Slow Travel In Florence—Maximize Your Moments
Welcome to Home Base Highlights: A month-long dive into local living! In this series, we’ll take you along as we explore the destinations where we’ve lived for an entire month, uncovering what makes each location special. From hidden gems and local attractions to our favorite restaurants and must-visit spots, we’ll share what we did, where we ate, and why each place served as the perfect home base for a slow travel lifestyle. Join us as we dive deep into the heart of these unique communities!
Today, we’re starting with one of our favorite cities: Florence, Italy. Florence is not just a city; it’s a treasure trove of art, culture, and history, making it an ideal destination for slow travel Florence enthusiasts.
Over the past month, we’ve had the pleasure of calling this magnificent city our home base. From its rich art scene to its historic landmarks and local charm, Florence has genuinely captivated us. In this blog, we’ll explore why Florence makes an ideal home base for slow travelers like us, showcasing what we did, where we ate, and all our incredible experiences.
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Why Slow Travel In Florence?
Florence offers an unbeatable combination of vibrant culture and charming local life. Imagine waking up to the scent of freshly brewed coffee, strolling down cobblestone streets flanked by Renaissance masterpieces, and immersing yourself in the rhythm of a city that has been enchanting visitors for centuries.
We chose to slow travel in Florence because of its perfect blend of history, culture, and convenience. The city’s compact center makes it a breeze to explore on foot, and its efficient public transport system makes it easy to venture further out. Plus, Florence’s central location in Tuscany is ideal for day trips to nearby towns and the beautiful countryside.
Transportation in Florence is straightforward and efficient. With everything so close by, we enjoyed wandering through the city’s charming neighborhoods and discovering hidden gems. When we wanted to explore beyond the city limits, public transport made it easy to reach our destinations.
Florence is bursting with activities and experiences. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery to exploring local neighborhoods, there’s always something new to discover. The city’s vibrant restaurant scene also impressed us, offering everything from Michelin dining to cozy local cafes. We savored authentic Florentine steak, enjoyed delicious gelato, and explored the diverse culinary landscape.
Affordability also played a big role in our decision. Staying in one place for a month allowed us to take advantage of discounts on accommodations, especially when booking directly or through long-term stay options. Traveling during the less busy seasons meant more affordable prices and fewer crowds. While Florence’s city center can be pricier, we found cozy, budget-friendly options that offered great value.
Ready to unwind and explore Florence with us? From museums and art to local cuisine and charming streets, Florence offers an enriching experience, making it an ideal home base for slow travelers. Let’s dive into what we did during our month-long stay and why Florence will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Unwind and Explore Florence
Things to Do in Florence
Florence is truly a cultural treasure trove, offering much more than just its renowned art and historic landmarks. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, the city also provides vibrant shopping experiences, lively concerts, and fantastic people-watching opportunities. In addition to its world-renowned museums and breathtaking art, Florence boasts historic places that tell the story of centuries past. During our stay, we explored some of the city’s most iconic cultural highlights, from fashion-forward museums to charming vintage shops.
- Ponte Vecchio Bridge – The iconic medieval stone bridge lined with jewelry shops, offering stunning views over the Arno River.
- Cathedral di Santa Maria del Fiore – Climb to the top of the Duomo for breathtaking panoramic views of Florence’s historic skyline.
- Piazza della Signoria & Loggia dei Lanzi – A hub of Florentine history, filled with striking statues and open-air art.
- Uffizi Gallery – Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci.
- Gucci Garden – An eclectic museum that blends fashion, art, and history, celebrating the evolution of the iconic Gucci brand.
- Officina Profumo – The oldest still-operating pharmacy in the world, offering artisanal perfumes and herbal remedies since 1221.
- Pitti Palace & Boboli Garden – Explore the lavish royal residence and the stunning gardens for a glimpse into Florence’s aristocratic past.
- San Miniato al Monte – Attend mass for the unique experience of monks chanting or visit at sunset for a serene view of the city.
