The summer football season has certainly kicked off this week, with Italy already bagging one victory after winning 2-0 to Belgium in the beginning stages of the European championships. With many more matches to come, we’ve compiled a list of the best places for you to enjoy the matches and a few drinks. Even if you’re not a big football fan, the lively atmosphere will get you into the spirit of the games and cheering for your team.
Mercato Centrale
Piazza del Mercato Centrale | FB Mercato Centrale Firenze
Watch the matches on the big screens of the Mercato Centrale while enjoying a meal from one of many artisan food stands. Serving everything from veggie burgers to fresh fish, the Mercato will feed your appetite for football and food at the same time. Plus there’s artisan beer and a great choice of Tuscan wines.
Finnegan’s
Via San Gallo 123R | Finnegan Firenze
If it’s the traditional pub atmosphere you’re looking for, head to Finnegan’s Irish pub on via San Gallo. Enjoy a pint or two in this friendly and lively locale among a mixed crowd of Italians, expats and tourists that are sure to keep the matches animated.
Reverse Bar
Borgo degli Albizi, 78R | FB Reverse Firenze
If you’re looking for somewhere a little more sophisticated to spend the evening, swap the beer for a cocktail and head to the modern Reverse Bar on via Ghibellina. Flatscreen TVs line the walls of this young and popular bar, and the drinks menu won’t leave you short for choice.
Fusion Bar
Vicolo dell’Oro, 3 | FB Fusion Bar & Restaurant Firenze
If you’re looking to dress up and enjoy the football in the most chic way possible, head to the library of the sophisticated Fusion Bar. Part of Gallery Hotel Art and a hop, skip and jump from the Ponte Vecchio, the mixologists are some of the best in town. (A tip: from 5 to 7pm all cocktails cost 10 euro.)
Off Bar
Viale Filippo Strozzi, Fortezza gardens | FB ØFF Bar ● Lago dei Cigni
If you fancy sitting outside to watch a game, try Off Bar in the Giardini della Fortezza, where the games are projected onto the big screen beside the lake. Perfect for making the most of those balmy summer nights.
Red Garter
Via dei Benci 33-35R | FB Red Garter Florence
Popular with a younger crowd, particularly tourists making a pit stop during their travels across Europe, the Red Garter is always buzzing and full of cheer. If your team proves victorious you can even celebrate with a whirl on the karaoke machine.
The Goose Bistro
Via delle Oche 15r | FB The Goose Bistro
For a laidback pub atmosphere, pass by the Goose Bistro, only a few steps from the Duomo. Simple but modern decor, reasonably priced food and drink, and happy hour from 3 to 7pm, here you can spend a chilled evening supporting your national team.
