Florence Concierge n. 5

An ancient shop full of history and antique pieces, from chimneys and chandeliers to studded safes and venetians blinds dressers. Among curious and rare items’ collection, Albrici also offers since 15 years an accurate female’s luxury vintage choice. Clothes, jewelry, bags, hats, designer or old handicraft accessories. This is what makes Albrici Recollection a magic shop and a unique landmark in Florence.

bi-monthly magazine

Official magazine of the Tuscan Association of Hotel concierges “Les Clefs d’Or” www.florence-concierge.it

PRESIDENT Alessandro Marchese

COORDINATION

Sergio Ianno a PUBLISHER

Alex Vi orio Lana & Ma eo Parigi Bini

EDITOR IN CHIEF Ma eo Parigi Bini

MANAGING EDITOR Martina Olivieri

EDITORIAL STAFF

Teresa Favi, Francesca Lombardi, Virginia Mammoli

COVER

Column of Abundance in Piazza della Repubblica ph. Lorenzo Cotrozzi

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lorenzo Cotrozzi, Andrea Dughe i, Dario Garofalo, Pierpaolo Pagano Pasquale Paradiso, O avia Poli, Pressphoto

ART EDITORS

Martina Alessi, Melania Branca

TRANSLATIONS Centotraduzioni, Tessa Conticelli

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING DIRECTOR Alex Vi orio Lana

ADVERTISING

Nicola Brigandì, Alessandra Nardelli, Monica Offidani, Stefano Papini

EDITORIAL OFFICE

Gruppo Editoriale via Cristoforo Landino, 2 - 50129 Firenze - Italy ph +39 055 0498097 - www.gruppoeditoriale.com

Florence Concierge information is registered with the Court of Florence under n°2491

Questo periodico è associato alla Unione Stampa Periodica Italiana

PRINT Baroni & Gori copyright © Gruppo Editoriale srl

WELCOME TO FLORENCE

TEXT Alessandro Marchese PresidentoftheTuscanAssociationofHotelconcierges“LesClefsd’Or”

Dear Guest, We wish you a very warm wel come to Tuscany, on behalf of all the Golden Key concierges. Flor ence Concierge Infor mation is our concrete commitment to make your stay in our region a truly memorable ex perience.

In this magazine you’ll find all the informa tion you might need and, above all, our sug gestions for the best the city has to offer in November, December, January and February. In Florence, every month is unique and special, with fabulous one-off events. Let’s

COUNCIL MEMBERS

President Alessandro Marchese

Vice President Sergio Iannotta

Secretary Romano Pallai

Treasurer Andrea Oppoliti

Councilor Michele Paonessa

Councilor Antonio Pagano

Councilor Simone Spulcioni Councilor Adriano Pecoraro Councilor Jacopo Chierici Councilor Aldo Maestosi senior Councilor Antonio Mitrione senior Past President Francesco Brunori senior

explore them together. In this issue, provided personally by us to you, we’ll tell you about the events you shouldn’t miss, exhibitions hap pening in the city, and restaurants that are worth visiting to sam ple authentic Tuscan cuisine.

But what else can you do in Florence during winter time, admire the most beautiful statues in the city, go shopping and much more.

What’s more, we’re at your disposal at our counter, delighted to receive your enquiries and questions. Have a wonderful stay.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

1PITTI UOMO

10 - 13 January 2023

Fortezza da Basso

The menswear trade show will be held at Florence’s Fortezza da Basso from January 10 to 13, 2023 with a rich program of events, designers from all over the world and innovative must-see projects.

SHOWS, FASHION AND FOOD: ALL THE MOST IMPORTANT WINTER EVENTS IN TOWN

TASTE FIRENZE

4 - 6 February 2023

Fortezza da Basso

Taste, the Pitti Immagine trade show offering the best of Italian food and wine and contemporary culinary cultures, is back. This year at Fortezza da Basso again, where visitors can experience a new and exciting journey through the diversity of tastes.

STEFANO MASSINI

14 - 18 December

Teatro della Pergola

Stefano Massini stages The Interpreta tion of Dreams, based on the book by Sigmund Freud. The playwright puts his storytelling cap back on for this show which highlights a mosaic of characters who, by describing their dreams, form a symphony of images and possible inter pretations that the audience is familiar with and can relate to.

DON CARLO 27 December – 8 January 2023

Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

Don Carlo, the Italian version of the Don Carlos, is the fourth and final work by Giuseppe Verdi based on a play by Schiller. It will be staged from December 27 to January 8, in four acts for 5 repeat performances - conducted by Maestro Daniele Ga i - in the Sala Grande of Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fio rentino.

THE NUTCRACKER 27 December Teatro Verdi

5Teatro Verdi presents a reworked sta ging of the famous ballet. A brilliant performance, full of verve, in a fresh and contemporary style. Nothing is missing: from the Christmas tree to the snowfall, from the sumptuous staging and costu mes to pointe shoes… with a touch of renewal.

FIRENZE MARATHON 27 November

The charm of centuries of art, history and culture accompany you, step by step, along the 42 kilometers and 195 meters of the Firenze Marathon race. A unique experience which only the participants can describe and which has become a must-do event for thousands of runners and walkers from all over the world. AT MAGGIO MUSICALE FIORENTINO FROM 27 DECEMBER TO 8 JANUARY 2023 DON CARLO, THE ITALIAN VERSION OF THE FINAL WORK OF GIUSEPPE VERDI

Ponte Vecchio dal 1926

ART APPOINTMENTS

1HENRY MOORE IN FLORENCE

Until 31 March 2023 Piazza della Signoria and San Miniato al Monte

A tribute event 50 years a er his unforge able exhibition at Forte Belvedere in 1972. The city pays homage to the English master by exhibiting “Family Group” and “Large Interior Form”, respectively in two symbolic places: Piazza della Signoria and the Chur chyard of the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte, perfectly set within the historical and artistic heritage of Florence.

OLAFUR ELIASSON: NEL TUO TEMPO

Until 22 January 2023

Palazzo Strozzi

The largest exhibition ever organised in Italy, dedica ted to one of the most original and visionary contem porary artists of our time. Famous for his immersive installations that involve the visitor, Olafur Eliasson invites us to reflect on the idea of a shared and relatio nal experience of reality.

TONY CRAGG. I’M A SCULPTURE FAN!

Until 15 January 2023

Museo Novecento

A large solo exhibition that features a se lection of sculptures and drawings inside the cloister of the Museo Novecento. This project has been designed as a mediation tool aimed at presenting not only the wor ks of the English master, but also the cre ative process of one of the most famous exponents of contemporary sculpture.

FABRIZIO PLESSI

Until 31 March 2023

Palazzo Bartolini Salimbeni

Until November 18, Tornabuoni Arte hosts an exhibition showcasing 30 works by Fabrizio Plessi. And, until March 31, 2023, a video installation by Plessi will be shown on the façade of Palazzo Bartolini Salimbeni, which houses the Roberto Casamonti Collection.

ELLIOTT ERWITT

20 October - 22 January 2023

Villa Bardini

The exhibition celebrates the works and career of the great Erwi , who turns 94 this year. Photos offering a glimpse into the history and way of life of the twen tieth century through portraits of great movie stars and personalities looking beyond the celebrity façade and ge ing to the real person.

ESCHER

20 October - 26 March 2023

Museo degli Innocenti

The great exhibition devoted to the brilliant artist Maurits Cornelis Escher is on view at the Museo degli Innocenti until March 26, 2023. An anthological exhibition featuring about 200 works among those par ticularly significant and the most iconic by the Dutch genius.

Scoprila al Centro Porsche Firenze.

Scoprila al Centro Porsche Firenze.

Centro Porsche Firenze PWP S.r.I.

Via De’ Cattani 81, Firenze Tel. 055 308328

Centro Porsche Firenze PWP S.r.I.

Via De’ Cattani 81, Firenze Tel. 055 308328

Centro Porsche Approved & Service Arezzo

PWP S.r.I.

Centro Porsche Approved & Service Arezzo

PWP S.r.I.

Via Giacomo Konz, 63/65, Arezzo Tel. 0575 98641 www.arezzo.porsche.it

Via Giacomo Konz, 63/65, Arezzo Tel. 0575 98641 www.arezzo.porsche.it

MATE CASHMERE

Via Prato 62, Montemurlo (Prato)

MAGLIFICIO DENNY

Via Santa Gonda 3/5, Prato

CASUAL, WITH STYLE

Comfortable apparel to wear from morning to evening, but with colours and styles that let the meticulous a ention to trends and details shine through

BY Francesca Lombardi

BOTTEGA DI SGUARDI

Via G. Marconi 19/Fr, Firenze

Via del Parione 54r, Firenze

BIANCHI E NARDI

Via Vacchereccia 15r, Firenze

CELLERINI

Via del Sole 9 (1st floor), Firenze

GIOTTO FIRENZE

Via Guicciardini 58r, Firenze

BLUMARINE

at McArthurGlen Barberino Designer Outlet

CASSETTI

Ponte Vecchio 54r, Firenze

VALENTINO

Via de’ Tornabuoni 23, Firenze

TRY ME

Via Porta Rossa 42r, Firenze

SPECIAL NIGHT

Crossing the city and taking refuge in intimate, private places, wearing pieces in sought-a er materials made even more exquisite by sophisticated details

BY Francesca Lombardi

ATELIER RANGONI

Via Maggio 51r, Firenze

SCUOLA DEL CUOIO

Via San Giuseppe 5r, Firenze

ANNAMARIA CAMMILLI

Via Vacchereccia 12r, Firenze

SABRINA TONELLO

Via Vincenzo Gioberti 32/34r, Firenze

SARTORIA VESTRUCCI

Via di San Niccolò 2, Firenze

ROLEX

at Cassetti Rolex Boutique, Ponte Vecchio 29r, Firenze

SILENO CHELONI

Via di San Niccolò 72r, Firenze

EXCLUSIVE CHOICES

Elegant, at times impeccable, he favours made to measure and allows himself a touch of amusing eccentricity in details and accessories

BY Francesca Lombardi

GIOTTO FIRENZE

Via Guicciardini 58r, Firenze

IL BORGO CASHMERE

Via Tosinghi 46r, Firenze

STEFANO

BEMER

Via di San Niccolò 2, Firenze

ACQUA DELL’ELBA

Via dei Calzaiuoli 45r, Firenze

EXPERTISE DI MARZIO CINELLI

Via Romana 136/138r, Firenze

ALBRICI

Via dei Serragli 20r, Firenze

HOME LIKE ME

Home, a place of the heart, to fill with objects that are like us, telling of our many diverse facets and our personal style

BY Francesca Lombardi

CAMPOMARZIO

Via della Condotta 65r, Firenze

STEFANO RICCI

Via dei Pescioni 1, Firenze

BORALEVI FIRENZE

Via Maggio 16r, Firenze

FOR A SPECIAL MEMENTO

Barberino Designer Outlet, an experience to be enjoyed all year round and its magic Christmas atmosphere

TEXT Virginia Mammoli

Seeking something more than the usu al shopping spree? There is a place where not clothes at very reasonable which is also a veritable experience combining hospitality. We are talking about the Barberino Designer Out let in the green Mugello hills at only a half-an-hour drive from Florence. In a unique setting built in over 120 clothing, acces sories, home design, per fumery and food shops,

to classic elegance lovers discount ed up to 70%. Are you thinking that Black Friday days from November 18 to 28 take in the festive scenery and the magic atmosphere

with a large Christmas Tree , decorations and plays of light the little ones Santa Claus activities specially Christmas home with you by going to The Christmas Store lovely objects - Christmas quotes or with whatever

LET’S DISCOVER FLORENCE WITH IACOPO CHIERICI

As a Chiavi d’Oro Concierge of Westin Excelsior Hotel in Florence, here are a few tips to those visiting the city to help them get the most out of their stay

I was born in Florence in 1971 and I began my career as a trainee hotel concierge in the late 1980s. I graduated in 1990, I did my national ser vice and, in 1992, I moved to England, to Stratford Upon Avon, where I got a job as a waiter.

I came back to Florence in December 1993 and I began working full-time at the Con cierge Dept. of the Grand Hotel (the current The St. Regis Florence). I started off as the hotel’s telephone op erator and then, step by step, pageboy, doorman, assistant

Concierge and, finally, Con cierge. I moved to the Associ ate Westin Excelsior in 2004 as assistant to the Head Con cierge where I still work pas sionately. In 2006, I became a member of LES CLEFS D’OR. I enjoy meeting people from all over the world and share life and travelling experienc es; I enjoy helping guests ex plore the beauties of Florence and Tuscany. I love Florentine traditions, my favorite one is a quick lunch at one of the local food kiosks with a pani no al lampredo o and a good glass of Chianti wine!

OPERA DEL DUOMO MUSEUM

Founded in 1891 and completely renovated in 2015, it is one of the world’s major museums for the value and breadth of its art collection.

THE OLTRARNO

Walks through the picturesque streets and piazzas of the San Frediano and Santo Spirito neighborhoods along the other bank of the river. Here in Oltrarno it is still possible to have a taste of the local life.

ADVICECONCIERGE

CHURCH OF OGNISSANTI

Located off the major tourist path, this church is a true art and architectural gem. It houses the beautiful Crucifix by Gio o, which has been recently restored, and the frescoes by Ghirlandaio. Adjoining the church is the cloister with the Last Supper.

SE·STO ON ARNO

Located on the roo op of Hotel Westin Excelsior: a culinary experience with a breathtaking view of the city. An open-air museum to be admired in all its beauty.

BUCA LAPI

The city’s oldest “ buca”, located in the wine cellars of Palazzo Antinori, in the heart of the downtown commercial area. Traditional cuisine paired with regional wines; excellent Florentine-style steak.

BRAISED BEEF CHEEKS

We discover the recipe of this traditional dish from Tra oria 4 Leoni

TEXT Martina Olivieri

Located in Piazza della Passera, one of the historic squares in the heart of Flor ence between Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pi i, Tra oria 4 Leoni is a typical Tuscan restaurant with a smart contemporary atmosphere, offering authentic food that varies with the seasons and market availability. One of their signature dishes is braised beef cheeks with Bo re ane onions, but how is it made? Let’s find out.

PREPARATION: In a large pan, gently fry the garlic,

rosemary, bayleaves, white onion, celery and carrot. Meanwhile, trim the beef cheeks, dust with flour and brown in a separate pan. Add these to the vegetables, with enough Sangiovese red wine to cover. Cover and cook for three hours on a low heat, adding vegetable stock if needed. Remove the meat, blitz the vegetables and strain the result, then continue cooking to reduce and concentrate the flavour. Plate the beef cheeks and cover with the sauce; gar nish with Bore ane onions sautéed with bay, rosemary, thyme, balsamic vinegar and chestnut honey.

