Florence nightlife: Top bars and clubs to visit

Discover the best of Florence nightlife – from the best nightlife areas to Florence’s best clubs and bars.

Sofia

4 minute read

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Updated on 18 Nov 2024

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Living

Florence is one of the best cities in Italy for a night out. Not only it's extremely safe, but it also has endless fun locations where people can experience going out Italian-style. Florence's nightlife offers an exciting blend of charming bars, trendy clubs, and cozy wine lounges that cater to every taste. So let us guide you through the best bars and clubs in Florence so you can have an unforgettable night out.

Yes, Florence has a dynamic and exciting nightlife, but some areas have better options than others. There are several neighborhoods in Florence perfect for nighttime adventures. Each area provides a unique atmosphere and diverse experiences:

Santa Croce

Santa Croce is a hotspot for those seeking a lively night surrounded by a mix of locals and international crowds. The main square is filled with young people enjoying drinks at outdoor tables or mingling in the surrounding bars. It’s an area known for its relaxed atmosphere and late-night fun.

Oltrarno and Santo Spirito

For a more authentic Florentine experience, head to Oltrarno and Piazza Santo Spirito. These areas are filled with trendy bars, artisan workshops, and local hangouts. Santo Spirito is particularly famous for its bohemian vibe, drawing in a crowd looking to enjoy good company, music, and a glass of local wine.

Piazza della Signoria and Historic Center

The historic center of Florence, particularly around Piazza della Signoria, offers a mix of elegant cocktail lounges and traditional wine bars. Here, you can enjoy a sophisticated evening sipping on Tuscan wines or handcrafted cocktails.

Florence has a wide array of bars catering to every preference, from craft cocktails to specialty spirits.

Mad Souls & Spirits

Located in the San Frediano district, Mad Souls & Spirits is a quirky dive bar beloved by locals and expats alike. Known for its creative cocktails and laid-back vibe, this spot offers a great mix of affordability and quality. The bartenders are masters at crafting inventive drinks that’ll surprise even seasoned cocktail enthusiasts.

• Location: Borgo San Frediano 36R
• Open hours: Open daily from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM

Rex Café

Rex Café has been a staple in the Florence bar scene since the 1990s. Its vintage interior filled with eclectic decor and fun, welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to meet friends, enjoy live music, or dance the night away. Their homemade spirits and specialty cocktails are well worth a try.

• Location: Via Fiesolana 2R
• Open hours: Open daily from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM

Love Craft

As Florence’s premier whiskey bar, Love Craft is a hidden gem for whiskey lovers. Boasting an impressive collection of around 200 whiskey brands from across the globe, this spot is ideal for sampling rare finds and expertly crafted whiskey cocktails. The knowledgeable staff and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for an evening of discovery.

• Location: Borgo San Frediano 24R
• Open hours: Open daily from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM

If dancing the night away is more your speed, Florence has an impressive lineup of clubs that will keep you moving until dawn.

Tenax

A legendary club since the 1980s, Tenax is a must-visit for electronic music fans. With regular appearances by international DJs and a vibrant local crowd, Tenax is famous for its immersive underground and house music scene. It’s best to check their event schedule, as dress codes and entry fees may vary depending on the night.

• Entry fee: Typically around €10, which includes one drink
• Open hours: Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 PM to 4:30 AM

YAB (You Are Beautiful)

YAB is a stylish club located near Piazza della Repubblica, attracting a fashionable crowd in their 20s. This venue has a reputation for hosting themed nights and playing a mix of electronic, hip-hop, and commercial music. YAB is the place to be for a glamorous night out filled with dancing and mingling.

• Entry fee: Usually €10, including a complimentary drink
• Open hours: Daily from 11:30 PM to 4:30 AM (closed Sundays and Tuesdays)

Full Up

Full Up offers a more eclectic nightlife experience with its burlesque shows, drag performances, and themed parties. From the Dinner and Show cabaret nights with multi-course meals to speakeasy-style parties, Full Up promises a bold and unique entertainment night. The club enforces a smart dress code, so plan accordingly.

• Entry fee: Piano bar nights start at €15 (includes one drink); special cabaret events with dinner can cost around €69
• Open hours: Wednesday to Sunday, with varying schedules for events

Florence nightlife is as multifaceted as the city itself. This vibrant scene seamlessly blends the city’s rich heritage with modern influences, offering something for every kind of night owl. Here’s what you can expect from an evening out in Florence:

• Start with aperitivo: like the rest of Italy, Florence embraces the concept of aperitivo, a cultural tradition that combines socializing with light eating. Between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., bars across the city serve complimentary snacks with the purchase of a drink.
• A mix of modern and historic venues: Florence's nightlife is uniquely influenced by its historic setting. Many bars and clubs are located in centuries-old buildings, adding an authentic touch to your night out. Some venues boast Renaissance-era decor, while others feature modern designs with cutting-edge sound systems.
• A diverse music scene: Florence's music scene caters to a variety of tastes. Smaller bars often feature live music performances, ranging from jazz to acoustic sets, providing a more laid-back experience.
• Trendy cocktail bars and specialty spots: for those who prefer sipping on unique drinks, Florence’s cocktail scene does not disappoint. Expect bartenders who are passionate about mixology and happy to recommend or even craft a drink based on your tastes.v

Tips for enjoying Florence nightlife

• Dress codes: Most clubs and high-end bars have a dress code, so avoid casual attire like ripped jeans or sneakers if you plan to visit popular nightclubs.
• Age restrictions: While the legal age to enter clubs is 16 in Italy, most clubs in Florence require visitors to be 18 or older.
• Transportation: Florence’s city center is walkable, and late-night buses or taxis are available if needed.

If you're new to Florence, explore how you can use the friendly public transport to hop from bar or bar or find your new rental home in Florence's one of the neighbourhoods that are best known for their lively nightlife.