Yes, Florence contains some of the most impressive architecture and artwork in Italy but what do you do in between your tour of the cathedral and the Uffizi and the Palazzo Vecchio? You need some refreshment, right? A packed day of exploring Florence means only one thing, a rumbling stomach. And you don’t want your superb sightseeing to be interspersed with substandard snacks. I mean you’re in Italy, you deserve to eat well!
To make sure that your culinary adventure matches your cultural one, I’ve compiled the best ways to refuel as you make your way around the city, from one snack to the next. And to make it even easier for you to tie these delicious excursions to your sightseeing, I’ll mention the attractions they’re close to as well.
Your morning coffee – Caffe Gilli
This classic establishment has been attracting coffee lovers for years and claims to be the oldest café in the whole of Florence. Having been a popular meeting place for writers and artist during the 1900s, this café will pour you a coffee with a side of old Florence culture. And here’s a bonus, they have been serving up sweet treats for around 300 years so if you’d like to indulge your sweet tooth first thing in the morning then there’s no better place to do it!
Close to: Piazza del Duomo
Savoury Snacks – Arà: è Sicilia
Not everyone has a sweet tooth, so for those who crave salt over sugar, I have the perfect snack for you – arancini. Filled with various meats, vegetables, and cheese, these crispy rice balls are the perfect travel snack and Arà: è Sicilia treats them like the superheroes that they are. According to them, even David enjoys a nice arancini after his giant-slaying duties.
Close to: The Leonardo Da Vinci Museum
Perfect Pastries – Gino’s Bakery
Think of Italian pastries and you think of Cannolis. The tube-shaped pastries filled with sweet, creamy ricotta are famous throughout the world and must be sampled. Of course, you can find these in many of the bakeries and cafes throughout Florence, but Gino’s bakery tops the list here. And with its central location close to the Arno River, it’s a great place to stop for a snack!
Close to: The Ponte Vecchio
Eat (and shop) like a local – Mercato Centrale
Whether looking for a meal, snack, or a bit of shopping, this Italian food market is a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Delight in the sights, sounds and smells as you explore the delicious food stalls bursting with local ingredients. The market also contains several small restaurants so after you’ve built up an appetite you can head for a tasty meal on the upper levels.
Close to: Basilica di San Lorenzo
Great Gelato – Da Angelo Gelateria and Vivoli Gelato
Many people believe that the most important thing to try in Italy is the gelato, so I am honouring that belief with not one but two frozen dessert suggestions. Da Angelo Gelateria receives some of the highest praise for its delicious deserts with it consistently landing at the top of Tripadvisor reviews. So, if you don’t trust my opinion, then surely the hundreds of reviewers can’t be wrong? My second choice is the artisanal Gelateria of Vivoli Gelato, which has been serving up its speciality since 1929. With all that experience, you know it’s going to be good!
Close to: Da Angelo Gelateria is close to St Trinity Bridge and Vivoli Gelato is near the Basilica of Santa Croce
It’s aperitivo time! – Piazza Santo Spirito
Ok, so I’m not offering you a specific establishment here but to experience a true taste of Italy and its culture of aperitivo, then a visit Piazza Santo Spirito is a must. Aperitivo is an important part of Italian life and this square offers you a wealth of bars and restaurants to try. When the day is over and the shadows stretch across the city, it is the perfect time to catch up with friends and indulge in a few small plates with a couple of drinks. Then you’ll be ready for wherever your evening in Florence takes you. Buon appetito!
Close to: Palazzo Pitti
Sightseeing Tours Italy offers a number of fantastic tours around Florence. Join a guide for an in-depth exploration of this wonderful city before heading off to refuel with a delicious Italian treat.
