Visiting Florence in Early August, looking for advice from experienced travelers

The title pretty much says it, I'll be traveling to Florence at the beginning of August this year and I want to start making a few plans of what to do and wear. I've read it gets really hot around there so I'll be opening up my summer coats this week and starting to choose a wardrobe.

I'm looking for advice on good eats and shopping too. I'll be visiting Frasi and Liverano to look but my budget wont allow any major purchases like that unfortunately. I'm thinking of trying to hit some charity shops in hopes of discovering a vintage gem.

I'm starting to compile what I own that I can bring to help me find what I need to supplement it with. Recommendations on additions or my current set are greatly appreciated.
Shirts -
2 x blue button downs
1x Bengal stripe
1x gingham in either purple or pink

Sport Coats
1. Belvest unlined linen SC in electric blue


2. Luciano Barbera Collezione Sartoriale unlined SC


3. Luciano Barbera Collezione Sartoriale SC in basic navy



PANTS
1. Borrelli linen houndstooth pants


2. J. Brand Casual jeans


Only bringing one watch, my Santos

Club Culinario Toscano da Osvaldo

Not shopping related but if you plan on visiting some of the museums, like Galleria dell'Accademia or Galleria deli Uffizi, I highly recommend booking tickets in advance. This will allow you to cut the inevitably (very) long lines (August is the main vacation time in southern Europe) and will allow you to plan your days much better.

You'll be surprised by what you see out there - the Florentines dress really conservatively. It was all dark-fabric suits and coats, with lots of leather coats too. Though in high season, the tourists will way outnumber the locals of course.

If you're into window-shopping, then I recommend a random walk around the Oltrarno (the district on the other side of the river); there are load of artisan workshops down there, everything from footwear to sculpture to hand-made paper to frame-making. They're much more old-fashioned and characteristic of the city than the brightly-lit boutiques in the main town.

The city might be empty and many places might be closed.

P-K-L said:

The city might be empty and many places might be closed.

Click to expand...

I heard that too, unfortunately this is the only option for timing as I'm visiting my sister on her study abroad trip. I'll make the best of it whatever the case.

Srs on Club Culinario Osvaldo, it's fantastic, & very close to Piazza della Signoria.

archetypal_yuppie said:

Srs on Club Culinario Osvaldo, it's fantastic, & very close to Piazza della Signoria.

Click to expand...

I'll definitely try it, reviews look amazing.

Visited in May last year. In terms of shopping, buying a pair of gloves is essential. Nowhere else in the world offers the same level of choice that you can find in Florence.

The view from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must, but I imagine that was on your list already. I would also agree with the poster above that the area south of the river after crossing the Ponte Vecchio is worth exploring. Had a couple of great meals around there too but can't remember the exact locations.

Definitely try to buy museum tickets in advance, or turn up first thing - think I had a 90 min queue for Uffizi after arriving at 10am, lesson learnt.

If you find some decent restaurants, try the tagliata - I think it's a Florentine speciality and is truly special.

In terms of your wardrobe, I don't think you covered shoes - I would be lost without a pair of desert boots for daytime exploring, and mink suede loafers will serve you well in the evenings. I'd also add a white linen button down shirt, a couple of knitted ties and some tan chinos.

Personally I wouldn't take three sport coats, never mind a suit, but up to you.

Enjoy the trip!



Vodking said:

Visited in May last year.  In terms of shopping, buying a pair of gloves is essential.  Nowhere else in the world offers the same level of choice that you can find in Florence.

The view from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must, but I imagine that was on your list already.  I would also agree with the poster above that the area south of the river after crossing the Ponte Vecchio is worth exploring.  Had a couple of great meals around there too but can't remember the exact locations.

Definitely try to buy museum tickets in advance, or turn up first thing - think I had a 90 min queue for Uffizi after arriving at 10am, lesson learnt.

If you find some decent restaurants, try the tagliata -  I think it's a Florentine speciality and is truly special.

In terms of your wardrobe, I don't think you covered shoes - I would be lost without a pair of desert boots for daytime exploring, and mink suede loafers will serve you well in the evenings.  I'd also add a white linen button down shirt, a couple of knitted ties and some tan chinos.

Personally I wouldn't take three sport coats, never mind a suit, but up to you.

Enjoy the trip!

Click to expand...

Better go for the Bistecca alla Fiorentina...

Yeah travel like a pro, 1 versatile sportcoat. You'll only have use for it at night. You'll also be more dressed up than most everyone when you wear it.

Romantic SF portrayals of Italy are false. People are dressed up there just like people are dressed up in New York - in certain fancy places, or for business. You'll see a lot more well-executed SW&D than you will sportcoats.

It is true that outside of the U.S. people wear pants, not shorts, though.

Florence:
Here's your store for non shoe leather goods

http://www.ottino.com/

I have one of their briefcases.
It is 30 years old. Looks great
and the lock still works. Not cheap