CURIOSITY HUNT

Wandering around the centre of Florence, we discover together some sculptures that hide legends and secrets

TEXT Salvatore La Spina PHOTO Lorenzo Cotrozzi

The tradition of beautifying the city has ancient origins; a num ber of sculptures in an cient Florentia have been documented as far back as Roman times. This good custom does not appear to have been lost during Me dieval times, as can be seen from the activities of the Florentine guilds which competed to commission works by the best artists and so glorify Florence and their own corporations. During the Renaissance, commissions by the Medici and other important fam ilies contributed to giving

the city the appearance of an open-air museum. Many of these statues are surrounded by incredible

of illustrious men with those of common folk, the lives of artists such as Do natello, Verrocchio and Buontalenti with works built by Roman emperors, and legends that entwine with events that really hap pened.

stories and anecdotesevents that unite the lives

The Column of Justice in Piazza Santa Trinita is an imposing oriental gran ite obelisk that originated from the Baths of Caracal la. It seems that Pope Pius IV gave the column to Co simo I, and that the Grand Duke had it erected in 1554 on the site where he had first received the news of the victory over Siena.

IncredulityofThomas

MEDICI AND OTHER IMPORTANT FAMILIES CONTRIBUTED TO GIVING THE CITY THE APPEARANCE OF AN OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

StatueofWinterbyTaddeoLandini, SantaTrinitabridge

SpringbyPietroFrancavilla, SantaTrinitabridge

ColumnofAbundance, PiazzadellaRepubblica

The monument was complet ed in 1581 with the placing on the summit of a pink porphy ry statue of Lady Justice wear ing a bronze cloak. A truly cu rious story, perhaps invented, surrounds the monument. It seems that a er the statue had been erected, some pre cious gems disappeared from the stalls of the jewellers on Ponte Vecchio. Some young men were unjustly accused of the the s and forbidden to set foot on the Bridge. Howev er, the disappearances con tinued until, many years later, when the statue was being cleaned, the precious gems were found on the plates of the scales - a magpie had

made its nest and hidden its precious loot there for all that time!!

A short distance from the

monument is the Santa Trin ita Bridge, considered by

many to be the most beauti ful in Florence. In its present form, it appears as it was built in 1557 by Ammannati by order of Cosimo I. The sand stone structure surprises for the elegance and beauty of the decorations. The ends of the bridge are adorned with four marble statues repre senting the Four Seasons, while it seems the sinuous design of the arches was the idea of Michelangelo, who suggested the elliptical lines already put into practice in San Lorenzo. Other curious and li le-known decorative elements are the great heads of Aries in the centre of the four arches.

Marzocco

THE COLUMN OF JUSTICE IS AN IMPOSING ORIENTAL GRANITE OBELISK THAT ORIGINATED FROM THE BATHS OF CARACALLA

SpringbyPietroFrancavilla, SantaTrinitabridge(details)

AutumnbyGiovanniCaccini, SantaTrinitabridge

HeadofAries,SantaTrinitabridge

According to tradition, the Aries were considered to be the guardians of the Arno - the one facing the Ponte Vecchio protected Florence from the river’s flood waters, while the one facing Ponte del Carraia protected the city from en emy armies coming up the Arno.

How much these powerful creatures actually protect ed Florence is uncertain, but it is certain that a er the 1944 bombardments, the protomes were fished out and replaced on the bridge as protection for the city.

Also surrounded by in triguing legends is the

famous Marzocco by Do natello, a copy of which can be seen in Piazza del la Signoria. For centuries, the lion has been depicted holding the Florentine coat of arms, protecting the red

lily, the city’s emblem.

Of uncertain origin, in the Divine Comedy, Dante re calls the curious legend according to which, in an cient times, the city was dedicated to Mars. It seems a statue of the god stood near the Ponte Vecchio, and that a flood swept it into the Arno in the Middle Ages.

The Florentine Republic then decided to erect a Lion, a symbol of power and political authority, to protect Florence.

When Donatello sculpted the lion, it was called Mar zocco, from the Latin marto cus (li le Mars), in honour of the ancient Roman divinity.

ColumnofAbundance,PiazzadellaRepubblica

THE ARIES ON THE SANTA TRINITA BRIDGE WERE CONSIDERED TO BE THE GUARDIANS OF THE ARNO

Column of Justice in Piazza Santa Trinita

StatueofSummerbyCaccini, SantaTrinitabridge

L’essenza del mare acquadellelba.com

StatueofSummerbyCaccini, SantaTrinitabridge(details)

Another statue that has ties with the origins of Florence is the Column of Abundance (or of Plenty) in Piazza della Repubbli ca. The statue stands on the site where the cardo and decamus of the an cient city intersected. Ac cording to the Romans, it was good luck to erect a column at the intersection of the two main roads, the place where the Forum, the Campidoglio and the Tem ple of Augustus were also sited. The Roman column stood for centuries, until 1431, when it collapsed and was replaced by a new one, surmounted by a statue by Donatello.

We end our itinerary at the Church of Orsanmichele where, together with other statues, a copy of Verroc chio’s Incredulity of Thom as is sited (the original is inside the building). It is

said that St. Thomas was a saint not only very dear to the Merchants’ Guild, but also to the Medici. In deed, it seems that Piero the Gouty and his son, Lo renzo, took part as workers in the creation of the stat ue. How much the scion of the Medici family actually physically laboured in the workshop is not known, but what is certain is his support for Verrocchio’s rise as an artist a er the death of Donatello. Many other stories are hid den in the works sca ered around this extraordinary city, but we will stop here for now… certain to contin ue at another opportunity!

COLUMN OF ABUNDANCE IN PIAZZA DELLA REPUBBLICA

IS ANOTHER STATUE THAT HAS TIES WITH THE ORIGINS OF FLORENCE

StatueofWinterbyTaddeoLandini,SantaTrinitabridge

Right in the heart of Oltrarno, Florence most authentic and genuine district, since 2001 Expertise is the gallery of reference for designer italian ceramic’s collectors. A versatile, young, creative and dynamic place where precious XVIII century Ginori china exemplars meet the enigmatic seductiveness of Liberty’s shapes and the elegant sensuality

DOTT.SSA CHIARA ESPOSITO

Galleria Antonio Esposito di Chiara Esposito Via Maggio 82/r - 50123 Firenze office: +39 055 219138 mobile: +39 3394012127 galleriaesposito.com galleriaespositoantiquario

Three generations passionate about amazing antiques

I’m Chiara Esposito, the owner of “The Galleria Esposito Antiquario”, a three-generations family business which specialises in 17th, 18th and 19th-century Italian and European an tique furniture and fine art I run the gallery in the same place my father opened his business in Florence

in 1990. The building housing the shop on Via Maggio 82r - the street dedicat ed to the antiques trade since ancient times - dates back to the 14th centu ry. Its wonderful arched ceilings and charming original architectural details provide the perfect setting to display the magnificent pieces within.

I offer a pleasantly unique, easy and tailor made shopping experience My customers are greeted with a smile and a glass of chilled prosecco! I ac company you with the utmost profes sionalism, sharing my passion and taste for the exceptional which are the hall marks of my company. I’m here to fa cilitate your entire purchasing process, providing flat rate packaging and com petitive worldwide shipping quotes and taking care of fine art exportation paperwork.

An evocative and elegant environment to find antique furniture, fine artworks, Art Deco, Mid-Century and even Con temporary art objects and Textiles Our historic gallery located in the

heart of Florence’s antiques district in the vibrant Oltrarno neighborhood, just a stone’s throw away from the Pitti Palace hosts a spectacular array of an tique furniture, paintings, sculptures, lighting and collectibles that are main ly sourced in Italian private homes Eclecticism and international taste dis tinguish our collection.

The Esposito Antique Gallery has an international, loyal following of pri vate collectors and trade customers served with care and dedication with a professional and responsive approach, but always very relaxed and friendly. Thanks to the presence on the an tique market for three generations, my company is able to satisfy any kind of needs or request in the field of furnishing, home decor and interior design. Whether you are a collector or a deal er, the Esposito Antique Gallery is a must for antique lovers everywhere. I look forward to welcoming you!

Chiara Esposito

PiazzadellaRepubblica withChristmasLights

FLORENCE IN WINTER

From the magic of Christmas to the winter sales, here are the reasons to visit the city at this time of year

TEXT Martina Olivieri

Christmas tree in Piazza del Duomo

Who said that Florence is enchanting only during the summer? Her magic surrounds and fascinates visitors at any time of the year, and winter is full of its own scents, colors and ideas to experience it to the full. The Tuscan land scape is do ed with snowy peaks in the distance, the bars and cafes downtown serve steaming hot choco late and tea at any time of day and the scent of roast ed chestnuts warms the air in every alley. In December the Christmas holidays il luminate the streets and

squares with lights and colours, stores create mag ical Christmas display windows, followed by fun

carnival themed evenings in February. Winter brings

an even more lively, real, regal air to the city, it is less crowded and noisy, and is the perfect time to visit with fewer tourists. One of the best times to visit it is undoubtedly between De cember and January, when red, yellow and orange Christmas lights give it an even more fairytale charm. Wear comfortable shoes, stroll through the streets, and remember to keep look ing up and be amazed. Between one Christmas tree and nativity scene and an other, you can look for gi s at the Weihnachtsmarkt, the German Christmas market located in Piazza

Winter on the Ponte Vecchio

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ILLUMINATE THE STREETS AND GIVE TO FLORENCE AN EVEN MORE FAIRYTALE CHARM

ThemagicallightsofViade’Tornabuoni (ph.PasqualeParadiso)

Santa Croce, where wooden chalets also offer tastes of delicious North European specialties. Do not miss the shopping streets par excel lence, Via de’ Tornabuoni, Via degli Strozzi and Via della Vigna Nuova, home to the boutiques of top name fashion and jewellery de signers, and the most gor geous decorations during the festive season. If it’s too cold outside, take the op portunity to visit Palazzo Strozzi to see the magnifi cent exhibition of works by Olafur Eliasson, one of the most original and visionary artists of our time, whose multifaceted practice en compasses installations,

painting, sculpture, photog raphy, film and digital me dia. Also not to be missed is the Tony Cragg exhibition at Museo Novecento.

The artist is particularly well known for helping to

revive the language of sculp ture by introducing new materials and techniques, some of the most experi mental and innovative of our time. Among other must-see exhibitions this winter are those of brilliant Dutch artist, Escher, at Mu seo degli Innocenti, and El lio Erwi - Photographs with the master photog rapher’s most famous por traits at Villa Bardini. If, on the other hand, you want to warm up with a thick, deli cious hot chocolate, take a break at Rivoire in Piazza della Signoria, a landmark since 1872 for chocolate lov ers, or at Caffè Gilli, an his toric, evocative cafe opened

WINTER BRINGS AN EVEN MORE LIVELY, REAL, REGAL AIR TO THE CITY, IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO VISIT WITH FEWER TOURISTS

Palazzo Vecchio

in 1733, and a meeting place in the 1900s for writers, in tellectuals and artists of the day, where you can enjoy made in Tuscany chocolate, obtained from the best sin gle-origin cocoa. Iginio Mas sari’s iconic maritozzo, or cream-filled brioche-style bun, at the new pastry shop in Via de’ Vecchie i, is a tempting treat before a show at the theatre. From Teatro della Pergola to Mag gio Musicale Fiorentino, Teatro Puccini and Teatro Verdi, shows and ballets follow one a er the other in a whirl of events that add even more art and delight to a stay in Florence. Janu ary is also sales time – lights

and decorations may be put away at Epiphany, but that doesn’t stop the festive feeling or the inclination for shopping. Every store is ready to put its best offers on display: clothes, bags

and flashy accessories that were unobtainable dreams finally become purchasable reality. Between one shop ping trip and the next, don’t miss the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, in winter it is even more incredible. The horizon is tinged with that romantic orange-red color, and the city’s ethereal beau ty is shown at its best. The magic of winter continues on Sundays in February, co loured by confe i, stream ers and the laughter of chil dren. It is Carnival time, time for pancakes, masked parties and merriment, be cause even winter in Flor ence can offer moments of carefree joy.

THE MAGIC OF WINTER CONTINUES ON SUNDAYS IN FEBRUARY WITH MASKED PARTIES AND MERRIMENT

NeptuneFountaininPiazzadellaSignoria

Sunset on Ponte Vecchio

ChristmaslightsinViade’Tornabuoni

Via de’ Tornabuoni

TEXT Francesca Lombardi

The winter shop ping season is in full swing –purchases for the coldest time of the year, gi s, accessories and clothes for the holidays are all around you as you stroll through the city’s most glamourous heart. A web of streets running off from the triangle formed by Via de’ Tornabuoni, Via della Vig na Nuova and Via Strozzi. Let’s begin our shopping trip from Via de’ Tornab uoni. Here you can enjoy the spectacular line-up of famous stores – top inter national brands, but also the most famous names in

made in Italy style. Women’s fashion is the main focus, with something also for him, and enchanting win

dow displays of children’s apparel. Pleasure for all the

senses – niche fragrances delight the nose as the eyes are captivated by the scin tillating displays of leading Italian and international jewellery stores. A li le tip, before you get to the small Piazza Antinori – studded with Florentine brands and historic stores – stop for a gourmet break at Caffé Giacosa, the city’s histor ic “drawing room”, or for a palate-tempting truffle-fla voured snack paired with a glass of fizz at Procacci. If it’s lunchtime, a bit further on, choosing Cantine a An tinori in the square of the same name has the flavour of a pleasant noblesse oblige.

