Living in or staying in Toscana, Florence

Scores

Safety and quiet come from researched sources about the whole neighborhood; walkability, transport and nightlife from the address reports here.

About Toscana

Occupying the absolute historic heart of Florence near Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi, this area is defined by Renaissance palazzi, narrow stone lanes, and lively pedestrian flow. Street performers, international tourists, and museum-goers fill the daytime, giving way in the evening to outdoor dining, strolling visitors, and a polished, historic urban ambiance.

Good for

• first-time visitors
• culture lovers
• foodies
• couples
• solo travelers

Less suited to

• drivers
• quiet seekers

Watch out for

• Opportunistic pickpockets target pedestrians in dense tourist crowds around Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and museum queues.
• Street scam artists frequently operate around major plazas, attempting distraction tactics such as pushing unsolicited friendship bracelets or setting up three-card monte games.

Sources

• Italy Country Security Report
• Foreign travel advice: safety and security
• Travel advisory: level 2
• Homicide rate per 100,000 people (2023)

Local picks

Food & drink

• La Ménagère

  Italian · A stylish café-restaurant and flower shop serving food from morning until late.

• Trattoria Mario

  Local · A renowned family trattoria known for traditional Florentine dishes and bistecca.

• Trattoria dall’Oste

  Steakhouse · A nearby specialist for Florentine steak and carefully selected aged beef.

• Pizzeria Livio

  Pizza · A convenient local pizzeria offering an informal option near the market.

• Il Toscanaccio

  Local · A lively Tuscan restaurant and cocktail bar with outdoor seating in a central square.

• La Tenda Rossa

  Local · A welcoming Tuscan restaurant serving traditional dishes including ribollita and Florentine steak.

• Caffè Gilli

  A historic central café suited to coffee, pastries and people-watching.

• Caffe Concerto Paszkowski

  A classic café on Piazza della Repubblica with a refined historic atmosphere.

• Caffe del Teatro Niccolini

  A convenient theatre café for a relaxed drink close to the historic centre.

Sights & things to do

• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

  Florence’s iconic cathedral complex combines the cathedral, dome, bell tower and baptistery.

• Gallery of the Academy

  A major Florence museum and an essential stop for visitors interested in Renaissance art.

• Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

  This elegant basilica anchors a lively square near the main railway station.

• Palazzo Pitti

  A grand historic palace offering a rich introduction to Florence’s courtly and artistic heritage.

• Explore the historic centre

  Wander central streets to discover architecture, cafés, shops and everyday Florentine life.

• Visit San Lorenzo Market

  Browse a lively central market for local food, souvenirs and an atmospheric shopping experience.

• Shop at traditional artisan stores

  Explore Florence’s historic centre for handmade goods and traditional craftsmanship.

• Enjoy an outdoor café

  Relax in a central piazza while watching the city’s street life unfold.