Exploring Fabulous Spots in the Florentine Neighborhood of Santo Spirito

Student Life

Immerse yourself in the enchanting neighborhood of Santo Spirito and San Frediano, tucked away on the Oltrarno side of the Arno River in Florence. This lesser-known gem offers an authentic glimpse into the local Florentine lifestyle, blending history with a bohemian flair.

Stroll through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and hidden courtyards, where centuries-old churches like Basilica di Santo Spirito showcase ancient architecture at its finest. Explore art studios and workshops, witnessing artisans practicing their crafts, from pottery to bookbinding.

The neighborhood’s lively squares, like Piazza Santo Spirito, buzz with activity. Engage in the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy open-air markets, street performances, and alfresco dining. Indulge in the diverse culinary scene, from traditional trattorias serving Tuscan delights to trendy cafes with fusion cuisine.

Don’t miss the Mercato di Santo Spirito, where you can immerse yourself in the local market culture, savoring fresh produce, regional specialties, and unique handicrafts. Browse boutique shops for handmade leather goods, ceramics, and fashionable clothing.

Escape the crowds and delve into the authentic charm of Santo Spirito and San Frediano. This dynamic neighborhood embodies the essence of Florence, offering a rich tapestry of history, art, gastronomy, and local life. Embark on a memorable journey through these hidden streets and experience Florence like a true Florentine.

APERITIVO

The Italian way of enjoying a drink (Aperol Spritz is the classic choice) with a Buffet. The price of the aperitivo covers 1 drink and buffet food.

POP CAFE’ Piazza Santo Spirito, 18r
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 8am – 2am, Sun 9am – 2am
Aperitivo Hours: from 7pm, 7€ for students

BULLI & BALENE Via dello Sprone, 6/8
Opening Hours: Mon 2pm – 7pm, Tue to Fri 9am – 12am, Sat 10am – 12am, Sun closed
Try out the many variations of the Spritz, as they are specialized in making Spritz.

RIFRULLO Via di San Niccolò, 55r
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 1am, Fri & Sat 7.30am – 2am
Aperitivo Hours: 7-10pm, €10

SOUL KITCHEN Via dei Benci, 34r
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 11am – 2am, Sat & Sun 6pm – 2am
Aperitivo Hours: Everyday 7pm – 10pm

CAFE’ CABIRIA Piazza Santo Spirito, 8/9r
Opening Hours: Everyday 10am – 2am
Aperitivo Hours: 7pm – 9:30pm

SANTAROSA BISTROT Lungarno di Santa Rosa
Opening Hours: Tue to Fri 8am – 12am, Sat & Sun 10am – 12am
Aperitivo Hours: 6.30pm – 10pm popcorn and crisps with drinks, tapas menu available.

ROOFTOP BAR

LOGGIA ROOF BAR Piazza Santo Spirito, 9
Opening Hours: Everyday 10am – 10pm
Check the menu and prices before going.

GELATERIE

GELATERIA LA CARRAIA Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25r
Opening Hours: Everyday 11am – 12am

CANTINA DEL GELATO Via de’ Bardi, 31
Opening Hours: Everyday 10am – 11pm

SBRINO Via dei Serragli, 32r
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 12am

CAFES TO STUDY

CITE’ Borgo San Frediano, 20r
Opening Hours: Mon to Wed 10am – 12am, Thu to Sat 5pm – 12am, Sun 2pm – 9pm
Bookshop & Cafè. Great to drink coffee, study, and listen to music!

TODO MODO LIBRERIA CAFE’ Via dei Fossi, 15r
Opening Hours: Tue to Sun 10am – 8pm
Bookshop & Cafè. Great to drink coffee, study and buy books!

CAFES

CARDUCCIO Sdrucciolo de Pitti, 10r
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 8am – 7pm, Sun 10am – 5pm.
Healthy breakfast and lunch options.

ALBERTO CAFE’ Borgo San Jacopo, 7r
Opening Hours: Everyday 7.30am – 8pm
Fresh juices and organic food.

PASTICCERIA

Pasticceria is where pastries and cakes are made on-site.

MAMA’S BAKERY Via della Chiesa, 34r
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 8am – 5pm, Sat to Sun 9am – 3pm
American-style bakery.

SANDWICHES

SOTTARNO Via Maggio, 53r
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 7pm

SCHIACCIA II 5 Via Sant’Agostino, 28r
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 2am

FORNO

For bread, pizza and other salty. Try Schiacciata (oily salty bread typical only in Tuscany).

S.FORNO Via Santa Monaca, 3r
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 7.30am – 7.30pm, Sat & Sun 8am – 7.30pm

FORNO PINTUCCI Via delle Caldaie, 12
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 7.30am – 1.30pm, 4pm – 7.30pm, Sun 7.30am to 1.30pm

RESTAURANTS / PIZZERIAS

TAMERO’ Pasta Bar Piazza Santo Spirito, 11r
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 1am
Home-made Pasta!

OSTERIA SANTO SPIRITO Piazza Santo Spirito, 16r
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 11.30pm

VIVANDA Via Santa Monaca, 7
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 12am
Organic food and wines, small place but high-quality ingredients and creative dishes.

TRATTORIA PIZZERIA DANTE Piazza Nazario Sauro, 12
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm – 12am

BERBERE’ Piazza dei Nerli, 1
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 7pm – 12am, Fri to Sun 12.30pm – 2.30pm, 7pm – 12am

PIZZERIA O SCUGNIZZO Via dell’Orto, 25r
Opening Hours: Everyday 7pm – 11:30pm

OSTERIA DEL CINGHIALE BIANCO Borgo San Jacopo, 43
Opening Hours: Everyday 6.30pm – 10.30pm, Sat & Sun 12pm – 2.30pm

LIVE MUSIC

NOF Borgo San Frediano, 17/19r
Opening Hours: Tue to Wed 6:30pm – 2am, Thu to Sat 6:30pm – 3am, Sun 7pm – 2am, Mon 8pm – 2am

MARKETS

MERCATO DI SANTO SPIRITO Piazza Santo Spirito
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat all morning.

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

KOTO RAMEN Borgo S. Frediano, 41r
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu & Fri 7pm – 10:30pm, Sat & Sun 12:30pm – 2:30pm, 7pm – 10:30pm
Japanese restaurant specializing in Ramen.

YAGURA Via Pisana, 16r
Opening Hours: Everyday 7.30pm – 11pm, Tue to Sun also 12pm – 2.30pm
All-you-can-eat sushi.