Known as the cradle of the Renaissance for its narrow streets recount the present and the past. For centuries Florence has welcomed and amazed all the fortunate travellers who have arrived here in search of beauty. From the majestic architecture of Brunelleschi’s dome to the slopes of the Boboli Gardens, visitors are spellbound by the Tuscan scenery and friendliness. The food is fantastic, the architecture is amazing and for everyone, there is a favourite place that they can visit over and over again without ever getting bored. This time, I took another route which is slightly different from the usual tour of Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria and its surrounding areas to discover instead charming spots and locations where one can enjoy a refined atmosphere.

So, here it is, ready to start?

HOTEL HERMITAGE
Without a doubt: a pleasant holiday starts with the right location and the warm welcome you get when you have just arrived. Located just steps away from Ponte Vecchio and the Vasari Corridor, this small and delightful hotel welcomes guests in an eclectic environment. Its vintage furnishings, the colours paired with great taste and the textile details transform every room into a unique place. The owner Alina has the same entrepreneurial spirit and passion for her work as did her father. She manages the hotel with her personal style, making guests feel part of the family and offering them a privileged view of Florence starting from the first cup of coffee in the morning.

OSTERIA DELLE TRE PANCHE
This historic, small and cosy restaurant relocated a few years ago to the top floor of the Hotel Hermitage where diners can enjoy a breathtaking view of the historic city centre, savouring local dishes and traditional Tuscan recipes. The ambience is charming but not formal, the dishes are prepared with passion and expertise and you won’t be able to leave without feeling shivers down your spine. Here you will be immersed in an enchanted setting where the great attention to detail from the napkins to the prints on the walls are the real icing on the cake and the perfect addition to an excellent menu.

SALOTTO PORTINARI BAR & BISTROT
There is no lack of beautiful places in Florence, but some will still leave you spellbound for the beauty of their ancient walls such as this bistro – funny how one would call it like that but then be amazed by the location! It was designed by chef Vito Mollica before the Atto restaurant located within the Corte degli Imperatori, decorated with 16th-century frescoes by master Alessandro Allori. Whether it is for business or for pleasure, the bar is a gathering point for meetings or a chat in the heart of a bright building boasting timeless elegance.

AQUAFLOR
If you like the colourful world of fragrances and home accessories, you will never want to leave this boutique. It was created to showcase craft items created from raw materials sourced from all around the world and combined with patience and creativity in the heart of Borgo Santa Croce. Original essences, handmade soaps and unique pieces which are the result of passionate research: each room here is a full experience to discover fragrances that will immediately win your heart. You will love it!

THE ST. REGIS FLORENCE
Among the famous guests who have stayed in this hotel are Queen Victoria, Madonna and a long list of celebrities from the international jet set. In its location in the palace in Piazza Ognissanti built in 1432 by Brunelleschi, The St. Regis was also the favourite destination of those who arrived in Florence for the Grand Tour. This majestic hotel is renowned for its splendid decorations, glass ceilings, large Murano chandeliers and spectacular view of the Arno. Having breakfast sitting on comfortable armchairs and savouring the delicious buffet is an unforgettable experience that I recommend to all those who come to visit Tuscany. The staff are very friendly and the environment is elegant with Ginori tableware and delicious smoothies (ask for the one invented by Valeria, trust me!)

THE MALL FIRENZE
One cannot visit the cradle of the Renaissance without stopping off for some shopping at The Mall Firenze. Located just at the entrance of the mall, the Welcome Lounge organises tours and excursions in the area to help tourists discover less known places and scenery. Only an hour away from the city, it features a great selection of the best and most famous fashion brands such as Gucci, Ferragamo, Tod’s, Saint Laurent, Burberry, Fay and Chloè. Immersed in the greenery of Tuscany and well organised, it is the right place to enjoy a stroll among the stores, discovering the original creations of the fashion houses. And for a perfect end to your visit, do not forget to reserve your lunch at the ToscaNino for great food and a rest. As they say, shopping tires you out!

I hope you enjoy this beautiful tour of Florence. Already I want to go back there!

(ph. cover Ottavia Poli)

Lorenzo Bises, half Roman and half Milanese is an art historian and content creator. His book Milan mon amour is dedicated to his beloved city. On social media, he tells interesting facts about beautiful places of culture all around the world. He is passionate about cycling, and history of fashion and customs. He runs a newsletter called Old letters from the 21st century, a podcast La non(no) moda and a weekly column on the Il Giorno periodical called Giretti Sparsi.