Notfarfromthefashiontriangle,thegoldsmithtraditionofPonteVecchio

A WEB OF STREETS RUNNING OFF FROM VIA DE’ TORNABUONI, VIA DELLA VIGNA NUOVA AND VIA STROZZI

Someimages ofthecitycenter, whereshopping, gourmetaddresses andartprovideaunique experience,especially in the winter months andduringtheholidays. Nottobemissedaremajor exhibitions of both ancient andcontemporaryart at Palazzo Strozzi

Intersecting Via de’ Tor nabuoni is Via della Vigna Nuova, with brands appeal ing to a younger public. The same goes for the delightful li le Via della Spada, also do ed with excellent tra ditional tra orias. In the midst of so much elegance, you might also find time for a cultural interlude. Not to be missed are major exhi bitions of both ancient and contemporary art at Pa lazzo Strozzi (until 22 Jan uary 2023 you can admire the colourful exhibition of Olafur Eliasson, one of the most visionary artists of our time). Not far away is another small gem, Museo Marini, dedicated to a great

artist of the 1900s. We car ry on along the elegant Via degli Strozzi, home to the recently renovated historic building housing the Hel

vetia & Bristol hotel. If you have a sweet tooth, before

continuing your shopping spree, pop into Pasticceria di Iginio Massari, in the same building as the lat est gem in the Collezione Starhotels. A er perusing the fashion triangle, even if you have already found what you were a er, it’s well worth going a li le further on. A er a look around Via Roma and the nearby streets for other boutiques and some of the city’s most iconic multibrand stores, we head towards Piazza della Signoria: beauty calls to beauty, and set between Palazzo Vecchio and Loggia dei Lanzi, are sophisticated Florentine and internation al jewellery stores.

AFTER PERUSING THE FASHION TRIANGLE, IT’S WELL WORTH GOING A LITTLE FURTHER ON, AROUND VIA ROMA

ThecourtyardofPalazzoStrozzi

BorgoSanJacopo

SURPRISE ME!

Fashion, business and romantic dinners: a list of the most sophisticated restaurants in Florence

TEXT Martina Olivieri

IRENE

Overlooking Piazza della Repubblica, it is the cosy restaurant of the Hotel Savoy. The dishes prepared by chef Fulvio Pierangelini are a real tribute to Italian cuisine and regional ingredients. Do not forget to try its famous spaghe i with delicious fresh local tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves (Piazza della Repubblica, 7).

BORGO SAN JACOPO

Overlooking the River Arno, Borgo San Jacopo is a Michelin-starred restaurant where you can enjoy a fine dining experience and an impressive view of Ponte Vecchio. Gourmet cuisine with the amazing flavours, colours and shapes of the unique dishes prepared by Chef Claudio Mengoni (Borgo San Jacopo, 62r).

GOURMET CUISINES WITH UNIQUE AMBIENCES

ENOTECA PINCHIORRI

The temple of flavours in Florence, three Michelin stars. Giorgio Pinchiorri and Annie Feolde, two people with different origins but with the same passion that has led them to create something special.

Try all of its exceptional recommendations based on quality ingredients, as well as the wines in its cellar, among the best in the world (Via Ghibellina, 87).

SE·STO ON ARNO

On the sixth floor of The Westin Excelsior, this futuristic restaurant features multiple windows and combines Mediterranean and contemporary cuisine with a unique ambience, offering one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the city. Our advice: Pick table 41 which overlooks the River Arno right in front of the Duomo, you will not regret it (Piazza Ognissanti, 3).

SANTA ELISABETTA

The Santa Elisabe a is a two Michelin star restaurant which offers minimalist, essential and authentic cuisine where everything is perfectly balanced between raw and cooked ingredients, intense and light flavours. The creativity of Chef Rocco de Santis is expressed in a location that is unique in the world: the ancient Byzantine tower of Pagliazza within the picturesque Brunelleschi Hotel (Piazza Santa Elisabe a, 3).

HARRY’S BAR

Picasso, Hemingway, Robin Williams, and Franco Zeffirelli are only a few of the celebrities that have been guests of this restaurant in its more than 50 years of history. Divine dishes, an outdoor area with a spectacular view of the River Arno and impeccable service. Our advice: do not leave before tasting the iconic Bellini cocktail (Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci, 22r).

CAFFÈ DELL’ORO

A contemporary Italian café which can boast a privileged location on Ponte Vecchio. The menu prepared by executive chef Antonio Minichiello includes a contemporary interpretation of traditional Italian dishes which can satisfy even the most cosmopolitan palates. A perfect pairing of flavours that evoke tasting and travelling experiences (Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 2P).

Cibrèo Caffè - Helvetia & Bristol

ATELIER DE’ NERLI

A place of art, cra smanship and quality cuisine which combines the food experience with the owners’ passion for handmade items and the vitality of today’s artists. Built by the creative mind of Daniele Cavalli, it is based on a very special concept in a vintage and glamorous style, evocative of the atmosphere of New York in the 1970s (Piazza Dei Nerli 8/9r).

ELEGANT RESTAURANTS TO ENJOY THE CITY IN STYLE

CANTINETTA ANTINORI

Located on the ground floor of Palazzo Antinori, this restaurant will allow you to enjoy a refined food and wine experience with menus that are changed every week, accompanied with an a entive selection of Marchesi Antinori labels. Its most famous dishes include the ‘gnudi alla fiorentina’ and the Tuscan sliced steak with rosemary (Piazza degli Antinori, 3).

ORA D’ARIA

One of the symbols of fine cuisine in Florence with a choice between tastings or the à la carte menu based on egg dishes, classic grandmother recipes and the pigeon étouffée. The genius of chef Marco Stabile surprises and delights diners dish a er dish with his culinary skills. The atmosphere is cosy and sophisticated, perfect for an evening to cherish forever (Via dei Georgofili, 11r).

ANDELEGANCE DININGFINE

CHIC NONNA

A fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Palazzo Portinari Salviati and managed by Executive Chef Vito Mollica, whose philosophy is to use quality ingredients to create menus based on seasonal products presented in a sophisticated style. The wine list includes an extensive variety of Italian, French and international labels (Via del Corso, 6).

GUCCI OSTERIA

In the enchanting location of the Gucci Garden, the iconic realm of the famous brand, you will find the reign of Michelin-starred chef Karime Lopez, a student of the great Massimo Bo ura. Her menus include Italian and international ingredients and inspirations sprinkled with poetic surprises to create refined, sophisticated contemporary and never banal dishes (Piazza Della Signoria, 10

WINTER GARDEN

In the refined se ing of the prestigious winter garden of The St. Regis Florence, enjoy a refined culinary experience proposed by executive chef Gentian Shehi with dishes that value and enhance Tuscan tradition, and personalised service with great a ention to every li le detail (Piazza Ognisssanti, 1).

GOLDEN VIEW

A restaurant with a unique charm with windows directly facing Ponte Vecchio. Its external elegance is reflected in all of its dishes and tells its story and connection with the territory. The wine cellar of the Golden View proposes the best labels, emphasising its knowledge and passion for tradition and the territory (Via de Bardi, 58r).

A LIST OF ELEGANT PLACES FOR ANY OCCASION

CIBRÈO RISTORANTEHELVETIA &

BRISTOL

It is the fine dining restaurant of the Helvetia & Bristol Hotel, born from the collaboration with a historic catering company of Florence. The Chef and owner is Giulio Picchi, son of the well-known Chef Fabio Picchi, who – faithful to his father’s philosophyoffers authentic cuisine based on Italian specialities such as rico a crêpes with white ragu and Piedmontese fassona fillet (Via dei Vecchie i, 5).

IL PALAGIO

The Michelin-starred restaurant of the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze which overlooks the amazing Gherardesca garden. A magical and timeless place where you can try the cuisine of executive chef Paolo Lavezzi based on traditional dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients and revisited with creativity and taste (Borgo Pinti, 99).

70 YEARS OF THE ITALIAN HOTEL CONCIERGE ASSOCIATION

TEXT Virginia Mammoli

Professionalism, care and a ention in order to give hotel guests ac cess to the best experiences pos sible while enhancing the histo ry, art, culture, tradition and natural beauties of local areas that have no equal. Yes, because a Les Clefs d’Or concierge is the person who not only knows ev erything about the city’s main a ractions, top restaurants and must-see events, but is also commi ed to fulfilling the pas sions, dreams, tastes and needs of hotel guests by creating cus tom-made stays, even achieving the impossible at times. He or she possesses the gi of being, at the same time, a friend, a psychologist and a genie of the lamp who makes all dreams come true. This tradition led to the creation of an increasingly wider international networkincluding forty-seven countries across the world - of which the

Italian Hotel Concierge Asso ciation, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, is a member. A history dating back to the mid-1900s, with the establishment of the Italian Les Clefs d’Or section in 1949, which led, three years later, to the first National Congress held in Pisa, Tuscany, where one of the first regional associ ations of Les Clefs d’Or in Italy was established as an indepen dent group To mark this major anniver

sary, the 42nd National UIPA Florence-Pisa Congress will be held from November 17 to 20 at the Hotel Plaza Lucchesi, where the meetings of dele gates and workshops will take place, along with the awarding of the Fabio Carlesi Prize, ded icated to the charismatic Head Concierge of Florence’s Ex celsior Hotel, also the former President of the Tuscany asso ciation. The award goes to the young concierge chosen to rep resent Italy at the internation al UICH competition (Union Internationale des Concierges d’Hôtels Les Clefs d’Or). The program includes guided tours of the city, while the gala event will take place at the 15th-cen tury Palazzo Ximènes Panci atichi, the elegant event that crowns this important meeting and strengthens such a pre cious network built on genuine sharing and communication.

The 42nd National UIPA Florence-Pisa Congress from November 17 to 20

TOP PLACES TO SEE IN FLORENCE

Museums, churches and all the a ractions that you should not miss in city. Reservations are recommended in some museums, ask your ‘Les Clefs D’Or’ concierge

MUSEUMS

1 UFFIZI GALLERIES

Florence’s museum complex consisting of the Uffizi Gal lery, the Vasari Corridor, Pa lazzo Pi i and the Boboli Gar dens. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s greatest museu ms, built in 1560 by Cosimo I de’ Medici, and houses works by the greatest Renaissance artists, from Bo icelli to Leo nardo da Vinci, from Miche langelo to Raphael and Titian. Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6 ph. +39 055 294883 uffizi.it

Closed on Monday

2

PALAZZO PITTI

The royal residence of three families: the Medicis, the

Habsburg-Lorraines and the Savoias. Palazzo Pi i is still named a er its first owner, the Florentine banker Luca Pi i. It currently houses some of the city’s most important museums: the Palatine Gallery with masterworks by Raphael, Titian, Tintore o, Caravaggio and Rubens, the Imperial and Royal Apartments on the Pa lazzo’s main floors (now tem porarily closed), the Modern Art Gallery featuring works by Macchiaolo painters, the Tre asury of the Grand Dukes, the Fashion and Costume Museum (now temporarily closed), the Porcelain Museum, the Car riages Museum and the new Museum of Russian Icons. The Palace is completed by the Bo boli Garden.

Piazza de’ Pi i, 1 ph. +39 055 294883 uffizi.it

Closed on Monday

3

PALAZZO VECCHIO

Designed in 1299 by Arnolfo di Cambio as Palazzo della

Signoria and later enlarged by Vasari as the Medici fa mily’s residence. Among the must-see sixteenth-century rooms are the grand Salone dei Cinquecento, Francesco I’s small secret study, the Hall of the Lilies and the Hall of Geographical Maps. The Pala ce is crowned by the Tower of Arnolfo.

Piazza della Signoria ph. +39 055 2768224 cultura.comune.fi.it

4 OPERA DEL DUOMO MUSEUM

A journey through the places and artists who created the monumental Opera com plex, the cradle of the Re naissance, and today one of the world’s most important museums. Its showcases the original works of art that de

Galleria dell’Accademia

Uffizi Galleries

Palazzo Strozzi

corated the city’s monuments over seven centuries: from Michelangelo to Donatello, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti and many more.

Piazza del Duomo, 9 ph. +39 055 2302885 duomo.firenze.it Closed every first Tuesday of the month

5 GALLERIA

DELL’ACCADEMIA

It is also known as ‘Michel angelo’s Museum’, because it showcases most of the statues by the famous art ist, first of all, the David, but also the Prigioni, St. Ma hew and the Palestrina Pietà. Other masterworks are the Rape of the Sabine Women by Giambologna and Bo i celli’s Madonna with Child and Madonna of the Sea Via Ricasoli, 58/60 ph. +39 055 294883 galleriaaccademiafirenze.it Closed on Monday

6 PALAZZO STROZZI

A masterwork of Renais sance architecture and a lively cultural center of in ternational standing, which every year houses exhibi tions ranging from ancient to modern and contempo rary art.

Piazza Strozzi ph. +39 055 2645155 palazzostrozzi.org

7 MUSEO NAZIONALE

DEL BARGELLO

Once the city’s main prison, in 1865 the building was con

verted into a museum which today showcases major works of art by Michelangelo, Do natello, Verrocchio, Giam bologna, Brunelleschi and much more.

Via del Proconsolo, 4 ph. +39 055 0649440 bargellomusei.beniculturali.it

Closed on Tuesdays and on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month

8 MEDICI CHAPELS

They are part of the complex of the Church of San Lorenzo

and consist of Michelangelo’s New Sacristy, Buontalenti’s Chapel of the Princes and the two crypts with the tombs of the Medici and Lorraine fam ily members.

Piazza di Madonna degli Aldo brandini, 6 ph. +39 055 0649430 bargellomusei.beniculturali.it Closed on Tuesdays and on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday of the month

MediciChapels

Palazzo Vecchio

OperadelDuomoMuseum

Palazzo Pitti

9 MUSEO

DI SAN MARCO

It was Savonarola’s home and in addition to the exhibition halls, you can also visit the cells containing frescoes by Beato Angelico, who was also a monk here. Piazza San Marco, 3 ph. +39 055 0882000 polomusealetoscana.beniculturali.it Closed on the 1st , 3rd and 5th

Sunday of the month, on Mon days following the open Sunday

10 PALAZZO MEDICI

RICCARDI

Designed by Michelozzo, the Palace houses the Magi Chap el with the famous frescoes of the Journey of the Magi by Benozzo Gozzoli.

Via Cavour, 3 ph. +39 055 2760552 palazzomediciriccardi.it Closed on Wednesdays

11 STEFANO BARDINI MUSEUM

The collection of the most im portant Italian antiquarian. From the Romans to the 18th century.

Via dei Renai, 37 ph. +39 055 2342427 cultura.comune.fi.it Closed on Tuesdays, Wednes days and Thursdays

12 STIBBERT MUSEUM

A historic house museum featuring an extensive col lection of arms, armors, cos tumes and objects of various ages and origin, collected by Frederick Stibbert through out his life.

Via Federigo Stibbert, 26 ph. +39 055 475520 museostibbert.it Closed on Thursdays

13 CASA DI DANTE

MUSEUM

The museum aims to make Dante and the everyday life

Innocenti Museum

SalvatoreFerragamoMuseum

Gucci Museum

Museo Novecento

in medieval Florence be er known to the public. The various rooms showcase replicas of objects and cloth ing commonly used in the 1300s.

