Florence Favorites: One Abroad Student’s Guide to the Best Spots in a City with Endless Adventures

The Duomo in Florence, Italy. Photo by Grace Demarco

Since its founding in 59 BCE, Florence has served as the inspiration, home, and meeting place for creative thinkers, political figures, artists and travelers alike. The cobblestones have guided the paths of da Vinci, Michelangelo, Alighieri and the Medicis.

Now, hundreds of Marist students walk these same paths every semester, each finding their own favorite spots, hobbies and inspiration in the places that so many have before. But, in a city with centuries of history in its walls, it's difficult to know where to begin. In the essence of its Latin name Florentina, which means “to bloom,” here are some of the best spots in Florence to explore and blossom in during your semester abroad.

Jazz Club

This hidden gem is located close to the heart of the city on Via Nuova de’Caccini. Since 1979, Jazz Club has offered not only typical jazz music, but also blues, and features new guests and genres every week. Along with regularly scheduled musicians, Jazz Club also hosts jam sessions, where members of the local Florence music scene can collaborate and improvise on stage.

“Jazz Club is very community-based, full of heart and passion. It is a welcoming environment for live music enthusiasts and anyone looking for a good time,” said Maliya Ouellette ‘26. “The atmosphere gives listeners an opportunity to discover a newfound appreciation for different types of music, and seeing the community so involved is invigorating.”

Whether you are a seasoned jazz lover or are looking to explore new types of live music, Jazz Club is the perfect place to experience new genres and cultures and connect with new people.

La Cité

La Cité, a bookshop café, is the perfect place to explore off the beaten path. Located across the Arno River and removed from the busy city center, this cozy café is one of the best spots to study, catch up on reading, relax or socialize.

The local favorite, with an emphasis on culture and community, also serves as a one-stop shop for books, music, visual and performing arts, screenings, coffee, drinks and food. Whether you are looking for a new study spot or to be embraced in Florentine culture, La Cité is the place for you.

Boboli Gardens

Also located across the Arno is the breathtaking Boboli Garden. Established by the Medici family, the vastly expansive gardens are a must-see, whether it be for a walk, a picnic or a relaxing afternoon. Walk through the beautiful trees and flowers, admire the fountains and unwind amongst the Renaissance statues.

“It was such a refreshing place to reconnect with nature,” said Jordan Badalamenti ‘27. “You could go back a hundred times and still continue to discover something new.”

Piazzale Michelangelo

If you are looking for one of the best panoramic views of the entire city of Florence, Piazzale

Michelangelo is a frequently visited spot for locals and tourists alike. Although many go for the splendid sunsets, the view from the top of the hill south of the city center is worth the walk at any time of day or year.

Giunti Odeon

This beautiful cinema-theater located in Piazza Strozzi is one of the best multi-purpose spaces in the city. Whether you are looking to browse an extensive collection of books on the main floor, watch short films during the day, study in the gallery, read, relax or go see a newly released movie at night, Odeon is a unique place to add to your routine.

Pinos

No semester abroad is complete without finding your favorite spot for a great panino. Located in the heart of Florence, Pino’s Sandwiches- Salumeria Verdi has offered a wide variety of panini and other dishes since 1991. Although always busy, you will always be greeted with a smile and a great meal, and leave with a happy and full belly!

Biblioteca delle Oblate

The Oblate Library is a public library located in Florence’s city center. Named for the fourteenth-century convent that the building once housed, the location is a widely known favorite for its beautiful and collaborative atmosphere, and most of all, for its clear view of the Duomo, which makes even the busiest study session a visual experience.

Gallerie degli Uffizi

When living in the birthplace of the Renaissance, the Uffizi Gallery is an experience you can not miss.

The building, designed by Giorgio Vasari, offers a breathtaking background for ancient Greek sculptures and world-famous masterpieces. The collection is also known for housing the works of Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raffaello, Caravaggio and many more.

Humana Vintage

If you are looking to shop at great prices while finding unique pieces in ethical ways, look no further than Humana Vintage. Their efforts go beyond giving clothing a new life, as they care for the environment and for people with the idea that “ethics and aesthetics can and must coexist.”

“Humana Vintage was the first thrift store I went to when I got to Florence. I immediately fell in love,” said Kristin Erhardt ‘27. “Not only does Humana have a great selection of vintage clothing, but they are also an organization that gives back and helps the community.”

Vintage Cafe

There is no limit to cafés in Florence; however, Vintage Café is another notable one, known for its music, food, people and atmosphere.

“Vintage Café is the cutest little café that is tucked away in the main city center. They have the best coffee and food items,” said Morgan Muller ‘27. “The staff is so incredibly kind, and it is a spot where a lot of locals frequent, so you know it’s good!”