Wandering around Florence is a full-time job, what with the sightseeing and eating and drinking and “wow”ing around every corner. If you want to stay on schedule and not find yourself exhausted at the end of the day, starting your day with the best breakfast in Florence is essential.
As any true Florentine knows, a good caffè in the morning and a cornetto alla crema at your favorite bar can give you the energy to survive the day! Coffee has reached divine heights in Italy, and everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day no matter where you are.
So follow us on this journey to power and espresso and discover our picks for the best breakfast in Florence!
What's Included
Ghibellina Forno Pasticceria
A lively ambiance, great coffee and a whole stock of fragrant pastries: you can find it all in Ghibellina Forno Pasticceria (Via Ghibellina, 41r). Even if small, its spirit is international—and locals stop by, too.
While you have breakfast, you can chat with the fun baristas and enjoy their specialty: the Nutella and custard cornetto, a perfectly caloric and delicious match.
Robiglio
A pit stop for coffee is way more than recommended here at Robiglio; the elegant design draws you back to the late 50s, all warm lights and refinement.
Fiorentini go here for breakfast or around mid-morning for a fast, energizing break. They sip their espresso at the counter, reading a newspaper or chatting with colleagues. Do as the locals do; as is the case everywhere in Italy, table service is much more expensive than eating at the bar.
SimBIOsi Coffee
At SimBIOsi, everything is organic—but this isn’t even its most attractive quality. The charm of the place is its decadent decoration, with soft, shabby, beautiful armchairs and wooden tables.
This spot is an intimate ambiance where coffee isn’t just an excuse for a break, but rather a comfort to enjoy for as long as possible. Take some time for yourself before starting to stroll all over Florence again.
Local tip: SimBIOsi’s sister location right next door is one of the best pizzerias in Florence!
Caffè Leopolda
Right next to the old Leopolda train station, which is now used as a conference center, you’ll find Caffè Leopolda (Via del Ponte alle Mosse, 3/r). This little breakfast spot may not be that fancy, but it’s incredibly full of life.
From the construction worker popping in for a break to the swift manager running the show, you’ll spot Fiorentini from all walks of life here. Grab a quick espresso at the counter, make some small talk with the barista, and off you go to continue with your day.
Sapienti & Crociani
At Sapienti & Crociani, you’ll find a cozy, family-friendly, place to enjoy a laid-back Sunday-style breakfast any day of the week. You can have an espresso, sit at your table, and enjoy the slow, peaceful atmosphere of a day off.
Order your coffee at the counter, then take it to a table to relax and push away the stress of a week full of things to do. This spot is one of the few where it’s okay to break the general Italian rule of standing at the bar, so grab a seat and enjoy!
Update notice: This article was updated on July 26, 2023.
Want a real-life crash course in how to eat like a local? Our Oltrarno at Sunset: Florence Food & Wine Tour is calling your name. Join us for the best bites and walk away armed with the knowledge and confidence you need to order and eat like a true Florentine!
Eliana Ferrari doesn’t like to stay put. She’s traveled all around Europe, excited by every encounter with people, food, and art. How did she end up in Florence? She fell in love: with the magnificence of every corner, with Bolgheri wine, and with the famous Florentine wit (one Florentine’s in particular!).