In the summer of 2022, they embarked on a 9-day journey to Italy, spending their final four evenings in Florence. The city proved to be an exceptional destination, revealing some truly hidden treasures along the way. This blog provides an extensive manual of activities in Florence tailored to young adults, all stemming from their own adventure. Delve into the guide to uncover the most exquisite dining spots and captivating experiences this city has to offer.

For those intrigued by their Italian escapade, especially the economical method that got them to and fro at just £2, they’ve previously detailed the process in their earlier blog.

Piazzale Michelangelo: A Generous Unveiling of Hidden Jewels

A driving force behind launching this blog was their desire to share hidden gems without reservation. As they traverse the globe, engaging in distinctive encounters, they find it only fitting to disseminate their narrative and collaborate with brands along the way.

The Unveiling of Florence’s 15 Best Activities for Young Adults and Couples

In the vast panorama of Italy’s history and culture, the city of Florence emerges as a treasure trove of experiences. Catering to people of varying ages, the question arises – what truly stands out as the cream of the crop for young adults and couples in Florence?

Their discoveries have struck gold, and you’ll find their journey’s culmination at the bottom, where they unveil Florence’s premier Airbnb accommodations. The common inclusion of leather markets in typical guides may not excite everyone – wading through countless stalls brimming with indistinguishable items doesn’t quite spark the same allure.

No Italian voyage can be complete without a vineyard expedition. This ranks high among the must-do activities for young adults and couples in Florence, Tuscany. There exist two primary avenues:

• Option A: Group Tour – Their chosen approach involved a group setting, where 20 to 50 participants embarked on a vineyard voyage, encompassing a tour, wine tasting, and a culinary experience. It’s crucial to thoroughly vet the tour beforehand – being stuck on a cramped coach with strangers is hardly an appealing scenario;
• Option B: Private Tour – For a considerable sum of £500-800, a private vineyard tour becomes an enticing proposition, especially for a smaller group (4-6 individuals). This personalized experience offers substantial value, and they enthusiastically advocate for it.

Details of their own vineyard escapade are linked to alleviate any uncertainties. The rationale behind their choice of vineyard tour spans from educational enrichment about wines, breathtaking landscapes, to forging connections for future outings. Surprisingly, the vineyards are in close proximity to Florence, with a scenic coach journey over the surrounding hills.

While the private tour promises a deeper engagement due to the freedom to inquire and explore one’s wine preferences, their group experience was nevertheless remarkable. They endorse the necessity of including a vineyard visit in your Florence agenda, whether as a couple or young adult seeking captivating activities. Whether you prefer the camaraderie of a group setting or the exclusivity of a private tour, a vineyard expedition promises an intoxicating blend of knowledge and sensory delight.

Ascend Piazzale Michelangelo

Confronted with the name’s grandeur, they anticipated a museum or art exhibit, only to find that Piazzale Michelangelo is, in fact, a hilltop vantage point (as pictured above). Bestowing the finest panorama of Florence, this site adorns postcards and guides for a reason. Venturing there during the morning hours, before the heat intensifies, offers a gratifying experience. Alternatively, the sunset vista at night comes highly recommended. 

While it attracts its fair share of tourists, it’s a place where one can easily stand for 20 minutes, wholly absorbed in the panoramic spectacle.

Indulge at La Giostra – Florence’s Unrivaled Culinary Haven

La Giostra indisputably claims its position as Florence’s premier dining establishment. If a trip to the city is in your plans, especially for a special occasion, a visit to this restaurant becomes imperative. While the initial moments of their visit didn’t shine due to a substantial wait and an owner appearing rather detached, this initial hiccup quickly dissolved as they were escorted to their table, immersing themselves in the restaurant’s ambiance.

Drawing upon their fondness for Italian cuisine, as previously chronicled in their Italy guide and their day in Como, La Giostra presented a dining experience that transcended all expectations. Their meal featured an exquisite pasta dish for Henry and a succulent fillet steak for Robyn, both elegantly paired with an organic red wine, a choice they learned helps prevent hangovers during their wine tour. La Giostra’s walls and ceiling, adorned with photos of celebrities, exude a star-studded atmosphere. Even an “in case of Ed Sheeran” box graces the entrance in anticipation of the UK artist’s potential visit.

