48 Hours in Florence, Italy

The infamous Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Firenze, or Florence, is a city rich in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned art museums, and delicious cuisine, Florence is a city that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

I fell in love with this city in 2017, when I visited it for the for the first time. Since then I try to go back at least once a year to enjoy the amazing sights and sounds this historic city has to offer.
Here is my perfect way to enjoy 48 hours in the city that gave us the Renaissance.

Let’s start with a couple of must-see locations in the city.

One of the must-see attractions in Florence is the Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This iconic landmark is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and stands as the symbol of the city. The climb to the top of the dome is not for the faint of heart, but the views of the city from the top are truly breathtaking. Another must-see attraction in Florence is the Galleria degli Uffizi, one of the most famous art museums in the world. The gallery is home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Raphael.

For those looking to experience the true essence of Florence, a stroll through the historic city center is a must. The Piazza della Signoria, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Pitti are all iconic landmarks that should not be missed. Now, while you’re at the Palazzo Pitti, why not enjoy a relaxing stroll in the Boboli Gardens, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city? The gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and are home to a variety of sculptures, fountains, and landscaped terraces.

Now, let’s discuss the real reason you’re reading this article:

The food, the drinks, the shopping & the watches.

The city is home to many charming stores, cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to indulge in the local cuisine.

Accommodation:

25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino - ****

I stumbled upon this fantastic-looking hotel while browsing hotels for one of our weekends in Florence. I felt like staying somewhere more ‘off the beaten path’ and was immediately impressed by the interior decoration of this hotel. The lobby and main restaurant area are very airy & open and feature some ‘funky’ art installations. This main area is an ancient open atrium, covered by a glass roof, which gives it an amazing ‘inside-outside’ feeling. Once you check-in, you get the choice of a ‘heaven’ or ‘hell’ themed room. We opted for a heaven-themed suite, which was beautifully decorated in light colors and adorned with ‘angelic’ decorations. 

The main bar has a lovely enclosed terrace that hosts live music on most evenings, The perfect place to wind down after a busy day in the city with a cocktail and perhaps enjoy a little game of backgammon.

Other splendid hotels:

The St. Regis Florence (Piazza Ognissanti) - *****

Hotel Savoy (Piazza della Repubblica) - *****

Palazzo Castri 1874 (Piazza della Indipendenza) - ****

Shopping:

No trip to Italy is complete without having bought way too many items to close your luggage properly. Florence is the host of ‘Pitti Uomo', the biannual menswear fashion week/trade show / gathering of menswear enthusiasts.

It’s no surprise then that Florence has quite an elaborate shopping district, spread throughout the historic streets. Here are a few places to definitely check out:

Luisa Via Roma

Founded in 1929 and situated on the corner of the Piazza di Duomo is a multi-brand luxury store for both men and women. You’ll find clothes, shoes and accessories from all the hottest designers in a beautifully designed retail space, which even hosts a caffè & terrace on the first floor.

Ponte Vecchio

Time for some watch shopping.
The Ponte Vecchio world famous for its little jewellery and watch boutiques on the medieval bridge itself. Don’t get distracted by all the gold jewellery, but rather focus on the Patek Philippe and Rolex authorised dealers. Even Audemars Piguet has taken the time and effort to open a boutique on the bridge itself.
Don’t get your hopes up though, most watches will still be ‘for exhibition only’.

Others places to check out:

The streets around the Palazzo Strozzi (Via deli Strozzi, Via de Tornabuoni, …)

Piazza di Santa Trinita

Drinks (Aperitivo):

When it comes to exploring Florence, immersing yourself in its vibrant food and drink scene is a must. The city is home to a multitude of charming bars and restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience and a delightful ambiance. Whether you're seeking trendy cocktail lounges, historic cafes, or elegant dining establishments, Florence has it all. Here are a few notable places that you should consider visiting to savor the flavors and atmosphere of this enchanting city.

Caffè Gilli:

All that shopping and discovering must’ve made you pretty envious for a nice Espresso. Located in the beatiful Piazza della Repubblica, Caffè Gilli has been serving beautiful beverages to the visitors of Firenze since 1733 and it’s easy to see why. Caffè Gilli's terrace, situated on the Piazza itself, offers a prime spot for people-watching while enjoying your coffee or aperitivo. The café boasts a charming ambiance with its classic décor, marble tables, and cozy seating. It's an ideal place to soak up the atmosphere and take a break from your explorations.

