A Culinary Guide to Cocktail Bars in Florence

There are some cities that just scream: “have a cocktail!” and as far as we’re concerned Florence is definitely one of them.

You’ll have plenty packed in to your time here with so much art and culture to take in, not to mention all the shopping on offer, so it only seems right to spend an evening relaxing with a few refreshing spritz, Negronis or something even more exotic. And if you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in the local cocktail flavors, adding one of our Florence food excursions to your itinerary comes highly recommended.

We asked our tour guide in Florence, Gaia, for her top five places to indulge in a bit of luxury.

Our Guides’ Favorite Mixology Spots

We believe that a well-crafted cocktail is the perfect way to transition from a day of art into the vibrant Florentine night. Our city has a deep-rooted connection to spirits, serving as the historic birthplace of some of the world’s most iconic drinks. We have gathered the bars where the craft is respected and the ingredients are meticulously sourced. Book a food tour with us to learn more.

Vip’s bar

If you want your drink to come with a view then this is the place for you.

Get that killer “postcard view” of Florence and the perfect photo for Instagram!

Address: Viale Giuseppe Poggi, 50125
Phone: +39 055 242300

La Terrazza

Their tagline is: ‘Float on the rooftops of Florence,’ which sounds pretty good to us.

Next to the Ponte Vecchio, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city by the river while sipping on a refreshing, sparkling cocktail.

Address: Vicolo dell’Oro, 6, 50123
Phone: +39 055 2726 5806

La Ménagère

Trendy your thing? Well, then head here for a cocktail made by a master mixologist.

Their website says: “A real laboratory where we experience new alchemy and preparation techniques.”

Address: Via de’ Ginori, 8, 50123
Phone: +39 055 075 0600

Fusion Bar & Restaurant

Established in 1999 here you’ll find the young and fashionable sipping on cocktails influenced by the Japanese-Italian food menu.

Address: Vicolo dell’Oro, 3, 50123
Phone: +39 055 2726 6987

Locale

Just a stone’s throw away from the Museum of Bargello here you’ll enjoy cocktails in the decadent surroundings of a restored palace dating back to 1500.

Address: Via delle Seggiole, 12/red, 50122
Phone: +39 055 906 7188

Florence – home of the Negroni

Florence is famously home to the Negroni, join us on our Florence Sunset Food Tour for an interactive Negroni making demo and then sip on Florence’s most famous cocktail, all while tasting some of the finest food the city has to offer.

History of Florence’s Cocktail Bars

Florence is famously known as the birthplace of the Negroni, which was first mixed at Caffè Casoni in 1919 for Count Camillo Negroni. We take great pride in this heritage, as the drink perfectly balances the bitterness of Campari with the sweetness of vermouth and the strength of gin. Many of our historic bars still serve this classic exactly as it was intended over a century ago. Understanding this history adds a layer of cultural depth to every sip you take while overlooking our historic piazzas.

Florence Cocktail Bar Etiquette

When enjoying a cocktail in Florence, we suggest embracing the “aperitivo” hour, which typically takes place between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. It is common for your drink to be accompanied by a small selection of complimentary snacks like olives, nuts, or small crostini. You should remember that “aperitivo” is intended to “open” the appetite for dinner, so sipping slowly and savoring the atmosphere is the local way. While standing at the bar is common for coffee, cocktail culture usually invites you to find a seat and enjoy the evening’s transition.