Florence on a Shoestring: A Budget Traveler's Guide from a Plus Florence Insider
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, doesn't have to break the bank. I recently spent a glorious week exploring its cobblestone streets, indulging in its world-renowned cuisine, and soaking up its artistic atmosphere, all while sticking to a tight budget. My secret weapon? A stay at Plus Florence hostel and a willingness to embrace the city's free and affordable offerings. This is my insider's guide to experiencing the best of Florence without emptying your wallet, from hidden gems in the Oltrarno to rooftop Aperol Spritzes.
Location is Key: Plus Florence and Exploring on Foot
One of the biggest money-savers in Florence is its walkability. And when you're strategically located, like I was at Plus Florence, you can easily access major attractions without relying on expensive taxis or public transport. The hostel itself is a stone's throw from the train station and a comfortable walk to most sights.
Free Walking Tour: A Republic to Remember
My Florentine adventure began with a Florence Free Walking Tour, a fantastic way to get oriented and learn about the city's history. The tour conveniently started at Piazza della Repubblica, a grand square that has evolved dramatically over the centuries. Our guide, a charismatic local, regaled us with stories of the square's Roman origins, its transformation into a bustling marketplace, and its modern-day role as a popular meeting point.
The tour wound its way through the historic center, past the Duomo and the Baptistery, before crossing the Arno River. It culminated at Ponte Santa Trinita, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Ponte Vecchio. The best part? The tour was entirely free (though a tip is always appreciated for a job well done!). It's an excellent option for budget travelers to immerse themselves in culture without cost.
Discovering the Artisan Soul of Oltrarno
After the tour, I ventured into the Oltrarno neighborhood, a district south of the Arno known for its artisan workshops and authentic Florentine atmosphere. Here, I discovered hidden gems tucked away on narrow streets: leather workshops where skilled artisans handcraft beautiful bags and belts, ceramic studios overflowing with colorful pottery, and paper marbling shops creating exquisite designs. Engaging with these artisans and learning about their craft was a truly unique and rewarding experience. It’s a world away from the tourist throngs near the Duomo. Unique things to do Florence Oltrarno include visiting these workshops and buying unique, handmade souvenirs.
A Taste of Florence: Lampredotto and Truffle Treats
No trip to Florence is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. And you don't need to splurge on fancy restaurants to have an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
The Lampredotto Legend at Nerbone
For a truly authentic and budget-friendly Florentine experience, I headed to the Mercato Centrale and sought out the Nerbone stand. Here, I tried lampredotto, a traditional Florentine street food made from the fourth stomach of a cow. Yes, you read that right! But trust me, it's delicious. The lampredotto is slow-cooked in broth until tender, then sliced and served on a crusty roll, often topped with salsa verde or spicy oil.
The sandwich was incredibly flavorful and satisfying, and at just a few euros, it was an absolute steal. The bustling atmosphere of the Mercato Centrale added to the experience. Lampredotto is definitely one of the best cheap eats in Florence near Mercato Centrale.
A Truffle Teaser at Procacci
For a slightly more refined, but still affordable, treat, I stopped by Procacci on Via de' Tornabuoni. This historic salumeria is famous for its truffle paninis. While a full-sized panini can be a bit pricey, they offer smaller assaggi (tasting portions) that are perfect for a quick and affordable truffle fix. It was a delightful way to experience the luxurious flavor of truffles without breaking the bank.
Home Away From Home: Female-Only Dorms at Plus Florence
My base for exploring Florence was the Plus Florence hostel. Opting for a bed in their female-only dorm was a great way to save money and meet other travelers. The dorm was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, and the beds were surprisingly comfortable. Having a dedicated female-only space provided an extra layer of security and comfort. The bathrooms were also clean and modern, a definite plus. This is a honest Plus Florence hostel review.
Sweet Success: Pistachio Gelato Making Class
For a unique and interactive experience, I signed up for a gelato-making class offered by My Italian Friend. The class focused on making pistachio gelato, a classic Italian flavor.
We learned about the history of gelato, the different ingredients used, and the techniques for creating a smooth and creamy texture. The best part, of course, was getting to taste our creations! Making pistachio gelato was a hands-on cultural experience. Plus, I got to walk around Florence eating incredible gelato.
Rooftop Views and Aperol Spritz Dreams
One of the highlights of staying at Plus Florence was its rooftop terrace. Offering panoramic views of the city, it was the perfect spot to relax and soak up the Florentine atmosphere. The hostel also hosts a daily Aperol Spritz happy hour, where you can enjoy discounted drinks while watching the sunset over the Duomo. Sipping an Aperol Spritz on the rooftop, surrounded by fellow travelers, was a truly unforgettable experience. Enjoying an Affordable Aperol Spritz with a view in Florence makes for the perfect evening.
A Taste of Tradition: Cantucci and Vin Santo in Oltrarno
My most memorable culinary experience took place at a trattoria in the Oltrarno district. I was aiming for "Trattoria Mario," known for its authentic Florentine cuisine and reasonable prices. Unfortunately, on the night I visited, all the outdoor seating was full. However, a friendly local recommended "Trattoria Sabatino," a similarly well-regarded and affordable option nearby.
At Trattoria Sabatino, I ordered cantucci and vin santo, a classic Tuscan dessert pairing. Cantucci are hard, almond biscotti that are traditionally dipped in vin santo, a sweet dessert wine. The combination of the crunchy biscuit and the sweet wine was heavenly. It was the perfect ending to a delicious and budget-friendly meal. Best traditional trattoria in Oltrarno Florence will usually have this available.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Florentine Spirit
Florence is a city that captivates the senses and ignites the imagination. And while it can be tempting to splurge on luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, it's entirely possible to experience the best of Florence on a budget. By embracing free activities like walking tours, indulging in affordable street food, staying in a budget-friendly hostel like Plus Florence, and venturing off the beaten path into neighborhoods like Oltrarno, you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the magic of Florence on a shoestring! Consider signing up for a sustainable food tour Florence to give back to the community.