Florence isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a full-blown move-in-and-never-leave kind of food fantasy. Between the silky handmade pasta in Florence, bold Tuscan wines, truffle panini, and that perfectly torched crème brûlée in Florencethat haunts your dreams (just me?), this city knows how to seduce your tastebuds.

But to truly experience the best food in Florence—the real, soulful, nonna-approved kind—you have to eat like a local in Florence. That means ditching the tourist traps and finding where the locals grab their espresso, snack on Florentine street food, linger over aperitivo, and indulge in late-night traditional Tuscan desserts.

This isn’t just a list of restaurants—it’s your ultimate Florence food guide. From cozy trattorias to bustling Florence markets, and creamy gelato made in small batches, this is the way to taste the city the way it’s meant to be savoured.

Start with the Morning Ritual: Coffee and Pastries

Florentines don’t do big breakfasts—no pancakes, no omelettes, and certainly no avocado toast stacks. Morning here is about quiet elegance and daily ritual. Locals float into their neighbourhood bar (aka café), often dressed to impress even if just grabbing a cappuccino, and they greet their barista like an old friend. There’s usually a murmur of conversation, the hiss of steaming milk, and the sound of cups gently clinking onto marble counters.

Then comes the order: a short, intense espresso or a creamy cappuccino, always made with care and always served al banco—standing at the counter. It’s not just a caffeine hit, it’s a moment of pause. A ritual of slowing down before the day speeds up.

And of course—pastries. The cornetto, Italy’s subtler cousin to the French croissant, is flakier and lightly sweetened, often filled with jam, chocolate, or custard. But my personal favourite? The sfoglia alla crema—buttery, golden pastry layers surrounding a cloud of vanilla custard that’s somehow both rich and delicate. You take one bite and it shatters softly, leaving flakes on your sweater and joy in your soul.

📍 Where to go:

Caffè Gilli: A literal time capsule of Florentine glamour, Caffè Gilli has been pouring cappuccinos since the 1700s — and stepping inside feels like entering a bygone era of chandeliers, mirrored walls, and soft clinking of china.
Sure, it’s a bit touristy, but sitting outside in Piazza della Repubblica, espresso in hand, watching the world go by? Pure magic.
Whether you’re savouring a delicate pastry or just soaking up the old-world atmosphere, Gilli is 100% worth the splurge.

Melaleuca Firenze: Bright, buzzy, and very local, Melaleuca brings a slice of Aussie café culture to the heart of Florence.
Come for the artisan coffee, stay for the banana bread with espresso butter (yes, espresso butter!), cardamom buns, and an all-around warm, friendly vibe.
It’s the perfect stop for a more relaxed, brunch-style break from the tourist crowds — and you’ll definitely be tempted to linger.

Caffè Scudieri: Right on Piazza del Duomo, Caffè Scudieri serves up old-school elegance just steps from Florence’s most iconic landmark.
Order a cappuccino and a sfoglia alla crema (a flaky, custard-filled pastry that’s pure heaven) — then enjoy a moment of pure Italian ritual: standing at the bar, sipping, and soaking it all in.

💡 Tiff Tip: Never order a cappuccino after 11 AM unless you want to out yourself as a tourist. And remember—standing is cheaper and far more Italian. Sit only if you plan to stay a while and soak it all in.

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Mid-Morning Snack: Truffle Panini or Lampredotto

Now that the caffeine’s kicked in and you’ve walked through at least one charming piazza, it’s time for a proper snack. In Florence, that means something delicious, handheld, and possibly a little daring.

Let’s start with lampredotto, the city’s most iconic street food. This isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a generational love letter to Tuscan tradition. Made from the fourth stomach of the cow (yes, fourth—this isn’t your average deli meat), it’s slow-cooked in a herby broth until tender, then tucked into a crusty bun, dunked in broth again, and topped with salsa verde and sometimes spicy oil.

