Florence - the ultimate guide to a romantic escapade đ¸
Florence - the ultimate guide to a romantic escapade đ¸
Laura Dehelean
Spending some time in beautiful Florence? This is a complete list that provides you with a handful of options: accommodation, tourist attractions, shops, bars and restaurants - youâll need no other guide, I promise!
SoâŚhave a bite and a drink alongside Arno river and take home the most impressive bespoke souvenirs. The city is walkable and it blends art and history and romantic vibes all together and pretty soon youâll find yourself in love. đ
Must do - trips to picturesque towns located nearby:
⢠San Gimignano: 1h away
⢠Siena: 1h10 away
⢠Volterra: 1h20 away
Highlights:
âď¸ Il Giglio - giglio bottonato, is mainly known from the crest of the city of Florence. In the Florentine fleurs-de-lis, the stamens are always posed between the petals. This is also the emblem of the city and you shall see it depicted all over.
đ¨ Gelato âcrema fiorentinaâ - is the specific flavor of Florence, made with a simple combination of egg yolks, milk, and sugar. It is often flavored with chestnut honey, while another common addition includes crumbled amaretti cookies or almond liqueur. It is a neutral ice cream flavor with delicate pale-yellow color.
đ§ Affogato - a delightful and simple Italian dessert or beverage that combines two beloved elements: espresso and gelato or ice cream. The word "affogato" in Italian means "drowned," and that perfectly describes the preparation of this delicious treat. The basic affogato recipe involves pouring a hot, freshly brewed espresso over a scoop of cold gelato or ice cream. The hot espresso contrasts with the cold and creamy gelato, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying flavour combination.
𼊠Bistecca alla fiorentina - Italian steak made of young steer (vitellone) or heifer (scottona) that, combined with the specific preparation, makes it one of the most popular dishes of Tuscan cuisine.
đˇ "Buchette del vino" - or wine windows, are a peculiar feature of Florence. They are foot-high, dome-shaped holes in the thick, stone palazzi of the Renaissance city that six centuries ago were used to sell wine in a fiasco (glass bottle) without having to open a shop and avoid paying taxes. These wine windows also posed a useful anti-contagion way to sell wine during the epidemic of 1630-1633. At that time, the bubonic plague hit Florence hard, killing 12% of the city's population.
Updated ago
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Attractions đ¸
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Uffizi Gallery
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Accademia Gallery
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Palazzo Vecchio
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Pitti Palace
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The Boboli Gardens
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Piazzale Michelangelo
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The best place to take photos over the beautiful landscape of Florence. Catch the sunset up here - itâs magical!
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Fiesole Cathedral
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Palazzo Borghese
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Accademia del Caffè Espresso
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Here's a unique hidden gem to discover.
L'Accademia dell'Caffe is tucked away in the hills of Florence, with beautiful views and nothing but peace surrounding it. It is more than just a coffee museum.
It's a paradise for coffee lovers and is the site of the old factory of @lamarzocco, espresso machines. You'll discover so much about Italy's history and ties to coffee culture through a guided visit or any of their unique tasting experiences.
L'Accademia is a multi-purpose center offering the La Marzocco museum and historical archive, classes (even on how to brew the perfect espresso), workshops, coffee tastings, wine tastings, and even honey tastings. There's a terrace garden and apiary, a ceramic studio, an indoor coffee plantation, research and education laboratories, a cooking school, and the Officine Fratelli Bambi - a functioning workshop/factory dedicated to producing bespoke espresso machines, and of course, a coffee bar to keep you hydrated.
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Marchesi Antinori S.p.A.
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One of Italy's oldest and most prestigious wineries.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the Antinori family has been producing exceptional wines for over 600 years. Known for its iconic Tignanello and Solaia, this estate seamlessly blends centuries of tradition with modern innovation. Take a tour through the stunning, contemporary winery and enjoy a tasting of world-renowned Chiantis and Super Tuscans. A must-visit for any wine lover exploring the heart of Tuscany.
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Terme di Saturnia
@lauradehel
A 2 hours and a half distance from Florence. A real Tuscany delight for your body and senses.
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Accommodation đď¸
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Hotel Duomo Firenze
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Villa Cora
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Hotel Roma - Firenze
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Hotel Lombardia
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Hotel Accademia Firenze
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Solo Experience Hotel
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Shopping đď¸
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Outlet Barberino
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Barberino Designer Outlet, just 30 minutes from Florence, offers you more than 200 designer fashion brands, including must-have labels such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Dolce&Gabbana and high-street brands, such as Calvin Klein, Pinko, Vans, Furla, Nike - all up to 70% less. With beautiful surroundings, cafes, restaurants, playground area and tax-free shopping available, there's everything the discerning shopper could ever desire. Direct shuttle bus available from Florence Train Station (Santa Maria Novella).
