Summer’s here! Despite the strange thunderstorms in recent weeks, the temperature is rising. Despite the Anglo-Saxon tendency to go out in the midday heat, it’s not the wisest of ideas. More sensible Florentines stay indoors, have a pennichella, eat lunch and generally do anything but fry themselves in the heat. But what should you do if you’re out and about in the centre this summer, but don’t want to frazzle? Here are a few cool spots where you can recharge your solar batteries before heading back into the sunshine.
Le Murate Caffè Letterario
Piazza delle Murate
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A short distance from Santa Croce, Le Murate is a cafe in the day, bar in the evening, and is blessed with an outdoor space that is hard to find in the centre. In the summer umbrellas will be available for the outdoor tables, so you’ll be able to find some shade in this beautiful courtyard.
Biblioteca Riccardiana
Via Ginori 10
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A wood-lined library renovated by the powerful noble Riccardi family in the late 1600s, the reception room of the Riccardiana has the wow factor of frescoes by Luca Giordano. Take a book and soak in the noble atmosphere of this out-of-the-sun spot.
My Sugar
Via de’ Ginori 49R
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Alberto and his other half make what is probably the best gelato in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood. Natural flavours and master gelato making will cool you down a treat. They’re even busy developing a new flavour: The Florentine gelato! The new recipe will be revealed on July 15, 2016, at 4pm.
Eataly
Via de’ Martelli 22
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After you’ve climbed the Duomo and scaled the heights of Giotto’s bell tower, indulge and chill out at Florence’s flagship Eataly store. Be tempted by the grocery shopping on the ground floor and enjoy a light meal at the Osteria di Sopra upstairs with a different regional cuisine every month.
Le Pavoniere pool
Viale della Catena 2
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When the temperatures hit the 40s and the humidity is off the scale, a pool becomes a requirement. Le Pavoniere in the Cascine Park is a great escape spot. There’s a well-stocked bar with everything you’d expect: gelato, poolside snacks and Aperol Spritz (served in a big glass and worth the euros).
Ditta Artigianale Oltrarno
Via dello Sprone 3-5R
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Newly opened this year, the uber-trendy Ditta Artigianale cafe and bar near the Pitti Palace is a cool, contemporary space to enjoy an iced latte or caffè shakerato. Stylish decor, a fun atmosphere and welcoming staff, it’s a great place to rest your cobblestone-weary feet.
