Discover the Oltrarno District
Known as Florence’s left bank, Oltrarno is home to a vibrant mix of artisan workshops, design studios, and boutique galleries. Take a stroll through this bohemian neighborhood, where you can see traditional crafts such as leatherworking and jewelry-making being carried out in contemporary settings. Don’t miss Piazza Santo Spirito, a lively square filled with cafes and design shops.
Visit the Museo Salvatore Ferragamo
Head to the Museo Salvatore Ferragamo to dive deep into the world of one of Italy’s most iconic luxury brands. The museum not only showcases Ferragamo’s legendary footwear but also regularly features exhibitions that explore fashion, craftsmanship, and contemporary design, aligning perfectly with Pitti Uomo’s ethos of innovation and tradition.
Shop Luxury at Via de’ Tornabuoni
Florence’s most fashionable street, Via de’ Tornabuoni, is lined with luxury boutiques and designer stores, including Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, and Loro Piana. If you’re looking to splurge on classic Italian fashion, this is the place to be.
Shop Craftsmanship at Via dei Serragli
Over the river Arno, the Oltrarno district is famed for its artisan workshops, many of which are dotted along picturesque Via dei Serragli. Linen clothing at Vincent Croce and leather goods at Quoio will keep any avid shopper busy. To cover all of your shopping bases, indulge in wonderfully curated vintage garments at Momo Vintage and jewellery at Nokike Atelier.
Dine at MEZE
Located on the ground floor of Hotel Calimala, MEZE offers a unique fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, creatively presented with a modern touch. The restaurant’s stylish, contemporary design creates a chic and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. MEZE’s menu features a variety of small plates, each bursting with fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it ideal for sharing and savoring a diverse range of flavors. With an emphasis on bold spices, aromatic herbs, and high-quality local produce, MEZE brings a unique dining experience that blends tradition with innovation.
Stay Upstairs at Hotel Calimala
Florence is a city that deserves several days to truly experience, and it offers a variety of exceptional hotels to stay in. Hotel Calimala, located in the heart of the historic Centro Storico district, beautifully combines Florence’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary design. Hotel Calimala places guests in walking distance to the city’s most iconic landmarks, luxury boutiques, fine dining, theatres, and parks, just steps away from the Ponte Vecchio.
Following the acquisition of an adjacent building last year, Calimala The West offers an additional 65 elegantly designed rooms and suites spread across five floors.For an unforgettable evening, head to the hotels rooftop bar ANGEL Roofbar, which offers stunning panoramic views of Florence’s skyline. This chic rooftop venue is the perfect spot for a late-night drink, often hosting DJ’s. The stylish, contemporary decor complements the city’s historic charm, creating an elegant atmosphere where expert mixologists craft exceptional cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset aperitivo or sipping a signature cocktail under the stars, the rooftop bar at Hotel Calimala provides a truly memorable experience.
Experience Tracey Emin at Palazzo Strozzi
From March 16 to July 20, 2025, Palazzo Strozzi presents Tracey Emin: Sex and Solitude, the first major exhibition in Italy dedicated to one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Showcasing over 60 works, including paintings, sculptures, neon installations, and textiles, the exhibition highlights Emin’s distinctive style and artistic evolution.
Set in the grandeur of Palazzo Strozzi, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this exclusive exhibition brings together iconic pieces and works debuting in Italy for the first time. Curated by Arturo Galansino and supported by Gucci.
Caravaggio and the Twentieth Century at Villa Bardini
Set within the elegant Villa Bardini, Caravaggio and the Twentieth Century: Roberto Longhi and Anna Banti will be on display from March 27 to July 20, 2025. This exhibition celebrates the profound cultural impact of art historian Roberto Longhi and writer Anna Banti, exploring their pivotal role in shaping 20th-century Italian culture. Featuring masterpieces by Caravaggio, Ribera, and Morandi, the show also includes rare archival documents and photographs, offering a unique glimpse into the intellectual and artistic networks they fostered. A captivating journey through the intersection of art, literature, and history.