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Gucci Garden
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Patrizia Pepe
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The passion of Patrizia Bambi (Creative Director) combined with the entrepreneurial spirit of Claudio Orrea (President), culminated in the creation of Patrizia Pepe. Florence, 1993. The name âPepeâ was immediately identified with an irreverent sensuality, made of contrasts and opposites. From this moment on, women could now recognise themselves in a brand which seamlessly combines everyday practicality with glamour for all those important moments, from morning to evening, thanks to the collectionâs dual versatility and cutting silhouettes. A new idea of a woman, our woman, is brought to life: sensual, irreverent, courageous and self-aware. Conscious of her own body, she pursues a holistic vision of well-being. Ironic and urban, she loves to experiment. She brandishes a strong, independent spirit and is an idealist. In a short time, Patrizia Pepe proved itself capable of creating iconic garments of indisputable originality, recognisable and appreciated over the years.
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Bjork Florence
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Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone Firenze
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ACQUA DI FIRENZE
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Bois 1920, Bottega Italiana Spigo, Profumeria Artigianale Firenze
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Officina Profumo - Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
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Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
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Dr. Vranjes Firenze
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Dr. Vranjes Firenze
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Dr. Vranjes Firenze
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Dr. Vranjes Firenze
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Spezierie Palazzo Vecchio
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AquaFlor
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Acqua Dell'Elba
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Erbario Toscano
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PAOLO PENKO - Firenze
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Another particularly special workshop belongs to master goldsmith Paolo Penko, a true artist of a jeweler who creates one-of-a-kind works produced according to centuries-old traditions of Florentine goldsmithing. Penko is also known for his ormolu reproductions of the fiorino, the former coin of Florence, which make wonderful gifts and signs of good things to come when celebrating a Baptism or other important moments. The workshop is located just a few steps from the Duomo.
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Marco Baroni - L'Antica Bottega Degli Orafi Firenze
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Bigiotteria Fiori Del Tempo di Deidda Francesco
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Pestellini Francesco
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Nove25 Firenze
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Alessandro Dari Gioielli -- Museo Del Gioiello- Atelier e Scuola
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Ranfagni Gioielli Firenze
@lauradehel
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Idrus Firenze - Alessandro Barellini Jewels
@lauradehel
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Artigianato Anny
@lauradehel
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Argentiere pagliai snc Firenze
@lauradehel
Also not to miss is the beautiful Argentiere Pagliai (Borgo S. Jacopo, 41/R), where Paolo Pagliai (now third generation) carries on his family-owned silversmith business. In this silver-engraving workshop, the silversmith and restorer creates one-of-a-kind pieces in a space that mirrors his old-world charm.
The shop is a reference point for antiquarians and collectors all over Italy, as the craftsmanâs undeniable talent in metalworking and restoration makes him one of the best of his kind.
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Shiraz Ceramichedepoca
@lauradehel
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L'Arte de' Ciompi Firenze - Negozio d'Artigianato Tipico Fiorentino e Italiano
@lauradehel
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Visconti Flagship store
@lauradehel
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Abacus Firenze Legatoria
@lauradehel
For book lovers wandering above the river, donât miss a visit to Abacus, a bookbinding laboratory that uses all-natural products to make its paper goodies. Vegetable glue, old-fashioned dyed leather and hand-folded sheets make this shop a true Florentine gem, a workshop that captures the authentic charm that its products exude. Here, you might even be inspired to take home a hand-bound diary as a keepsake of Florenceâs artisanal side.
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Luciano
@lauradehel
Try on and find the perfect pair of leather gloves - youâll wear them for years and still fit and look great on your hands!
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Stefano Ricci
@lauradehel
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Stefano Ricci
@lauradehel
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Alviero Martini a Firenze_Fanatika
@lauradehel
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Aquazzura
@lauradehel
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Gianni Chiarini Factory Store Outlet
@lauradehel
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Gianni Chiarini Flagship Store
@lauradehel
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Florence Factory - Craftsmanship Curating
@lauradehel
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Pierotucci - Leather Store
@lauradehel
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Giuliano Ricchi Jewelry
@lauradehel
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Mannina
@lauradehel
Mannina (via de Guidcciardini, 16), one of Florenceâs most beautiful shoe shops. Founded in 1953 by Master Calogero Mannina, this gem features handmade shoes of an unmistakable, traditional style, as originality and quality are the shopâs top priorities.