The texture is melt-in-your-mouth soft, and the flavour? Savoury, herbal, umami-rich. It tastes like the countryside in winter—comforting and oddly nostalgic, even if it’s your first bite.

Not feeling that adventurous? Fair. Florence also delivers on decadence with the truffle panini. Paper-thin slices of salty prosciutto, creamy pecorino, and a whisper (or generous slather) of truffle spread all pressed into warm, pillowy focaccia. When you bite into it, the truffle aroma hits first—deep, earthy, slightly musky—followed by the nutty cheese and the salty meat. It’s indulgence, wrapped in carbs.

📍 Where to go:

All’Antico Vinaio: Beloved. Legendary. Absolutely worth the line.
All’Antico Vinaio has earned its cult status for good reason — their panini are stacked with salty cured meats, creamy cheeses, and decadent spreads (get the truffle one if you know what’s good for you).
The bread? Perfectly crispy on the outside, pillowy on the inside.
Grab your panino, wander to a quiet piazza nearby, and devour it perched on a fountain ledge — preferably with prosciutto juice dripping down your wrist.
This is Florence at its most deliciously unfiltered.

Da Nerbone: Hidden inside the buzzing Mercato Centrale, Da Nerbone is the place to try lampredotto — Florence’s iconic slow-cooked tripe sandwich.
Yes, it’s adventurous, but if you love bold, comforting flavours, it’s an absolute must.
Pull up a stool, slather it in salsa verde and a few drops of spicy oil, and prepare yourself for a total flavour bomb: rich, herby, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
The vibe here is fast, noisy, and all kinds of glorious.

La Prosciutteria Firenze: La Prosciutteria is what happens when your Tuscan daydreams come to life.
Rustic wood interiors, hanging prosciuttos, overflowing cutting boards of cheese and charcuterie, and panini piled high with salty, savoury goodness.
Come early (even if it’s only 11 a.m.) — order a panino, a bold Tuscan red, and snag a corner seat to soak up the cozy, wine-soaked magic.

💡 Tiff Tip: Not sure how to season your lampredotto at Da Nerbone?

Pro move: Ask the vendor — locals swear by a heavy spoonful of salsa verde plus a drizzle of spicy oil for max flavour.
And if you’re just wandering and need a quick pit stop, La Prosciutteria is perfection for a rustic snack-and-wine break without the touristy fuss.

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Lunch Like a Florentine: Steak, Truffles & Tuscan Comfort

Florentines take lunch seriously—as they should. Midday is when locals pause for a proper meal, not just a quick bite, and the dishes? Oh, honey. They’re bold, hearty, and unapologetically rustic.

The undisputed star of the show? Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This isn’t just steak—it’s a rite of passage. Cut thick from prized Chianina cattle, grilled over a wood fire until the crust crackles, and served so rare it’s practically still mooing (and proud of it). This is not a dish you order solo or lightly—it’s dramatic, primal, and deeply Tuscan.

But if red meat isn’t your jam, Florence still delivers. You’ll find truffle tagliolini so fragrant it could double as a perfume, stuffed zucchini flowers crisped just right and filled with creamy ricotta, or a seafood risotto that tastes like summer on the coast.

📍 Where to go:

Trattoria Mario: A no-frills, old-school favourite that locals swear by—and where tourists earn their foodie stripes. Expect a packed house, communal seating, handwritten menus, and servers who move fast. The bistecca here is the real deal: thick, juicy, perfectly charred, and served with absolutely zero fanfare (because it doesn’t need it).

📝 Tiff Tip: Show up early or be ready to queue—the restaurant opens for lunch only, and once they’re out of steak, that’s it for the day.

Ristorante Perseus: A little outside the touristy centre but so worth the stroll. Ristorante Perseus oozes classic Florentine vibes: think white tablecloths, rustic charm, and a menu that doesn’t mess around. Their bistecca alla Fiorentina is legendary—arriving sizzling, gorgeously charred on the outside, and juicy-rare in the middle, just the way it should be. Portions are huge, so come hungry (or ready to share).

