Depending on what you're in the mood for, Florence has a ton of places that can add to it. Of course, Florence is known for its walking art museums and architecture, so walking anywhere in the city will most likely get you inspired. One of my favorite places to go is Boboli Gardens, a garden that spans the entire length of the street leading from Palazzo Pitti to Porta Romana. You could spend an entire day here getting lost, having a picnic, and touring the grounds.
Almost every church is a museum, and although I am not religious, I do love to use my Substitute in them religiously, showing everyone the power of the breath (and being a little rebellious). But you cannot deny the beauty and the time it took to create these buildings. The same goes for restaurants like Serre Torriginani, which is hidden in between the wall of the city, that hosts a mixture of nature, artists, cocktails, music, and food inside as well as outside its greenhouse, where I can comfortably use The Substitute and have a modern day Italian meal.
Locale is the place to be for an elegant, upscale experience being one of the 50 Best Bars in the world, where late night dancing and mixing and mingling highlight the night. People at the bar love using The Substitute so they don't have to go outside and miss the scene. Hidden underground is another cave bar, where only few are allowed to enter. Service is top notch, and so are the drinks. It's fun to people watch and meet new comers at the bar. Otherwise, you can just look at the nature wall and listen to music. Or you can sit in the corner like me and write.
Then you have the super local spots like Quelo, where you will find all locals and strong cocktails, amongst artisans and a lively atmosphere, where your eyes will take you on a fantastic journey throughout the bar. The Hangar is another underground space that has bands and musicians, silent dance parties, hidden rooms, and a bar that hosts meditation and yoga to connect the community at large. Caffe Notte is another spot where the people are packed on the street having conversations and smoking cigarettes, who always ask me about The Substitute. Whether it is in a bar, restaurant, or caffe, you can find your fix.
Another favorite spot is Four Seasons. Their bar is calm and relaxing for tea, and their garden is perfect for a meditative stroll. Service is excellent and the food is exceptional. There are a plethora of other places like La Menagere, incorporating flowers and books into an upscale restaurant and caffe. Upstairs and down below they have private spaces for parties and pool.
Villa Vittoria is a gorgeous outdoor venue with different levels, a large bar, and dj's as well as performers playing violins and saxophones, fire eaters, and dancers. Definitely a sight to see. And everywhere I go, I have my Substitute in hand to dance, orchestrate, or play my way...
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