The warm mahogany interior and lavish display beckon you to explore the shopâs exquisite selection of shoes.
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Stefano Bemer, Shoemaker in Florence
@lauradehel
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Massimo Leather
@lauradehel
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The Bridge Boutique Firenze
@lauradehel
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Giovanni Adami Firenze
@lauradehel
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The Bison Florence
@lauradehel
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Torre D'Arte
@lauradehel
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MY BEST BAG FIRENZE
@lauradehel
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Scuola del Cuoio S.r.l.
@lauradehel
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Il Perseo Leather Firenze
@lauradehel
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Carmagnini Store
@lauradehel
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Giunti Odeon Libreria e Cinema
@lauradehel
Calling all bibliophiles & cinephiles, you're not going to want to miss this spot when you're in Florence!
When you visit during the day you can check out their bookstore & watch the films they're showing (for free!); and if you're interested you can watch new releases in the evening with the purchase of a movie ticket.
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Pinocchio Store Firenze
@lauradehel
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Bottega Di Sguardi - Dentro
@lauradehel
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Oronero
@lauradehel
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Coffee, Breakfast/Brunch, Pastries/Sweets âď¸đłđ§
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Melaleuca Firenze | Bakery Bistrot | Brunch & Specialty Coffee
@lauradehel
This is a specialty coffee shop located in Florence, Italy. It's a bright Australian bakery run by a charming couple whose goal is to bring an international atmosphere and a brunch menu featuring locally sourced ingredients (they make their own sourdough bread, rye bread, bagels, and English muffins).
They also offer delicious Australian desserts. The highlight of their menu is their excellent coffee, made with high-quality beans and prepared by some of the best baristas.
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Brunch Republic Firenze
@lauradehel
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Pasticceria Cesare
@lauradehel
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Le Murate
@lauradehel
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Vivoli
@lauradehel
Try their famous "affogato": a dessert like no other, where a scoop of cold ice cream meets a pour of hot espresso, making for one of the simplest, yet most delicious treats around.
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Ditta Artigianale Sprone
@lauradehel
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Caffe Concerto Paszkowski
@lauradehel
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Gelateria dei Neri
@lauradehel
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GROM
@lauradehel
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Sbrino - Gelatificio Contadino
@lauradehel
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Gusto Firenze Cornetteria Notturna
@lauradehel
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I Dolci Di Patrizio Cosi
@lauradehel
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Oblate Cafeteria
@lauradehel
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Gelateria Della Passera
@lauradehel
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Le Vespe Cafè
@lauradehel
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Badiani Gelato Firenze
@lauradehel
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Ditta Artigianale Riva d'Arno
@lauradehel
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Ditta Artigianale Neri
@lauradehel
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Ditta Artigianale & Hario Cafe
@lauradehel
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floret Artisan Kitchen & Bar
@lauradehel
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Cafe degli Artigiani
@lauradehel
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Cibrèo Caffè
@lauradehel
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Wine, Dine & Party đ˝ď¸đˇ
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Caffè Italiano
@lauradehel
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Antico Ristorante Paoli 1827
@lauradehel
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Belcanto - Ristorante & Opera Live
@lauradehel
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Gustapizza
@lauradehel
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Ristorante il Paiolo
@lauradehel
The food is delicious! The setting is romantic and cozy and makes you crave for wine. đ
I tried âSelezione di formaggi con miele d'acacia " (Selection of Tuscan cheeses served with acacia honey) at 12⏠which was AMAZING! Then I went for the best truffle pasta - âTagliolini con fonduta di pecorino e tartufo neroâ (Fresh handmade tagliolini with pecorino cheese fondue and black truffle) at 18âŹ. And I had some wine the whole time, of course.
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4 Leoni
@lauradehel
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Osteria Belle Donne
@lauradehel
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Zanfa Bros
@lauradehel
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Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916
@lauradehel
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Trattoria da Rocco
@lauradehel
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Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916
@lauradehel
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il Pacchero - pizza e cucina
@lauradehel
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Fishmood - modalitĂ pesce
@lauradehel
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Murales Bistro'
@lauradehel
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Citrarium di Villa Le Fontanelle
@lauradehel
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Ristorante Hortus - Firenze
@lauradehel
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Ristorante la Cupola
@lauradehel
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La MÊnagère
@lauradehel
One of the most fascinating, springish and Instagramable places you can find in Florence!