Via Santa Margherita, 1 ph. +39 055 219416 museocasadidante.it

Closed on Mondays

14

MUSEO NOVECENTO

The museum is devoted to 20th and 21st-century Ital ian art. In addition to a per manent collection, it hous es temporary exhibitions, installations and special projects.

Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 10 ph. +39 0552768224 museonovecento.it

Closed on Thursdays

15 INNOCENTI

MUSEUM

The museum illustrates the past and present of the Inno centi Institute, commi ed to the promotion of children’s rights for six centuries, through art and history. Piazza della SS. Annunziata, 13

ph. +39 055 2037122 museodeglinnocenti.it

Closed on Tuesdays

16 SALVATORE

FERRAGAMO MUSEUM

Established in May 1995 by the Ferragamo family for the pur pose of making Ferragamo’s role in the history of footwear and international fashion bet ter known.

Palazzo Spini Feroni Piazza Santa Trinita, 5/r ph. +39 055 3562846 +39 055 3562466 ferragamo.com/museo/it

17 CASA BUONARROTI

The museum is devoted to the memory and celebra tion of Michelangelo’s genius through drawings, paintings and sculptures.

Via Ghibellina, 70 ph. +39 055 241752 casabuonarroti.it

Closed on Tuesdays and Easter holidays

18 GUCCI MUSEUM

The museum illustrates the fashion house’s 90-year histo ry. From Gucci’s origins to its most iconic models that have become must-haves all over the world, to the logo’s history.

Piazza della Signoria, 10 ph. +39 055 75927010 gucci.com/it

Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Stefano Bardini Museum

Stibbert Museum

Museo di San Marco

19 NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF FLORENCE

The museum showcases finds from excavations all over Tusca ny, very precious Etruscan and Roman finds, and collections related to other civilizations. Piazza SS. Annunziata, 9b ph. +39 055 23575 polomusealetoscana.benicul turali.it

Closed on the 2nd , 3rd , 4th and 5th Sunday of the month

20

FRANCO ZEFFIRELLI

MUSEUM

The museum is part of the Zeffirelli Foundation and Monumental Complex of San Firenze. It showcases over 250 works by Maestro Zeffire lli, including stage sketches, drawings and costume plates, playbills and studies. Piazza San Firenze, 5 ph. +39 055 2658435 fondazionefrancozeffirelli.com Closed on Mondays

21 HORNE MUSEUM

Established by the bequest of Herbert Percy Horne, the mu seum reconstructs the rooms of a typical old Florentine house, with 14th and 15th-cen

tury antiques, sculptures and paintings.

Via dei Benci, 6 ph. + 39 055 244661 museohorne.it Temporarily closed

CHURCHES

22 OPERA DI SANTA MARIA DEL FIORE

COMPLEX

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore was designed by Ar nolfo di Cambio in 1296 and it is the world’s third largest church a er St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in Lon don. In 1412, it was dedicat ed to Santa Maria del Fiore with a clear reference to the lily, the city’s symbol (closed on Sundays). The Dome was designed by Brunelleschi many years later, in 1420, and decorated by Giorgio Vasa ri and Federico Zuccari. It is a masterwork of art and to this day the largest masonry dome ever built, surrounded by outdoor terraces open to visitors. Opposite the Cathe dral is the Baptistery of San

BrancacciChapel, Church of Santa Maria del Carmine

Santa Maria Novella

Orsanmichele

Santa Croce

A noi italiani piace mangiare bene e vi assicuro che se sceglierete questa trattoria vi alzerete da tavola soddisfatti. Ho mangiato una “Fiorentina” cotta in modo eccellente, ma Za zà è molto altro, cucinano bene tutto! Vi consiglio di provare la tipica pappa al pomodoro e le pappardelle alla carbonara con tartufo... paradisiache!

Alessandra, TripAdvisor

Giovanni, accessed through three doors, the most import ant of which is the Gate of Paradise, located on the main façade. Gio o’s bell tower, 84,7 meters high and about 15 meters wide, is one of the most important examples of 14th-century Florentine Goth ic art. Do not miss the Opera del Duomo Museum.

Piazza del Duomo ph. +39 055 2645789 duomo.firenze.it

23

COMPLEX

OF SANTA CROCE

It houses several frescoes by Gio o, the Crucifix by Cimabue, works by Donatello and Orcagna.

Piazza Santa Croce, 16 ph. +39 055 2466105 santacroceopera.it

24

BASILICA

OF SANTO SPIRITO

Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, it houses works by the greatest Florentine artists, including the wooden Crucifix, an early work by Mi chelangelo.

Piazza di Santo Spirito, 30 ph. +39 055 210030 basilicasantospirito.it Closed on Wednesdays

25 MONUMENTAL

COMPLEX OF SANTA MARIA NOVELLA

The Basilica of Santa Maria No vella houses The Holy Trinity by Masaccio, the Crucifix by Giot to and Brunelleschi, frescoes by Ghirlandaio and Bo icelli.

Do not miss the Green Cloister with frescoes by Paolo Uccello.

Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 18 ph. +39 055 219257 smn.it

26 COMPLEX OF SAN LORENZO

It includes the Basilica, the Laurentian Library and the magnificent cloister and hous es many artistic treasures, such as works by Donatel lo, Bronzino, Filippo Lippi, Mi chelangelo and Brunelleschi.

Piazza San Lorenzo, 9 ph. +39 055 214042 operamedicealaurenziana.org

27 CHURCH OF SANTA MARIA DEL CARMINE AND BRANCACCI CHAPEL

In the heart of the Oltrarno neighborhood, the Carmelite Church and Convent of San ta Maria del Carmine houses the Brancacci Chapel and the

OperadiSantaMariadelFiore

BasilicaofSantoSpirito

OperadiSantaMariadelFiore

Santa Croce

was consecrated to Chris tian worship. It now contains sculptures by Donatello and Ghiberti and a beautiful marble Tabernacle dedicated to the Madonna delle Grazie.

Via dell’Arte della Lana ph. +39 055 0649450 bargellomusei.beniculturali.it Open only on Tuesday morn ings and Saturday a ernoons

famous frescoes by Masaccio, Masolino and Filippino Lippi. One of the city’s major land marks since the 13th century. Piazza del Carmine ph. +39 055 2768224 cultura.comune.fi.it Closed on Tuesdays, Wednes days and Thursdays

28

BASILICA OF SAN TISSIMA ANNUNZIATA

A place rich in art, devotion

and local history. Florence’s main Marian sanctuary, the mother church of the Servite Order. The church is located on the piazza by the same name, next to the Spedale de gli Innocenti. Piazza della SS. Annunziata ph. +39 055 266181 annunziata.xoom.it

29 CHURCH OF ORSANMICHELE

Originally a grain market, in the mid-1300s the building

ABBEY OF SAN MINIATO AL MONTE

30

Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the church is a masterwork of the Floren tine Romanesque style. The façade is in green and white marble, the interior houses precious works such as the Crucifix Chapel by Mich elozzo with glazed earthen ware vaulting by Luca della Robbia.

Via delle Porte Sante, 34 ph. +39 055 2342731 sanminiatoalmonte.it

31

BASILICA OF SANTA TRINITA

One of the first Gothic churches in Florence. The façade was rebuilt in the 1500s by Bernardo Buontal enti, the Sasse i Chapel is a work by Ghirlandaio.

Piazza di Santa Trinita

32

CHURCH OF OGNISSANTI

Located on Piazza Ognissanti, the Church was built in 1251 and belonged to the conven tual complex of the Umiliati order, replaced with the Fran ciscan order in 1571. Not to be

Via de’Tornabuoni

AbbeyanMiniatoalMonte

Oltrarno

missed Gio o’s Crucifix and Bo icelli’s Tomb.

Borgo Ognissanti, 42 ph. +39 375 5652013 chiesaognissanti.it

Closed on Wednesdays

33 JEWISH

SYNAGOGUE

AND MUSEUM

Established in 1882 in the Ma onaia neighborhood, the Synagogue is the heart of the local Jewish community and an integral part of the

city’s history. The museum showcases a rich collection of Jewish artistic ritual objects. Via Luigi Carlo Farini, 6 ph. +39 0552989879 jewishflorence.it

Closed on Saturdays TOP ATTRACTIONS

34

PONTE VECCHIO

Built in 1345, it is Europe’s oldest stone bridge. Once lined with butcher’s shops, today Ponte Vecchio is home to the city’s luxury jewelry boutiques. The Vasari Corri dor, which connects Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pi i, runs above it. During World War Two, it was the only bridge in Florence that was not destroyed by the Ger mans.

35 LOGGIA DEI LANZI

The monument located on Piazza della Signoria to the right of Palazzo Vecchio and next to the Uffizi Gallery, which adjoins it at the back with a terrace at the top of the Loggia dei Lanzi. It is also known as Loggia dei Priori or dell’Orcagna and houses pre cious works of art such as the Perseus by Benvenuto Cellini, The Rape of the Sabine Women and the Hercules and Nessus by Giambologna.

Piazza della Signoria

San Miniato al Monte

LoggiadeiLanzi

Forte Belvedere

Ponte Vecchio

36 SHOPPING

The best-known fashion houses have their boutiques and shops on Via de’ Torn abuoni and Via della Vigna. The other shopping streets are located just a few meters away from the city’s main at tractions. And so, by walking from the Duomo to Piazza del la Signoria, you will be able to browse and shop at the many stores along Via Calzaiuoli and Via del Corso. Be sure to

visit the Ponte Vecchio lined with sparkling jewelry shops.

37 CRAFT SHOPS

It is the other side of Florence, the traditional one, oozing with the creativity and colors of cra shops. It is Florence’s Oltrarno, the neighborhood of old arts and cra s. The San Frediano, San Niccolò and San to Spirito areas are filled with goldsmith’s workshops that work and assemble gemstones to create unique and extraordi nary jewels.

38 ANTIQUE SHOPS

Via Maggio and Via dei Fossi are the streets where the an cient techniques of etching, metalworking and furniture and frame gilding are still performed. Workshops that a ract customers from all

over the world and keep the tradition of po ery, wood carving and decoration alive.

39 FORTE BELVEDERE

Besides being one of the city’s most panoramic locations, it is an architectural work designed in the late 1500s by Bernardo Buontalenti for Fer dinando I de’ Medici. It is the Vasari Corridor’s final stretch and it has been housing in ternational contemporary art exhibitions since 2013.

Via di S. Leonardo, 1 ph. +39 055 2768224 musefirenze.it Open from June to October, closed on Mondays

40 LOGGIA DEL PORCELLINO

Loggia del Porcellino is the common name for Florence’s Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, so called to distinguish it from the Mercato Vecchio, which was located in the area of to day’s Piazza della Repubblica. The Loggia’s focal point has been, since 1640, the Fontana del Porcellino ( the piglet fountain), actually a replica of the seventeenth-century

PiazzaSantoSpirito

Piazza del Duomo

PiazzaleMichelangelo

Tower of San Niccolò

its central statue designed by Bartolomeo

2

SQUARES & TOWERS

22

PIAZZA DEL DUOMO

The heart of the city where you can admire all together the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Brunelleschi’s dome, Gio o’s bell tower and the Baptistery of San Giovanni.

3 PIAZZA

DELLA SIGNORIA

The square’s current design dates back to the 13th cen tury and it was paved in the late 14th century. It has always been the symbol of the city’s civil power. Its most iconic building is Palazzo Vecchio, with a replica of Michelange lo’s David at the entrance and next to the Loggia dei Lanzi. In the middle of the piazza is the Fountain of Neptune, also known as the Biancone, with

PIAZZA PITTI

Nearly completely dominated by the imposing Palazzo Pi i, it is one of the major piazzas of the Oltrarno neighborhood.

41 PIAZZA

DELLA REPUBBLICA

The heart of the city since an cient Roman times. Rising in the middle of the square is the Column of Abundance, which marks the point where the

main ancient Roman roads, the Cardus and Decumanus, intersected. Today some of the city’s most popular cafés are located on the piazza.

42 PIAZZALE

MICHELANGELO

Designed by architect Gi useppe Poggi. Standing in the middle of the square are the Monument to Mi chelangelo, composed of

Ammannati.

bronze wild boar by Pietro Tacca currently showcased at the Stefano Bardini Museum.

PiazzadellaSignoria

Piazza Santa Croce

Piazza Pitti

the bronze replicas of the four allegories of the San Loren zo Medici Chapels, and the imposing David, the original statue being kept at the Acca demia Gallery.

23 PIAZZA SANTA

CROCE

It owes its name to the basilica, one of Italy’s largest Franciscan churches. Located in front of the basilica is the monument to Dante Alighieri by Enrico Pazzi.

24 PIAZZA SANTO

SPIRITO

Crowded with market stalls, tourists and art students during the day, Piazza San to Spirito is one of the focal points of the city’s nightlife. Standing on one side of the pi azza is the monument to Cosi mo Ridolfi.

27 PIAZZA DEL CARMINE

This square was built to al

low the crowds to hear the sermons preached by the Carmelites, who owned the Basilica of Santa Maria del Carmine facing the piazza.

43 PIAZZA SAN FIRENZE

The square was named a er the complex of San Filippo Neri, also known as San Firen ze due to the mispronouncing of the name of a pre-existing building dedicated to San Fiorenzo.

44 TOWER OF SAN NICCOLÒ

The name derives from the nearby neighborhood of San Niccolò, and it was built in 1324 probably to the design of Orcagna, while the last circle of walls was being erected. It is the only Florentine gate which has preserved its orig inal height.

aperturaGARDENS & PARKS

45 BOBOLI GARDENS

The Boboli Gardens spreads out at the back of Palaz zo Pi i. The Medici family planned the garden’s layout by creating the model for the Italian garden. An open-air museum, filled with statues, gro os (including the one designed by Buontalenti) and large fountains, such as the Neptune and Ocean foun tains.

Piazza de’ Pi i, 1 ph. +39 055 294883 uffizi.it

Rose Garden

Bardini Garden

Horticulture Garden

Rose Garden

Closed on the first and last Mon day of the month, except from June to October

46 BARDINI GARDEN

On one side the beautiful Ba roque staircase, the English wood and the agricultural park where a wonderful wisteria per gola blooms in spring; on the other, the villa built in the 1600s by architect Gherardo Silvani, also called Villa Belvedere be cause of its wonderful panoram ic position, and later enlarged by Stefano Bardini.

