Without the heavy backpacks we toted around in our 20s, we explored some of the Renaissance City’s finer offerings.
stay
Somewhere between a hotel and AirBnB lies Casa Howard. This adorable little guesthouse is in the heart of the old city, and only steps away from Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Galleria Uffizi, and other must-see sights. Casa Howard, Via della Scala 18, Florence, Italy, +39 06 6992 4555, www.casahoward.com
shop
Founded in 1221, Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest and most legendary pharmacies in the world. For a good reason! Their delicate beauty and wellness goods are still handmade according to artisanal recipes and methods. The selection of Eau de Colognes alone will cause a major what-to-pick freak out, because you’ll want to buy them all. Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, Via della Scala 16, Florence, Italy, +39.055.216276, http://www.smnovella.it
eat
Florence doesn’t have a shortage of delis and sandwich shops, but none are as adorable as Mariano, a spot that’s been a local favourite for four decades. Simple fare is only elevated by its gorgeous medieval brick-vaulted space—just as dreamy as its prosciutto. Mariano, Via Parione 19, Florence, Italy, +39 055 214067.
see
You won’t run out of museums to see in Florence, but if you need a break from Renaissance masterpieces, Gucci Museo excels in different kind of opulence. It tells the story of the legendary fashion house’s humble beginnings to its global rise. The gift shop is an art on its own. Where else can you purchase a cool souvenir like Gucci sugar cubes? Gucci Museo, Piazza della Signoria, 10, 50122 Florence, Italy, +39 055 7592 3300, www.gucci.com
drink
The birthplace of Negroni, one of our all-time favourite cocktails, Caffè Giacosa has been serving up the discerning spirit patrons for over a century. The famous spot is now owned by over-the-top glam designer Roberto Cavalli, so keep your eye out on the spiffy local clientele decked out to the nines in high-end Italian goods. When in Florence…. Caffè Giacosa, Via della Spada 10, Florence, Italy, +39 055 2776328, http://www.caffegiacosa.it
—Anya Georgijevic
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