What to do in Florence, just like a local

There is such pleasure in finding a museum that feels like it was just waiting for you alone to discover it. The long lines outside the most popular museums can be off-putting when you’re looking for some art and culture, and locals know where to find it. While no trip to Florence is complete without seeing the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery and Pitti Palace, there are some well-kept secrets you can’t afford to miss out on.

The Stibbert museum is one such treasure. Nestled in the spectacular gardens of Villa Stibbert, it was established by the collector Frederick Stibbert (1838-1906) whose home was within these elaborate gardens. The museum hosts 50,000 objects including weapons, suits of armour from the Middle East and Japan, paintings, costumes, furniture pieces and paintings dating from the 16th-19th century, and even the cloak that Napoleon wore when he was crowned. It’s great for kids too with a space dedicated to interactive learning. Located just outside the city centre, this lesser-known jewel is well worth finding. Pack a picnic and make the most of the green haven and exotic gardens while you’re there.

If you want to really see how Florentines lived before tourists took over the streets, head to another lesser-known gem, Museo di Palazzo Davanzati. Renovated in the early 1900s by an antiquarian, it’s true to 1450s decor. The historically accurate elegant Florentine home is like stepping back into history and immersing yourself in life as it once was. And of course, you must check out the most famous Florentine fashion museum there is!

The Museo Salvatore Ferragamo is much-loved by the stylish locals as they visit this renowned shoemaker’s museum and explore his most iconic works. From the models made for Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn, you’ll get a true sense of Italian style.

While many race to the terracotta dome of the Duomo or Piazzale Michelangelo for the best views of the city, locals know that there are many stunning vantage points scattered all over the city. The less-visited medieval Torre d'Arnolfo offers 360-degree views across the city that will take your breath away. Inside the Palazzo Vecchio you'll also see the opulent rooms and old apartments of the famed Florentine Medici family. The idyllic position of Florence burrowed within a valley means that from every angle you’ll find a dramatic view. Some favourites are the Rose Garden where you’ll often find couples enjoying the romantic atmosphere. The Oblate Library is well known by locals as being an ideal spot for an aperitivo with a beautiful view. You can enjoy a book and settle in, making the most of Florence. Rooftop bars are peppered across the Florence for a breathtaking sunset with a glass in hand, an essential part of life in Florence. Hotels often host these special spots and one can also be found at the top of the Rinascente store in Piazza della Repubblica, to toast the city after a day spent embracing it in all its glory.

Of course you could go to one of Florence’s many spectacular galleries to see incredible works of art, but you don’t need to even go that far! Florence boasts some truly intriguing street art. Wander the streets and try to spot works by Lediesis, creator of street art series like Superwomen for International Women’s Day in 2019 in which eight iconic women dressed as Superwoman popped up throughout the city. This was followed by Seven Superhumans in December 2019 with Martin Luther King and Greta Thunberg getting the Lediesis treatment. Other street artists include Blub who put diving masks on characters from the world of art, sport and entertainment such as Mona Lisa and David Bowie. The reason being that the artist sees the current historical and political crisis as only resolvable by putting on a mask and learning how to swim, pushing against the barriers of the system. Works appear, are removed, then reappear in other parts of the city. Yet another well-known street artists is Clet Abraham who customises traffic signs, particularly concentrated in San Niccolò so look up, look around, and prepare for the unexpected.

The Cascine park is known as the green lung of the city and is where you’ll often find locals and tourists alike taking advantage of the long riverside paths and vast spaces of the park for a light stroll or more energetic run. Don’t neglect the Medici villas, an idyllic garden immersed in centuries of history. Locals also make the most of places like Bellosguardo, Giardino dell’Orticoltura (with Giardino del Parnaso a gem hidden behind it) and Mensole Park at Settignano. It’s always a good idea too, to head off on a walk of discovery along the Arno and see where it takes you.

To get a true feel for Florence, head to one of the many antiques markets. That’s where you’ll find locals picking up and selling their cherished treasures in an atmospheric market. Ones to put on your to-see list are the Mercato Antiquariato held at Piazza Indipendenza and the Market at Santo Spirito. Follow the locals to some of these must-see events to for entertainment the way the Florentines like it. Some of the highlights of the calendar each year are Firenze Rocks as well as the top-class concerts, opera, theatre and dance performances by Maggio Musicale.

You can tell a lot about a restaurant by who is occupying its tables. If you spot throngs of locals, you can be assured of a good feed. There are a variety of dining options in Tuscany that make every meal an occasion that the true Florentine celebrates every time. Whether you’re just grabbing a quick snack or looking for a heartier feast, the city doesn’t disappoint. The multitude of markets in Florence are colourful and abundant and bound to put a smile on your face. All Florentines know that for the best fruit and vegetables you have to go early to one of the markets, and take your time choosing the freshest local produce. One particularly popular option is the Mercato di San Lorenzo in the centre, but also check out the well-stocked markets in Le Cure and Sant-Ambrogio.

One of the greatest pleasures of Florentine life is a long lazy lunch. Many choose a trattoria; these traditionally family owned, casual, rustic neighbourhood restaurants are found all over and offer fresh, unassuming, conventional local food. Think delicious fresh plates of pasta, heaped with homemade sauce and of course, washed down with a glass of the fine local wine. Some traditional Florentine dishes include pappardelle al cinghiale, wild boar pasta, and locally sourced tartufo. The typical Florentine street food of lampredotto remains a staple in the Florentine diet. The soft bread roll is filled with tripe that is slow-cooked in a vegetable broth seasoned with herbs and often topped with a spicy or green sauce. Pick it up from the numerous street vendors where you’ll see locals flock at lunch time to chow down and chat. Follow your meal with an espresso, and then head off on a passagiate throughout the city, people-watching and chatting with your nearest and dearest, just like the locals do.