Via dei Bardi, 1r and Costa San Giorgio, 2 ph. +39 055 2638599 +39 055 2346988 villabardini.it

Villa closed on Mondays, garden closed on the first and last Mon day of the month

47 ROSE GARDEN

Located beneath Piazzale Mi chelangelo, the Rose Garden fea tures over 350 varieties of roses which bloom from May to June and 12 sculptures by Belgian ar chitect Jean-Michel Folon. Viale Giuseppe Poggi, 2

48 HORTICULTURE

GARDEN

A nineteenth-century gar den, the home to national floriculture shows, with a Renaissance loggia and an Art-Nouveau tepidarium. The highest point is accessed from Via Trento through the Orti del Parnaso, also called “del Dragone” because of the odd dragon-shaped fountain winding up the staircase. Via Vi orio Emanuele II

49 CASCINE PARK

Established as a Medicean farm in 1563 by Cosimo I, with the Lorraine family the Cascine Park became a place of entertainment and Sun day outings. Do not miss the equestrian statue to Vi orio

Piazzale delle Cascine

50 MEDICEAN PARK OF PRATOLINO

Villa Demidoff was demol ished in 1822, while the park still remains open to visitors and features the Apennine Colossus by Giambologna and the Cupid’s Cave by Buontalenti.

Via Fiorentina, 276 ph. +39 349 8800380

Open from April to September

Emanuele II, the Pegasus Col umn, the Pyramid and the In dian Monument.

Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens

Cascine Park

Bardini Garden

51 VILLA GAMBERAIA GARDENS

The beautiful garden of Vil la Gamberaia, in Se ignano, spreads over several levels, where one can admire the lemon-house, a niche decorat ed with pebble mosaics and a spectacular modern parterre Via del Rossellino, 72 ph. +39 347 2386326 villagamberaia.com

MEDICI VILLAS

52 MEDICI VILLA LA PETRAIA

An ancient fortress whose tower still stands, belonging first to the Brunelleschi fami ly and later to the Strozzis, La Petraia was bequeathed by Co simo I de Medici to his son, the cardinal Ferdinando, in 1568 and later converted into an el egant Renaissance residence. The villa is surrounded by a large English-style park.

Via della Petraia, 40 tel. +39 055 452691 villegiardinimedicei.it

Closed Mondays

53 MEDICI VILLA OF CASTELLO

One of the oldest country

residences of the Medici family, who acquired it in 1477. The villa was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, and is current ly home to the Accademia della Crusca; the garden is a prototype of 16th-century Italian design.

Via di Castello, 44 tel. +39 055 452691 villegiardinimedicei.it Temporarily closed

54 MEDICI VILLA OF POGGIO A CAIANO

Designed by Giuliano da Sangallo for Lorenzo the

Villa Gamberaia

Villa Gamberaia

Villa of Castello

Park of Pratolino

Real Estate

VILLA IN CHIANTISHIRE

Immersed in the beautiful landscape of Chianti Classico, in Panzano. The estate is surrounded by countryside that the na ture of the land, together with the southern exposure, make it ideal for cultivation. The main house, fully furnished, spread incredible panorama from the large windows of the reception om. It has three terraces one of which has a Jacuzzi. The company adopts only natural fertilizers to preserve the quality of production and not contaminate the ecosystem.

The most beaut ul properties

Magnificent, as an exam ple of Renaissance archi tecture. The splendid Sala di Leone X on the piano nobile is astonishing; the second floor is devoted to the Still Life Museum, and the gardens outside are dominated by a 19th-cen tury lemon house. Piazza de’ Medici,14 tel. +39 055 877012 villegiardinimedicei.it Closed Mondays, Thurs days and the 1st, 4th and last Sunday of the month 55 MEDICI VILLA

LA FERDINANDA

Built in 1596 on the orders of Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici and to a design by Bernardo Buontalen ti, Villa La Ferdinanda is also known as the Villa of a Hundred Chimneys, for the numerous chimney pots that make the build ing unique.

Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 1 tel. +39 333/9418333 villegiardinimedicei.it Open subject to booking 56 MEDICI VILLA

IN FIESOLE

The first example of a Re naissance villa, this be came the inspiration for numerous other residenc es. A er the Medicis, the marquise Del Sera turned the western terrace into

a loggia, while the lower terraced area was home to the vegetable garden, with aromatic plants for house hold use.

Via Beato Angelico, 2 villegiardinimedicei.it Garden may be visited by appointment

Villa la Ferdinanda

Villa la Petraia

Medici Villa in Fiesole

MARKETS

57 SAN LORENZO MARKET

The historic San Lorenzo Market spreads over two floors. The ground floor is full of stalls selling food of all sorts, whereas the first floor houses restaurants, pizzerias, shops and tables where you can sit down and eat. The streets sur

rounding the building are lined with traditional arti san workshops, wine bars and osterias.

Piazza del Mercato Centrale and Via dell’Ariento mercatocentrale.it/firenze ph. Mercato Centrale +39 055 265742 +39 055 2741150

58 SANT’AMBROGIO MARKET

The indoor Sant’Ambrogio market, built on the site of a large vegetable garden be yond Santa Croce towards the city walls, was inau gurated in 1873 and today houses grocery stores.

Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti ph. +39 055 2480778 mercatosantambrogio.it Closed on Sundays and pub lic holidays

59 PORCELLINO MARKET

It is commonly called Mer cato Nuovo to distinguish it from the Mercato Vecchio, which was located in the area of today’s Piazza del la Repubblica. The name Mercato del Porcellino comes from the statue of a wild boar that the Floren tines call “porcellino” (pig let). It is covered by an old loggia which was designed by Giovanni Ba ista del Tasso and built in 1547.

Piazza del Mercato Nuovo mercatodelporcellino.it

60

FLEA MARKET

Until a few years ago, the market was located in the historic Piazza dei Ciom pi. In 2019, it was moved to a permanent struc ture just steps away from the Sant’Ambrogio mar ket. You can shop there for antiques, collectibles, paintings, books and sec ond-hand items.

Largo Pietro Annigoni

San Lorenzo Market

FIRENZE AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN IT

BEST FOOD EXPERIENCES

The best restaurants, aperitifs and cafes in Florence. Reservation recommended, the ‘Les Clefs D’Or’ concierge is at your service

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS

1 BUCA DELL’ORAFO

By going down the steps of a 13th -century palazzo only a stone’s throw from the Uffizi Gallery, you’ll walk into a historic Florentine ‘buca’, one of the smallest and coziest in town, a land mark for traditional Tuscan cuisine. Delicious ribollita soup, Sangiovannese-style stew and fried chicken, but the signature dishes are ar tichoke fri ata and chine of pork with potatoes.

2 BUCA LAPI

The newspapers and posters that the cabmen once used as tablecloths now cover completely the walls of the dining room of this historic “buca”. The owner and chef Luciano Ghinassi is an am bassador of traditional Tus can and Florentine cuisine. Excellent pasta dishes and homemade desserts, in ad dition to a fabulous T-bone steak cooked over an olive wood-burning fire.

3 BUCA MARIO

A typical corner of Florence of bygone days in the for mer wine cellars of Palazzo Niccolini (a few steps from Piazza Santa Maria Novel la), which has been offering its customers traditional Florentine dishes - Ribolli ta, Pappardelle pasta with wild boar sauce and a spec tacular T-bone steak cooked over a lava stone, strictly rare - since 1886.

Piazza degli Antinori, 3 ph. +39 055 292234 cantinetta-antinori.com

Via Ricasoli, 5/7r ph. +39 055 292124 bucaniccolini.it

4 BUCA NICCOLINI

Buca Niccolini is a genuine landmark in the heart of Florence, a restaurant with a romantic mood expressed in ancient tradition with links to art and culture. Past and present come together, giving rise to dishes with authentic flavours, to be paired with a broad selection of fine wines. Once you’ve eaten here, you’ll never forget the mouthwater ing aromas of traditional Flo rentine food.

5 CANTINETTA ANTINORI

A name you can trust. This restaurant on the ground floor of Palazzo Antinori is one of Florence’s best known dining spots. The extensive list of An tinori wines accompanies the dishe, which are a celebration of seasonal and local ingre dients. Among the signature dishes are Florentine-style gnudi and rosemary-flavored Tuscan beef tagliata. Rem ex et officia dunt.

Via del Verrocchio, 8r ph. +39 055 2341100 cibreo.com

6 CIBRÈO RISTORANTE

A restaurant that has been changing with the seasons since 1979. Started by Chef Fa bio Picchi, a great ambassador of Florentine cuisine, Cibrèo Ristorante, together with Ci brèo Tra oria, was the first piece of the empire of taste that he put together in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood. Fava beans in summertime, Tuscan kale in winter, chick en liver, old traditional dish es such as stuffed chicken’s neck… A skillfully achieved blend of nature and tradition.

7 CUCINA TORCICODA

On one side, an excellent pizzeria with wood-fired oven- which offers classic pizzas but also new and exciting ones, made with 72-hour leavened dough- on the other, a gourmet restaurant that includes more traditional dishes too, such as tortelli pasta and T-bone steak from a variety of ca le breeds: Fassona, Angus, Chianina, Sco ona, Wagyu Style Kobe and Buffalo.

Via Torta, 5r ph. +39 055 2654329 cucinatorcicoda.com

9 HARRY’S BAR

THE GARDEN

The restaurant and Ameri can bar with international atmosphere of the Sina Villa Medici Hotel, which the leg endary Florentine restaurant has chosen for its second lo cation in town. Traditional cuisine served in a lovely lush garden with swimming pool.

8 HARRY’S BAR

Paul Newman, Robin Williams, Franco Zeffirelli and Elizabeth Taylor are only some of the celebrities who, since 1953, have been dining at this historic restaurant, with outdoor seating and wonderful view of the Lungar no. Among its cult dishes, Harry’s Bar-style taglierini pasta au gratin, prawn tail curry and beef tartare, in ad dition to the restaurant’s signature Bellini cocktail.

10 LORENZO DE’ MEDICI RISTORANTE

A li le piece of the Renais sance in the heart of Flor ence. Here diners can savour the rich food tradition of Tuscany, prepared using su perb quality ingredients. It’s also a long-established Glu ten Free restaurant. In fact, you’ll find an entire GF menu showcasing traditional Tus can cuisine.

11 MANGIAFOCO OSTERIA TARTUFERIA

The Mangiafoco Osteria Tar tuferia located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the Ponte Vecchio specialis es in fresh truffle dishes and typical Tuscan cuisine. The local specialities are of the highest quality with locally grown and seasonal ingre dients. An extensive wine list with the opportunity of premium wine tasting in the cellar.

Vicolo Marzio, 1 ph. +39 055 583724 osteriadelletrepanche.com

Piazza degli Scarlatti, 1r ph. +39 055 2654541 osteriabelguardo.it

12 OSTERIA BELGUARDO

In a lovely li le piazza on the far bank of the Arno River, across from Palazzo Corsini, is the outdoor patio of one of the most beautiful restaurants in Florence. Stylishly designed and an open kitchen adding an cosmopolitan touch to the warm and cosy atmosphere of the classic inn, Osteria Bel guardo serves a traditional menu with a modern twist, including a great variety of dishes for different times of day and appetites. With a vast wine list and a seasonal menu featuring local ingredients.

13 OSTERIA DELLE TRE PANCHE

The historic Florentine restaurant specialising in truffles moves to the pan oramic terrace on the sixth floor of Hotel Hermitage, seemingly touching Ponte Vecchio. Behind the venture are Andrea and Vieri Bista, true masters of flavour and experts in showcasing the most precious of tubers and local cuisine in general.

Via del Parione, 74/76r ph. +39 055 214005 parione.net

14 PARIONE

A stone’s throw from Ponte Vecchio, in a 14th-century palazzo that connects two of Florence’s most ancient streets - Via del Parione and Via della Vigna Nuova, this is the perfect restau rant if you want to enjoy the unmistakable dishes of Tuscan tradition, prepared with love and accompanied by excellent wines from the outstanding cellar.

Buca

15 REGINA BISTECCA

Housed in a former antique bookshop, Regina Bistecca is one of the most interesting restaurants in the centre of Florence. A passion for Bistecca alla Fiorentina com bines with traditional Florentine dishes. Simple, flavour ful cooking using superb quality ingredients which en hance the results, and more than 150 wine labels offering a broad overview of Tuscan wine culture.

18 RISTORO L’ANTICA SCUDERIA

16 RISTORANTE

IL PAIOLO

Right in the city centre, only minutes away from the cathe dral, Ristorante Il Paiolo has been welcoming customers for more than thirty years in a warm, comfortable place serving classic dishes of Flor ence and traditional country cooking made with refined quality ingredients. Floren tine steaks are the unrivalled star of the show at Il Paiolo, which also boasts a long list of local, national and interna tional wines.

17 RISTORANTE PAOLI

The long history of Ristoran te Paoli began in 1827 in an evocative se ing that was re furbished “in pure 14th-cen tury style” in the early 20th century. It was a historic gathering place for intellec tuals such as Leoncavallo, Puccini, Marine i and Pi randello, and ever since has preserved all the flavour and emotion of Tuscan cuisine, which come alive in every dish.

The restaurant is located in the Florentine Chianti coun tryside, next to the Abbey of Badia a Passignano. Housed in the building’s former sta bles, the restaurant is run by Maria, the executive chef, and her husband Stefano, who is in charge of the wine cellar stocked with one thousand wines. The menu is a celebra tion of the most traditional, authentic and genuine Tus can cuisine.

e excellent quality of the sh that arrives every day from the sh market in viareggio, skilfully cooked and served with expertise and ability in a simple, friendly and merry feel, but elegant at the same time, are the essential elements that have determined the success of our restaurant

e real avor of the sea

Open for dinner from 8 pm closed on Sundays

Via Pisana, 37r tel. +30 055 222299 www.fuordacqua.it

19 SABATINI

The city’s biggest restaurant, with more than 1200 square metres of space in four large halls, Sabatini is a landmark in Florence dishing up qual ity classic Tuscan cuisine. Designed by the architect Stigler, who furnished the restaurant in 1955 with items from a deconsecrated six teenth-century church, Saba tini is also Italy’s only restau rant constituting a protected heritage site.

20 TRATTORIA

13 GOBBI

In the heart of Florence’s his toric centre, a place of Tus can authenticity. The decor evokes the Florence of bygone days; the menu brings tradi tional cuisine together with cu ing-edge experimenta tion. House specialities are the Rigatoni served in a glass soup bowl and the unmissa ble Tagliata of beef served on a wooden block.