- Fontana del Porcellino – Rub the nose of the bronze boar for good luck and a guaranteed return to Florence, as the legend goes.
- Galleria dell’Accademia – Home to Michelangelo’s David, a masterpiece that’s a must-see for art lovers and history buffs alike.
- Fountain of Neptune – A striking marble sculpture that stands proudly in Piazza della Signoria, symbolizing Florence’s maritime prowess.
- Nelson Mandela Forum – A modern venue for concerts and events, where we got to see the Dave Matthews Band live.
- Piazza della Repubblica – A lively square perfect for people-watching, with a charming merry-go-round and a mix of shops and cafés.
These are just a few of the spots that offer a unique glimpse into the art, culture, and vibrant life of Florence!
Shopping in Florence, a blend of tradition and modern style
Florence is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end designer boutiques to local artisan markets. Whether you’re on the hunt for luxury goods, vintage finds, or unique items crafted by local artisans, Florence has something for everyone. While the city’s fashion scene is renowned worldwide, there are also plenty of lesser-known spots to explore, especially if you’re staying for a month and want to dive deeper into the local shopping culture. Here are some must-visit shopping destinations:
- Piazza Ognissanti – Sunday Market: A lively market that pops up on Sundays offering a mix of antiques, clothes, and other unique finds. Perfect for treasure hunters.
- Piazza Santo Spirito Market: This fashion market brings together local designers and craftsmen, making it a great spot for picking up one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Switch – Vintage Store: A haven for vintage lovers, Switch offers a curated selection of clothing and accessories from different eras, adding a bit of nostalgia to your wardrobe.
- Todo Modo – Bookstore: More than just a bookstore, Todo Modo offers a cozy space for readers and writers, with a selection of books in both Italian and English. Stop by for a good read or to grab a coffee.
- Gucci Flagship Store: A trip to Florence wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Gucci flagship store. Experience the luxury of this world-renowned brand in the heart of the city.
- Florence Factory: This contemporary shopping space is dedicated to showcasing the works of Florentine artisans and designers, offering unique and modern pieces that celebrate local craftsmanship.
- Tee-Pee Vintage: Another fantastic vintage store in Florence, Tee-Pee Vintage is known for its eclectic and stylish collection of second-hand clothing, perfect for fashionistas looking for something different.
- Leather Bazaar: Florence is famous for its leather, and this huge leather market is the place to find beautifully crafted leather bags, jackets, and accessories.
- Giunti Odeon: A blend of bookstore and movie theater, this unique spot offers the chance to catch a film and browse a variety of books. Perfect for rainy afternoons in Florence.
From markets filled with local goods to luxury labels, shopping in Florence is an experience all its own. Whether you’re hunting for a special souvenir or a high-fashion piece, the city’s shops and markets won’t disappoint.
Day Trips from Florence
One of the many perks of staying in Florence for a month is the ease of exploring nearby towns and cities with just a short train ride. The central train station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella, makes it incredibly convenient to hop on a train and embark on some unforgettable day trips.
Pisa – Just about an hour away by train, Pisa is home to the iconic Leaning Tower, one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. But beyond the tower, take time to explore the city’s beautiful squares, riverside promenades, and charming streets filled with cafés and shops.
Lucca – This hidden gem is often overlooked, but it’s a must-see. Known for its well-preserved **Renaissance city walls**, Lucca is the perfect place to rent a bike and take a scenic ride around the city. Inside the walls, you’ll find quaint shops, local cafés, and a relaxed vibe that will make you fall in love with this charming town.
With both destinations being so close and accessible, they make for the perfect escapes from the hustle and bustle of Florence, giving you a taste of Italy’s diversity in just a short trip.
Looking for More?
Accommodations
We found a month-long stay through Booking.com in an apartment located just steps from the Uffizi Museum. With plenty of options on platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, you can expect to find monthly rentals ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 USD. Our one-bedroom apartment, housed in a historic building, featured antique furnishings, frescoed ceilings, and a fully stocked kitchen. Staying in the heart of Florence was perfect—everything was right at our doorstep. While we also considered Lucca, Pisa, and Bologna, the prices were comparable. Ultimately, we chose Florence because of its many things to do, central location, and easy access to train routes, which made day trips a breeze.