📝 Tiff Tip: Pair your steak with a bold glass (or bottle) of Chianti Classico—it’s practically mandatory. 🍷

Trattoria Cammillo: If you’re craving a slightly more elegant lunch option (without losing that cozy Florentine feel), Trattoria Cammillo is perfect. A favourite since the 1940s, it has a cult following for its homemade pastas and seasonal seafood dishes. Try the lemon tagliolini or the truffle gnocchi if you’re skipping steak—but still want to eat like an absolute queen.

📝 Tiff Tip: Cammillo’s wine list is excellent—don’t be shy to ask the staff for a pairing. They’ll steer you toward something deliciously local.

Bonus Tip: Bistecca alla Fiorentina is best shared—one steak can easily feed two (or more!), especially if you’re pairing it with sides and wine. And speaking of wine, go for a bold Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino to stand up to all that rich, meaty goodness.

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Pasta Perfection: Pappardelle al Cinghiale & Ribollita Comfort

Florence might be known for steak, but let’s be honest—Tuscany’s real love affair is with comfort food. We’re talking slow-simmered, olive oil-drizzled, rib-sticking dishes that warm you from the inside out.

Start with pappardelle al cinghiale—wide, velvety ribbons of pasta cloaked in a rich wild boar ragù that’s been bubbling away for hours. The flavour is deep and complex: slightly gamey, a bit smoky, and laced with the kind of herby, red-wine richness that makes you want to write poetry to your plate. It’s autumn in a bowl, no matter the season.

Then there’s ribollita, the ultimate Tuscan “peasant dish” that somehow feels luxurious. Cannellini beans, cavolo nero (Tuscan kale), and chopped vegetables are cooked down with day-old bread—yes, bread—until it transforms into a thick, nourishing stew. It’s the kind of dish that says: You’re home now. Best eaten slowly, ideally outside on a sunny patio with a glass of Chianti in hand and absolutely no plans afterward.

📍 Where to go:

Osteria Santo Spirito: Cozy, candlelit, and tucked away on the bohemian side of the Arno, Osteria Santo Spirito is the kind of place where every table feels like its own little world.
The vibe? Rustic, warm, and buzzing with locals.
The food? Outrageously good.
Their pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragu) is soul food in the truest sense — slow-cooked, deeply savoury, and paired perfectly with a generous pour of Chianti.
Grab an outdoor table on Piazza Santo Spirito if you can — nothing beats twirling pasta under the glow of string lights while the piazza hums around you.
Bonus: the truffle gnocchi here is almost dangerously good — creamy, rich, and so delicious it feels slightly illegal.

Trattoria Zà Zà: Sure, Trattoria Zà Zà is popular with tourists — but sometimes places are packed for a reason.
Their ribollita (Tuscan bread soup) is the real deal: thick, hearty, and packed with earthy flavour that tastes like it’s been simmering in a nonna’s kitchen all afternoon.
The lively setting near Mercato Centrale makes it an ideal lunch stop — fuel up, then wander the market stalls after. (A very Florence kind of afternoon.)

📝 Tiff Tip: See pici, tagliatelle, or anything “al tartufo” (truffle)? Order it immediately. Tuscany takes pasta very seriously, and every forkful tells a story of tradition, terroir, and nonna-level mastery.

Bonus tip: Always ask your server for a wine pairing. Tuscany’s house reds are almost always incredible — and wildly affordable compared to North American prices.

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Afternoon Gelato: The Real Deal

Here’s a universal truth: gelato in Florence is a daily requirement, not a suggestion. But not all gelato is created equal—and some of it is straight-up tourist bait (we see you, neon-blue Smurf flavour 😬).

Real gelato artigianale is made fresh daily in small batches using seasonal, high-quality ingredients. You’ll know it’s the good stuff when it’s tucked away in lidded metal tins called pozzetti—quietly chilling like it doesn’t need to shout for attention. Avoid the places with rainbow peaks piled higher than your travel budget.