21 TRATTORIA

4 LEONI

A typical Tuscan tra oria in the centre of Florence, in the classic Piazza della Pas sera between Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pi i. The atmo sphere has all the vitality of the popular neighbourhood, now with a decidedly elegant contemporary slant, which extends to the dishes. Don’t miss the 4 Leoni salad, the Pear fiocche i in taleggio and asparagus sauce and the Peposo.

22 TRATTORIA CAMMILLO

One of Florence’s most traditional tra orias, frequented by a faithful and enthusiastic local clientele. The venue is time less, as is the cooking: ancient yet eternally youthful, tra ditional but never obsolete. Don’t leave without trying the Fri i, the Braciola rifa a and the home-made Tortellini.

25 TRATTORIA ZÀ ZÀ

23 TRATTORIA

NAPOLEONE

If you are looking for a dis tinct and charming location in one of Florence’s trendiest and oldest districts, the Trat toria Napoleone is ready to welcome you by ensuring you enjoy traditional dishes such as tortelli mugellani with wild boar ragu and pici senesi with a sausage ragu, the fa mous peposo all’imprunetina (Tuscan beef stew with black pepper) and cuts of Chianina and tomahawk steak, as well as grilled fillet with an abun dance of truffle.

24 TRATTORIA SOSTANZA

This is no mere restaurant, it’s a real institution. It’s the city’s most famous literary address and, even today, go ing for dinner at Tra oria Sostanza is like a journey back in time. Alongside the classic Bistecca alla Fioren tina, cult dishes include Ar tichoke tortino and Bu ered chicken breast.

Tra oria Zà zà preserves its seventeenth-century floors, thick stone walls and vaulted ceilings. The atmosphere in the restaurant’s many rooms is a blend of history and in spiration, including not only Tuscan style but exotic, colo nial and Bohemian moods, all with a cosy, welcoming feel. The menu offers a truly vast selection combining hearty cooking with a focus on the alchemy of flavours that makes a simply good dish into a dish in which everything goes together perfectly.

Piazza

The

place for carpets in Florence

LABIRINTO

Original carpet from the “Gio’ Ponti Collection” hand-knotted in Nepal in custom size.

www.boralevi.com 055 28.17.56 Via Maggio, 16/R Firenze

FINE DINING

Borgo San Jacopo, 62r ph. +39 055 281661 lungarnocollection.com

Piazza dei Nerli, 8/9r ph. +39 055 7602982 atelierdenerli.it

26 ATELIER DE’NERLI

A restaurant, but also an arts and cra s gallery and shop, in the Oltrarno neighborhood. A truly special concept, the fruit of Daniele Cavalli’s cre ativity. So lights, a vintage and glamorous atmosphere, evocative of New York City in the ‘70s. The cuisine is a trib ute to Italian culinary culture, unpretentious and genuine, but with its own identity. Rem ex et officia dunt.

27 BORGO SAN JACOPO

Romantic with a view, it is the Hotel Lungarno’s Mi chelin-starred restaurant. Haute cuisine with view over the Ponte Vecchio, even bet ter if on the small terrace overlooking the Arno river. In addition to the à la carte menu, two tasting menus in cluding must-try dishes by Executive Chef Claudio Men goni, such as the Cooked and Raw vegetables with Porcini mushroom ice cream and fig molasses.

Via del Corso, 6 ph. +39 055 5353555 chicnonna.com

28 CHIC NONNA FIRENZE

Chic Nonna is located in the old est part of Palazzo Portinari Sal viati. It is a fine dining experi ence curated by Executive Chef Vito Mollica, whose philosophy is use of raw materials of out standing quality; the goal is to come up with seasonal menus of traditional inspiration and international taste, presented in haute cuisine style. This is where Vito Mollica creates his most ambitious dishes, tem pering his childhood memories with his refined technique. The wine list offered with the chef’s creations includes a great va riety of Italian labels, with a special focus on Tuscany and a great selection of French and in ternational labels.

29 CIBRÈO RISTORANTE (HELVETIA &

BRISTOL)

It is the elegant restaurant of the Helvetia & Bristol Hotel, born out of the collaboration with an icon of Florence’s restaurant scene. The chef and owner is Giulio Picchi, the son of the famous “cook-eater”, as he enjoyed describing himself. Faithful to his fa ther’s philosophy, Giulio offers genuine cuisine with Italian spe cialties, such as rico a cheese crespelle with white meat sauce and Piedmontese Fassona beef filet.

Via dei Vecchietti, 5 ph. +39 055 2665651 collezione.starhotels.com

31 GOLDEN VIEW

A restaurant with a special charm and windows that overlook the Ponte Vecchio, the Vasari Corridor, the Uffizi and the river Arno. Entering the main door, a long wooden counter takes you straight to the delicatessen area, with a vast selection of cured meats and cheeses. This is followed by an Arte Bianca section pro ducing bread and desserts; from outside, the fish tank can be seen, filled with fresh ness for lunch and dinner.

30 ENOTECA PINCHIORRI

It is Florence’s three Michelin-starred restaurant, since 1993, thanks to Annie Féolde, Italy’s first female chef to be awarded three stars, and the fourth in the world, who has been working side by side with her head chef, Riccardo Monco, for years now. As the name suggests, the restaurant has an amazing, world-renowned wine cellar.

32 GUCCI OSTERIA

You can expect nothing but the best from a project that brought together a fashion icon and one of Italy’s most famous chefs, Massimo Bot tura. He put his pupil, now a very successful chef herself, Karime Lopez, at the helm of Florence’s Gucci Osteria. Her original versions of clas sic Italian dishes won the restaurant a Michelin star right away.

33 IL PALAGIO

It is the Michelin-starred restaurant of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, which gives onto the wonderful Gherar desca garden. The Executive Chef is Paolo Lavezzini, a master of Italian cuisine, in particular, a cuisine based on the use of seasonal and local ingredients. The menu features both traditional dishes with a gourmet twist and more creative and origi nal ones.

RISTORANTE

Un’incantevole terrazza che gode di una vista unica sull’Arno e sulle colline del Chianti, un ambiente elegante per trascorrere una serata romantica alle porte di Firenze. Una cucina raffinata, con prodotti della tradizione toscana e i migliori vini italiani. Il Bar Mediceo è il luogo ideale dove gustare ottimi cocktail, tra cui quelli creati con i liquori dell’Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella.

Villa La Massa Via della Massa 24, Firenze Candeli Tel. 055 62611 www.villalamassa.com reservations@villalamassa.it villalamassaofficial

Via della Massa, 24 - Candeli ph. + 39 055 62611

villalamassa.com

34 IL VERROCCHIO

The elegant restaurant of the Villa La Massa Hotel, in Can deli, where the city begins to give way to the countryside. With a magnificent terrace overlooking the Arno river and the perfect spot for sun set watching, it is the ideal lo cation for special and roman tic occasions, with a menu featuring traditional Italian dishes with a Mediterranean touch and a gourmet twist.

Seasonal

Piazza della Repubblica, 7 ph. + 39 055 2735891 roccofortehotels.com

35 IRENE

The Savoy Hotel’s restaurant, offering the best of Tuscan food and wine. Simple but elegant dishes, according to the philosophy of Chef Ful vio Pierangelini, the creative director of all Rocco Forte restaurants, who elevated his famous dish of spaghe i with local fresh tomato sauce and fragrant basil to an art form.

Costa San Giorgio, 6/A ph. +39 055 0680545

laleggendadeifrati.it

36 LA LEGGENDA DEI FRATI

Inside the Villa Bardini muse um complex, there’s a Miche lin-starred restaurant where you can enjoy one of the most magnificent views of the city while savouring creative dish es cooked by husband and wife chefs Filippo Saporito and Ombre a Giovannini. The food is based on superb local ingredients, and there’s plenty to impress. The Gran Menu dei Frati, nine courses chosen by the chefs, is an un paralleled experience.

38 LE BISTROT

In winter the elegant restau rant at the Villa Cora hotel is in the oriental splendour of the Moresca Room, in sum mer in the poolside garden, part of the enormous and an cient park surrounding this stately home with views of the Boboli Gardens and the historic centre of Florence. Executive chef Alessandro Liberatore skilfully interprets the best seasonal ingredients, most of them locally sourced.

37 LA LOGGIA

(VILLA SAN MICHELE)

At Villa San Michele, a former monastery in the Fiesole hills and now the Belmond hotel, chef Alessandro Coz zolino offers an astonishing culinary journey through past and present. Don’t miss his Roast pepper riso o with Casentino pork sausage and, when the weather’s fine, remember to book a table in the fi eenth-century loggia with breathtaking views. Seasonal

39 ORA D’ARIA

The restaurant of chef Mar co Stabile, the cornerstone of Florentine cuisine. Eggs and traditional recipes take centre stage in some of his timeless dishes, like Egg en meure e or Étouffée of roast pigeon with honey and pun tarelle. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, and if you want to see the chef at work, book a table upstairs, where the open kitchen is.

40 RISTORANTE

FRESCOBALDI

This restaurant shares the philosophy and values en shrined by the Frescobaldi family for more than 700 years. The menu is mainly inspired by Tuscan cuisine; pasta and bread are made daily on the premises and the dishes are based on the best seasonal produce. Ac companying the food are the prestigious wines that have made the Frescobaldi name famous all over the world.

Piazza Santa Elisabetta, 3 ph. +39 055 2737673 ristorantesantaelisabetta.it

Piazza della Signoria, 5r ph. +39 055 214412 rivoire.it

41 RIVOIRE

Established in Turin, Rivoire developed the art of choco late-making there and became the official chocolate supplier to the royal family in the city. Enrico Rivoire followed the Sa voy family to Florence before deciding to offer the whole city the fruits of his art in 1872. Now as then, his famous chocolates and other special ities are skilfully made on the basis of original recipes by master pastry-chefs and choc olate-makers. The restaurant is a recent addition, offering a refined menu and a presti gious selection of wines.

42 SANTA ELISABETTA

The two-Michelin-starred restaurant of Hotel Brunelles chi is located in the ancient Byzantine Pagliazza tower. Chef Rocco de Santis presents dishes that are minimalist, essential and pure, focusing on a single star ingredient backed by two or three oth ers. Everything is perfectly balanced between acid and sweet, raw and cooked, inten sity and lightness.

Piazza Ognissanti, 3 ph. +39 055 27152783 sestoonarno.com

43 SE·STO ON ARNO ROOFTOP BAR

An iconic place with breath taking views of the entire city. The restaurant combines contemporary Mediterra nean cooking with a unique atmosphere; the result is an avant-garde culinary experi ence. The elegant transparent glass structure extends over two large terraces, for a dining experience steeped in beauty.

44 WINTER GARDEN

In the gorgeous se ing of the elegant winter garden at the St. Re gis Florence, executive chef Gentian Shehi offers a sophisticated culinary experience that reflects and showcases Tuscan tradition, and impeccable service with close a ention to detail. Perfect for a coffee break, a quick lunch, a ernoon tea or exclusive aperitifs.

Piazza Ognissanti, 1 ph. +39 055 27163770 wintergardenflorence.com

FISH RESTAURANTS

45 CESTELLO

RISTOCLUB

An evergreen nightlife venue in the Oltrarno area and a cult restaurant for fish lovers in Florence. Its iced fish count er, from which customers are invited to choose what they want -perhaps even by assem bling the restaurant’s famous grand plateau of raw fish- is irresistibly tempting. The oys ters and Iranian Beluga caviar are must-tries too.

46 FISHMOOD

Located in the historic centre of Florence, a stone’s throw from the church of Santa Croce, this restaurant offers innovative cooking that brings a modern twist to the owner’s Puglia or igins. The star is the sea, with all its flavours! The wide-rang ing menu is perfect whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or aperitif, or prefer a calmer fine dining experience; all ac companied by excellent wines or cocktails. Don’t forget to try the Gourmet fish panino, a true Fishmood innovation!

47 FUOR D’ACQUA

Just steps from Porta San Frediano, a historic name for fish-based cuisine in Flor ence. The menu features only fresh and daily-caught fish, both simple and more cre ative dishes. Enjoy the appe tizers, truly unique, as well as the grand raw fish plateau. Among the signature dishes, Catalana and Paccheri alla Trabaccolara.

Via Maffia, 1/C ph. +39 338 2844182 marinadisantospirito.it

PIZZA & CO RESTAURANTS

48 MARINA

DI SANTOSPIRITO

A former carpentry work shop in Santo Spirito is now an original fish restaurant, where chef Marina delights diners not only with her ex quisite dishes of the freshest fish, from the classic to the unusual, but also with her live music, taking the stage with her guitar at the end of the evening.

Piazza Santo Spirito, 6r ph. +39 055 210437 borgoanticofirenze.com

49 BORGO ANTICO

Tra oria Borgo Antico over looks enchanting Piazza di Santo Spirito, offering a warm, cosy atmosphere for enjoying all the magic of Re naissance Florence in the Ol trarno district on the far bank of the Arno River. Here diners enjoy delicious new versions of traditional Florentine dishes as well as seafood, piz za baked in a wood-burning oven, and delicious desserts. Vegetarian choices available.

Via Isola delle Stinche, 11/13r ph. 055 289080 caffeitaliano.it

50 CAFFÈ ITALIANO

Napoli, Margherita or Mar inara. Just these three piz zas, made scrupulously the traditional way with Italian stone-ground flour and a very long proving time, and served in a 14th-century palace half way between Santa Croce and Santa Maria del Fiore, accom panied by a superb selection of wines.

51 GIOTTO

A place to be for lovers of Neapolitan-style pizza. In Florence since 2016 in the Novoli district, Gio o has now opened a second pizzeria in Piazza Santa Maria Novella. It’s the ideal place to en joy an excellent Neapolitan-style pizza, cooked to perfection with mouth-watering toppings. The man behind the pizza is Marco Manzi, star pizzaiolo in this li le piece of Naples in the city.

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 24r ph. +39 055212287 pizzeriagiotto.it

53 LUNGARNO 23

Overlooking the gorgeous Lungarno Torrigiani from a lovely veranda, cool in sum mer and heated in winter, this restaurant is renowned for top-quality antipasti, fab ulous first courses of fresh home-made pasta (make sure you try the Spaghe i with parmesan cream and black truffle) and excellent meats served in the form of gourmet hamburgers, tagliata and other specialities.

52 HARD ROCK CAFE

Located just off Piazza della Repubblica, the Cafe main tains the soul and architectural features of the landmark Gambrinus Cinema it is housed in, while infusing Hard Rock’s rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere. It includes a spacious seat ing area, open-air dining, a live music area, a vibrant bar, and a Rock Shop. Serving traditional American favorites and locally inspired entrees.