Culinary Moments - Restaurants & Markets
Florence is a foodie paradise, offering everything from quick bites to fine dining. Whether you’re craving a simple sandwich, a rich plate of pasta, or a sweet gelato, this city has it all. Here are some must-visit spots for every kind of meal:
- SandwiChic – Perfect for grabbing a gourmet sandwich, using fresh ingredients with a local twist.
- Schiaccia Passera – A hidden gem offering authentic Florentine flatbread sandwiches.
- Retrobottega – Small and cozy, known for its unique and delicious sandwich creations.
- All’Antico Vinaio – The most famous sandwich spot in Florence, but be prepared for long lines!
- Pino’s Sandwiches – A local favorite, offering tasty sandwiches made to order.
- La Gelatiera – Satisfy your sweet tooth with some of the best gelato in Florence.
- Trattoria Za Za – Classic Tuscan dishes in a lively and traditional setting.
- Lunetta Cafe – Great for breakfast, with fresh pastries and a cozy atmosphere.
- Mercado Centrale Firenze – Dive into Florence’s food culture with fresh pasta vendors and traditional trattorias under one roof.
- Wine Windows (Babae, Wine Window, Buchetta del Vino) – Experience the historic wine windows of Florence where you can sip wine like a local.
- Rooster – Perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering hearty meals and excellent coffee.
- Alibi Craft Beer and Kitchen – Enjoy craft beers and gourmet pub food in a modern, laid-back atmosphere.
- My Bakery & Bistrot Firenze – Don’t miss their focaccia—it’s fresh, fluffy, and perfect for a quick snack.
- Trattoria Mama Gina – A family-run spot offering delicious, traditional Italian dishes.
- Minuto Bauli – Known for their freshly made cream puffs, perfect for a mid-day treat.
- Amorino Gelato – Famous for their gelato and macarons, the ideal post-meal indulgence.
- Riviore – A historic café, renowned for its rich, velvety hot chocolate.
- BEN Cafe – A great breakfast spot, perfect for a quick bite before exploring the city.
- La Fettunta – A family-owned gem, serving mouthwatering Italian classics.
- Ditta Artigianale – Florence’s go-to for specialty coffee and a delicious breakfast menu.
- Vivoli– Don’t miss the affogato, a heavenly blend of gelato and espresso.
- Vineria Sonora – A unique spot combining wine and vinyl records with small bites.
- Golocious Burger – If you’re craving a huge burger, this is the spot. They even give you gloves to eat it!
- La Giostra – A cozy, family-run restaurant recommended for its authentic Tuscan dishes.
- Melaleuca Firenze – A riverside bakery-bistro, perfect for a relaxed breakfast or brunch.
- La Vespe Cafe – Known for its Canadian and American-style breakfast with outdoor seating.
- Mercado di Sant’Ambrogio – Florence’s oldest food market, featuring affordable local food and fresh produce.
- Caffè Gilli – Established in 1733, this historic café offers traditional pastries and a prime people-watching spot.
- Angel Rooftop – End your day with drinks and panoramic views of Florence from this chic rooftop bar atop Hotel Calimala.
Key Information
Florence, while undeniably popular with tourists, still offered a sense of local life once we ventured beyond the historic center and the main attractions. We found plenty of fresh food markets, supermarkets, and specialty food shops, making it easy to cook meals at home when we wanted. Florence also provided a wide range of affordable food options—whether we were browsing local markets or grocery stores. Yes, a nice sit-down dinner with wine could cost between $100-$140 USD, but on the other hand, we could pick up an $8 bottle of wine and a $15 sandwich big enough for both of us to share. While we didn’t indulge in fine dining, Florence certainly has its share of Michelin-starred restaurants for those seeking a gourmet experience.