Il Locale

If you're looking for a post-dinner drink in a post-modern art-deco setting, Il Locale is the perfect choice. Situated in the heart of Florence, this trendy bar and lounge offers a unique ambiance that blends contemporary design with a touch of vintage flair. Step into a world of artistic creativity as you sip on expertly crafted cocktails and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Paszkowski

Paszkowski is a historic café and restaurant in Florence, known for its Belle Époque charm. Experience opulent surroundings, impeccable service, and a diverse menu featuring Italian and international cuisine. In the evenings, Paszkowski transforms into a lively bar with live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for socializing and enjoying Florence's energy.

Others places to check out:

Rooftops around the Arno

Any terrace around the Duomo, indulge in the views and the pure ‘dolce vita-ness’

Restaurants:

Embark on a culinary adventure in Florence, where exquisite flavors and gastronomic wonders await. From charming trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments, the city's vibrant food scene caters to every palate. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes crafted by renowned chefs, blending tradition with innovation. Immerse yourself in enchanting settings, from historic palaces to panoramic terraces, enhancing your dining experience. Let Florence's culinary treasures ignite your passion for food and create unforgettable memories in this remarkable city. Here are some of my favorites:

Harry’s Bar:

Located in the heart of Florence, Harry's Bar offers a charming and elegant dining experience. Known for its impeccable service and delectable Italian dishes, this restaurant is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Be sure to try their signature dishes like the homemade pasta and the Fried breaded Entrecote served with anchovy sauce.

La Menagere

La Menagere is not just a restaurant, but also a concept store and art gallery. Housed in a historic building, this trendy establishment features a vibrant atmosphere and serves a variety of delicious dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, La Menagere offers a unique dining experience.

Obica

If you're a fan of mozzarella, Obica is the place to be. This mozzarella bar and restaurant specializes in fresh, high-quality mozzarella cheese, which is imported directly from Italy. From classic Caprese salads to creative mozzarella-based dishes, Obica offers a delightful culinary journey for cheese enthusiasts.

Osteria Gucci

Indulge in a culinary masterpiece at Osteria Gucci in Florence. Led by renowned chef Massimo Bottura, this unique dining experience combines fashion and gastronomy. With a menu inspired by Italian traditions, dishes are artfully presented and bursting with flavor. The stylish interior design reflects Gucci's iconic style, creating a luxurious ambiance. Sip on carefully selected Italian wines as you savor each exquisite bite. Osteria Gucci is a must-visit destination, where fashion, art, and gastronomy seamlessly merge into an unforgettable experience in the heart of Florence

Other places to check out:

The restaurant in the St. Regis Hotel

In conclusion…

Prepare to embark on a journey to a city that embraces you with its captivating charm, tantalizes your taste buds with its culinary wonders, and unveils its artistic treasures at every turn. Florence, the enchanting gem of Italy, beckons travelers with its irresistible allure.

From the awe-inspiring Duomo to the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, Florence is a living testament to the marvels of the Renaissance. Lose yourself amidst the narrow cobblestone streets, where each corner reveals a new discovery, whether it's a hidden gelato shop or a bustling trattoria serving up mouthwatering pasta.

Indulge in the sheer pleasure of strolling through the historic city center, where ancient palaces and charming piazzas transport you to a bygone era. Take a moment to relax in the lush Boboli Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city, and let its beauty rejuvenate your spirit.

But it's not just the sights that captivate in Florence. The city's vibrant food scene beckons food lovers to savor every bite of delectable Tuscan cuisine, while its trendy bars and cafes invite you to sip on delightful aperitivos as the sun sets over the Arno River.

So, pack your bags and let Florence weave its magic on you. Immerse yourself in the art, culture, and culinary delights that have enchanted visitors for centuries. Florence is more than a destination; it's an experience that will ignite your senses, ignite your passion, and leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Discover the city of the Renaissance, where history and modernity dance together in perfect harmony. Florence awaits, ready to embrace you in its warm embrace and show you a world of wonder. It's time to make memories that will last a lifetime. Florence is calling. Will you answer?