Florence is often described as an open-sky museum. In fact, this is where the famous “Stendhal Syndrome” originated. Sublime on so many levels, this city also overflows with incredible restaurants, small independent shops and charming hotels. Here are three good reasons to visit in spring.
Cover photo: Bianca Ackermann
#1: For the fine food
While Florentine tripe and marinated offal are the local specialities, there are many other delicious – and more crowd-pleasing – dishes to choose from. For example: fettunta, a toasted bread rubbed with garlic and then topped with olive oil, and panzanella, a bread salad with onions and tomatoes. To deep dive into traditional dishes, head to Buca Mario: this restaurant is iconic and reservations are a must. Be sure to save room for the dessert trolley. Otherwise, at any time of day, stop by La Ménagère, which groups together several different spaces with a wonderfully bucolic theme. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Feel like a drink before dinner? Nothing beats Harry’s Bar or Loggia Roof Bar (opt for the latter for an unblocked view of the city.) And don’t go home without sampling a scrumptious ice cream at Perché no!
Buca Mario — Piazza degli Ottaviani, 16r, 50123 Florence, Italy
La Ménagère — Via de’ Ginori, 8/R, 50123 Florence, Italy
Harry’s Bar — Via Il Prato, 40/R, 50123 Florence, Italy
Loggia Roof Bar — Piazza Santo Spirito, 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
Perché no! — Via dei Tavolini, 19r, 50122 Florence, Italy
Photo: La Ménagère
#2: For the architecture
We could easily recommend that you stroll through the streets all day long, as the city overflows with absolutely magnificent historical monuments. But for those of you who like to follow a set itinerary, from point A to point B, here are some monuments and places to keep in mind: the Palazzo Davanzati, the Boboli Gardens, the Santa Croce Basilica and (for the braver amongst you) La Specola Anatomical Collection. Want to add a day trip? Hop on a train to Pisa, where you’ll arrive in 1 hour flat.
Photo: chan lee
#3: For the shops
Antique jewellery on the Ponte Vecchio. Vintage albums at Contempo Records. Hair accessories at Profumeria Invicta. Fragrances at Santa Maria di Novella. And rare books at Todo Modo or Libreria Giorni. Florence is packed with little treasures and souvenirs to take home in your suitcase. Good news: an American Vintage store recently opened its doors here too. The perfect occasion to stock up on your favourite essentials.
Contempo Records — Via dei Neri, 15/R, 50122 Florence, Italy
Santa Maria di Novella — Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Florence, Italy
Todo Modo — Via dei Fossi, 15/R, 50123 Florence, Italy
Libreria Giorni — Via de’ Martelli, 35 r, 50129 Florence, Italy
American Vintage — Via dei Pecori, 12/18r, 50123 Florence, Italy
Photo: Todo Modo
Where to sleep?
At Numeroventi, an artist residence set up in a former palazzo, where you can stay in one of the 10 lofts. Fantastico!
Via dei Pandolfini, 20, 50122 Florence, Italy
AMV Journal is a space dedicated to encounters, discovery and travel. Every week, explore the musts, portraits and inspirations of American Vintage and its creation studio.