A local’s guide to Florence: 9 unmissable haunts

Our contributing editor Nick Vinson spends half the year in Florence. Here, he takes us on a tour of his don’t-miss diversions

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a locals guide to florence
(Image credit: Photography by Sofia de la Cruz)
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Florence is a compact city easily explored on foot (or Vespa). Hills with villas and olive groves are under 30 minutes away by car or public transport, to the north and the south, so it’s a must to explore both the historic centre and the surrounding hills. Here are some unmissable stops to take in during your stay, whether you are visiting during Pitti Uomo (13-16 January 2026) or beyond.

What to see and do in Florence

Where to stay

Casa G Firenze

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Casa G. Firenze)

In the heart of the city, located above the Ginori 1735 store, the Casa G Firenze hotel offers just 15 rooms across two floors. Everything you could possibly want is quite literally on your doorstep.

Casa G Firenze is located at Via dei Rondinelli, 7, 50123 Florence, Italy

Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Auberge Collection)

Recently opened in an old villa at the base of hill town Fiesole, this hotel sits between the city centre and the foothills beyond, so you get the best of both worlds.

Collegio alla Querce is located at Via delle Forbici, 21B, 50133 Florence, Italy

Where to eat and drink

Gelateria della Passera

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Gelateria della Passera)

You may have to queue, but it is absolutely worth the wait. The seasonal fruit sorbets are exceptional. Pink grapefruit, orange, banana with nutmeg, fig or almond are personal favourites.

Gelateria della Passera is located at Via Toscanella, 15/red, 50125 Florence, Italy

Pasticceria Stefania

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Pasticceria Stefania)

Each morning that I am in town, I take my Vespa to Stefania for a caffè and a salato (a type of focaccia sandwich) or a croissant.

Pasticceria Stefania is located at Via Guglielmo Marconi, 26 rosso, 50131 Florence, Italy

Regina Bistecca

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Regina Bistecca)

Housed in a former bookstore, this restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional bistecca alla Fiorentina (always ordered to share). Don’t miss the mixed cold-cut platter, served with bread puffs called ficattole.

Regina Bistecca is located at Via Ricasoli, 14r, 50122 Florence, Italy

Trattoria Cammillo

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Trattoria Cammillo)

A Florence institution. Start with the fried artichokes, follow with a seasonal pasta, a main of veal or lamb, and don’t miss the contorni (vegetable side dishes). Ask for a table downstairs for the best experience.

Trattoria Cammillo is located at Borgo San Iacopo, 57/r, 50125 Florence, Italy

Where to shop

TAF Firenze

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of TAF Firenze)

Shop for linen napkins with hand-embroidered vintage designs such as ‘Chin Chin’, ‘Circus’ and the sultry ‘Donnine’.

TAF Firenze is located at Via Por Santa Maria 17/r, 50122 Florence, Italy

Piazza Santo Spirito Flea Market

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Photography by Sofia de la Cruz)

One of my favourite flea markets takes place at Piazza Santo Spirito every second Sunday of the month (except during high summer).

Piazza Santo Spirito Flea Market is located at Piazza Santo Spirito, 50125 Florence, Italy

What to do

Museo Marino Marini

a locals guide to florence

(Image credit: Courtesy of Museo Marino Marini)

Housed in the ancient church of San Pancrazio, this museum is dedicated entirely to the work of the important 20th-century sculptor Marino Marini.

Museo Marino Marini is located at Piazza di S. Pancrazio, 50123 Florence, Italy

Nick Vinson

Also known as Picky Nicky, Nick Vinson has contributed to Wallpaper* Magazine for the past 21 years. He runs Vinson&Co, a London-based bureau specialising in creative direction and interiors for the luxury goods industry. As both an expert and fan of Made in Italy, he divides his time between London and Florence and has decades of experience in the industry as a critic, curator and editor.