With the Tuscan hills alive with vino it is no surprise that the Florentine prefers hitting a wine bar over a cocktail bar. To blend in and do as the locals do, spend aperitivo at a wine bar getting to know Tuscany’s finest…

Procacci (Via de Tornabuoni) One of the most elegant wine bars in Florence could only be located on Florence’s most fashionable street, the Via de Tornabuoni. Part wine bar and part gastronomy boutique, this cozy establishment is a refined bygone shop with glass cabinets and dark polished wood trim that evokes a unique feeling just by being there. And if that were not enough, Procacci is home to the best truffle paninni in the land which is best savored with one of their glasses a wine, perhaps a rose prosecco or Super Tuscan. A real treat.

Le Volpe e l’Uva (Piazza dei Rossi) Crossing the Ponte Vecchio to the the more laid back area of Olrarno, is a small enoteca on a small piazza on the way to the Pitti Palace. What makes this place a find is not only the diverse wine list with some exceptional wines by the glass, but that it offers not your run of the mill choices allowing for the opportunity to sample something you wouldn’t normally try. Whether you pull up a chair at one of the tables on the piazza or spend aperitivo hour with the locals at the bar, this place is a true Florentine hangout.

Il Santino (Via di Santo Spirito, 60) Amongst the trendier hangouts near Santo Spirito is a favourite of the young professional set. This eatery while still quite traditional has a bit more of a sophisticated vibe to it while remaining accessible and relaxed. Quite popular it does get busy after work and offers some nice menu options paired with wine in mind. 

Salute!