Many of us know Florence as the cradle of the Renaissance. But that’s not all we can say about this incredible Italian city – in fact, Florence attracts millions of tourists to this day with its palaces, museums, and distinctive city architecture. What many still don’t know – beneath the Uffizi Gallery and the thronged Piazza del Duomo, there is an authentic and not less majestic side of Florence for those who want to uncover the city’s incredibly rich tradition.
Places, where the art still lives
We know Florence as being both the inspiration and the home city of Michelangelo and Botticelli, but now its true artistic soul lives in the work of local artisans who are still keeping centuries-old traditions alive. Just take a walk through the Oltrarno, the Santo Spirito and San Frediano districts, and you will find small workshops dedicated to goldwork, leather goods, and marbled paper production. One of them is the Scuola del Cuoio, a leather school, where artisans create beautiful leather goods using Renaissance methods, or discover the workshop of Giulio Giannini e Figlio, where exquisite hand-marbled paper has been produced since 1856.
Piazzale Michelangelo offers his visitors a classic panoramic view, but for those curious about hidden spots, there are lesser-known locations waiting to be discovered, such as the Bardini Garden. Unlike the often-packed Boboli Gardens, this green paradise is a peaceful refuge offering truly unique and breathtaking views over the city. Also don’t miss another local secret spot, the Oblate Library’s terrace, which is just a few minutes from the Duomo. Few tourists know about this peaceful oasis, but it is exactly where you can take a moment to enjoy a coffee with a stunning view of Brunelleschi’s dome.
It’s also worth noting that relaxing in a 5-star hotel in Florence can definitely make your experience even more memorable. With the right accommodation, you can be completely immersed in the city’s charm and yet receive world-class service and the perfect blend of luxury and authenticity.
The Florentine cuisine
Florentine cuisine goes far beyond bistecca alla fiorentina and city-center gelato. Discover the Sant’Ambrogio Market where locals shop for fruits and vegetables, regional cheeses and other products, and take a taste of them or buy the original sets of local delicacies and sweets as a gift for your loved ones. If you want to try the authentic local cuisine, the Trattoria Da Rocco serves unpretentious home-style Tuscan supper at rates far lower than those of tourist restaurants. For a taste of Florence’s street food, search for a lampredotto street stand. This traditional dish, presented as slow-cooked tripe, is among the most well-known and liked Florentine dishes. Try it at L’Antico Trippaio close to Piazza della Signoria or Sergio Pollini in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood.
The magic of Florence at night
While most visitors flee to their hotels after evening meals, nighttime Florence is another world.
- Steer clear of the tourist bars and head to Rasputin, a hidden cocktail bar in the Oltrarno district. This dimly lit, intimate space dispenses well-mixed cocktails in a setting that evokes the 1920s.
- For music lovers, see Teatro del Sale. This private club, established by renowned chef Fabio Picchi, includes live shows with a buffet Tuscan supper.
Step off the beaten path, uncover the city’s secrets, and you’ll discover a Florence that truly feels like your own. Enjoy your Italian holiday!