San Niccolò

This tiny gelateria churns out the kind of gelato beloved by Florentines—and anyone with taste buds. The seasonal specialties are made from completely organic, regional ingredients. The mint is breath-fresheningly minty, the chocolate is sinfully rich, and the lemon sorbet’s tartness snaps you awake. You won’t be sorry if you make it the first stop of every trip to Florence.

Signor Vino is a wine-shop-meets-bar occupying prime real estate on the Arno, by the Ponte Vecchio. The space is modern, sophisticated, and as beloved by locals as it is by tourists. In the winter months, try to get a seat by the windows to take in the view as you enjoy your Brunello di Montalcino. Summertime is spent on the perpetually abuzz terrace. The beauty of Signor Vino is that you can try a few glasses, see what you like, and pick up your favorite bottle from the curated selection on the way out.

There’s no better spot to pick up leatherbound journals and writing paper than at Il Torchio, which sells carta marmorizzata—sheets that are thicker than average paper and slightly marbled. (A resin or glue helps attach floating pigments to the paper, and once out of the water the pigments are combed or sponged to create patterns.) For those who appreciate the art of a handwritten letter on quality stationery—and we do—Il Torchio should be an essential stop.