Sant'Ambrogio & the real Florence
Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio
The Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio is the insider tip among Florentine markets: smaller than the Mercato Centrale, but more authentic — here, Florentine housewives and chefs shop. Fresh vegetables, fruits, cheese, sausages, and in the adjoining hall: a trattoria serving the best menu for €10 in the city (Primo + Secondo + wine). Opening hours: Mon–Sat 7 a.m.–2 p.m.
The Synagogue
The Sinagoga di Firenze (1874–1882) is one of the most beautiful synagogues in Europe: a Moorish building with a copper dome, lush mosaics, and oriental ornaments. The adjoining Museo Ebraico tells the story of the Jewish community in Florence from the Medici to the Shoah. Admission: €8.
Nightlife in the Santa Croce District
The area around Santa Croce is Florence's number one nightlife district: The streets Borgo Santa Croce, Via de' Benci, and Via dei Neri are lined with bars, wine bars, and restaurants in the evenings.
- Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina: Natural wine and Tuscan snacks in an intimate atmosphere.
- La Ménagère: Concept store, flower shop, restaurant, and cocktail bar in one. Instagrammable, but with substance.
- Rex Caffè: The best cocktail bar in Santa Croce — Negroni variations (the drink was invented in Florence!) and DJ sets on weekends.
- Mad Souls & Spirits: Craft cocktails in a former chapel. Creative, dark, excellent.
