Florence Nightlife

Florence's nightlife is more intimate than the city's reputation for Renaissance art might suggest — this is a city of excellent wine bars, convivial aperitivo spots, and a handful of clubs that draw a mixed Italian and international crowd. The best of Florence nightlife is concentrated in the Oltrarno, the neighbourhood across the Arno from the tourist centre: the piazzas of Santo Spirito and the streets around Borgo San Frediano fill every evening with locals drinking Chianti and Negroni at outdoor tables. The historic centre — particularly the area around Piazza della Repubblica — is more tourist-oriented but has its share of good cocktail bars. For a classic Florentine experience, join the Florentians at an enoteca (wine bar) for a glass of local Chianti Classico before dinner — a ritual that defines the city's social life as much as any club or bar.