GENTLEMEN’S GUIDE to
Florence
Listing of Places
Topic
Locations
1
Culture
Florentine Culture
3
Menswear Locations
Belmonte, Boggi Milano, Sartoria Rossie
9
Cafés
Café Letterario, Pane DiVino
13
Drinks
Volume
15
Restaurant
Tameró
17
Hotels
JK Place Hotel
19
Gelato Shop
Gelateria La Carrai
21
Shave/Haircut
Antonio e Marcello Parrucchiere per Uomo
23
Shoes
TODS
25
Cigar Locations
Sbardella Marco
27
Hidden Gems
Caffetteria delle Oblate, Piazzale Michalangelo
31
Other Italian Cities to Visit
Almalfi Coast, Palermo
35
Other European Cities to Visit
Copenhagen, Paris
39
Budget Choices
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Florentine Culture While Italian culture differs greatly from place to place, Florence is a hub for traditional Italian culture. First, the Italian language was based, by Dante, on the Florentine dialect. While you may not speak perfect Italian just yet, give it a try while you are here! Locals are very appreciative that you are trying, and will always react positively. That being said, many Florentines speak English, at least to a small extent, making communication easier. Be sure to watch out for small sidewalks, and don’t try to make eye contact with people you do not know if you are not addressing them; it is considered rather rude. When out for dinner, feel free to take as long as you like, as Italians prefer that you sit and enjoy your meal fully. At the end, ask for the check, and do not feel obligated to tip. Most restaurants include some sort of charge to sit instead of a tip, but if the service is especially good, a gentleman can leave a generous tip of 5% to 10%. Know that the Florentine lifestyle has a slower pace than others. Whether it is as simple as coffee standing at a bar, or a conversation between strangers, things here are meant to be enjoyed here, not rushed! And of course, do not wear Jueventus soccer gear; the rivals are not beloved in this city! No matter how long your stay is in this city, the beauty of Florence will undoubtedly find a way into any gentleman’s heart!
1
Belmonte
Based in the nearby city of Luca, Belmonte offers classic style in a modern fit for all of its men’s and women’s wear. Focusing primarily on shirts for both men and women, this is a fairly price. They offer a huge array of materials, collar styles, colors, and fits for any body. Still, the store has maintained its high-standard of quality since it’s founding in 1938, and can be seen as a blend between American and Italian style. This is the perfect way for any person to incorporate Italian flair into their wardrobe, regardless of what your look may be.
3
Boggi Milano
This shop offers Milanese fashion at its finest. Milan, the most industrial city of Italy, is famous for its sleek, modern interpretations of the classic Italian look. This shop is the Florentine hub for such gentleman. Since 1939, Boggi Milano has worked to provide its customers with up-to-the-minute designs and fabrics. Its attendants, helpful and thoughtful, are willing to share opinions with you regarding their clothing, and will make recommendations based on your desires. With an extensive in-store inventory, and the ability to physically try a vast array of different styles, in person, is unmatched in Florence. Boggi’s high quality menswear is ideal for the modern gentleman looking to fully immerse himself in contemporary fashion.
5
Sartoria Rossi
This tailor is, in my opinion, the epitome of Florentine menswear. This luxurious shop is the home of hand-made Florentine menswear, using all local fabric to create some of the most amazing garments available in the city. Featuring Italian-styled suits, blazers, and other formalwear, the particular styles of this shop embrace the Spezzatura lifestyle; that is, these pieces seem to give the wearer the effortless grace and style we expect in Italian menswear. The shop itself is meant to match this experience. The sarta (attendant) are happy to speak with you, in English or Italian, and are there to ensure you have exactly what you want. Many pieces are on display in the shop, but if you are looking for something unique, the attendant will be more than happy to take your measurements, and create an entirely new garment just for you.
7
Café Letterare
Hidden in an enclosed piazza just a short walk from Centro, the center of the city, Café Letterare offers an authentic Italian experience for all visitors. This eclectic café features a cozy, colorful atmosphere to enjoy while taking in a cappuccino or other coffee drink. The baristas are friendly and will do their absolute best to answer any questions you may have about their café. In addition to being an exceptional coffee stop, this oasis includes a restaurant as well, featuring an ever-changing menu, in both Italian and English, for lunch and dinner. Depending on the evening, you can even hear live music while enjoying a glass of Tuscan wine. Entering Café Letterare is an invitation to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, overhear Italian conversation, and experience a moment of everyday Florentine life.
