With high summer in full swing and European adventures on everyone’s wish list, we turned to our Fashion Director’s brother Hayden, who just so happens to be one of our photographers and a Florentine expert. Read on for his tips on the ins and outs of Florence food, fashion and culture.
Where to Stay
This is a small, old-school style hotel in Piazza Santo Spirito.
This 13-room boutique bed & breakfast feels hidden away and charming.
A small hotel with extreme privacy, this is set in Europe's largest private garden.
This elegant, well designed hotel overlooks the Piazza di Santa Maria Novella.
This property was recently remodeled to perfection, and is a true grand old-world hotel with Florentine elegance.
The historic Ferragamo family has more than a few great hotels, but the views and design of this intimate beauty are hard to beat.
From the frescos to the gardens, you'll feel that you've been transported to another world and a true sanctuary while staying here.
The views here give one a true idea as to why many consider Firenze to be the most beautiful city in the world.
Where to Eat: Gelato and Sweet Treats
The best in Italy. It's run by a husband-and-wife team, and they alternate their time in the store. Get the crema, the chocolate, or really anything.
Located in one of the most beautiful squares, Rivoire has stunning old-world interiors with delicious sweets.
This is not an ice cream shop, but rather a philosophy.
One must not visit Firenze without having a few of Procacci's amazing chocolates and little tea sandwiches, also adored by the Queen.
Where to Eat: Lunch
This little Florentine institution is a family-run, old-school trattoria near the central market. Small and communal, the menu changes daily and is not one to miss.
Always changing, always improving, this little gem has the best panna cotta in the world. Find one better, you will not!
Once a forgotten and hidden gem, Sabatino is now a very popular and minimally priced landmark
Brimming with character and art-driven interiors, this female-run spot is perfect for a modern Florentine lunch. From vegan and gluten free desserts to reimagined vegetarian ragu, this is a local's favorite for good reason.
Where to Eat: Dinner
How does one explain the pinnacle of class and taste? In Firenze, it can be summed up in two words- Trattoria Cammillo. Chiara has taken her family's long dining legacy and magically done the impossible by improving it.
A true one-of-a-kind intimate Florentine institution, you won't get in here without a reservation. Order the buttered chicken and artichoke omelette.
Communal and lively for all occasions, this spot has a can't-miss menu, full of local and regional specialties.
This candlelit setting offers fresh, innovative Tuscan cuisine and bustling energy on a nightly basis.
Cibreo's menu offers a timeless collection of dining experiences. Each property is right next to each other and has its own specialities all focused on local, reimagined favorites.
Go for the views, stay for the food!
While you'll find the greatest Italian wine list in the world here, the food alone is worth a visit.
Here you'll embark on a modern and intimate experience focused on Tuscan cuisine, craft, and precision.
Where to Sip: Bars and Wine Bars
Located in a 1500s palazzo with a 13th-century basement and home, this belongs to the man who many believe to be the greatest barman in Italy, Matteo di Lenno. Everything is made naturally in house, and all of the walls are full of live plants.
This small, old-style dive serves modern, fresh-fruit cocktails and American classics.
Come for the best views in the city and a full experience that is not too clubby.
Set against Porta San Miniato, this Tuscan wine bar is considered by many to be the best wine bar in the city.
A rustic old-world wine bar mixed with a modern mentality towards wines from all around Europe. There is also a great selection of small bites.
Enjoy small bites matched wisely with a selection of natural wines, and vinyl spinning in the old latteria space.
Truly a hidden gem known only by locals. They may kill me for sharing this!
This happening and fun small wine bar has both locals and tourists spilling out into the street enjoying varieties of wine and small bites.
