Florence. The Duomo. The Palazzo Vecchio. Art and culture at every turn.
Now, imagine experiencing all that beauty with a delicious drink in hand, from a rooftop bar high above the city. The views, the vibes… chef’s kiss.
Looking for the best rooftop bars in Florence, Italy? This guide covers a range of options, from budget-friendly spots to luxurious lounges, to help you find the perfect place to soak in the Florentine atmosphere.
Iconic Rooftop Bars in Florence’s Historic Center
Florence is known for its exceptional rooftop bars. Here are a few standouts:
La Terrazza at the Hotel Continentale
If retro Italian cinema is your vibe, La Terrazza is your spot. You’ll find great views of the Arno River here, along with some specialty martini cocktails you won’t soon forget.
Divina Terrazza at the Grand Hotel Cavour
Knockout views of the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio are the main draw at Divina Terrazza. Pair those views with one of their punchy cocktails, and you’ll see why this is such a popular spot. They’re open early and late, too.
Se-Sto on Arno at The Westin Excelsior
For a sleek aperitivo experience, head to Se-Sto on Arno at The Westin Excelsior. You’ll have panoramic views of the city from this higher-end restaurant and bar.
Rooftop bars with unique ambiance and views
Florence has a lot of rooftop bars, and a few stand out for their unique ambiance and views.
B-Roof at Hotel Baglioni
The B-Roof lounge at Hotel Baglioni has both indoor and outdoor seating options, along with an American bar on the roof. If you’re in Florence between Wednesday and Saturday, you can enjoy live music with your drinks.
Loggia Roof Bar at the Hotel Palazzo Guadagni
If you want a relaxed atmosphere with a Moroccan-influenced design, head to the Loggia Roof Bar at the Hotel Palazzo Guadagni. You’ll have a great view of the Boboli Gardens, and you’ll be close to the local farmer’s markets if you want to pick up some fresh produce.
Budget-Friendly Rooftop Views: Finding the Best Value
After a somewhat disappointing rooftop experience in Milan, I was determined to find a great rooftop bar in Florence that wouldn’t break the bank. And I did! It’s called “The View on Art” Rooftop Cocktail Bar.
It’s not fancy, but it is affordable, and it has an amazing view of the Duomo. If you’re more interested in scenery than luxury, this could be the rooftop bar for you.
How to Find “The View on Art”
I suggest typing “The View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar” into Google Maps on your phone. It should pop right up!
Considering Alternatives
Of course, there are plenty of other rooftop bars in Florence, so keep looking around. You might want something more upscale, or you might find something even more budget-friendly. This is just one of the many possibilities.
Aperitivo on High: Florence’s Rooftop Bar Culture
One of the great pleasures of Italy is aperitivo, the pre-dinner ritual of drinks and snacks enjoyed as the sun begins to set. In Florence, the best way to experience aperitivo is from above, with a cocktail in hand and the city spread out before you.
Rooftop bars elevate aperitivo to a whole new level. Imagine sipping an Aperol Spritz – a quintessential aperitivo drink – while gazing out at the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. Bars like Se-Sto on Arno and Divina Terrazza are known for their excellent aperitivo offerings, combining stunning views with delicious drinks and tasty bites.
Final Thoughts
Florence rooftop bars offer an unbeatable combination: breathtaking views, delicious drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious experience or a budget-friendly option, Florence has a rooftop bar to suit your taste.
So, next time you’re in Florence, be sure to explore these rooftop gems and create some unforgettable memories. From swanky cocktail lounges to casual terraces, the rooftop bars of Florence cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets.