Life in Italy

Day-to-day life in Florence does not always include visits to the Duomo or an indulgent Bistecca for lunch. Beneath the surface, Florence’s community is constantly building upon how it serves its locals, from recommendations for young families, to services for expatriates. The following articles provide tips and tricks for those calling Florence home.

COMMUNITY

MMEGA: the story of a Florentine real estate company

Florentines Giorgio Muriella and Edoardo Matucci are bringing innovation to the property market.

ART + CULTURE

How to make your balcony bloom

Consider your space and plan accordingly.

COMMUNITY

Ups and downs: a history of elevators

A reflection on a contraption we often take for granted, in a city unsuited for it.

NEWS

Tuscany’s first Spanish magazine launches

The printed edition of El Duomo will be published as a supplement to The Florentine in April 2025.

COMMUNITY

Multicultural couples in Florence

Multicultural couples who stay the course make their own traditions.

THINGS TO DO

Florence Serial Killer Museum + Florence’s foremost serial killer

We visit the museum and take advantage of the opportunity to reflect on the notorious Monster of Florence.

NEWS

Monitoring mental health in Tuscany

The 3rd annual OPT press conference highlighted increased rates of anxiety, depression and digital addiction.

COMMUNITY

The cost of living and real estate landscape in Italy

Italy has always been a highly desired location for tourism, residence and property purchase. With its picturesque landscapes, artistic and cultural importance, and rich history, it checks the boxes for ...

COMMUNITY

Secrets of the ‘viale dei Colli’

A history of one of the most famous streets in Florence, where it's still impossible to make a phone call.

COMMUNITY

How to celebrate Christmas Italian-style

One Florentine shares his take on a thoroughly Italian Christmas, bearing in mind the differences from tip to toe and personal preferences.

COMMUNITY

Put it on paper: the charm of cartolerie

What future do traditional stationary stores face in the digital age?

COMMUNITY

Italians and “their” illnesses

The odd hypochondria of Italians goes up against the British stiff upper lip.

COMMUNITY

Blended learning: Toastmasters Academy of Florence

Toastmasters Academy of Florence (TAF) promotes public speaking skills at Granaio dell'Abbondanza in the Oltrarno.

NEWS

4390 Taxi for women

Priority discount taxi service for women during the night.

COMMUNITY

Florentine manners

A humorous look at cultural differences.

COMMUNITY

A year in Florence, a Canadian viewpoint

Frances Boychuk reminisces on the Tuscan capital.

THINGS TO DO

Fall essentials

Tuscan cashmere, hot chocolate and pumpkin patches

THINGS TO DO

Dance classes in Florence

Put your best foot forward with our selection of dance classes in Florence.

THINGS TO DO

Oziare: recreating outdoor movie nights at home

Loungers, cocktails and TV screens in your own garden

COMMUNITY

Isolotto: Florence’s fourth quarter

The neighbourhood still represents an idea of community and identity.

COMMUNITY

On being an expat

An insight into the expat life, with its challenges and rewards, from one who understands it best.

COMMUNITY

Milk + love: a Florentine lunch

A tender and poignant look into the love shared between non-blood relatives.

COMMUNITY

Cycling clubs in Florence and Tuscany

Cycling clubs surrounding Florence welcome new members who give the sport a social side.

COMMUNITY

How to keep your bike safe in Florence

It is the season for cycling, but some sound advice helps keep your bike safe year-round.

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