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Trattoria ZĂ ZĂ
@lauradehel
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I Fratellini
@lauradehel
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Boccadarno
@lauradehel
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La Giostra
@lauradehel
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Trattoria Dall'Oste - Oricellari
@lauradehel
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La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant
@lauradehel
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Panorama Restaurant La Scaletta
@lauradehel
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Terrazza 45
@lauradehel
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Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura
@lauradehel
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Caffè dell'Oro
@lauradehel
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La Leggenda dei Frati
@lauradehel
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La Terrazza del Principe
@lauradehel
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La Loggia del Piazzale Michelangelo
@lauradehel
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Alla Torre De' Rossi
@lauradehel
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Terrazza Rossini
@lauradehel
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Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo
@lauradehel
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Casa del Vin Santo
@lauradehel
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Lungarno 23
@lauradehel
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ToscaNino in Rinascente Firenze
@lauradehel
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Buca Lapi
@lauradehel
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Golden View Firenze
@lauradehel
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Il Bacaro fiorentino
@lauradehel
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Winter Garden Restaurant
@lauradehel
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Cantinetta Antinori
@lauradehel
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SimBIOsi Organic Pizza and lovely food
@lauradehel
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Trattoria Napoleone
@lauradehel
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Flower Burger
@lauradehel
The two famous Italian singers Battisti and Mogol were used to sing "A flower in the mouth can help you, you know, everything seems more joyful and funnier".
And this is the mission of Flower Burger, the first Italian vegan burger fast food, born in the heart of Milan in 2015.
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Spaccio Alimentare Firenze
@lauradehel
On your way up to/down from Piazzale Michelangelo stop here for a delicious pizza and an Aperol Spritz. Prices are friendly and so is the staff.
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La Grotta Di Leo Srl
@lauradehel
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Osteria Cinghiale Bianco
@lauradehel
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Osteria Santo Spirito
@lauradehel
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Osteria delle Tre Panche - Centro Storico
@lauradehel
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S.forno
@lauradehel
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Red Garter
@lauradehel
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Il Santo Bevitore
@lauradehel
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GurdulĂš Gastronomia
@lauradehel
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Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta
@lauradehel
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SE¡STO on Arno Rooftop Bar
@lauradehel
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View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar
@lauradehel
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Continentale
@lauradehel
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Roof Machiavelli Palace
@lauradehel
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La Terrazza Rooftop Bar
@lauradehel
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Angel Roofbar & Dining
@lauradehel
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Loggia Roof Bar
@lauradehel
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Empire Rooftop View American Bar & Pool
@lauradehel
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Firstglass
@lauradehel
Great way to taste an unique variety of Italian wines in a modern and elegant setting. Highly recommend for an aperitivo drink next to the Arno river. Also a fantastic souvenir idea - can take 100ml bottles home in your carry on baggage!
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B-Roof
@lauradehel
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Procacci
@lauradehel
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Le Volpi e l'Uva
@lauradehel
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* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Laura Dehelean
Hi! đ¤
Iâm Laura - born and grown nearby the Romanian coasts of the Black Sea, in Constanta (a city with great history which I invite you all to visit and enjoy). This city and its surroundings, with beautiful, wide beaches have always drawn lots of tourists, thus⌠I have been working in the hospitality industry for quite a while now. Of course, I enjoy more being a tourist myself đ(or perhapsâŚshould I say âa travelerâ?).
In the past few years I have travelled across Europe (and most of its capitals and big cities) and found out many special places which I longed to share with others (it would have been a pity not being able to do so nowadays).
So, thanks to Thatch I can provide some lists to help me and my friends out along our journeys - and, hopefully, other Thatchers as well.
P.S.1 I am always open to suggestions or feedback on how to improve the info that Iâm sharing.
P.S.2 I am passionate about my shopping, therefore all my guides shall always include shopping venues that mainly sell authentic brands - bespoke souvenirs are what we want to take home with us, right?
P.S.3 My guides shall always include many venues/places because I like options. Personally, I wouldnât cross half a city just to get to a specific restaurantâŚafter a long day, in particular, I would rather find a good spot close to the hotel that Iâm staying at (or somewhere in that area). Moreover, different trips in the same city could target a totally different area and wouldnât it be nice to explore its best by knowing all the variety of services/products available around?
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