10 exciting things to do in Florence at night

Whether you’re a foodie, historian, or a party animal; Florence is packed with things to do at night. The city enjoys a vibrant bar scene and has a totally different energy after the sun has gone down. Between romantic dates, a night at the opera, and the best spots in Florence to dance the night away, here are a few great ideas to get the most nightlife in Florence.

1. Enjoy a night out in Santa Croce

During the day, Santa Croce is frequented by visitors who wish to see the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce. By night, the area is popular with revelers looking for bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. If you're kicking off your night out in Florence, this is a great place to start.

Hot tip:

Via Fiesolana, Vie De’Neri, and Borgo Santa Croce boast a large number of fantastic wine bars: start the night here to enjoy a wide array of local wines.

2. Unleash your inner prima donna with a night at the opera

Head to the beautiful 15th-century Santa Monaca Church for a sophisticated night out, and to enjoy arias sung by acclaimed professional musicians. Enjoy the church’s marvelous acoustics as the strains of arias by Verdi, Puccini, Rossini, and more surround you.

Hot tip:

The church is worth a visit in itself to admire the extraordinary frescoes dating back to the 1400s.

3. Visit Florence's best museums

Yes, you read that right! You can visit some of Florence's most famous museums at night. On Tuesday's between March and December the Uffizi Gallery stays open until 9.30 PM with last entry at 8.30 PM. From June to September, Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze is open Tuesdays until 10 PM, with the last entrance at 9.15 PM, and Thursdays until 9 PM, with last entrance at 8.15 PM.

Hot tip:

Visiting in the evening or late afternoon may help you beat the crowds. Make sure you double-check the closing hours and last entry before you go.

4. Relax with a rooftop aperitivo

Nothing beats an aperitivo while overlooking Florence's medieval buildings at sunset. Florence has many great rooftop bars that overlook the city, offering sensational views into Tuscany. Popular hangouts include the bar on top of the Hotel Continental and Grand Hotel Cavour, which is located directly next to the iconic Duomo.

Hot tip:

These rooftop bars get incredibly busy during the high season, so make sure you either book a table or arrive with enough time to wait for one.

5. Explore the alternative Oltrarno neighborhood

Oltrarno is arguably Florence’s coolest neighborhood, packed with trendy bars, artisan workshops, and art galleries. Discover the best spots in Oltrarno and taste Chianti’s finest wines as you explore this unique part of town.

Hot tip:

If you have a sweet tooth, stop at the Gelateria della Passera in the Piazza della Passera for one of the best ice creams in Florence.

6. An evening cruise down the River Arno under the stars

A truly unique way to explore the city is a journey down the River Arno. Enjoy a balmy nighttime breeze as you drift down the river under the stars. This will make for an unforgettable vacation and is one of the top things to do in Florence at night.

Hot tip:

While the paddle boarding tours are available year-round, the nighttime trips only take place in July and August.

7. Catch the sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo

Famous for its panoramic views of the city, the Piazzale Michelangelo offers a stunning spot to watch the sun go down. Watch as the shadows lengthen and Florence is bathed in its famous golden light. Located on a hill to the south of the city, this is one of the best things to do in Florence at night.

Hot tip:

The Piazzale Michelangelo is a very popular spot. To avoid the crowds, head a little further up the hill to the Piazzale San Miniato al Monte, which is generally quieter and equally beautiful.

8. Enjoy local drinks at Florence’s best bars

Florence is the birthplace of the famous negroni cocktail, which is widely reported to have first been mixed in 1919 at Caffè Casoni (now Caffè Giacosa) on Via de' Tornabuoni. As a result, you shouldn't leave the city without sampling arguably Italy's best beverage.

Hot tip:

Other famous drinks to enjoy in bars in Florence are spritz, bellini, Campari soda, and a selection of Italian wines.

9. See the city's best landmarks illuminated after dark

For budding photographers, Florence’s beautiful golden dusk offers a unique opportunity to capture truly magical shots. Many of Florence's iconic buildings are lit up after dark, such as the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. Take a guided or self-guided tour of the city to appreciate these ancient structures in a whole new light.

Hot tip:

Head to the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge for an extra special photo opportunity. The lights here are particularly beautiful, and you can view them from the bank of the Arno.

10. Taste Florence's incredible food

Mealtimes are taken very seriously in Italy. Experience an Italian-style aperitivo buffet, mingle with locals, and enjoy the best Italian cuisine in the world. Signature dishes you can't miss include ribollita, pappa col pomodoro, and Florentine steak. Of course, classic Italian pizza and pasta is also always on the menu at various price points.

Hot tip:

Those with adventurous tastebuds should try cervello fritto, a Roman dish made using friend brains!

FAQs

What are some of the top nighttime attractions in Florence?

Watch the sunset from the top of the Giotto Bell Tower, sip a negroni on the banks of the Arno, or dance the night away in one of the city’s clubs: Florence offers plenty of fun after-dark activities. Simply walking around and admiring the illuminated architecture is a must-see.

What are the best areas for a nighttime stroll in Florence?

Take in the most impressive sights of Florence with a nighttime stroll along the banks of the Arno River: see the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Ponte Vecchio bridge lit up. Oltrarno is a lovely spot for a quieter stroll, or try the hip San Frediano neighborhood with its piazzas, bars, and nightspots. Piazzale Michelangelo is both safe and beautiful at night.

How late do things stay open in Florence?

Most of the museums and attractions close around 6.30 PM. Supermarkets and shops stay open til around 8 or 9 PM. Keep in mind: many establishments close after lunch for a siesta. Shops cannot sell alcohol after 10 PM and bars by law have to close at 2 AM.

What are some fun activities to do with kids in Florence at night?

It’s common to see children and families out later in the evening in Florence: this is a part of Italian culture. Grab an after-dinner gelato and wander through the cobbled streets, or visit the carousel in Piazza della Republica (which operates until 8 PM daily).

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Florence?

Enjoy a drink on the terrace of the Hotel Continentale, which boasts spectacular views of the River Arno. Alternatively, head off the beaten track for a romantic meal at the Restaurant La Reggia Degli Etruschi, situated in the beautiful Fiesole hills around 5 km from Florence’s center. Florence is an incredibly romantic city, especially at night.