Florence is famous for some of the world's most impressive museums and palaces. However, besides the most popular attractions, the city also has small traditional trattorias, pastry shops, and less visited art galleries that are part of the daily life of local residents. To present this less obvious side of the Tuscan capital, Aldo Vracai, concierge at the W Hotel Florence, selected places he usually recommends to guests.
Aldo, who was born in Albania, moved to Florence at the age of 13 and built his career in the hospitality industry. He currently manages the concierge department at the new W Florence hotel, which opened in 2025 and is located near the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Aldo has been a member of the Les Clefs d’Or concierges association since 2017 and currently serves as the regional delegate for this organization in Tuscany.
He notes that he only recommends places he personally visits and whose owners or managers he knows. The goal is for every guest to receive a unique experience, which might include a greeting by name, a glass of Prosecco upon arrival, or a special table. Usually, the best spots do not appear in guidebooks or social media because they do not need them. One such place is Buca Lapi, located just a few minutes from W Florence and run for over 40 years by Luciano, an 80-year-old man whose passion for his work is truly inspiring.
For wine lovers, Enoteca Pontevecchio is recommended, where tastings are free because the establishment's mission is to represent small Italian producers. Among Florentine restaurants serving excellent pasta, Aldo particularly highlights Osteria del Corso. This small downtown restaurant is run by two brothers, and all pasta is made by hand daily. He suggests spaghetti carbonara with black truffle, and for a drink, a glass of pink Franciacorta.
To try traditional Florentine desserts, one should venture slightly away from the historic center. One of Aldo's favorite spots is I Dolci di Massimo, founded in 1994. He personally knows Massimo and admires his dedication to his craft; today, his wife and children are also involved in the confectionery production. Although all dishes are delicious, he strongly recommends Budino di Riso—a traditional Florentine rice pudding with a delicate creamy filling and perfectly baked consistency.
In terms of fine dining, Il Palagio at the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze is hard to beat. Meanwhile, Akira Back at W Florence offers a unique experience beyond food, as the team accompanies many dishes with stories that bring the chef's vision to life. The signature Tuna Pizza is an unforgettable dish.
If he had to pick just two places, Aldo advised visiting the Medici Chapel and the San Marco Museum.