54 NEROMO

Neromo was born of a love of the simplicity of traditional flavours and aromas of Flo rentine food, combined with the tradition and tastes of Salento and Abruzzo. The meat and fish dishes are conceived with mastery; the crowning glory is the pizze ria, serving naturally raised pizzas topped with authentic fresh ingredients typical of Naples.

55 OBICÀ FIRENZE

Obicà Mozzarella Bar is an informal and contemporary pizzeria in Via de’ Tornabuoni in the heart of Florence. It serves fabulous DOP buffalo mozzarella from Campania, pizzas and traditional Italian dishes in a friendly, convivial atmosphere, very close to the city’s main a ractions.

Via de’ Tornabuoni, 16 ph. +39 055 2773526 obica.com/ristoranti/firenze

56 SANTARPIA

A name and a guarantee of quality from Giovanni San tarpia, maestro of Neapolitan pizza. The menu includes classics like Margherita and Marinara, but also variations on these, with yellow Pienno lo tomatoes. There are plenty of Neapolitan options, such as sausage and friarelli or pa nuozzo, alongside more un usual dishes.

57 STARITA

At Starita, tradition and conviviality are central, and they proudly focus on using great ingredients and tra ditional methods. The Flor ence branch is the 5th, a er Naples, New York (opened in 2012), Milan (2016) and Turin (2018). Don’t miss the mari nara, porta a porta, fried piz za and classic calzone.

ETHNIC RESTAURANTS

58 CIBLÈO

In 1988 Fabio Picchi fell madly in love with an extraordinary li le restaurant in Kyoto, and his passion led him to open Ciblèo Tortelli e Ravioli. The cooking has a strong Asian in fluence, but uses prime Tus can ingredients; the dining room is intimate and booking is essential.

60 MOMOYAMA

In the colourful neighbour hood of San Frediano there’s a place where Japanese ele gance and hospitality com bine with the vibrant atmo sphere of the city. Open since 1998, Momoyama was the first restaurant in Florence to focus on Asian cuisine. Re search and quality showcase Japanese food through both traditional dishes and fusion recipes that combine tradi tional flavours and innova tion.

59 KOKO

Surrounded by the wonders of Florence, Koko has created an elegant minimalist space that’s the perfect se ing for modern Japanese cuisine. Original pairings, exquisite in gredients and innovative techniques are the hallmarks of every dish. Meanwhile the Koko Lounge Bar is a landmark for those wishing to enjoy Asian food along with DJ sets and special cocktails.

61 ATRIUM BAR

The beauty and charm of Palazzo della Gherardesca are the perfect backdrop to the Atrium Bar, housed in the magnificent Four Seasons Hotel Firenze and whose bar tenders master wonderfully the art of mixology. Among the cult drinks are the Vin tage Negroni and Moulin Rouge, and for those who plan to stay for dinner and order the tasting menu, Ex ecutive Chef Paolo Lavezzi ni has designed a box full of surprises that changes with the seasons.

62 B-ROOF

On the fi h floor of Grand Hotel Baglioni, a special place where you can enjoy top-quality cuisine and the spectacular view of Florence’s skyline. Brunelleschi’s Dome and Gio o’s Bell Tower are so close you feel like you can touch them. The menu fea tures simple and traditional dishes with a creative twist by a team of talented chefs.

Piazza

caffegilli.com

Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 2/P ph. +39 055 27268912

lungarnocollection.com

63 CAFFÈ DELL’ORO

A ‘living room with kitchen’, warm and cozy. The menu is rich in genuine flavors and tasty combos, in an elegant location inspired by the so phisticated atmosphere of the 1950s. The perfect place to fall in love with Florence by taking in the view of the Ponte Vecchio from such a vantage point.

64 CAFFÈ GILLI

It is Florence’s oldest café. Since always the city’s ele gant gathering place, it is now very popular because of its variety of bakery and confectionery production. The innovative cocktail bar, instead, stands out for its top-quality classic, contem porary and signature drinks. An unmissable appointment at any time of day.

Piazza della Repubblica, 35r ph. +39 055 210236

caffepaszkowski.com

65 CAFFÈ PASZKOWSKI

From a brewery to a liter ary café and meeting place for intellectuals in the late 19th century, Paszkowski has retained all its style and charm, becoming one of the symbols of Florentine tra dition. The coffee and pas tries are top quality: don’t miss the Paszkowski cake, breads and pies for a break fast that will start the day with a smile.

66 CIBRÈO CAFFÈ (HELVETIA &

BRISTOL)

67 COLLE BERETO

A special lounge bar amidst historic buildings and de signer boutiques, offering unforge able drinks from its prestigious cocktail list. Tropical Jungle, Fashion Col le and Penta Negroni are only a few of the creations by the bartenders who every day create something new and exciting, to be enjoyed while listening to DJ sets and inter national music.

68 DITTA ARTIGIANALE SANT’AMBROGIO

Located in the 14th-centu ry refectory of an ancient building, Di a Artigiana le is a café offering a wide choice of pastries and food and houses Europe’s first Coffee School. At aperitivo time, gin lovers can choose from a range of 150 gins and 12 different tonic waters, in cluding the signature Peter in Florence gin.

69 EMPIREO ROOFBAR & POOL

Since its opening, Empireo has been offering the Hotel Plaza Lucchesi’s customers and locals alike a breathtak ing view of the city. Having a drink by the pool while tak ing in the view of the Duomo and the beauty of the sun going down is an amazingly intense experience, enjoyable throughout the summer sea son at Empireo.

A landmark of Italian culinary excellence inside the Helve tia & Bristol Firenze – Starhotels Collezione Hotel, the ideal place for those looking for a welcoming and convivial venue for any time of the day, from coffee breaks to lunch, drinks and dinner, accompanied by the Cibrèo’s authentic cuisine. Lungarno

Piazza della Signoria, 37r ph: +39 055 75927012 guccigarden.gucci.com

Via de’ Vecchietti, 3/5 ph. +39 055 8025253 iginiomassari.it

70 GALLERIA IGINIO

MASSARI

The king of cakes and bakery products has just moved to the ground floor of Florence’s beautiful Helvetia & Bristol –Starhotels Collezione Hotel, with two gli ering windows just steps away from Via Torn abuoni and Palazzo Strozzi. A veritable temple to the art of pastry making. Among the most popular creations are the apple fago ino, the maritozzo and the tasting of macarons, but the choice is definitely wide.

71 GUCCI GIARDINO 25

The fashion house’s new café & cocktail bar, which adds to the Gucci Garden restaurant. The space was designed by Creative Director Alessandro Michele, who combined the best of a traditional Tuscan shop and of an elegant French bistro. Open all day from breakfast to a er-dinner drinks, with cocktails mas terly prepared by bartender Martina Bonci. The must-try drink? Mémoire di Negroni.

Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 2r ph. 39 055 27265987 lungarnocollection.com

72 LA TERRAZZA ROOFTOP BAR

The roo op bar La Terrazza is located on the top of the medieval Consorti Tower, on the last floor of Hotel Conti nentale, surrounded by art treasures. A private, con temporary-looking and very elegant space, ideal for en joying a drink at sunset with breathtaking view.

73 LOCALE

The heart of the city’s nightlife scene is the beautiful hall of Il Locale, a restaurant and cocktail bar with a dual identity: an easy, more traditional side and a more sophisticated and ele gant one. The perfect place for an unforge able experience of the best of the local culinary tradition reinterpreted by the chefs’ creativity and of innovative cocktails.

Via delle Seggiole, 12 ph. +39 055 9067188 localefirenze.it

75 MOVE ON

A multi-sensory venue in which contemplation of the pleasures of the palate blends harmoniously with the joy of good music, against the back drop of one of Italy’s most evocative se ings: Piazza San Giovanni. Unparalleled Made in Italy quality is evident in the cra smanship of the fur nishings, as well as the con tents of the menu.

74 LOGGIA ROOF BAR Located on the beautiful panoramic terrace of the Hotel Palazzo Guadagni, this wonderful roo op bar overlooks the Piazza and Basilica of Santo Spirito and offers a unique view of the city and surrounding hills. With its romantic and relaxing atmo sphere, it is a truly special se ing for an unforge able drink with view of the sun going down behind Florence’s red roofs.

76 PICTEAU

BISTROT & BAR

An elegant cocktail bar and bistro with a unique view of the Ponte Vecchio and Arno river as if from a boat. If the view from the outdoor tables is amazing, the tables inside are in no way inferior, sur rounded as they are by a col lection of 20th-century works of art. Equally wonderful are the dishes by Chef Claudio Mengoni, who never ceases to amaze his customers.

77 PROCACCI

A delicatessen founded in 1885 on the elegant Via de’ Tornabuoni. Its truffled pani ni are an institution in Flor ence. Taken over by Marchesi Antinori in 1998, the shop, filled with the unmistak able aroma of truffle, has preserved its walnut shelves and green marble Art Nou veau-style counter. A not-tomiss local ritual at aperitivo time.

78 SANTA COCKTAIL CLUB

An aperitif at Santa Cocktail Club in gorgeous Piazza San ta Maria Novella is a truly unmissable experience. The elegant and intimate out door terrace is framed by the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, and the menu is intriguing and original. You order from a digital de vice offering a range of signa ture cocktails and timeless classics. Every drink has its glass, like the swan-shaped one for the Lady75, based on home-made raspberry syrup and hibiscus-infused vodka, or the Santa Flip, served in a quail’s egg and featuring the same ingredient. The extraor dinary curated cocktails are accompanied by an aperitif and dinner menu that a racts locals and tourists alike.

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 1 ph. +39 337

79 VIEW ON ART

On the 6th floor of a historic building in the heart of Flor ence is View on Art, the per fect place for an aperitif with breathtaking views of the Duomo. Open every day from 12:00 to 23:00, it offers truly unparalleled views of the city for a unique immersive expe rience accompanied by excel lent cocktails.

Via dei Medici, 6 ph. +39 333 2923675 viewonart.it

INFORMATION GETTING AROUND IN FLORENCE AND TUSCANY

Everything you need to know about ge ing around in the city and further afield

TAXI

For business and tourism, in dividuals and small groups, Taxi4390 is the leading pro vider in Florence and the surrounding area, with more than 400 vehicles. The price from Amerigo Vespucci air port to the city centre is ap proximately €22. The same journey at night (22:00 - 6:00) is €25.30; public holidays €24.

CARSHARING&NCC

Car sharing is a simple, sustain able use of vehicles. To access the service, you need to register on websites offering the facility and download the dedicated app. Car sharing in Florence is currently offered by Enjoy and TiMove (Adduma Car). There are also plenty of car rental pro viders, with drivers if required; they include NCC Firenze Bar tolini, Veloce Fast Cars, Tusca ny Vip Service, Your Driver in Florence and Firenze NCC.

CITY BIKE AND KICK SCOOTERS

Florence is the perfect place to visit by bike or scooter. Florence by Bike is currently the most reliable cycle hire service in Florence and all over Tuscany. If you prefer the electric option, a sharing ser vice is offered by Ridemovi. Meanwhile, electric scooters and mopeds are available from TiMove and Bit Mobil ity. Helmets are obligatory, and we recommend checking the websites for all the rules.

BUS

Bus services in Florence and throughout Tuscany are provided by Autolinee Toscane, both within and outside the urban area. Tickets can be purchased digitally by texting Firenze to (ph. +39) 488 01 05 or via the Tabnet app, but are also available from official ticket offices, machines and au thorised dealers.

DISTANCEFROMFLORENCETO:

AREZZO 76 Km

FORTE DEI MARMI 124 Km

GROSSETO 147 Km

LIVORNO 105 Km

LUCCA 79 Km

MASSA CARRARA 173 Km

PIOMBINO 176 Km

PISA 98 Km

PISTOIA 38 Km

PRATO 21 Km

SIENA 69 Km

TRAM

The tram network is an effi cient and eco-friendly way to get around in Florence. The system currently offers two lines: Linea 1 (connecting Careggi and Scandicci) and Linea 2 (Peretola to Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia). Check the gestramvia.it website for stops and timetables.

TRAIN

Florence’s main railway sta tion, Firenze Santa Maria No vella, is an important hub for high-speed trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo. From here you can reach Bologna in just 35 minutes, Rome in

one hour 20, Milan in one hour 50, and Forte dei Marmi in one hour 40.

AIRPORTS

The Tuscany Region has two airports: Amerigo Vespucci (Firenze Peretola) in Florence and Galileo Galilei in Pisa. Firenze Peretola is a few ki lometres from the centre of the Tuscan capital, and con nected by 2 tram lines, buses and taxis. If you arrive in Pisa, you can reach the capital by a combination of the Pisa Mov er bus and the train, or on one of the many shu le buses

FIRENZE

that depart from the Arrivals area and take you to Firenze Santa Maria Novella station.

FERRIES

Sea links with the Tuscan Archipelago are operated by Toremar S.p.A., which runs services to the islands from the ports of Piombino, Livor no and Porto Santo Stefano.

