ViaggioVero in Firenze, Toscana: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Firenze

Must-try foods in Firenze

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina
  Bistecca alla FiorentinaThe crown jewel of Florentine cuisine, this thick T-bone steak is traditionally sourced from Chianina cattle. In San Giovanni, it is expertly prepared over charcoal grills, seasoned only with salt and olive oil, and strictly served 'al sangue' (rare) to preserve its buttery texture.
• Lampredotto
  LampredottoThe ultimate local street food, consisting of the fourth stomach of a cow slow-cooked in a vegetable broth. In the San Giovanni area, it is typically served in a 'semelle' roll dipped in broth and topped with 'salsa verde' (parsley sauce) and spicy chili oil.
• Ribollita
  RibollitaA quintessential 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking) dish, this hearty bread and vegetable soup is 're-boiled' with stale Tuscan bread, cannellini beans, and black kale (cavolo nero). It is a staple in the neighborhood's traditional osterias, especially during cooler months.
• Pappa al Pomodoro
  Pappa al PomodoroA thick, comforting tomato and bread mash flavored with garlic, basil, and high-quality Tuscan olive oil. Trending in 2026 for its rustic simplicity, it is often found at historic spots like Trattoria Sergio Gozzi near the San Lorenzo border of the district.
• Schiacciata
  SchiacciataA salty, oily, and crispy Tuscan flatbread. While viral shops like All’Antico Vinaio are nearby, locals in San Giovanni prefer it from historic bakeries like Forno Becagli, often filled with regional cold cuts like finocchiona or creamy pecorino.
• Crespelle alla Fiorentina
  Crespelle alla FiorentinaThe Florentine version of crepes, typically stuffed with a mixture of ricotta and spinach, then topped with a delicate béchamel sauce and baked. It is an elegant, traditional alternative to the more common pasta dishes found in the neighborhood.

Trip guide

• About Firenze
  About FirenzeThe San Giovanni district, also designated as the Quartiere 1, serves as the historical center of Florence. This area contains the city's primary religious and civic monuments, most notably the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza San Giovanni.
• When to go
  When to goThe best months to visit the San Giovanni district are April, May, September, and October, which offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the Duomo and surrounding historic sites on foot. While summer (July and August) brings peak crowds and grueling heat often exceeding 30°C (86°F), June 24th is a unique highlight for the Feast of San Giovanni, featuring city-wide celebrations and fireworks. For the best value and fewest crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Firenze

  • Walking The San Giovanni district is the compact historical heart of Florence; most major landmarks like the Duomo are within a 10-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) railway station.
  • Tramway (T2 Line) The T2 tram line connects Florence Airport directly to the city center, with the San Marco Università and Unità stops providing easy access to the northern edge of the San Giovanni district.
  • Autolinee Toscane (Local Bus) Small electric C-line buses (like C1 and C2) navigate the narrow streets of the historic center, while larger lines like the 23 connect the district to the suburbs and the main train station.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always validate your bus or train tickets at the yellow or green machines before boarding to avoid heavy fines during inspections.
  • Ask for the bill when you are ready to leave, as Florentine servers consider it rude to rush guests and will rarely bring it unsolicited.
  • Keep your bag in front of you and avoid leaving phones on tables in crowded areas like Piazza del Duomo to prevent opportunistic pickpocketing.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Firenze

  • 230th Anniversary of the Società di San Giovanni Battista: A major year-long celebration featuring the '230' exhibition at Museo de' Medici and the unveiling of the restored 1928.
  • Secret Florence 2026: A viral contemporary arts festival transforming hidden spots in the district, like Palazzo Neroni and the Complex of Santa Maria Novella.
• Feel Florence↗
  Feel FlorenceThe official tourism website of the Municipality and Metropolitan City of Florence, providing travel information, events, and itineraries.