These rooftop bars in Florence offer first-class tickets for the best views in town—and no, we didn’t forget the wine.
When in Florence, you’ll notice that Brunelleschi’s famous dome seems to follow you everywhere—a constant reminder that yes, this is the cradle of the Renaissance. So, after a long day pounding the pavement, get on top—of a hill, a building, a church, you choose—and enjoy a new perspective of Florence’s most famous landmark. The golden light slowly vanishing from the dome is a memory to cherish.
Our tip? Do it while enjoying a drink or two at one of the many rooftop bars in Florence. Here are five of our favorites to get you started.
B-Roof – Baglioni Hotel
B-Roof‘s stunning location atop the Baglioni Hotel offers unparalleled views of Brunelleschi’s dome. On offer is a great variety of drinks, and you can be sure that their talented and knowledgeable bartenders will recommend something delicious. But if you’re feeling indecisive, this is a picture-perfect spot to sip a tried-and-true Florentine cocktail: the Negroni.
B-Roof also has a fantastic restaurant serving up elevated Tuscan regional cuisine. Make the experience extra special by sitting down to an unforgettable meal surrounded by views straight off a postcard!
SE·STO on Arno – Excelsior Hotel
From lunch to dinner, SE·STO on Arno will provide you with exquisite food made from high-quality ingredients perfected by a Florentine chef. But don’t worry if you’re too full from all the schiacciate you already ate to appreciate it: the reserve of wine is seemingly endless and carefully selected.
Choose a bottle to share with your friends, then sit at a table on the terrace and enjoy the moment. 
SE·STO on Arno’s picturesque location offers views over all of Florence. Photo credit: SE·STO on Arno
Empireo – Lucchesi Hotel
The pool, the drinks, the music: Empireo has all the ingredients you’re looking for in the perfect rooftop bar in Florence. This alchemy will make you forget the busy day you just spent sightseeing among the crowds.
Drink in the views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio, and remember to breathe (it really will take your breath away!). The only drawback: this magical spot is only available during summer.
Caffè del Verone
The terrace atop Museo degli Innocenti has been recently restored to host Caffè del Verone. Once the space where women who worked at the onetime orphanage used to hang the laundry, it’s now a sophisticated bar.
You can access it even without the museum ticket, though a trip to the museum itself is definitely worth it. Just be sure to get up to the roof in time for aperitivo around 6 p.m.
Caffetteria delle Oblate
You can meet almost anyone at Caffetteria delle Oblate. From busy students to chatty elders, every Florentine likes to meet here with friends.
The bar hides atop of a public library in what once was a cloister. Stop by for a cup of coffee, stay for a gorgeous view of the Duomo and an aperitivo spread, and watch the real city life flowing from this beautiful spot.
Update notice: This article was updated on July 26, 2023.
Eliana Ferrari doesn’t like to stay put. She’s traveled all around Europe, excited by every encounter with people, food, and art. How did she end up in Florence? She fell in love: with the magnificence of every corner, with Bolgheri wine, and with the famous Florentine wit (one Florentine’s in particular!).