Nighttime is perfect to discover Florence like a true local. From a relaxed evening with a bite and a coppa to a bustling night of music and dancing, no matter your travel style there are plenty of things to do in Florence at night.
So you finally made it to Florence. During the day you enjoy the Tuscan sun and all the note-worthy sites. With architectural masterpieces and world-class art at every turn, there is plenty to do during the day. Deciding what to do in Florence at night, though, requires a bit of advance planning. But don’t worry, we have you covered with our list of the best things to do in the Tuscan capital when the sun goes down!
Enjoy a Typical Apericena
One of the best things to do in Florence at night is a true Florentine aperitivo. And even better: an apericena! The perfect marriage between aperitivo and cena or dinner. The concept originated in cities like Milan and Turin which have a big student population. Since students typically live on a budget and can’t splurge on big dinners too often, bars in these cities began to offer small, affordable dishes to go with their drinks.
The trend made its way to Florence quickly. Nowadays you can find a variety of apericena spots around the city, from simple and casual to fancy and chic. One of our favorite spots is Le Murate. Defined as a “literary cafe” it is one of the coolest local spots in the city, housed in an old prison complex. They regularly host concerts, lectures, and events with a socially conscious spin.
There is plenty of outside sitting. So it’s a perfect spot for people-watching and absorbing the hustle and bustle of the city.
Watch a Movie at One of the Oldest Theaters in Europe
Located in one of Florence’s most important Renaissance buildings, the Palace Strozzino, Cinema Odeon Firenze (Piazza degli Strozzi) is one of the most beautiful movie theaters in Italy and perhaps in Europe. Open since 1922 it has been an integral part of the evolution of cinema. Hosting many important festivals and premieres. Just imagine which famous directors and actors took the stage here.
The cinema itself is breathtaking with its 1920s architecture. It makes you feel like you’re not only watching a movie, but you’re living in one. Though most of the movies in Italy are dubbed, this is not the case at Cinema Odean. Here most of the screenings are with an original soundtrack and Italian subtitles. Just make sure to check the program in advance to find the English showings.
Catch a Live Music Show
Alongside sculptures and writers, musicians make up a large part of the artist community of Florence and they love to put on a show. Firenze Today is our go-to resource to find out the best live music concerts in town. From jazz to pop, you can find almost any genre on almost any night of the week.
If you don’t find anything that catches your fancy, we recommend going to NOF (Borgo S. Frediano, 17/19). A small but feel-good music venue that makes up for in energy what it lacks in space. It gets crowded as the night goes on, so get there early. And keep in mind the place is so small that dancing is forbidden!
Fancy it Up with Some Classical Music
Home to some of the most famous operas in the world, Florence is the perfect city to enjoy classical music performances. And what would be a better place than the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, named after the prestigious Maggio Musicale Festival, the oldest in Italy and the third in Europe?
Insider tip: Make sure to book your tickets well in advance. They sell out quickly.
Go Dancing
If you’re looking for somewhere to let loose and move your body, Florence has some incredible places to dance the night away. With animated dance clubs hosting live acts, international DJs, and themed nights, there are plenty of options. Most of them are located in the city center. Making them easy to find and convenient to get back to your hotel from when you’re ready to call it a night. Here are some of our favorites:
- Rex cafe (Via Fiesolana, 25r) This lively lounge also doubles as an after-hours nightclub. Known for its retro decor and eclectic clientele, it’s the perfect spot for a hipster dance night.
- Flo Lounge (Viale Michelangiolo, 84) This chic nightclub is famous for its beautiful views of the city. Its located on a hilltop terrace, hence only open in the summer. Make sure to put on something fancy because a dress code is enforced.
- The Blob Club (Via Vinegia, 21/R) is Known as the alternative club that Florentines love. You’ll find different music genres played every night of the week. The dancefloor is a bit small so the vibe is a bit more intimate.
Looking for other activities to do at night? Why not join our Dine Around Florence food tour? We’ll feed your curiosity and eat some of the best bites in the city.
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!).