The sole critique they offer is the restaurant’s preoccupation with catering to potential celebrity patrons, sometimes overshadowing the regular diners seeking exceptional culinary experiences and couple-friendly activities in Florence. Despite this, La Giostra remains, in their firsthand experience, the apex of Florence’s dining scene, deserving of its status. If you contend that another venue merits such acclaim, feel free to share your perspective.

Exploring the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as the Duomo di Firenze, had always been a bit of a toss-up for them when it came to historical sites. Their preference leaned towards experiencing history without battling the crowds and lines. But the Duomo proved to be an exception. The intricate craftsmanship of the structure left an indelible mark on them. Being the city’s centerpiece, also eased their navigation.

They were truly taken by the Cathedral, and their fortuitous discovery of JJ Cathedral Irish Pub, a bar offering a fantastic view of the Duomo, added a delightful layer to their experience. While the charm of Irish bars abroad isn’t always consistent, the stunning Duomo view compensated for any shortcomings.

For those willing to brave the 463 stairs, a skip-the-line tour at around £80 each allows entry to the famous dome, which once held the title of the world’s tallest man-made dome until 1881. Navigating the tight spots and squeezing past fellow tourists becomes a minor feat when the breathtaking view from the top unfolds before you. Additionally, they heard remarkable things about the adjacent Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower), offering another spectacular vantage point of the city and the Duomo itself.

A Stroll Across Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio, the bridge spanning the River Arno, stood as a unique spectacle within the city. Just a brief 5-minute walk from the Duomo, this tourist hotspot, though bustling, provided captivating vistas. Notably, this was the sole bridge in Florence to escape destruction by the departing Germans. Reconstructed in 1345 following a flood, it remains a resilient icon.**

The shops that line the bridge specialize in jewelry, particularly exquisite watch boutiques where one can relish the view while trying on elegant timepieces. For those merely interested in the panorama, journeying halfway across the bridge opens up unrestricted vistas of the River Arno. The architecture of Ponte Vecchio itself melds seamlessly with the surroundings, echoing tales of resilience and history.

This iconic bridge speaks to Florence’s remarkable ability to blend the past with the present, presenting travelers with a vivid embodiment of the city’s tenacity and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. As the breeze carries echoes of times gone by, and the reflections dance upon the river’s surface, Ponte Vecchio serves as a poignant reminder that Florence’s beauty transcends eras, anchoring it firmly as a jewel of the present while carrying echoes of the past.

An Enchanting Pasta Making Class

An aspiration they shared was to partake in a cooking class together, and Florence granted them the ideal opportunity for an immersive pasta-making experience. Through Airbnb, they found the Pasta & Friends Cooking Class, boasting exceptional reviews – a practice they consistently advocated. The welcoming staff immediately put them at ease, offering a cold glass of water and snacks before commencing the class.

The class, comprising a congenial group of 12 individuals from around the world – South Africa, the USA, Canada, and Mexico – proved to be an embodiment of their love for meeting new people while traveling. The instructor’s amiability and informative nature set the tone for a remarkable session. The trio of pasta types – tortellini, ravioli, and tagliatelle – were masterfully crafted, followed by an enjoyable feast complemented by red wine.

A particularly fascinating technique they encountered was crafting tagliatelle. After rolling out the pasta sheet, the subsequent step involved pressing it through metal lines to create its form, followed by a melodious ping resembling a guitar string. This maneuver allowed the pasta to elegantly drop into a container, forming delicate strings. A truly enchanting experience, this pasta-making class is a must for young adults and couples seeking immersive activities in Florence.

Sipping Aperol Spritz

In a blend of British charm and unabashed tourism, they often found themselves at local bars, cards in hand, enjoying the pleasures of midday drinks. Florence was no different. The quest for the city’s finest bars led them to wander the streets, relishing scenic spots until they were ready to move on. The allure of a view from a cozy spot remained unbeatable.