CELEBRATIONS

TIMETABLE

CATHEDRAL OF SANTA MARIA DEL FIORE

Piazza San Giovanni ph. +39 055 294514 Weekdays: 10:00, 18:00; Festive days: 9:00, 18:00; 10:30 Gregorian Mass

SAN MINIATO AL MONTE

Via delle Porte Sante, 34 ph. +39 055 2342731 Weekdays: 18:00; Festive days: 8:30, 10:00, 11:30,17:30; 18:30 Gregorian Mass

SANTA CROCE

Piazza Santa Croce, 16 ph. +39 055 244619 Weekdays: 18:00; Festive days: 11:00, 18:00

SAN LORENZO

Piazza San Lorenzo ph. +39 055 216634 Weekdays: 9:30, 18:00; Festive days: 9:30, 11:00, 18:00

SAN MARCO

Piazza San Marco ph. +39 055 2396950 Weekdays: 18,30; Festive days: 11:00, 18:30

SANTA MARIA NOVELLA

Piazza Santa Maria Novella ph. +39 055 219257

Weekdays: 7:30, 18:10; Saturdays: 7:30, 8:00; Festive days: 10:30, 12:00, 18:00

SANTISSIMA ANNUNZIATA

Piazza Santissima Annunziata ph. +39 055 216912 Weekdays: 9:00, 18:00; Festive days: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00, 12:10, 18:00

SANTO SPIRITO

Piazza Santo Spirito ph. +39 055 210030 Weekdays: 9:00; Saturdays: 9:00, 18:00; Festive days: 9:00, 10:30, 18:00

RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

Via Leone X, 8 ph. +39 055 471630 Sunday and liturgical feast 10am, Saturday 5pm. In Russian

SYNAGOGUE

Via Farini, 4 ph. +39 055 245252 Saturdays 9am-12:30pm; Last admission at 11:30

Times may change, please contact the phone number for confirmation

CONSULATES IN FLORENCE

AUSTRIA

Lungarno A. Vespucci, 58 ph. +39 055 2654222

BANGLADESH

Via Pellicceria, 6 ph. +39 055 217500

BELGIUM

Via dei Servi, 28 ph. +39 055 282094

BRAZIL

Lungarno A. Vespucci, 18 ph. +39 055 290948

BURKINA FASO

Via Maggio, 26 ph. +39 055 219571

CAMEROON

Piazza Indipendenza, 21 ph. +39 055 5047149

CHINA

Via della Robbia, 89 ph. +39 055 573889

COLOMBIA

Via Fra Giovanni Angelico, 73 ph. +39 055 2345536 - 333 7582291

COSTA RICA

Via Giambologna, 10 ph. +39 055 573603

CROATIA

Via Ma onaia, 13 ph. +39 055 2639272

DENMARK

Via Pier Capponi, 73 ph. +39 055 2398942

DOMENICAN REPUBLIC

Via Marconi, 30 ph. +39 055 5000777 - 055 5537145

ECUADOR

Vie Trieste, 67 ph. +39 055 473151

EL SALVADOR

Via Condo a, 12 ph. +39 055 292256

ESTONIA

Via Lamarmora, 55 ph. +39 055 588313

FINLAND

Borgo SS. Apostoli, 27 ph. +39 055 3562838 - 340 1635261

FRANCE

Piazza Ognissanti, 2 ph. +39 055 2302556

GRENADA

Via dello Studio, 8 ph. +39 055 0776222 - 055 290394

HUNGARY

Via Belgio, 2 ph. +39 055 6531817

INDONESIA

Via Pier Capponi, 17 ph. +39 055 582580 - 328 9672044

ISRAEL

Via della Spada, 2 ph. +39 366 3457098

LEBANON

Via del Proconsolo, 16 ph. +39 055 213102 - 393 9299225

LITHUANIA

Viale Belfiore, 33 ph. +39 055 363045

LUXEMBOURG

Piazzale Galileo, 5 ph. +39 349 8080773

MAURITIUS

Via degli Alfani, 34 ph. +39 055 0981972

MEXICO

Via dell’Agnolo, 76 ph. +39 055 217831 - 055 283696

MOLDOVA

Via Peri Capponi, 87 ph. +39 334 1766164

MONGOLIA

Via Firenzuola, 18 ph. +39 0574 606136

MYANMAR

Via di Camerata, 11 ph. +39 339 5066456

NETHERLANDS

Via Pier Capponi, 73 ph. +39 055 0749108

NORWAY

Viale Ma eo i, 25 ph. +39 055 5000512

PERÙ

Via dei Bardi, 28 ph. +39 055 2608803

PHILIPPINES

Piazza Indipendenza, 17 ph. +39 055 4628848

PRINCIPATO DI MONACO

Lungarno Vespucci, 58 ph. +39 055 2670608

ROMANIA

Viale del Poggio Imperiale, 32 ph. +39 055 0197075

SAINT KITTS E NEVIS

Via Vi orio Emanuele II, 93 ph. +39 055 496539

SAN MARINO

Via Roma, 3 ph. +39 055 214063

SENEGAL

Via Borgo San Lorenzo, 1 ph. +39 055 216999

SLOVENIA

Via Pasquale Villari, 39 ph. +39 055 0546555

SOUTH AFRICA

Piazza Saltarelli, 1 ph. +39 055 281863

SOUTH KOREA

Via Madonna della Pace, 62 ph. +39 055 5048516 - 333 6874142

SPAIN

Via dell’Agnolo, 76 ph. +39 055 212207

SWITZERLAND

Piazzale Galileo, 5 ph. +39 055 222434

TUNISIA

Piazza San Marco, 12 ph. +39 055 352626 - 342 1938984

UKRAINE

Via XX Se embre, 124 ph. +39 055 4625252

U.S. OF AMERICA

Lungarno A. Vespucci, 38 ph. +39 055 266951

UZBEKISTAN

Via dell’Agnolo, 76 ph. +39 055 7477517 - 334 7444397

YEMEN

Via Maffia, 10 ph. +39 055 219588 055 2398747 - 055 2399328

HOTELS

COMO CASTELLO DEL NERO

Via Strada Spicciano, 7 Tavarnelle ph. +39 055 8064701

FOUR SEASONS

HOTEL FIRENZE

Via Borgo Pinti, 99 ph. +39 055 26261

GOLDEN TOWER

HOTEL & SPA

Piazza degli Strozzi, 11r ph. +39 055 287860

HELVETIA&BRISTOL FIRENZE

Via de’ Pescioni, 2 ph. +39 055 26651 ph. +39 055 288353

HOTEL BERNINI PALACE FIRENZE

Piazza San Firenze, 29 ph. +39 055 288621

HOTEL FIRENZE NUMBER NINE

Via dei Conti, 9 ph. +39 055 293777

HOTEL LUNGARNO

Borgo San Jacopo, 14 ph. +39 055 27261

HOTEL REGENCY FIRENZE

Piazza Massimo D’Azeglio, 3 ph. +39 055 245247

HOTEL SAVOY FLORENCE

Piazza della Repubblica, 7 ph. +39 055 27351

IL SALVIATINO

Via del salviatino, 21 ph. + 39 055 904 1111

IL TORNABUONI HOTEL

Via de’ Tornabuoni, 3 ph. +39 055 212645

NH COLLECTION FIRENZE

PORTA ROSSA

Via Porta Rossa, 19 ph. +39 055 2710911

PALAZZO MONTEBELLO FIRENZE

Via G. Garibaldi, 14 ph. +39 055 27471

PORTRAIT FIRENZE

Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 4 ph. +39 055 27268000

RELAIS S. CROCE

BY BAGLIONI HOTELS & RESORTS

Via Ghibellina, 87 ph. +39 055 2342230

SINA VILLA MEDICI

Via Il Prato, 42 ph. +39 055 277171

THE PLACE

Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 7 ph. +39 055 2645181

THE ST. REGIS FLORENCE Piazza Ognissanti, 1 ph. +39 055 27161

THE WESTIN EXCELSIOR, FLORENCE Piazza Ognissanti, 3 ph. +39 055 27151

VILLA CORA

Viale Macchiavelli, 18 ph. +39 055 228790

VILLA SAN MICHELE A BELMOND HOTEL FIRENZE

Via Doccia, 4 - Fiesole ph. +39 055 567 8200

VILLA TOLOMEI HOTEL & RESORT

Via di Santa Maria a Marignolle, 10 ph. +39 055 3920401

VILLE SULL’ARNO

Lungarno Cristoforo Colombo, 1/3/5 ph. +39 055 670971

AC HOTEL FIRENZE

Via Luciano Bausi, 5 ph. +39 055 3120111

AMBASCIATORI HOTEL

Via Luigi Alamanni, 3 ph. +39 055 287421

BORGHESE PALACE ART HOTEL Via Ghibellina, 174r ph. +39 055 284363

BRUNELLESCHI HOTEL Piazza Sant’Elisabe a, 3 ph. +39 055 27370

CASA HOWARD FIRENZE RESIDENZA D’EPOCA

Via della Scala, 18 ph. +39 055 7094605

CLUB HOTEL Via S. Caterina da Siena, 11 ph. +39 055 217707

CONTINENTALE

Vicolo dell’ Oro, 6r ph. +39 055 27262

DIPLOMAT HOTEL

Via Luigi Alamanni, 9 ph. +39 055 2608400

FH55 HOTEL CALZAIUOLI

Via dei Calzaiuoli, 6 ph. +39 055 212456

GALLERY HOTEL ART Vicolo dell’ Oro, 5 ph. +39 055 27263

GARIBALDI BLU HOTEL Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 21 ph. +39 055 277300

GLANCE HOTEL FLORENCE Via Nazionale, 23 ph. +39 055 290082

GRAND HOTEL ADRIATICO Via Maso Finiguerra, 9 ph. +39 055 27931

GRAND HOTEL BAGLIONI Piazza dell’Unità Italiana, 6 ph. +39 055 23580

GRAND HOTEL CAVOUR Via del Proconsolo, 3 ph. +39 055 266271

GRAND HOTEL MEDITERRANEO

Lungarno del Tempio, 44 ph. +39 055 660241

GRAND HOTEL MINERVA Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 16 ph. +39 055 27230

HOTEL ADLER CAVALIERI FIRENZE Via della Scala, 40 ph. +39 055 277810

HOTEL ALBANI FIRENZE Via Fiume, 12 ph. +39 055 26030

HOTEL ART ATELIER Via dell’Amorino, 20 ph. +39 055 283777

HOTEL ATLANTIC PALACE Via Nazionale, 12 ph. +39 055 213031

HOTEL BALESTRI FIRENZE Piazza Mentana, 7 ph. +39 055 214743

HOTEL BERCHIELLI Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 14 ph. +39 055 264061

HOTEL CALIFORNIA Via Ricasoli, 28 ph. +39 055 282753 ph. +39 055 283499

HOTEL CELLAI FIRENZE Via XXVII Aprile, 52/R ph. +39 055 489291

HOTEL CERRETANI FIRENZE - MGALLERY Via de’ Cerretani, 68 ph. +39 055 0643811

HOTEL CROCE DI MALTA

CONCIERGE ‘LES CLEFS D’OR’

Via della Scala, 7 ph. +39 055 261870 ph. +39 055 218351

HOTEL DEGLI ORAFI Lungarno degli Archibusieri, 4 ph. +39 055 26622

HOTEL DOMUS FLORENTIAE

Via degli Avelli, 2 ph. +39 055 2654645

HOTEL EXECUTIVE Via Curtatone, 5 ph. +39 055 217451

HOTEL FIRENZE LAURUS AL DUOMO

Via de’ Cerretani, 54r, ph. +39 055 2381752

HOTEL GINORI AL DUOMO & GINORI GARDEN DELUXE COLLECTION

Via de’ Ginori, 22/24/26 ph. +39 055 218615

HOTEL HOME FLORENCE Piazza Piave, 3 ph. +39 055 243668

HOTEL KRAFT FIRENZE Via Solferino, 2 ph. +39 055 284273

HOTEL L’OROLOGIO FIRENZE Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 24 ph. +39 055 277380

HOTEL LONDRA FIRENZE

Via Jacopo da Diacceto, 16/20 ph. +39 055 2739141 ph. +39 055 27390

HOTEL MONNA LISA Borgo Pinti 27 ph. +39 055 2479751

HOTEL NH COLLECTION FIRENZE PALAZZO GADDI Via del Giglio, 9 ph. +39 02 87368144

NH FIRENZE

Piazza Vi orio Veneto, 4/A ph. +39 055 2770

HOTEL PALAZZO DAL BORGO

Via della Scala, 6 ph. +39 055 216237

HOTEL PIERRE

Via dei Lamberti, 5 ph. +39 055 216218

HOTEL FIRENZE PITTI PALACE AL PONTE VECCHIO Borgo S. Jacopo, 3/R ph. +39 055 2398711

HOTEL PONTE VECCHIO SUITES & SPA Via Dè Belfredelli, 9

ph. +39 055 217379

HOTEL PRINCIPE FIRENZE Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci, 34 ph. +39 055 284848

HOTEL ROMA Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 8 ph. +39 055 210366

HOTEL SANTA MARIA NOVELLA FIRENZE Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 1 ph. +39 055 271840

HOTEL VILLA CARLOTTA Via Michele di Lando, 3 ph. +39 055 2336134

JOY HOTEL

Via degli Orti Oricellari, 30 ph. +39 055 214628

LUNGARNO VESPUCCI 50 Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci, 50 ph. +39 055 0458100

MERCURE FIRENZE CENTRO

Via Nazionale, 21/23 R ph. +39 055 530 0700

MILU HOTEL Via de’ Tornabuoni, 8 ph. +39 055 217103

PALAZZO CASTRI 1874 Piazza Indipendenza, 7 ph. +39 055 472118

PALAZZO GAMBA LUXURY APARTMENTS FLORENCE Via de’ Martelli, 2 ph. +39 055 271861

PALAZZO SAN NICCOLÒ Via di S. Niccolò, 79 ph. +39 055 244509

HOTEL PARK PALACE FIRENZE Piazzale Galileo, 5 ph. +39 055 222431

PLAZA HOTEL LUCCHESI FIRENZE

Lungarno della Zecca Vecchia, 38 ph. +39 055 26 236

RIVOLI BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Via della Scala, 33 ph. +39 055 27861

ROOM MATE ISABELLA HOTEL Via de’ Tornabuoni, 13 ph. +39 055 239 6464

ROOM MATE LUCA HOTEL Via XXVII Aprile, 3 ph. +39 055 2645539

SAN FIRENZE SUITES & SPA Piazza di S. Firenze, 3/A, ph. +39 055 285009

SAN GALLO PALACE

Via Lorenzo Il Magnifico, 2 ph. +39 055 463871

STROZZI PALACE HOTEL Via dei Vecchie i, 4 ph. +39 055 283898

THE FRAME HOTEL

Via Panzani, 2 ph. +39 055 2670549

THE J & J HISTORIC HOUSE HOTEL

Via di Mezzo, 20 ph. +39 055 26312

VILLA OLMI FIRENZE

Via degli Olmi, 4/8 Via del Crocifisso del Lume, 18 - Bagno a Ripoli ph. +39 055 637710

HOTEL BENIVIENI FIRENZE

Via delle Oche, 5 ph. +39 055 238 2133

HISTORIC RESIDENCES & RESORTS

ANTICA TORRE

DI VIA TORNABUONI N.1 Via de’ Tornabuoni, 1 ph. +39 055 265 8161 ph. +39 380 9025494

HOTEL CENTRALE

Via dei Conti, 3 ph. +39 055 215761 +39 055 215216

PALAZZO ALFIERI RESIDENZA D’EPOCA ALFIERI COLLEZIONE Lungarno Corsini, 2 + 39 055 230 2185 ph. +39 055 289618

PALAZZO ROSELLI CECCONI Borgo Santa Croce, 6 ph. +39 055 0749120 +39 366 8792690

VILLA LA MASSA

Via della Massa, 24 Candeli Bagno a Ripoli ph. +39 055 62611