A Weekend in Florence
with Valentina Barabuffi
Florence, a city where art, history, and timeless beauty meet modern elegance, is the perfect weekend escape. Here is my curated guide for a dreamy Florentine stay, filled with charm, culture, and my personal favourite spots.
Where to Stay
Stella d’Italia
This boutique guesthouse combines classic Italian hospitality with understated elegance. It’s a hidden gem that feels like staying in a stylish Florentine home. Perfect for travelers who seek intimacy and authenticity.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
If you want to experience true Renaissance luxury, this is the place. Nestled in the heart of a private park, this hotel is a quiet oasis in the middle of the city. Every corner feels like stepping into a painting.
Numero Venti Artist Residence
For the creative soul. This space blends art and design in a 16th-century palazzo, offering rotating exhibitions, artist residencies, and dreamy interiors. It’s not just a place to sleep—it's an experience.
Where to Eat
Cibreo
An institution in Florence. Cibreo isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a love letter to Tuscan cuisine.
Gilda Bistrot
Located near the Santo Ambrogio market, Gilda has that vintage charm I adore - think floral tablecloths, antique mirrors, and heartfelt cooking.
Il Santo Bevitore
Trendy yet timeless. This is my go-to for a romantic dinner or a cozy evening with friends. Their modern take on traditional Tuscan dishes is always a win, and their wine list is impeccably curated.
Where to Shop
Boutique Nadine
For vintage lovers like me, Boutique Nadine is heaven. From curated designer pieces to unique accessories, it’s the kind of place where you always find something unexpected and beautiful.
Ginori 1735
No trip to Florence is complete without stopping at Ginori. The porcelain is handcrafted, rich in history, and incredibly chic.
Loretta Caponi
Stepping into this boutique is like entering an aristocratic Florentine dream. Handmade linens, embroidered nightgowns, and custom garments evoke a sense of refined femininity. It’s one of those timeless places where craftsmanship is everything.
What to See
Museo di Palazzo Strozzi
A contemporary art hub housed in a magnificent Renaissance palace. The exhibitions are always surprising and deeply moving. It’s one of my favourite places to connect with modern creativity in a historic setting.
Galleria degli Uffizi
An absolute must. Every time I visit, I discover something new. Botticelli’s “Primavera” still gives me chills. This museum is not just about the art—it’s about understanding the soul of Florence.
Giardino di Boboli
A walk here feels like stepping into a Medici fairy tale. The Boboli Gardens are ideal for a slow afternoon, with panoramic views, secret groves, and sculptures peeking out from every corner.
