What's Worth It
Where to stay
Belmond Villa San Michele
Blending 14th-century artistry with the region’s ethereal beauty, Belmond Villa San Michele is as inspiring as the city’s greatest cathedrals and galleries. Their facade, attributed to Michelangelo, is hugged by lush woodland and terraced gardens. Step outside and gaze down across Florence and to the Chianti hills beyond.
Hotel Lungarno
Built on the Arno River overlooking the iconic Ponte Vecchio, Hotel Lungarno has arguably the most sought after address of all of Florence. Having been completely renovated in 2017, the flagship hotel of the Ferragamo Lungarno Collection has never looked better. The 65 room, boutique hotel has an art collection worthy of the walls of the Uffizi Gallery and a private terrace hanging over the Arno River.
Things to do
Duomo
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo for short, is Florence’s most iconic attraction. Giorgio Vasari’s Last Judgement adorns the massive dome high above the cathedral, leaving tourists with strained necks and dropped jaws.
Piazza della Signoria
Arguably the best people watching spot in Florence, Piazza della Signoria is one of the city’s main squares where people gather to enjoy a drink, gelato or admire the sculptures in front of Palazzo Vecchio. Grab a seat at Rivoire’s Terrace and order an apperitivo for an authentic Italian experience. Via de’ Tornabuoni is arguably the most famous shopping street in Florence. The elegant street is a perfect mixture of old world charm and standout specialist stores that make it a true gem. Designer names such as Giorgio Armani, Dolce and Gabbana and Salvatore Ferragamo adorn the facades of the 14th century buildings, luring the Florentine elite.
Where to eat
La Bottega del Buon Caffe
Using products grown in their own garden, Creative Head Chef, Antonello Sardi has earned the reputation as one of Tuscany’s most talented young Chefs. His philosophy for using the freshest local ingredients with care and imagination has earned him a Michelin Star. Antonello’s philosophy means seasonal menus and exciting new dishes are constantly being perfected.
Trattoria Sostanza
This hole in the wall, no frills Tuscan fare has been serving signature dishes since 1869. Known for its long, wooden communal tables, you’ll be rubbing elbows with locals or celebrities while chowing down on their famous bistecca alla Florentina or Pollo al burro. The short, relatively affordable menu includes well – priced wines, meringue cake with wild strawberries and plenty of Tuscan specialties. Reservations are not required, but highly recommended.
Buca dell’ Orafo
Another timeless classic eatery, this basement wine cellar-turned restaurant is small on space but big on soul. Diving deep into Tuscan classics like Pan Roaster Rack of Lamb with Rosemary, Funghi Porcini or Maltagliati pasta, this might be one of the best meals you’ll find in Florence. Staying true to its wine-cellar past, Buca dell’ Orafo has a great wine list.
