The Skyline of Florence, a playground of art, history, culture, food and wine. NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images Florence may be best known for its art and architecture, but its soul is found in its cosy wine bars, lively food markets, and fast paced trattorias. For all its Renaissance treasures, contemporary Florentine life is built around the daily rituals of eating and drinking, from a morning espresso in a quiet piazza to an evening glass of Brunello in a candlelit enoteca. With large influxes of visitors throughout the year, navigating its wine culture means looking beyond the crowded tourist paths and knowing where to find the city’s most rewarding experiences. Historic wine bars like Le Volpi e l’Uva, near Ponte Vecchio, champion small Tuscan producers, while tucked-away spots like Casa del Vino, behind the bustling San Lorenzo market, offer expertly paired wines and charcuterie. Even the city’s buchette del vino, Renaissance-era wine windows once used by merchants, have made a comeback, offering a uniquely Florentine way to enjoy a glass on the go. South of the River Arno is the Oltrarno district where the city’s neighbour wine cafes feature lesser-known appellations like Carmignano, Suvereto, Morello di Scansano and Valdarno di Sopra, a welcome alternative to predictable wine lists dominated by bigger brands. A wine weekend in Florence is as much about discovery as it is about indulgence - whether savoring a bistecca alla Fiorentina in a centuries-old trattoria, exploring local markets for artisanal delicacies, or stepping into a vaulted wine cellar for a tasting of older vintages. Here are few places that you shouldn’t miss. Local Firenze in the centre of Florence Locale Firenze Where to drink Locale Firenze: Drinking at Locale Firenze feels like stepping into another era - because, quite literally, you are. Housed in a 16th-century Medici palace, this award-winning bar, now ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars, blends Renaissance grandeur with contemporary style. Known for its innovative cocktails, often infused with ingredients from its own botanical garden, Locale has built a reputation as one of Florence’s top destinations for mixology. But while the cocktail program takes center stage, the wine list is equally impressive, featuring a carefully curated selection of wines, both local and international, that rival any enoteca in the city. Whether you opt for a classic Negroni, a boundary-pushing signature drink, or a glass of Brunello, every detail, from the dim lighting and plush velvet seating to the centuries-old frescoes creates an atmosphere that is uniquely Florentine. The Encoteca Sonora wine bar in Florence Enoteca Sonora For a more relaxed, insider’s experience, Vineria Sonora offers something unique: a wine bar where music plays a central role. Records spin on the turntable while guests sip natural wines from small Italian producers. The atmosphere is laid-back, with a minimalist but cozy interior - think wooden shelves stacked with bottles, a long communal table, and a warm, unpretentious vibe. The staff are true wine lovers and happy to guide you through their rotating selection, making this a great spot to discover something new and meet new friends. Le Volpi e l’Uva: Tucked away near the Ponte Vecchio, this intimate enoteca is a favorite among locals and serious wine enthusiasts. Le Volpi e l’Uva specializes in lesser-known Italian wines, often from small producers, and the knowledgeable staff are always ready with a great recommendation. The space itself is charming but unassuming - small, with a rustic wooden bar and just a handful of tables. The real attraction here is the wine, which is perfectly paired with a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and crostini. It’s a place where you can take your time, savor each sip, and feel like you’ve escaped the tourist fray. Pitti Gola e Cantina: Directly opposite the grand Palazzo Pitti, Pitti Gola e Cantina is a wine bar with a view and an impressive selection of Tuscan wines. The owners are passionate about their region’s best vintages, and the list leans heavily into Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and rare back-vintage Barolos. Inside, the space is intimate, lined with shelves of aging bottles, but the best seats are outside, where you can sip your wine while watching the world go by. Pair your glass with one of their carefully curated charcuterie boards, and you have one of Florence’s most stylish aperitivo experiences. Where to eat Enoteca Pinchiorri: This legendary establishment is located in a 17th century palazzo and is home to one of the most extraordinary wine cellars in the world, with a collection that spans over 4000 labels. Enoteca Pinchiorri holds three Michelin stars for its fine dining, and as the only restaurant in Florence with such an accolade, it’s an unforgettable experience. The setting is pure opulence, from the high ceilings to the white tablecloths and chandeliers. Of all Florence’s restaurants to indulge in a wine list, it makes most sense here, especially when you know any choice you make will come with the requisite knowledge and theatre. Perhaps a legendary bottle from the great wine names of Tuscany - an aged Sassicaia or Onrellaia? Biondi Santi Brunello? Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura: Florence meets fashion at Gucci Osteria, a restaurant that blends Italian culinary tradition with a global perspective. Part of the Gucci Garden complex, this Michelin-starred spot is helmed by chef Karime López, who trained under Massimo Bottura. The decor is as elegant as you’d hope - lush green velvet chairs, Gucci-patterned plates, and an intimate dining room overlooking Piazza della Signora. The menu is playful yet refined, with dishes like "Taka Bun" (a Japanese-inspired pork belly sandwich) and the signature "Charley Marley" dessert, a chocolate lover’s dream. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both luxurious and creatively inspired, this is the place. Ora d’Aria: Named after the hour when prisoners were once allowed outside for fresh air, Ora d’Aria is a culinary escape in the heart of Florence. Located near the Uffizi, this one-Michelin-star restaurant is known for its precise, elegant approach to Tuscan cuisine. Chef Marco Stabile’s menu showcases refined flavors with a modern twist - think delicate tortelli stuffed with rich ragù or pigeon served with seasonal accompaniments. The interior is sleek and minimalist, allowing the food to take center stage. With a warm, unpretentious atmosphere and a kitchen that’s truly at the top of its game, this is one of Florence’s best fine dining experiences. A view over Florence from the rooftop bar at Hotel Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi. © Thierry DelsartCesió Where to stay Hotel Tivoli: Florence is beautiful from every angle, but there’s something special about seeing it from above. Hotel Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi offers one of the best vantage points in the city, with a rooftop bar that puts you in direct view of Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome. With the skyline bathed in gold, the rooftops glowing, and the city’s energy humming below, this is surely one of the world’s best spots for a Negroni. The hotel itself is refined and discreet, with elegant rooms and impeccable service. Its restaurant and dining proposition is also recommended. Whether you’re staying overnight or just stopping by to eat, drink and soak up the atmosphere, Tivoli belongs in your address book. Follow me on LinkedIn. Check out my website. Editorial StandardsForbes Accolades