So, what to try? Pistachio should be nutty, rich, and subtly salty—not lime green. Nocciola (hazelnut) should taste like Nutella went to culinary school. Stracciatella should have that satisfying crunch of dark chocolate in creamy vanilla. Feeling adventurous? Try flavours like fig, ricotta with pear, rosemary honey, or the kind of dark chocolate that makes your knees go weak.

📍 Where to go:

Gelateria dei Neri: A local favourite that lives up to the hype, Gelateria dei Neri serves some of the best gelato in Florence — rich, flavourful, and perfectly balanced. Their pistachio (earthy, nutty, not neon green!) and ricotta-pear (creamy with a hint of delicate fruitiness) are absolute must-tries. Nothing here tastes overly sweet or artificial — just pure, smooth goodness that melts perfectly on your tongue. Warning: you will be tempted to come back twice a day. And honestly? You should. 🍨

📝 Tiff Tip: If you can’t decide (and you won’t be able to), get a small cup with two or three flavours — the portions are generous!

La Carraia: La Carraia is dangerously good — and dangerously affordable. Their gelato is outrageously creamy and full of deep, rich flavour without feeling heavy. The dark chocolate in particular is practically a mood: silky, intense, and totally transportive.Plus, its prime location near the Arno River makes it the perfect excuse for a sunset stroll with cone in hand — aka, peak Florence vibes.

📝 Tiff Tip: Grab your gelato and wander towards Ponte alla Carraia for one of the prettiest sunset views in the city. Bonus points if you pause mid-bridge for that perfect Instagram shot.

Vivoli Gelateria: One of the oldest and most respected gelaterias in Florence, Vivoli is old-school — in the best possible way. Here, gelato isn’t piled sky-high in flashy colours; instead, it’s thick, custardy, and deeply flavourful, with classic combos that have stood the test of time. The vibe is straightforward and no-frills — because when the gelato is this good, it speaks for itself.

📝 Tiff Tip: Don’t get distracted by flashy displays. If the gelato looks like a cartoon colour palette, it’s probably not the real deal. And always—always—get a second scoop. You’ll regret it if you don’t.

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Aperitivo Time: Relax and Unwind with Wine and Snacks

Aperitivo in Florence isn’t just a pre-dinner drink—it’s a sacred daily ritual. Golden hour hits, the piazzas start to glow, and you’ll hear that fizzy clink of glasses all around town. This is when Florence slows down and slips into something a little more sparkling.

Traditionally, aperitivo includes a glass of wine or a cocktail served with little bites—crostini, olives, cheese, cured meats—often on the house if you’re ordering drinks. The idea is to whet your appetite, not replace dinner (though let’s be honest, sometimes the snacks are dinner).

And Florence? She does aperitivo with flair. Think historic palazzos with mixology menus, cozy wine bars tucked into stone alleyways, and even ancient wine windows—tiny arched portals in the walls where nobles once sold vino during the plague. (Florentine pandemic innovation? Iconic.)

📍 Where to Go:

Locale: Tucked inside a stunning Renaissance palace, Locale feels like you’ve slipped into a James Bond movie — think vaulted ceilings, moody lighting, and bartenders who treat cocktails like an art form.
The drink menu is wildly creative (and delicious), but the real star is the full aperitivo experience, where even the small bites feel Michelin-level. Come here when you’re ready to splurge a little and live your best secret agent life.

Le Volpi e L’Uva: Small, cozy, and beloved by locals, Le Volpi e L’Uva is an essential stop for true wine lovers.
Tucked just steps away from the busy Ponte Vecchio, it feels a world apart — rustic wooden stools, a handwritten wine list, and zero touristy vibes inside.
Order a glass of Chianti Classico or orange wine, and pair it with their famous crostini sampler — the finocchiona(fennel salami) crostini is non-negotiable.
It’s the kind of spot where one glass quickly turns into three… and nobody’s mad about it.