The city kept us more than occupied with endless areas to explore, from the famous landmarks to lesser-known neighborhoods. Whether it was strolling through markets or admiring Renaissance architecture, there was always something to discover. Florence’s walkability and reliable transportation made it easy to get around, and we never had trouble finding what we needed. The small pharmacies were surprisingly well-stocked—some of the best sunscreen we’ve ever used came from one of these local shops! While we didn’t require healthcare during our stay, it was reassuring to know that hospitals and medical services were readily available. Overall, we felt very safe walking around, even at night, though as with most cities, it’s important to stay mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
Ultimately, Florence ticked all the boxes for an ideal slow travel home base. Affordable food and accommodation, a wealth of things to do, walkability, and easy access to day trips in the surrounding region—Florence had it all. It’s a city that truly embraced both its rich history and everyday local life, making it a memorable and enriching place to call home for a month.
Tips for Slow Travel in Florence
Visit Early or Late to Avoid Crowds: Florence’s major attractions, like the Uffizi Gallery and Florence Cathedral, are magnets for tourists. If you’re staying for a month, take advantage of early mornings or late afternoons to visit these iconic spots with fewer crowds. Even better, head out on weekdays when tourism traffic is lower. For a peaceful experience, explore lesser-known gems like San Miniato al Monte for a stunning view of the city without the bustle.
Shop Local Markets for Affordable Meals: Skip the touristy restaurants and head to local markets like Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, where you can pick up fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods for a fraction of the cost of eating out. This market is also a great spot to enjoy an authentic Florentine lunch at a local stall—delicious, budget-friendly, and a real insider experience!
Time Your Museum Visits for Free Entry: Many of Florence’s top museums, including the Uffizi and the Accademia, offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month. Plan your visit accordingly, but keep in mind that these days can be busy. To beat the rush, arrive as early as possible or explore smaller museums like the Museo Bardini, which offer more relaxed experiences.
Explore Florence’s Diverse Markets: Florence is home to a wide range of markets, each offering something unique. Beyond the famous Mercato Centrale, check out Sant’Ambrogio Market for fresh produce, meats, and cheeses at local prices. For leather goods, head to San Lorenzo Market, where you’ll find quality bags, jackets, and accessories. Don’t forget about the Cascine Market on Tuesday mornings, which is perfect for bargain hunters looking for everything from clothes to home goods. Visiting these markets not only gives you a chance to shop like a local, but also provides a window into the vibrant daily life of Florence.
Exploring Slow Travel in Florence
Our month-long journey in Florence has been nothing short of remarkable. Slow travel in Florence has allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the city’s rich culture, vibrant history, and charming local life. From savoring authentic Florentine cuisine to strolling through cobblestone streets flanked by Renaissance masterpieces, every moment in Florence has been a treasure.
As a home base for slow travel enthusiasts, Florence offers a perfect blend of convenience, affordability, and enriching experiences. The city’s compact center makes it easy to explore on foot, while its central location in Tuscany allows for seamless day trips to nearby towns and the beautiful countryside. The vibrant restaurant scene, iconic landmarks, and cultural treasures have truly captured our hearts.
Our time in Florence has been a testament to the beauty of slow travel, allowing us to uncover hidden gems, embrace the local rhythm, and create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s admiring the architectural marvels or indulging in the culinary delights, Florence has left an indelible mark on our journey.
As we bid farewell to this captivating city, we carry with us the spirit of slow travel in Florence—a profound appreciation for taking the time to savor every moment, embrace the local lifestyle, and forge a deep connection with the places we inhabit. Florence will always hold a special place in our hearts as a quintessential destination for slow travel, and we hope our experiences inspire fellow travelers to embark on their own enriching journeys in this timeless city.
Curated Google Map
We have curated a detailed Slow Travel in Florence Google map with all the must-visit locations and recommendations mentioned in this blog. This map includes iconic landmarks, hidden gems, recommended dining spots, and other points of interest to help you make the most of your time in Florence. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites, enjoy local cuisine, or simply immerse yourself in the charm of the city, our curated Google map will serve as a valuable resource to enhance your slow travel experience in Florence.
