Menu
There’s no lack of great cafes in Florence, but if you’re looking to take in the old Florentine charm from eras gone by, think— wooden detailing, mirrored walls, and signage with typography that’s impeccable, you can head to one of the historic cafes in Florence for a traditional Italian coffee culture experience.
*Note that these cafes are not always suitable for laptop work, if you’re looking for a place to get some work done, check out these laptop-friendly cafes in Florence.
Caffè Gilli, has the claim to fame as being the oldest cafe in Florence, dating back to 1733. It is located on the breathtaking Piazza della Repubblica and is considered a city landmark. The cafe has been passed down through generations of the Swiss Gilli family.
It has an incredible traditional atmosphere that gives an authentic Italian coffee experience. While you might be drawn to sit out on the covered patio to gaze out at the carousel or the grand archway, but I’d recommend opting for the inside. The historic interiors are gorgeous and make for a nice spot for a coffee break.
Keep in mind that seated prices are different than bar service, so if you’re on a budget I’d recommend taking your coffee at the bar. Gilli also sells coffee beans and chocolate and has some of the best pastries in town.
Caffè Rivoire is located in Piazza della Signoria, directly across from Palazzo Vecchio, it’s one of the most historic cafes in Florence, and while I love to sit inside for the ambiance, its patio has a beautiful view of the Uffizi Gallery.
Caffè Rivoire was founded in 1872 by Enrico Rivoire, who was the official chocolate supplier of the Italian Royal Family. Today it still boasts the charm of nineteen-century cafes, think the decadence of being in a palace, with gorgeous pastries and some of the best chocolate I’ve ever had.
Again, while the outdoor area is great, the interiors are where you get the full experience of the historic cafe vibe. With wood trimming and pink scalloped chairs, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time like a film noir set has come to life with color.
Right next to Gilli you’ll find another famous historic cafe in Florence. Founded in 1846, Caffè Paszkowski is another florentine coffee house that has been a favorite hangout of intellectuals of past and present. People like, Giovanni Papini, Ardengo Soffici, Gaetano Salvemini, and even Cesare Battisti were all regular at Paszkowski.
Today it’s not only a great place to fuel up before heading out for a day of sightseeing, but it’s become a staple in the florentine nightlife. It’s a popular evening spot for aperitivo— sometimes they even have DJs so you can dance the night away in a gorgeous setting.
© 2023 Maia Conscious Living Privacy Policy | Gabs Nardo LLC