Babae: Yes, it’s a little touristy. But honestly? It’s worth it.
Babae has revived Florence’s historic wine windows — tiny openings in the walls that were originally used during the plague so people could buy wine safely.
Today, you can knock, hand over a few euros, and get a cheeky glass of wine passed through the wall. It’s quick, casual, and so uniquely Florentine that you’ll be smiling all the way down the street with your glass.

📝 Tiff Tip: When in doubt, order a Negroni—it was invented right here in Florence, after all. Or try an orange wine for something unexpected and wonderfully funky. Pair with a salty cheese or a little bowl of olives and voilà—you’re doing aperitivo like a local.

Dinner: Pasta, Wine, and Vin Santo

Dinner in Florence is an experience—unhurried, indulgent, and wrapped in candlelight. It’s when the city exhales and the air fills with the scent of garlic, grilled meats, and wine swirling in deep bowls.

Start with pici all’aglione, a thick, chewy pasta drenched in a garlicky tomato sauce that clings to each strand like it’s in love. Or try tagliata di manzo—sliced Tuscan beef, seared perfectly rare, scattered with rosemary and often laid over a bed of arugula and shaved parmesan. It’s rustic, elegant, and absolutely swoon-worthy.

And to end? Cantucci dipped in vin santo. The almond biscotti soften in the golden dessert wine just enough to melt on your tongue, leaving behind warm notes of honey, nuts, and Florentine magic.

📍 Where to go:

Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori: Tucked away on a side street near Piazza della Signoria, Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori feels like stepping into someone’s cozy Tuscan kitchen — if that kitchen happened to serve some of the best food in Florence. The handwritten daily menu is short, rustic, and completely driven by what’s fresh and in season. Expect traditional dishes like pappa al pomodoro (Tuscan bread and tomato soup), hearty pici pasta with wild boar ragù, and rich, slow-cooked meats that taste like they’ve been simmering for hours. for hours.The osteria itself is tiny — maybe eight or ten tables at most — and the vibe is casual, friendly, and utterly unfussy. No tourist-trap energy here — just genuine, homemade food served with pride.

📝 Tiff Tip: Reservations are absolutely essential — often days in advance. It’s cash-only too, so come prepared!

Buca Lapi: Hidden underneath the historic Palazzo Antinori, Buca Lapi is a true Florentine institution — and it feels like it. The interior is all exposed brick arches, old wine barrels, and red-checkered tablecloths, giving it the timeless atmosphere of a place that’s been serving unforgettable meals for over a century. The specialty here is the legendary bistecca alla fiorentina — a thick-cut, juicy T-bone steak, traditionally cooked over a wood fire and served rare to medium-rare (as it should be). Paired with a robust Tuscan red wine, it’s the kind of meal that feels almost ceremonial. The menu is proudly Tuscan beyond the steak, too, with offerings like hand-rolled pastas, hearty soups, and decadent desserts. The service is old-school and charming — no rush, just an invitation to slow down and savour the evening.

📝 Tiff Tip: Portions are generous — plan to share the bistecca if you’re not ready for a true “go big or go home” moment!

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Save Room for Dessert: Sweet Endings in Florence

You didn’t come all the way to Florence to not have dessert, right?

Sure, gelato is the obvious star—but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a whole world of Florentine sweets waiting to steal your heart.

There’s zucotto, a dome-shaped sponge cake soaked in liqueur and filled with whipped cream and chocolate. Or schiacciata alla fiorentina, a delicate orange-scented cake dusted with powdered sugar, typically eaten during Carnival. And of course, cantucci e vin santo, the iconic Tuscan duo that turns humble biscotti into a sensory event.

Also: if you’re a crème brûlée fan, Florence does not mess around. That first crack of the torched sugar crust, followed by a spoonful of silky custard? Pure romance.

