The Culture of Pub Crawling in Florence

Florence is more than just a city of Renaissance art and architecture, it is also a city with a vibrant nightlife. Florence has an impressive range of bars, pubs and clubs, as well as a longstanding tradition of pub crawling. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the pub crawl culture in Florence, exploring some of the best pub crawl routes, popular bars, and the history of pub crawling.

What is a Pub Crawl?

A pub crawl is an event where participants visit multiple bars or pubs in a single night, usually with a group of friends or organized by a tour operator. The concept of pub-crawling is centuries old and has been part of social life and traditions across Europe.In Florence, pub crawls have become more popular in recent years, particularly amongst students and tourists. Pub crawls are a fantastic way to meet new people, mingle with locals, and discover new watering holes around the city.

The Best Pub Crawls in Florence

Florence offers many choices for pub crawls. Some popular routes include:

Central Florence Pub Crawl

This is the perfect crawl for the tourists who want to explore Florence nightlife and explore some of its most popular spots. This route starts from Santa Croce Square and continues to San Lorenzo Market and Piazza della Signoria where the famous Uffizi gallery is located. This route includes several must-visit bars like The Lion’s Fountain, Friends Pub, and Moyo.

Oltrarno Pub Crawl

The Oltrarno area is home to several funky bars and hidden gems. This crawl starts at Ponte Vecchio, crosses the river to reach Piazza Santo Spirito and San Frediano. You can explore local craft beers at Kikuya, Oibo and Il Santino, and try amazing cocktails at Mad Souls & Spirits and Fiaschetteria Nuvoli.

Santo Spirito Pub Crawl

Santo Spirito is often associated with its beautiful church and square, but it also has a bunch of lively bars where local people hang out. This route is very central and is more likely to attract locals. You can check out Volume, Dolce Vita, and the Rooftop Bardini for an exclusive view of Florence.

The History of Pub Crawling in Florence

As Tuscany is known for its world-renowned wines and local spirits like Chianti, it is not surprising that Florence has had a history of pub crawling. Back in the 1920s to the 1960s, the Dolce Vita era, the center of the city was a popular spot for social clubs and bars frequented by high society. Crawl routes in those days were linked to art societies, theater groups and social clubs, and dressed-up and chicly-dressed groups could been seen wandering around in the streets of the city center.Today, pub crawls take a different approach and have now become popular amongst students and tourists as it allows them to explore multiple bars and clubs in a single night with a friendly crowd.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Pub Crawling

– DO try to join a local pub crawl for an authentic experience.- DO pace yourself, don’t feel pressured to consume drinks at every bar.- DO respect local customs and laws (public drinking is illegal in Florence).- DO try some traditional food as well if you have time.- DON’T go alone or wander off from the group, always stay in a group and keep your belongings safe.- DON’T be loud or intrusive in bars, respect the locals’ space.- DON’T forget to bring cash as some places accept cash-only payment.

The Conclusion

Florence’s nightlife is warm and welcoming, and the pub crawl culture is one of the many facets that you can experience in this beautiful city. Whether you are a party animal or just want to check out some new bars or pick up new friends, pub crawling is a fantastic way to get a local experience and discover hidden gems. By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a great night out while keeping yourself safe and respectful to the locals.

An Insider’s Guide to Florence: Beyond Pub Crawling

Are you planning to visit Florence anytime soon and want to explore some lesser-known places? If so, then you’re in for a treat since Florence has a lot to offer beyond its tourist hotspots. Here’s an insider’s guide to Florence that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Local Attractions: Discovering Florence’s Hidden Gems

Sure, you don’t want to miss the iconic Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, or Ponte Vecchio. But Florence also has some less-known tourist destinations to offer. One such place is the Boboli Gardens, which is a picturesque park with fountains, sculptures, and stunning views of the city. Another hidden gem is the Santo Spirito neighborhood, which is a peaceful area with narrow streets, artisan shops, and artisanal food stalls. If you’re interested in street art, head towards the Oltrarno district for some fantastic murals.

Dining Spots: Exploring Florence’s Food Culture

Food is an integral part of the city’s culture, and if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. Florence is known for its meat-based dishes, such as the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick-cut T-bone steak, and ribollita, a hearty soup made with vegetables and bread. You’ll get the best local food experience at Mercato Centrale, a vibrant indoor market where you’ll find a variety of food stalls offering fresh produce and street food. For something unconventional, try Lampredotto, a traditional sandwich made with slow-cooked beef stomach.

Cultural Experiences: The Traditions and Festivals of Florence

Florence is a city that takes its culture and traditions seriously, and there are many events and festivals throughout the year to celebrate it. One such event is the Scoppio del Carro, a spectacular Easter celebration where a cart filled with fireworks is lit in front of the Duomo. Another popular festival is Calcio Storico, a violent but fascinating football game that takes place every June. The game pits four teams of different districts against each other, dressed in traditional medieval costumes.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Florence’s Past

Florence has a rich and tumultuous history that spans over two millennia, from its Roman origins to the Renaissance era. One such story is the tale of the mysterious Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway built by Vasari that connects Palazzo Pitti to Palazzo Vecchio through the Uffizi Gallery. The corridor was built to protect the Medici family from assassination attempts and is now open to the public. To get a deeper understanding of the city’s history, visit the Palazzo Vecchio Museum, where art and history blend seamlessly.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences in Florence

If you want to experience something unconventional, head towards the Tuscan hills for a wine tour. You’ll get to taste some of the finest local wines while taking in the scenic views of the countryside. Another unique experience is a bespoke perfume-making workshop where you can create your fragrance. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, take a hot air balloon ride over the city for a bird’s eye view of Florence.

In conclusion, Florence is a city that offers much more than just pub crawling. Its rich cultural heritage, local food, and lesser-known tourist destinations make it a city worth exploring. With this insider’s guide, you’ll have a unique and memorable experience of the city that you won’t forget.