• Their playful banter and reminiscences showcased their bond, and a touch of competition made its way into the narrative. Robyn’s pending £30 debt left a lighthearted mark on their shared experiences;

• Incidentally, the Aperol Spritz, a Venetian cocktail dating back to 1920, became a staple in their exploration. Comprising prosecco, digestive bitters, and soda water, this concoction was enjoyed by the Italians before their meals, a fitting toast to their time in the city;

• As they savored their Aperol Spritz at various bars across Florence, they embraced the art of leisure, allowing the city’s ambience to seep into their souls. These moments of relaxation became threads woven into the tapestry of their journey, each drink symbolizing not just a break in their exploration, but a sincere appreciation for the vibrant spirit of the place. As the day’s hustle and bustle subsided and the sun dipped below the horizon, their evening spirits mirrored the hue of the Aperol Spritz—resplendent, effervescent, and alive with the essence of Florence.

Indulging in Frozen Delights

Every single day, their journey through Florence was punctuated by one delectable ritual – enjoying a scoop of ice cream. The city’s ice cream offerings proved to be some of the most exceptional they had ever encountered. After their evening repasts, and occasionally even during lunchtime, they would invariably make their way to an ice cream parlor to complement their meals.

While on the quest for the ultimate ice cream shop, they noticed an interesting trend. The first parlor they stumbled upon was never the best. Curiously, this initial experience often left them wanting, leading them to establish a rule: three different shops must be scouted before settling on one. In tourist hotspots, it wasn’t uncommon to come across subpar places peddling lackluster treats with exorbitant price tags. The hunt for the ideal ice cream shop might seem trivial, but trust their seasoned wisdom on this matter.

Unveiling Florence’s Markets

Market excursions can either be a resounding success or a letdown of epic proportions. Florence boasts a variety of street markets, yet many tend to blend together, offering a monotonous selection of goods. The city’s history is closely intertwined with leather, a fact that is evident as a significant portion of the stalls peddle leather products like bags, belts, and wallets. The repetitiveness of these offerings left them quite bored, as the stalls seemed to mirror one another, dotting every street corner.

However, amidst this sea of predictability, hidden gems of markets exist, and their worth becomes palpable upon discovery. Florence’s reputation for designer goods finds expression in several markets that feature second-hand designer items at substantial discounts.

Their advice for such markets: don’t shy away from bartering. While the listed prices might not differ much from new retail prices, adept negotiation can yield remarkable bargains. Among these, two markets stood out:

1. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio – East of the city, this market brims with food stalls and vintage clothing. Approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the central Duomo;
2. Florence Antique Market – Situated west of the city, this market requires a bit more travel. It might be wise to consider a scooter to get there.

The Mercato Centrale also merits attention and will be explored more thoroughly shortly.

Reveling in the Boboli Gardens

Adjacent to the renowned Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens offer a serene retreat in close proximity. This quintessentially European garden lies concealed behind the palace, boasting meticulously manicured greenery, venerable oak trees, sculptures, and fountains. Amidst the sweltering heat of Florence, these gardens provide an oasis of tranquility.

• Similar to their advice for Piazzale Michelangelo, they recommend enjoying the gardens during cooler periods, either in the morning or the evening, to escape the intense summer temperatures that can exceed 32 degrees;

• The Boboli Gardens beckon travelers to embark on a leisurely sojourn, a verdant escape from the bustling energy of the city. Strolling along gravel pathways, visitors are greeted by ornate sculptures that seem to whisper stories of eras gone by. As sunlight filters through the verdure, casting dappled shadows on the ground, a sense of serenity washes over, inviting moments of quiet contemplation;

• In the realm of the Boboli Gardens, the symphony of nature’s colors and textures entwines with the echoes of history, creating an enchanting tapestry for those who wander amidst its leafy alcoves. This oasis of beauty is a testament to Florence’s harmonious blend of art, nature, and human imagination, offering a tranquil haven for travelers seeking to escape the city’s lively pace and immerse themselves in a timeless landscape.

