CS Guide to Florence
A Tavola!
Ale's Guide to Florence
This may need to become part of a larger series-there are far too many places to list, and I keep thinking of more as a I write! I've tried to go slightly off the beaten path, though a few classic tourist spots are famous for a reason. I love Florence, and I've been going since I was little. My father was born in a small village just 30 minutes outside of the city, so we'd often pop in and out when I was younger.
Consider this a short breakdown of what to see if you get the chance to score a few days in the city.
Where to Eat...
1. Cantinetta Antinori: While there are a few locations around the world, this Florence outpost feels like a true gem. It offers a fantastic culinary experience paired with Antinori’s renowned wine selection, all set within a beautiful historic palazzo. It’s an ideal, cozy spot to begin your Florence adventure, and a wonderful alternative if you’re short on time and unable to visit the famed Antinori vineyard itself.
2. I Fratellini & Ino's: Skip All'Antico Vinaio, no panino is worth that queue. Instead, head to Ino, right on the Arno near Ponte Vecchio, or I Fratellini, just by Piazza della Signoria. Both are long-standing hole-in-the-wall spots serving some of the best panini in Florence-without the wait!
3. Frescobaldi: Another iconic cantinetta celebrated for its wine and Tuscan classics- especially the bistecca. Centrally located and a longtime family favorite of ours. I even hosted my bachelorette party here, so it’s safe to say this spot knows how to show a good time...
4. Cantinetta dei Verrazzano: My all-time favorite breakfast, lunch, and aperitivo spot in Florence. Start your morning with a latte macchiato and a fresh pomegranate juice (when in season), plus one of their incredible pastries. Pop back in for lunch and order the La Cecina Toscana, a famous Tuscan chickpea crepe, served with cheese or cured meats. Add a glass of wine and a little cheese, and it’s truly the perfect place to begin-and end your day!
Where to Shop...
1. Gerard: A longtime favorite for Italian outerwear-cool brands, great finds for men and women, plus their own line is fantastic.
2. Gioielleria Quarant'otto: This incredibly unique jeweler still practices the old-school Florentine techniques of jewelry making-intricate Florentine carving and open working, all carried out by skilled craftsmen. Fun fact: my husband found his wedding band here just two days before our wedding *eye roll*.
3. Ugo Poggi: A dream stop for any tabletop lover, Ugo Poggi offers an exquisite edit of silverware, lighting, crockery, and decorative objects. Timeless Italian pieces that instantly elevate the table and home.
Where to Explore...
1.Ivo Angel: If you’re up for a road trip, make your way to Cortona (~1.5 hours from Florence) and stop by the most beautiful handmade ceramic store-a treasure trove of Tuscan craftsmanship.
2. Castellina in Chianti: I’m particularly partial to this quaint little town as it’s where I got married. A beautiful medieval gem in the Chianti region, it’s home to incredible vineyards, charming restaurants, and idyllic B&Bs.
3. Villa le Corti- A beautiful castello and vineyard tucked away in San Casciano, just 20 minutes from Florence. Home to a wonderful Osteria, it offers a truly authentic Tuscan experience with locally produced wine, seasonal dishes, and their own olive oil.
I would be thrilled to hear your feedback after you explore any of these spots —until next time!
