Florence at Christmas
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MAGICAL ITALIAN HOLIDAY
Florence is of course an iconic and charming destination year round, but Florence at Christmas exceeded my expectations. The twinkle lights, Christmas menus, and video mapping displays was the perfect recipe for a truly magical Christmas weekend in Italy.
Something a little surprising (albeit delightful) was that we didn’t find the holiday overcrowded. Our trip ran Friday evening to Monday evening, with Christmas day being Sunday that year. By Monday afternoon, we began to notice a swell of crowds in town. Maybe more locals were out and about after spending the weekend at home with family? I can’t say for sure, but I can confidently say Christmas in Florence is a good idea.
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WHERE TO STAY IN FLORENCE
Soprarno Suites - This converted is a 5-minute walk from the Ponte Vecchio. The rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed. It was a very friendly stay.
Helvetia & Bristol - Looking for something luxe and well-located? Try this one. See below on my thoughts of their on-site dining, Cibrèo Ristorante & Cocktail Bar. (Spolier alert: magnifico!)
CHRISTMAS SIGHTS & lIGHTS
Simply strolling through the streets of Florence is a treat as the city really dresses up in lights for the holidays! Below are some specific locations not to miss:
1. Christmas Tree by the Duomo (The Florence Cathedral)
2. Video mapping on the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio
3. Piazza della Repubblica for a festive carousel and lights.
Great spot to grab a drink - see suggestion in the section below!
4. German Christmas Market in Piazza Santa Croce
This market is usually open on the weekend starting at the end of November until right before Christmas. We arrived after it was closed, but if you happen to be visiting in early December, check it out!
Speaking of Christmas markets, I recommend also checking a local calendar for the city of Florence because there are many local artist pop ups throughout the month of December, too.
WHERE TO EAT & drink IN FLORENCE
CHRISTMAS MENUS
Cibréo caffè Helvetia & Bristol - our Christmas Eve dinner was such a phenomenal and memorable experience. So much so that I wrote a review (which admittedly and unfortunately I rarely do!) and sent a note to the staff. The food, the service the ambiance: my heart is very full thinking of it. I highly recommend!
Olivia Bistrot del Frantoio - Around the corner from our hotel and across from the Palazzo Pitti, we really enjoyed this quaint bistro’s Christmas day lunch.
DINNER
La Giostra - This cozy and storied spot is a favorite among the world-famous (the photos around the restaurant are proof!) The twinkle-light ceiling ambiance and classic no fuss dishes made me glad we gave it a try.
LUNCH
Mangiafoco Osteria Tartuferia - this was a delicious stumble upon lunch spot.
COFFEE & BREAKFAST
Ditta Artigianale
COCKTAILS
Irene at the Savoy - Located in the festive Piazza della Repubblica, this was a great place to sip and soak up with holiday ambiance.
next trip…
Rasputin Speakeasy
FLORENCE ATTRACTIONS
*Be sure to check holiday hours and plan accordingly. I’ve included tour and ticket options for each attraction below. Here is a bundle option: Florence: Uffizi, Pitti Palace & Boboli Combined 5-Day Pass.
L’Academia - Most notably home to Michelangelo’s David
Uffizi Gallery - Featuring renowned artwork by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and other masters
The Florence Cathedral, also called the Duomo di Firenze - entrance to the cathedral is free but a ticket is required to climb the dome.
Palace Pitti - Originally built for the Pitti family in the 15th century, it later became the residence of the grand dukes of Tuscany and eventually the Italian royal family.
Boboli Gardens - Located behind the Palace Pitti, its one of the most famous and beautiful examples of Italian Renaissance gardens. Designed in the 16th century, the gardens span over 45 acres and feature a blend of natural landscapes, sculptures, fountains, and manicured hedges.
Piazzale Michelangelo - Offers stunning panorama view of city. Visitors often flock here for sunset views, as the golden hour casts a beautiful glow over Florence.
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