Hidden Gems for Florence

1. Hidden Gem Tuscany: La Ménagère

This place is not a normal restaurant. Back in the days it was a marketplace filled with tableware and other goods for home. Today La Ménagère has been transformed into a restaurant, with areas for flowers, fragrances and a home accessories. The fresh and sophisticated kitchen can be a nice change from the delicious traditional but often heavy food in italian restaurants. You can also stop by, just enjoy a cup of coffee and enjoy your afternoon with a good book. I mean could there be anything better that flowers, shopping and food in one place? If you’re in Florence, head to La Ménagère.

2. Hidden Gem Florence: La Beppa Fioraia

The Florentine Osteria is a great place for enjoying food and relaxation when you need to take a break from the busy city center. During the summer you can have dinner in the garden, surrounded by olive trees. You should definitely try the huge “tagliere” antipasti dish, which is a mix of finger foods served on large wooden cutting boards that can be considered a meal in itself as the portions are so big. It is loaded with fresh bread, a large selection of cheese, smoked ham and lots of other delicacies. Of course you can also get tasty truffle dishes here. It is located on a little side street near Piazzale Michelangelo and is open every day!

3. Hidden Gem Florence: Shake Café

If you fancy something healthy after all the delicious Italian pizza and pasta you are eating, this is the place to go. At Shake Café you can find everything the “healthy you” is craving. Their selection ranges from vegan wraps and buddha bowls to delicious acai bowls and smoothies. At Shake Café, you also get high quality food for a reasonable price. With its modern, Scandinavian-style interior, you will immediately feel cozy and be able to enjoy your food in a tranquil atmosphere.

4. Hidden Gem Florence: Caffè Del Verone

This rooftop café is located on top of the “Museo degli Innocenti.” It offers an amazing view of the Duomo and surrounding Florence – perfect for a little afternoon coffee and cake break. You don´t need to buy tickets for the museum to enter the Caffè del Verone as the rooftop has a seperate entrance. Just take a seat and enjoy the stunning view! The opening hours are the same as the museum’s, so be sure to check that in advance.

5. Hidden Gem Florence: Gelateria La Carraia

Don´t miss this gelato place when you are in Florence! Its creamy, silky ice cream is one of the best in town. The gelato selection here includes everything from the classics to more unique flavors. To just name a few, here you will find flavors like salted peanuts, ricotta and pear, dark chocolate with orange, and strawberry cheesecake. Make sure to try a least 2 scoops!

6. Hidden Gem Florence: Floret

This oasis is a mix between a juice bar, coffee shop and restaurant, so everything you need is in one place. Floret is a amazing place for anyone who loves to eat healthy dishes loaded with superfoods. How about a chia bowl with mango for breakfast? Or a black rice prawn salad for lunch? The interior of “Floret” is very modern and relaxed; you will feel comfortable that you will want to stay a while, or at least nibble on a healthy dessert – like raw energy balls. It is open every day and within walking distance of Piazza della Repubblica.

7. Hidden Gem Florence: Mercato Centrale

Visiting the Mercato Centrale is a must-do in Florence. As the market is housed in a historic building, the atmosphere is really special and sophisticated. You can find an array of fruit and veggies – great to take along for a picnic at the river. You’ll also find fresh fish and handmade pasta to take home, for a homemade meal in your vacation rental – or, opt for a simple espresso with a cornetto. On the first floor you will find a food court with a wide variety of Italian food stalls. Whether you go for breakfast, lunch or dinner – deliciousness is guaranteed. It is located in the “San Lorenzo” area and within walking distance of the Firenze Novella train station.

8. Hidden Gem Florence: Todo Modo

This place is a bookshop, café and theater in one. Open every day of the week, Todo Modo has several rooms to explore, all of which feature part of its large book collection. The rooms include the main bookshop, a space with the Uqbar café and a spacious area with a unique multi-level seating arrangement designed to host concerts as well as theatrical and cultural events on a weekly basis. So simply grab a good book and enjoy reading while sipping a fresh coffee. With all its hanging plants, Todo Modo has a special atmosphere where you could spend many relaxing hours. The name of the bookshop, “Todo Modo”, has been inspired by the novel of the same name by Leonardo Sciascia, a famous Sicilian writer.

Vacation rentals in Florence