9
Pane DiVino
An authentic café for local Italians. Though its doors are only a block from the Duomo, this is a very popular morning spot. Order the drink of your choosing, stand at the bar, and try your ear as people from every walk of life discuss the local news, gossip, and happenings of Florence. In just a half hour, you can see children pass through on their way to school with their parents, hear Italian gentleman debate politics, and feel what it is like to be a “regular” here in Florence.
11
Volume
An edgy, fun vibe greets guests as they enter into Volume. The atypical wine bar has a wide selection of wine and mixed drinks in an artsy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying conversation. With late hours compared to other bars, and a location in the heart of Piazza Santo Spirito, this bar fits perfectly into this beautiful area of Florence. On occasion, live music will be performed on this bar’s small stage as well. Enjoy a “long drink,” or glass of wine, and talk about the days events with your company while relaxing in the expressive and upbeat atmosphere of Volume.
13
Tamer贸
The Santo Spirito section is the home of a younger, more artistic portion of Florence. Starkly contrasting from centro, the area around the Cathedral of Florence. This area, while lacking in impressive monuments, is instead, lively and poetic. Tamer贸 is a representation of this artistic lifestyle. The restaurant, features delicious, hand-made pasta; another contrast from its competitors in other areas. Both local and international favorites are available, and every delicious concoction is served in an earthy, urban atmosphere. Found along the edge of Piazza Santo Spirito, the artistic gentleman must spend a least one meal at Tamer贸.
15
JK Place Hotel
JK Place Hotel is a small, charming boutique hotel that will be your “home away from home” in Florence. While the front of the hotel faces the façade of Santa Maria Novella, stepping through the doors of JK Place is like greets you immediately. Inside, 20 beautiful rooms are spread throughout four floors, waiting to share the epitome of Florentine luxury for those lucky enough to spend time here. The incredibly accommodating staff will do everything within their power to insure your stay is a comfortable and relaxing one. An newly opened lounge, communal breakfast area, and exclusive terraces await the worldly gentleman at JK Place. Since 2003, the minimalistic, elegant, and spacious designs of JK Place entice gentlemen from all over the world to make Florence feel like home.
17
Gelateria La Carria
In one gentleman’s opinion, this little gelateria along the Arno River is the best gelato ice cream in Florence. Unique flavors and a rich, smooth texture make this the perfect snack while out shopping, sightseeing, or museum going. And don’t worry about passing by the other gelato shops along the way; this is only a few short blocks from Ponte Vecchio, and is well worth the restraint!
19
Antonio e Marcello
Parrucchiere Per Uomo An Italian barbershop, and a gentleman’s location for a shave in the city of Florence. The owners have been collectively at work for more than 30 years, and can recreate that oldfashioned, incredibly masculine feel of a good shave. They will even trim your current hairstyle for just slightly more, ensuring a clean-cut profile as you walk out. The sign is located on Via Vacchereccia, and after following a short passage through Vicolo de’Malispini, this retro barbershop can be found on your left. Be sure to call ahead and make an appointment!
21
TODS
While Florence is absolutely famous for its leather products, sometimes its good to step off the beaten path. TODS, a luxury accessory retailer, offers a high quality, yet noticeably different product. TODS has an incredible variety; from bright, casual loafers to the sleek, modern oxford to pair perfectly with your suit. The purchasing experience is relaxed, with very friendly attendants at every corner waiting to help you, in a plethora of languages, should you require it. TODS offers the balance between the famous hand-made leather shoes; this is a gentleman’s the opportunity to subtlety stand out with an international brand.
23
Sbardella Marco
The best cigar shop in Florence, this tabbacheria is best for not only selection, but location as well. A wide range of tobacco products, including Cuban cigars, are for sale, and can be ordered from the humidor by a menu located on the counter. Though there is no place within the shop to enjoy the cigar, the Piazza della Repubblica, the square in which Sbardella Marco is located, is a bustling meeting place for locals and tourists alike. Step outside the shop and into the piazza to partake in the cigar of your preference while listening to street performers sing famous “arias� from all the opera houses of Italy. As cigar lounges are difficult to find in Florence, Sbardella Marco offers a large selection the best location to find and enjoy your cigar.
25
Caffetteria delle Oblate Tucked above the Biblioteca delle Oblate, Caffeteria delle Oblate is a little-known, full serviced cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating. By night, however, the view is unmatched. The terrace reveals the illuminated dome of the Florence Cathedral, the most iconic building in the city, in all of its grandeur. Enjoying a drink or apertivo in this must-see location will become one of the most memorable nights of your stay in Firenze.
