Ciao, fellow travelers! If you’re looking for a destination that combines art, culture and carbs, look no further than Florence, Italy. This city is famous for its Renaissance masterpieces, its stunning architecture, and its delicious breads and baked goods that will make you say “mamma mia” (is that racist? I hope it’s not!) The history will captivate you, whether it’s the views of the Duomo (did you know it was the widest indoor expanse of open space for centuries?!) to Michaelangelo’s David, the art, architecture and other stuff is SOOO GOOD you guys!
And none of it is even CLOSE to as good as the bread 🍞🙌🙌🙌
In this blog post, I’ll share with you my personal recommendations for the best breads, bakeries and luxury hotels in Florence, as well as some tips on what to see and do while you’re there. So grab your passport and your appetite, and let’s go!
The Top 7 Authentic Breads and Baked Goods You Have to Try When Visiting Florence
Italy has a rich and diverse baking tradition that dates back centuries. From crusty loaves to sweet pastries, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Here are some of the most popular and authentic breads and baked goods you have to try when visiting Florence:
Pane Toscano
Pane Toscano is a type of bread that is made with wheat flour, water, yeast and salt. It has a dense crumb and a thick crust. Pane Toscano is famous for being unsalted, which gives it a bland flavor that contrasts well with the savory and spicy dishes of Tuscan cuisine. Pane Toscano is usually eaten with cheese, salami or olive oil.
Schiacciata
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Schiacciata is a type of flatbread that is made with wheat flour, water, yeast, salt and olive oil. It has a thin and crispy texture and a golden color. Schiacciata can be plain or topped with rosemary, garlic or other herbs. Schiacciata is usually eaten as a snack or as an accompaniment to soups or salads.
Cantucci
Cantucci are a type of biscuit or cookie that are made with flour, sugar, eggs, almonds and sometimes anise seeds. They have a hard and crunchy texture and a sweet flavor. Cantucci are usually dipped in vin santo, a sweet dessert wine, as an after-dinner treat.
Ricciarelli
Ricciarelli are a type of almond paste cookie that are made with ground almonds, sugar, egg whites and sometimes candied fruits. They have a soft and chewy texture and a delicate flavor. Ricciarelli are usually dusted with powdered sugar and shaped like diamonds.
Panforte
Panforte is a type of fruitcake that is made with honey, nuts, dried fruits, spices and sometimes chocolate. It has a dense and sticky texture and a rich and spicy flavor. Panforte is usually cut into thin slices and served with coffee or wine.
Bomboloni
Bomboloni are a type of doughnut that are made with yeast dough that is deep-fried and filled with cream, jam or chocolate. They have a fluffy and airy texture and a sweet and indulgent flavor. Bomboloni are usually eaten for breakfast or as a dessert.
Zuccotto
Zuccotto is a type of cake that is made with sponge cake that is soaked in liqueur and filled with whipped cream, ricotta cheese, nuts and candied fruits. It has a dome shape and a light and creamy texture. Zuccotto is usually chilled and dusted with cocoa powder.
The Best 7 Bakeries in Florence and Which Luxury Hotels Are in Walking Distance
Florence has many amazing bakeries that offer a variety of breads, cakes, pastries and pies. (#SEO alert) But for real, it’s a cultural legacy going back millennia, and not only is the bread good, the people are PROUD of how good the bread is! Ask people why the bread is so good in Florence, and they will hit you with actual theories!
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a sweet treat or a hearty lunch, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the best bakeries in Florence and which luxury hotels are in walking distance:
Ghibellina Forno Pasticceria Bakery in Florence since 1890
Ghibellina Forno Pasticceria Bakery in Florence since 1890 is a family-run bakery that specializes in cakes, cupcakes, brownies and traybakes. They also serve breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. Their signature products are their award-winning schiacciata, their famous cantucci and their delicious panforte. Ghibellina Forno Pasticceria Bakery in Florence since 1890 has one location in Florence, which is close to many attractions and hotels.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Brunelleschi (0.3 miles), Hotel Spadai (0.4 miles), Hotel Bernini Palace (0.4 miles).
