Intro: Why Your Aperol Spritz Costs €10 and Your Bartender Judges You
Picture this: You’re in Florence, gelato in one hand, a €10 Aperol Spritz in the other, and your bartender is side-eyeing you like you’re an art student who accidentally walked into a museum. Welcome to the world of tourist traps and overpriced “authentic” drinks. But fear not, amigos—we’re here to spill the beans on Florence’s *real* bars. The ones where locals go to avoid tourists, where the Negroni is made correctly (no sweet vermouth, no shame), and where your leather jacket won’t get you kicked out. Let’s dive into the best bars in Florence that won’t make you want to pack up and leave Italy after your first round.
Where to Party Like a Florentine (Without a Party Face)
Bar della Villetta: The OG of Florence Coolness
Location: Via dei Renai, 18r. Yes, it’s in the heart of Florence, but no, it’s not for tourists. This bar is where locals go to sip Negronis while avoiding the gelato-stained tourists who think a €15 cocktail is normal. Pro tip: Order the “Negroni” (yes, it’s just called that) and don’t ask for soda. The bartender will judge you.
The Bearded Lady: Beer Nerds, Unite!
Location: Piazza San Lorenzo, 15. This Irish pub is a love letter to everyone who’s ever been to a dive bar and hated it. It’s got the cozy chaos of a pub in Dublin, minus the judgmental stares. They serve craft beers (hello, DIY beer lovers!) and have a menu that screams “I’m not Italian, but I’m trying.” Bonus: The owner’s dog, Murphy, is a walking barista (and a menace, but cute).
Ombra: Instagrammable, But Not Instagrammable Enough
Location: Via de’ Tornabuoni, 100. This one’s for the fashion-forward crowd. Think velvet booths, aperitivo that costs as much as your rent, and a vibe that screams “I’m here for the view, not the drinks.” But hey, if you’re paying €30 for a cocktail and a side of judgmental waiters, you’re doing it right.
FAQs: Because You’re Asking Questions Like a Tourist
- Is it weird to ask for a Negroni in Florence? Nope. It’s the Italian version of ordering a latte in Rome. Just don’t ask for “extra vermouth” unless you want the bartender to question your life choices.
- Do I need to dress up? Leather jackets are optional. But if you show up in something that smells like gelato, you might get carded by the locals.
- Can I use Venmo here? Nah. Cash or card, but if you’re paying with crypto, you’re in the wrong bar (and probably the wrong country).
Pro Tips for Not Being a Tourist (aka “Don’t Do This”)
- Don’t order a Spritz at 9 am. You’re not in Venice. Florence doesn’t do 9 am cocktails unless you’re a 70-year-old man in loafers.
- Use cash. Some bars still live in the stone age (i.e., 2005). Avoid the awkward “I can pay through my app” moment.
- Tip like a local. It’s not a thing. But if you want to be extra, leave a €1 coin. Or a €100 bill. Your call.
Actionable Steps: Be a Better Tourist (It’s Hard, We Know)
- Respect the locals. If they’re ignoring you, you’re doing it right. If they’re talking to you, you’re doing it wrong.
- Learn one Italian word. “Grazie” (thank you) and “ma che dici” (literally, “what are you talking about?”—use it when they overcharge you).
- Don’t tip. It’s not expected. Unless you want to tip in euros. That’s allowed.
Conclusion: Go Drink Something and Stop Trying to Be Cool
So there you have it, folks. Florence’s best bars, curated by someone who’s been kicked out of at least two of them. Whether you’re here for art, history, or just to avoid your ex, these spots will help you sip like a local. And when you’re done, head over to Strategies.beer for more tips on drinking, living, and being a human in Florence (and the rest of Italy). Oh, and if you want to sell your beer online, check out Dropt.beer. Because nothing says “I belong here” like a custom beer label and a €0.50 glass of wine.
Need More Help? We’re Here, But Probably Drunk
Still confused? Hit us up at Strategies.beer for more drinking advice, custom beer ideas, or just to vent about that €10 Aperol Spritz. We’ll answer (eventually). And if you’re in Florence, say hi to our imaginary barista, Murphy. He’s a menace, but he’s got your back.
