to make a reservation.
La Ménagère – best for cappucino and light food
Via dè Ginori 8r | San Lorenzo Neighborhood
www.lamenagere.it
This unique modern space is a perfect setting to get some early morning (they open at 7) work in while drinking a cappuccino. It draws a trendy crowd of both locals and tourists.
Cafe il Sole – best for casual lunch
Via Guelfa 25r | San Lorenzo Neighborhood
We went to the Marceto Centrale for lunch, not realizing the main floor is closed on Sundays. Fortunately we stumbled upon this eclectically decorated, think rose decorated tablecloths, christmas lights and Italian soap operas on the tv cafe. Food was great and prices were even better. I had my go to pesto gnocchi followed by a cappuccino. Interior decor is cute and cozy and they have outside dining. A great alternative to the Marceto Centrale when in the Saint Lorenzo area. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Mangiafoco Caffè | Dinner or Glass of Wine/Cheese
Borgo Santi Apostoli, 26
+39 055 265 8170
This cute restaurant was a few steps from our Airbnb. We came here for a glass of wine and ended up staying for dinner. Food is yummy, interior is cozy, staff is very friendly.
Cantinetta Delle Terme | Dinner
Via Delle Terme 14r
+39 055 239 6084
This restaurant was downstairs from our Airbnb. Although it is located just one block off the main drag, it has fair prices and not too touristy. I really enjoyed the ribollito soup and they have nice wine by the glass. Make a reservation and request to sit on the main floor.
SAN SPIRITO NEIGHBORHOOD – Staying in the city center can be overwhelming crowded, not to mention expensive for dining. I love finding the spots that locals love. The San Spirito Neighborhood is a short walk across the bridge (one or two up from the Ponte Vechio).
Trattoria Giovanni | Dinner
Via Sant’ Agostini, 38R | San Spirito Neighborhood
Loved this tiny restaurant. Here I enjoyed bruscetta with pecorino and truffles to start. Followed by picci pasta with ragu. We had dinner here, they are also open for lunch.
www.tattoriagiovanni.it
Trattoria Angiolino | Dinner
Via di Santo Spirito, 36 R | San Spirito Neighborhood
+39 055 239 8976
Fun scene, big bar which you can dine at which is not common in Florence. We left at 11:00 and there were still people waiting to sit down.