Pasticceria Ne ncioni
Pasticceria Nencioni is a traditional bakery that offers a range of breads, pastries, cakes and savories. They use organic ingredients and homemade recipes to create their products, which include pane toscano, croissants, ricciarelli and pies. They also serve coffee, tea and sandwiches. Pasticceria Nencioni has one location in Florence, which is close to the city center and the Basilica of Santa Croce.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Lungarno (0.6 miles), Hotel Santa Maria Novella (0.7 miles), Hotel Savoy (0.8 miles).
Buonamici Pasticceria Artigianale
Buonamici Pasticceria Artigianale is a artisan bakery that offers a range of breads,
pastries, cakes and savories. They use local ingredients and traditional methods to create their products, which include brioche, bomboloni, zuccotto and panini. They also serve coffee, tea and juices. Buonamici Pasticceria Artigianale has one location in Florence, which is close to the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Lungarno (0.2 miles), Hotel Continentale (0.2 miles), Portrait Firenze (0.3 miles).
Pasticceria Silvano e Valentino
Pasticceria Silvano e Valentino is a modern and stylish bakery that specializes in cakes, cupcakes and brownies. They also serve coffee, tea and hot chocolate. Their signature products are their creative and delicious cakes, which come in flavors like tiramisu, cheesecake, chocolate and fruit. Pasticceria Silvano e Valentino has one location in Florence, which is close to the Santa Maria Novella train station and the Duomo.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Savoy (0.4 miles), Hotel Spadai (0.5 miles), Hotel Brunelleschi (0.6 miles).
S.Forno Panificio
S.Forno Panificio is a rustic and cozy bakery that offers a range of breads, pastries, cakes and savories. They also serve coffee, tea and smoothies. Their signature products are their sourdough breads, which come in flavors like rye, spelt and walnut; their croissants, which come in flavors like almond, chocolate and pistachio; and their sandwiches, which come in flavors like ham and cheese, salami and mozzarella and tuna and egg. S.Forno Panificio has one location in Florence, which is close to the Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Lungarno (0.6 miles), Hotel Continentale (0.7 miles), Portrait Firenze (0.8 miles).
Caffè Gilli
Caffè Gilli is a historic and elegant bakery that offers a range of breads, pastries, cakes and savories. They also serve coffee, tea and cocktails. Their signature products are their French specialties, such as croissants,
pain au chocolat, macarons and mille-feuille. They also serve breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. Caffè Gilli has one location in Florence, which is close to the Piazza della Repubblica and the Duomo.
Luxury hotels nearby: Hotel Savoy (0.1 miles), Hotel Spadai (0.2 miles), Hotel Brunelleschi (0.3 miles).
The Top 7 5-Star Luxury Hotels in Florence
Florence has many luxury hotels that offer a range of amenities, services and styles. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel, a boutique hotel or a modern hotel, you’ll find something to suit your preferences. Here are some of the top 5-star luxury hotels in Florence:
Hotel Brunelleschi
Hotel Brunelleschi is a stunning hotel that is located in a medieval tower and a Byzantine church. It has elegant and spacious rooms that feature antique furniture, four-poster beds and views of the Duomo. It also has a rooftop terrace, a fine dining restaurant, a fitness center and a museum.
Location: Piazza Santa Elisabetta 3, 50122 Florence
Hotel Lungarno
Hotel Lungarno is a chic hotel that is located on the banks of the Arno river. It has cozy and eclectic rooms that feature art works by Picasso, Cocteau and other famous artists. It also has a riverside bar, a Michelin-star restaurant, a library and a private boat.
Location: Borgo San Jacopo 14, 50125 Florence
Portrait Firenze
Portrait Firenze is a stylish hotel that is located near the Ponte Vecchio. It has luxurious and personalized rooms that feature marble bathrooms, kitchenettes and balconies. It also has a lounge bar, a concierge service, a spa and a boutique.
Location: Lungarno Acciaiuoli 4, 50123 Florence
Hotel Savoy
Hotel Savoy is a classic hotel that is located on the Piazza della Repubblica. It has modern and comfortable rooms that feature contemporary art and Italian design. It also has a lobby bar, a gourmet restaurant, a fitness center and a kids club.
