Florence is an old city with lots of Renaissance architectural gems, but, surprisingly, also is a hot spot for great nightlife. Around the Basilica of Santa Croce, which remains quiet and spiritual during day, you will find many bars and restaurants open in the evening with a great, lively atmosphere.
Explore the city at night with me by joining these top activities that I have listed for you.
Experiencing the outdoor drinking culture
Like Italians from many other cities, people from Florence have a great outdoor drinking culture. On Friday night or during weekends, many people sit outside and drink, or grab their favourite beer from the closest supermarket to drink at a square. People sit down together on a random terrace, chat out loud and spend time relaxing with friends when the weather is good. You can have a lot of fun in Florence without paying for expensive cocktails in fancy bars. Piazzale Michelangelo is a famous point for young people to sit around drinking while enjoying a breathtaking view of the city.
Hitting a club near Piazza Santa Maria Novella
This famous city, for tourists and loads of students, is the centre of Italy for wild parties that last all night long. Some of the biggest club names in town are Otel Club, TwentyOne, Cielo Club, etc. Santa Maria Novella – the home to many cafes, pubs, riverside wine bars and even discos, also attracts all types of people during the night. If you can’t decide where to go from the abundant choices, join a pub-crawl organized by the locals to get to know the best places around.
Seeing the Duomo at night (from USD 93.0)
Though the Florence Cathedral is undeniably stunning under the sunlight, it’s also appealing at night. The Florence Cathedral and Giotto’s Bell Tower are mysteriously beautiful in the dark. There are crowds, but less than during the day; thus, you can enjoy this massive piece of art better without bumping into another tourist. The surrounding bars also offer a wonderful neighbourhood for a night out.
The Duomo is a sight to behold both in the day and night. Check out the Florence Cathedral in the day as well with this tour that lets you skip the queue.
Skip-the-Line Florence Duomo with Brunelleschi's Dome Climb
Duration: 2 hours
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Lounging by the Arno River (From 47.43 USD)
Like the cathedral, the famous Arno River with the city’s oldest bridge, Ponte Vecchio, shows its different sides at night. The reflection of the surrounding medieval buildings on the river is magnificent. Walk along the Arno and you will find the secret, slightly dangerous and tricky spot for photographs, where you can sit literally on just a piece of rock above the water’s surface!
Enjoy a peaceful ride on the Arno River with this 90 minutes tour. Take a break from the bustling crowds and enjoy the serenity of the soothing river.
90-Minute Boat Ride on the Arno River
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Price: From 47.43 USD
Note: Tour starts at 5.45pm and a minimum of 2 people is required to join the tour.
Viewing the city from Fiesole
Located not very far from Florence centre (about 20 minutes by bus), the small town of Fiesole is located on a hilltop, so from here you can view all of Florence. Climb up to the monastery of San Francesco to reach one of the highest points for this undiscovered panoramic view! If you like to stay around downtown, stick to the popular viewpoint, Piazzale Michelangelo.
Florence – the city for everyone!
Florence, with its versatile nightlife culture, is definitely a tempting attraction for all types of people: from fashionable local chicks to architecture-addict visitors and party goers. Relax with a glass of authentic Italian wine. Dance all night to Latin music. Enjoy an aperitivo with local and international people. There seems to be endless ways of enjoying Florence’s lifestyle at night.
Explore the city at night with guided tours to fully experience Florence.
Electric Bike Night Tour of Florence with Gelato
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Price: From 46.75USD
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