📍 Where to go:

Pasticceria Nencioni: Tucked away from the tourist crowds, this neighbourhood pastry shop is a true Florentine gem. Locals pop in for flaky, buttery schiacciata alla fiorentina (a soft, lightly sweetened cake dusted with powdered sugar), and the vibe here feels delightfully unchanged by time. No fuss, no frills — just authentic, delicious desserts enjoyed the way nonnas intended: standing at the counter, chatting with friends, and soaking up the simple pleasure of a perfect pastry.

Caffè Rivoire: A Florence institution that feels like stepping back into the 19th century. Overlooking the grand Piazza della Signoria, this café oozes old-world elegance — think polished wood interiors, marble counters, and bow-tied waiters. Their hot chocolate is legendary: thick, velvety, and so rich it’s practically a dessert on its own. (It’s basically like drinking a molten chocolate bar… and worth every luxurious sip.) Perfect for a mid-afternoon break after wandering the Uffizi.

Procacci: Tiny but oh-so-chic, Procacci is one of those places you could easily walk past — but you definitely shouldn’t. It’s a little jewel box of a café known for its miniature pastries, bite-sized sweets, and delicate, old-school service. The kind of place where you order a glass of bubbles and a dainty sweet, and suddenly feel like you’ve been let in on a very refined Florentine secret. Bonus: it’s right on Via Tornabuoni, Florence’s luxury shopping street, so it makes the perfect indulgent pit stop.

📝 Tiff Tip: No matter where you end up, pair your dessert with a glass of vin santo — a golden Tuscan dessert wine that tastes like a cozy mix of honey, dried fruits, and almonds. Traditionally served with cantucci (almond cookies for dipping), it’s basically the sweet, slow-paced vibe of Florence in a glass — and the perfect way to end a Florentine feast.

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Don’t Miss the Markets: Fresh, Local Ingredients

Florence’s markets are so much more than places to buy produce—they’re a living, breathing slice of daily life. Locals shop for lunch. Chefs scout for ingredients. And food-lovers? We show up for the experience.

Expect stalls overflowing with glossy olives, aged pecorino, cured meats, fresh pasta, and sun-ripened tomatoes that smell like summer. You’ll find truffle spreads, honey from Chianti, and dried porcini mushrooms by the handful. It’s a playground for the senses.

📍 Where to go:

Mercato Centrale: Part traditional market, part modern foodie paradise, Mercato Centrale is a must for any hungry traveller.
Downstairs, you’ll find rows of traditional stalls brimming with fresh produce, cheese, meat, and Tuscan specialties — it’s a slice of real, everyday Florence.
Upstairs, it transforms into a buzzing, industrial-chic food hall where you can grab everything from handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza to fresh oysters and Negronis.
Pull up a stool, order a few bites from different vendors (no judgment here), and let the lively, aromatic atmosphere pull you in.
It’s the kind of place where one glass of wine easily turns into two… and maybe a plate of tiramisu after that. 🍷🍝

Sant’Ambrogio Market: If you want a truly local market experience — no frills, no tour groups, just real Florentine life — head to Sant’Ambrogio Market.
Early mornings are best: locals stream in with their shopping bags, scooping up seasonal produce, just-baked breads, and wheels of pecorino straight from nearby farms.
The outdoor stalls buzz with colour and chatter, while the small indoor market is packed with butchers, fishmongers, and tiny trattorias slinging hearty Tuscan plates.
Don’t miss the focaccia stands — warm, chewy, and still glistening with olive oil — it’s the kind of simple pleasure that’ll have you planning your next trip back before you even leave.

📝 Tiff Tip: Staying in an Airbnb or just love to cook? Stock up on goodies and try your hand at a DIY Tuscan meal. Even if you’re not cooking, a few market-bought cheeses and a bottle of wine make for a dreamy picnic.

🛏️ Florence – Recommended Hotels for Food Lovers

Florence is a feast for the senses—and not just at the table. Whether you want to stay steps from a bustling food market, sip espresso with a rooftop view, or rest up after a bistecca-induced food coma, these handpicked hotels deliver charm, location, and major foodie cred.