A Shopping Sojourn: Unearth the Hidden Designer Outlet

The allure of shopping beckons, and Florence’s reputation for designer outlets has spread even to TikTok. The city is renowned for housing renowned designer brands at discounted prices. Two premier malls/outlets cater to this fashion-forward crowd:

1. Mall Firenze;
2. Outlet Barberino.

Mall Firenze boasts names like Versace, Dolce and Gabbana, and Roberto Cavalli, offering their renowned designs at unprecedentedly low prices. The slight inconvenience of a 40-minute drive from Florence hardly deters visitors, as they can conveniently access the mall via a direct bus from the city center.

For those desiring proximity to Florence, Outlet Barberino offers an enticing alternative. Comprising over 100 stores, this shopping village provides discounts of up to 70% on Italian and international branded fashion. While they personally abstained from purchasing designer items, their exploration of these spots offered a unique perspective. Interestingly, the discounts at these outlets are so exceptional that price tags are sometimes removed from the clothing to prevent the details from being leaked.

Embarking on a Culinary Journey

Food aficionados, especially young adults and couples in search of memorable experiences, will find the allure of a food tour irresistible. TripAdvisor conveniently hosts a range of food tours in Florence, guiding participants through hidden alleyways to uncover the city’s finest eateries, stalls, and ice cream parlors. Florence and the broader Tuscany region are renowned for their succulent steaks, particularly the famed t-bone steaks. Missing out on this culinary delight would be a travesty.

One restaurant that tempted them was Trattoria Dall’Oste, characterized by its bold claims and prominent meat fridge. However, their experience underscored the importance of seeking local and less conspicuous establishments. This aspect, often discovered during food tours, encapsulates the true essence of culinary exploration. 

Food tours in Florence are a gateway to discovering the city’s gastronomic secrets, a pathway paved with intriguing stories, distinctive flavors, and the opportunity to unravel the narrative of each dish. It’s a sensory journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional dining, fostering connections between travelers and the city’s culinary artisans. In the heart of Florence’s narrow streets, participants are transported into a world where food is not just sustenance, but a symphony of tastes that echo the heritage of the region. For young adults and couples seeking to infuse their journey with unforgettable culinary encounters, a food tour is an essential exploration.

Escaping to Pisa for a Day

In the event that Florence’s offerings begin to wane, a convenient escape presents itself in the form of a day trip to Pisa. A mere hour’s train journey away, Pisa provides a fresh perspective. The efficiency of Italy’s train service impressed them, with spacious and comfortable carriages making the journey far more pleasant than their experiences with trains in the UK.

While they chose to fully engage with Florence’s attractions, the prospect of exploring Pisa’s distinctive charm, characterized by the iconic Leaning Tower, remains enticing.

Catching Sports Action at Mercato Centrale

While recognizing that not everyone is a sports enthusiast, this bustling market presents an intriguing twist – TVs adorning the walls, offering a chance to savor exceptional food while indulging in sports viewing. Their penchant for sports bars was evident in their Ludlow and Liverpool escapades, where they never missed a chance to watch a Liverpool game, much to Robyn’s amusement. The notion of watching sports while abroad might seem counterintuitive, but the promise of an electrifying atmosphere and engaging encounters with interesting people is very much real. 

While they didn’t have the opportunity to experience a live football match in Italy, conversations with fellow travelers who had attended such games revealed an unparalleled atmosphere of fervor.

St. Mark’s English Church: A Cultural Haven

Nestled within a segment of an ancient Medici palace, St. Mark’s English Church resonates with the harmonious melodies of its choir performing an Anglican Mass every Sunday. The confines of the church also serve as a platform for concerts and opera sessions. For those with a more extended stay in Florence, investigating their event calendar could unveil intriguing cultural activities such as book signings and round-table discussions, fostering a sense of community within the English-speaking population of Florence. Although their itinerary focused more on experiences for couples, they’ve encountered numerous voices attesting to the magnificence of this destination. Here, unique encounters not often found elsewhere can be embraced.

