Florence City Guide

Local foods like Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Ribollita shine. Many international restaurants exist, plus growing vegan/vegetarian options. Late-night dining is limited but some pizzerias stay open later.

Nightlife centers on wine bars, pubs, and cocktail spots in Santo Spirito and Santa Croce. It appeals mostly to students and young adults.

Coffee culture is strong and traditional with high-quality espresso bars. Specialty shops are emerging.

Tipping is optional and appreciated for good service. Restaurants may charge a cover or service fee. Rounding up fares or leaving small tips is common but not required.

SIM cards are sold at airports, stations, and shops. TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad provide good coverage. ID is required for purchase. Some plans offer eSIM.

Streets are mostly clean, especially in tourist areas, with good recycling practices. Occasional bin overflow happens in busy spots.

Some pharmacies rotate 24-hour service. Few minimarts open late. Hospital emergency rooms operate 24/7. Late-night food options are limited.

Supermarkets like Coop, Conad, and Esselunga stock local and international goods. Fresh markets like Mercato Centrale offer local produce. Most supermarkets open 8-9AM to 8-9PM, reduced hours on Sundays.

Card payments are widely accepted in most places. Some small shops and taxis prefer cash.

ATMs are common in banks and public areas. Expect some foreign transaction fees and rare operator fees.

International schools include The American International School and the International School of Florence. Public schools teach in Italian. Application timing varies.

Nomad community is small but active. Co-working spaces are main hubs. Facebook groups and meetups exist but events are sporadic.

Major parks like Parco delle Cascine and Boboli Gardens offer green space and shaded paths.

Popular running spots include Parco delle Cascine and river paths. Generally safe with good scenery.

Gyms vary from large chains to specialized centers for CrossFit and wellness.

Many tennis clubs with clay courts, some offering padel. Equipment rental and coaching are common.

Padel courts exist at some tennis clubs with lessons and rentals available.

Several studios offer various yoga styles and English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms and schools offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Muay Thai, and others. Some have English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Abetone are 1.5–2 hours away, open December to March with equipment rentals.

Kayaking and paddleboarding can be done on the Arno River. Coastal sailing and windsurfing require travel to the coast.

Surfing is only available on the Tuscan coast, about 1.5 to 2 hours away.

Diving is available at Tuscan coastal sites and islands but not in Florence itself.

Major hospitals include Careggi University and Santa Maria Nuova. Private clinics offer faster, English-friendly care. Pharmacies have over-the-counter meds and advice. Emergency number 118.

Tap water is safe and drinkable. Public fountains are available.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Attractions for children include the Leonardo da Vinci Museum and Boboli Gardens.

Generally accepting with safe spaces and annual Pride events. Legal protections in place but occasional incidents noted.

Pet-friendly for small dogs with veterinary clinics and some dog parks. Leashed dogs allowed in many parks.