🍷 Best Boutique Stays with Local Flavour

These hotels put you close to Florence’s culinary heart—whether that’s a trattoria-lined piazza or the city’s most beloved wine bars.

• 💎 Hotel Palazzo Guadagni (Santo Spirito): A romantic, Renaissance-era palace with a rooftop terrace and unbeatable location near the Oltrarno’s best trattorias and aperitivo spots.
• 🌿 La Maison du Sage (Santa Croce): Chic, artsy, and perfectly placed near wine bars, panini shops, and the historic centre. Breakfast is bellissimo.
• 🧁 AdAstra Boutique Hotel (Oltrarno): Tucked inside a private garden, this stay has a dreamy breakfast room and major “hidden Florence” vibes.

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🍽️ Best for Market-Lovers & DIY Foodies

Want to browse Sant’Ambrogio or Mercato Centrale, then whip up your own Tuscan feast? These hotels and aparthotels make it easy.

• 🧺 Oltrarno Splendid (San Frediano): Colourful, eclectic, and just a short walk from Santo Spirito’s wine windows and trattorias.
• 🍅 Residence La Contessina (San Lorenzo): Spacious studios and apartments right near Mercato Centrale. Cook, chill, repeat.
• 💸 Hotel Delle Camelie (Santa Maria Novella): Budget-friendly, no-frills, and within sniffing distance of fresh pasta and market stalls.

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🥂 Classic & Central with a Side of Elegance

Want to walk off your three-course lunch and be close to everything? These hotels are central, stylish, and soaked in Florentine charm.

• 💼 Hotel Santa Maria Novella (Near train station): Elegant interiors, beautiful breakfast spreads, and walkable to both Mercato Centrale and aperitivo o’clock.
• 🍷 Hotel L’Orologio (Piazza Santa Maria Novella): A wine-themed hotel with sleek decor and a front-row seat to the Florence hustle. Perfect for vino lovers.

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💸 Florence – Budget-Friendly Picks (Under €150/night)

Looking for charm without the splurge? These hotels and guesthouses offer clean, comfy rooms and great locations—so you can spend your money where it matters (aka more truffle panini).

• 💤 Hotel Della Signoria (City Center): A super central 3-star stay just steps from Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio. Affordable, spotless, and close to all your foodie stops.
• 🎨 Hotel Alessandra (Near Uffizi): Simple but charming 2-star hotel inside a 16th-century building. Great location and service, plus views from some rooms!
• 🧳 Hotel Balcony (Santa Maria Novella): Tiny balconies with Duomo views, basic but cozy rooms, and walking distance to everything. Great value for the price.
• 🛏️ Hotel Bavaria (Santa Croce): A quirky little guesthouse in a historic building with frescoed ceilings and budget rates. Shared bathrooms in some rooms—but the location is gold.

🍽️ Pro Tip: Florence is compact, so no matter where you stay, you’ll never be more than a stroll away from a killer bowl of pici or a well-aged Chianti. That said, the Oltrarno and Santo Spirito neighbourhoods tend to have more of that local, lived-in vibe—ideal for true food immersion.

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Conclusion: Eat Like a Local and Savour Every Bite!

Florence’s food is more than just a meal—it’s a way to immerse yourself in the local culture, traditions, and daily rhythm of the city. From sipping espresso standing at the bar, to savoring every bite of a perfectly cooked bistecca alla Fiorentinaor spooning up the last bit of gelato under the Tuscan sun, every dish tells a story. The key to falling in love with Florence? Eat like the locals do—passionately, leisurely, and with appreciation.

Feeling hungry yet? Which dish are you dying to try first?

🍷 If you’re planning a bigger Italian adventure, be sure to check out my upcoming guide: Taste, See, and Experience Italy: A 12-Day Journey Through Cinque Terre, Florence, and Venice—packed with even more food stops, travel tips, and jaw-dropping scenery.

Start planning your foodie adventure today and make your trip unforgettable!