The Pinnacle of Airbnb Excellence

Fortune was on their side when it came to lodging, as they discovered a splendid Airbnb that they confidently believe was the epitome of value in Florence. This mezzanine apartment bestowed upon them a captivating view of the Basilica di San Lorenzo. A Renaissance masterpiece that entombs the Medici family, it also houses a library conceived by the legendary Michelangelo.

Within this Airbnb gem lay:

• Two tastefully appointed bathrooms, each featuring elegant showers;
• A fully equipped kitchen catering to culinary needs;
• Convenient and straightforward keyless entry;
• Effortless accessibility to alluring locales;
• Comprehensive maps highlighting the finest attractions tailored to young adults.

Their Airbnb experience was transformative, counterbalancing their less satisfactory Milan lodging and concluding their Italian journey on a high note.

Navigating Florence: A Language Barrier Transcended

Before delving into the marvels of the city, a practical issue needs addressing – traversing the city’s expanse without the aid of the Italian language. 

• Being tourists who weren’t proficient in Italian, their journey was not without its linguistic challenges. In an interesting twist, Henry’s teacher had even dissuaded him from taking his GCSE exam a mere couple of weeks before their adventure, underscoring their navigational hurdle;

• Their journey through the city was surprisingly smooth. Walking proved to be a viable option for most destinations given the close proximity of attractions. For slightly longer distances, they conveniently turned to electric scooters;

• Notably, they managed to conquer a local hill with ease, as captured in the image above, and their subsequent experience of ordering food proceeded without a hitch.

Their exploration also unraveled the nuances of Uber services. Uber X, as it turned out, was a standard cab booking service, and though they didn’t manage to secure a booking, they discovered the Uber Black/Exec option, further augmented by walking or opting for a scooter.

Nighttime Ventures in Florence: A Spectrum of Possibilities

Answering the question of how best to spend evenings in Florence is a complex endeavor, given the abundant nighttime activities. A recommended strategy involves venturing out with companions to explore the city’s after-dark charm.

The true essence of nighttime enjoyment in Florence emerges through communal expeditions with friends, leading to a myriad of possibilities. Florence’s nocturnal scene offers a diverse range of experiences, each tailored to specific preferences, creating a kaleidoscope of options for every taste.

Whether one’s inclination leans toward indulging in lively sports events amidst the captivating ambiance of Mercato Centrale, or immersing in the soul-stirring choral performances of St. Mark’s English Church, Florence offers a symphony of evening adventures. This city transforms as the sun sets, revealing the harmonious interplay of historic landmarks and modern diversions under the cloak of night. To traverse these nocturnal treasures is to unlock the city’s secrets when it is bathed in moonlight, a canvas upon which vibrant social connections and memorable moments are painted.

As the moon casts its silvery glow over Florence’s streets, it invites travelers to uncover the city’s nocturnal splendor in the company of friends, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences that will forever resonate in their hearts.

Conclusion 

In the heart of their Italian journey, amidst the enchanting streets and storied history of Florence, the couple found themselves immersed in a tapestry of experiences that defied expectations. From unearthing hidden culinary gems to scaling panoramic heights, their journey was marked by curiosity and exploration. The vibrant markets, each a treasure trove of unique finds, drew them in, revealing a different facet of the city’s character. With open hearts and a willingness to embrace the unknown, they embarked on culinary escapades, pasta-making revelations, and enchanting garden strolls that etched vivid memories.

Yet, beyond the immersive attractions and picturesque landscapes, Florence offered something more profound—an opportunity to transcend language barriers and connect with a diverse array of individuals. The hum of excitement in sports-centric corners, the harmonious melodies in an English church, and the warmth of communal exploration under the night sky were all stitched together to create a vibrant tapestry of experiences.

As their journey through Florence drew to a close, the couple reflected on the highs and the nuanced subtleties of their adventure. Their Airbnb sanctuary, a respite within the bustling city, symbolized the perfect finale to a tale marked by discovery and enrichment. Florence had woven its magic, leaving them with stories to share and memories to treasure, a testament to the remarkable power of travel to enrich the soul and illuminate new perspectives.