Location: Piazza della Repubblica 7, 50123 Florence
Hotel Continentale
Hotel Continentale is a trendy hotel that is located near the Ponte Vecchio. It has bright and airy rooms that feature white decor and wooden floors. It also has a rooftop bar, a spa, a meditation room and a cinema.
Location: Vicolo dell’Oro 6r, 50123 Florence
Hotel Spadai
Hotel Spadai is a sophisticated hotel that is located near the Duomo. It has spacious and elegant rooms that feature marble bathrooms, rain showers and soundproof windows. It also has
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a lounge bar, a jacuzzi, a sauna and a bike rental.
Location: Via dei Martelli 10, 50129 Florence
Hotel Bernini Palace
Hotel Bernini Palace is a historic hotel that is located near the Palazzo Vecchio. It has classic and refined rooms that feature antique furniture, frescoes and chandeliers. It also has a lobby bar, a Tuscan restaurant, a meeting room and a terrace.
Location: Piazza San Firenze 29, 50122 Florence
Things for Luxury Travelers to See and Do in Florence
Florence is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, nature or entertainment, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do. Here are some of the things for luxury travelers to see and do in Florence:
- Visit the Uffizi Gallery, the most famous art museum in Florence that houses some of the greatest masterpieces of the Renaissance. Admire the works of Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and more.
- Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most iconic bridge in Florence that is lined with shops selling jewelry, art and souvenirs. Enjoy the views of the Arno river and the city skyline.
- Experience the Duomo, the majestic cathedral that dominates the city center. Explore the interior, the baptistery, the bell tower and the dome. Marvel at the architecture, the sculptures and the frescoes.
- Relax at the Boboli Gardens, a beautiful and peaceful oasis that features over 3,000 plant species from around the world. Wander through the fountains, statues, grottoes and ponds.
- Indulge in a wine tasting at Antinori nel Chianti Classico, a renowned winery that offers an interactive and educational journey through the history and production of Chianti wine. Sample different wines from different regions and learn how to appreciate their flavors and aromas.
- Enjoy a night out at Teatro della Pergola, a historic and elegant theater that showcases some of the best opera, ballet and drama performances in Italy. Watch classic or contemporary shows in a stunning setting.
- Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Via de’ Tornabuoni, a fashionable street that is home to some of the most prestigious brands and boutiques in Italy. Shop for clothes, shoes, accessories and more.
Cookbooks for Italian and Florence Bread at Home
BAKE AT HOME. If you are waiting for your trip, or have a desire to appreciate the flavors of Florence at home, recreate some of the delicious breads and baked goods, you’ll need some good cookbooks to guide you. Use these, or purchase them for your chef and butler to get better bread at home. My book recs:
- The Italian Baker: The Classic Tastes of the Italian Countryside–Its Breads, Pizza, Focaccia, Cakes, Pastries, and Cookies by Carol Field. This cookbook has recipes for over 200 types of breads, pastries, cakes and cookies from all regions of Italy. It also has tips and techniques for using a home oven or a wood-fired oven to make your baking authentic and delicious.
- Elements of Pizza: Unlocking the Secrets to World-Class Pies at Home by Ken Forkish. This cookbook has recipes for pizza doughs, sauces, toppings and combinations that are inspired by the best pizzerias in Italy and America. It also has stories and insights from pizza makers and experts around the world.
- Lidia’s Mastering the art of Italian Cuisine: Everything You Need to Know to Be a Great Italian Cook by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali. This cookbook has recipes for over 400 Italian dishes, from appetizers to desserts. It also has information on ingredients, techniques, tools and traditions of Italian cuisine.
Additional Resources with Some Links for Travelers
If you want to learn more about Florence and plan your trip better, you’ll need some additional resources to help you. Here are some links for travelers:
- Visit Florence: The official website for tourism in Florence. It has information on attractions, events, accommodation, transport and more.
- A guide primer on European breads
- Combine with a trip to Milan for the ultimate in class and luxury in Italy