27
Piazzale Michelangelo
Located on the other side of the Arno River, the Piazzale Michelangelo is the home of the most breath-taking view of Firenze. The hills of the Otrarno push this small piazza over the city, leaving all the complexities of Florence in plain view. As the sun sets, the scene becomes even more beautiful. With only a bottle of wine, a corkscrew and someone to enjoy the view with, this is easily one of the greatest spots in all of Florence.
29
Amalfi Coast
A place of pure relaxation, the Amalfi Coast offers some of the most relaxing locations in Italy. While not strictly a single city, the Amalfi Coast is the iconic beach location of the Italian peninsula. Black sand beaches, mountains, and colorful houses greet those fortunate enough to visit Positano. Just a short trip away, the island of Capri, home of the legendary Blue Grotto, is the ideal spot to enjoy an afternoon at sea. Meanwhile, those craving a bit more liveliness can enjoy the open streets of Sorrento. All of these locations offer amazing food, endless sights worth of photography, a relaxing beachside atmosphere, and the opportunity to spend a weekend or two in one of the most lovely places not only in Italy, but the entire world.
31
Palermo The south of Italy is a completely different atmosphere than Florence, and Palermo, on the island of Sicily, is no exception. Featuring the best fruit, seafood, beaches in all of Italy, Palermo is a must-see for any traveler in Italy. But be warned, this is the destination for the daring traveler, wanting to experience every inch of Italian culture. With a slight edge to go along with its dark history, Palermo offers influence from all over the world; ancient Greek amphitheaters sit comfortably next to Arabic mosques and Norman churches. The locals, too, speak an entirely different dialect of Italian, making communication slightly more challenging. A gentleman will realize, with a different language and different culture, he cannot expect to adapt in a day or two. But the city itself is unlike anywhere else in the world. Mountains, farms, the city and the Mediterranean ocean are within a short distance, and from some areas, can be seen simultaneously. Additionally, luxury can be found in all of it’s forms along the coast, with beautiful hotels, restaurants, and well-dressed travelers from all over the world spend some time on the beach. While the culture of the island is in obvious contrast with Firenze, Palermo is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and is a mandatory stop for anyone hoping to understand the depth and range of Italian culture.
33
Copenhagen If the characteristics of a gentleman were personified into a person, that man would certainly live in Copenhagen, Denmark. The city has dedicated itself to an idea called “hygge,” meaning the peaceful enjoyment of good friends and good conversation. This relaxing lifestyle permeates the city, and dictates the very-friendly way of life for the Danish people living here. In addition to speaking perfect Danish, many people speak English, making navigation and conversation between people very easy for a traveler. You will feel rushed in this city as well; it feels as though everyone is there to ensure you enjoy your time in Copenhagen, at you own pace, whatever that may be. For example: Table reservations are made for an entire evening, rather than for an hour or two. I found myself speaking to the owners of many small restaurants; one even sat down and spoke with us when he was invited to. Enjoying a coffee in a café, while looking over the Nyhavn, the famous multi-colored doc located just off of the King’s New Square, is a perfect way to spend an easy-going morning. This accepting, friendly, and gracious city is the perfect getaway for the modern gentleman.
35
Paris
The most romantic city on earth lives up to all expectations. From the majestic Eifel Tower to the unmistakable Arc di Triumph, Paris is a city of marvels. Beyond one of the most famous museums in the Louvre, and the highly adored Notre Dame, Paris offers a unique way of life to the visitors searching for something more. Walk in the shoes of American literature icons F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemmingway in the 6th distract, and enjoy the same pleasures as the men and women of the Roaring 20s. Visit the historic OdĂŠon Theater, explore the edgy 9th district, and take a moment to enjoy some of the most beautiful public parks in the world. Saunter through the seemingly endless Parisian streets and take in one of the loveliest cities on Earth as an impeccable addition to your stay in Italy.
37
Budget Options
Menswear Locations
Gutteridge, Le Firme, Sotto Sotto Fashion Outlet
Restaurants
Negroni, Osteria Santo Spirito, Trattoria Pizzeria Dante
Drinks
Kikuya, Monkey Bar
Hotel
Grand Hotel Mediterraneo
Cigar Locations
Tabaccheria Sgati
Shoes and Accessories
San Lorenzo Leather Market
Other Italian Cities
Rimini, San Gimignano
Other European Cities
Athens, Prague
Saldi – The sale seasons of Italy make shopping in Florence more affordable. Saldi occurs twice a year, in the winter and in the summer. The first Saldi season will last from the second week of January to the middle of February. The second season occurs in early July and also lasts for one month. If you happen to be traveling in Florence then, you can find massive discounts! 39