Florence Pub Crawl in the Old Town

Getting a glimpse of Florence after sunset often means wandering through its historic streets or visiting popular landmarks. But if you’re after something a little more social, memorable, and lively, a Florence Pub Crawl offers a fantastic way to see the city’s nightlife from a local’s perspective. This guided tour takes you through four handpicked bars in the Old Town, mixing local flavor with fun games, drinks, and the opportunity to meet travelers from around the globe.

From glowing squares to intimate street bars, what stands out most about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s hidden nightlife secrets to life. Plus, the flexible option to attend a club at the end makes it perfect for those wanting a full night of socializing. A potential downside? Drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, but the tour’s focus on affordability and local hotspots means you can enjoy a great night without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or just looking to break out of the typical tourist scene, this pub crawl is well-suited for anyone eager to connect, laugh, and explore Florence’s evening scene in a relaxed setting. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this tour tick, along with practical insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Visit bars loved by Florentine locals, not just tourist traps.
• Guided social fun: Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide who makes everyone feel welcome.
• Affordable and flexible: Budget-friendly stops, with optional entry to a club at the end.
• Great for solo travelers: Meeting like-minded people from around the world in a relaxed environment.
• Focus on fun and connection: Includes social games and a lively atmosphere.
• Timing and duration: Starts at 9:30 pm, lasting around 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes.

The Experience: From Squares to Street Bars

A Warm Welcome in Piazza Santa Croce

The tour kicks off at the Monument to Dante Alighieri, right in the heart of Piazza Santa Croce—one of Florence’s most iconic squares. This is an ideal starting point, offering a glimpse of Florence’s artistic and cultural vibe. Our guide, who is a local from the Old Town, immediately sets the tone with friendly energy and insider tips. We wander into cozy street bars that have become favorites for students and locals alike.

According to reviews, guides like Kashyapi excel at making everyone feel at ease. One reviewer mentions, “Kashyapi made the night so much fun and knew the coolest hole-in-the-wall bars.” The stops here are more than just drinks; they serve as a window into Florence’s lively social scene, away from the crowded tourist spots.

Walking Through Via Benci to Peruzzi Firenze

Next, we move along via Benci, a lesser-known but charming street that offers a different perspective of the Old Town. The walk itself is part of the charm, allowing you to soak in Florence’s evening glow while getting to know your fellow travelers. The next stop, Peruzzi Firenze, is a local favorite. Here, the vibe shifts to a more relaxed setting, perfect for chatting and getting to know new friends.

Reviewers highlight how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience: “Brady was a good host,” says one guest, and “the itinerary was a bit loose but we still had fun.” This flexibility is part of the charm—more about enjoying the night than sticking to a strict schedule.

Via Ghibellina: Games, Drinks, and Laughter

The third stop on Via Ghibellina is where the social element ramps up. It’s a lively spot where your guide often organizes fun games—think simple, inclusive activities designed to break the ice. According to many travelers, these social games make the night more memorable and help everyone loosen up. You can also choose to indulge in more drinks, with the guide taking you to affordable venues.

One review mentions, “Everyone was so fun and our host was so nice,” emphasizing the relaxed, friendly environment. The focus here is on socializing, making it ideal for solo adventurers or groups wanting a lively but comfortable atmosphere.

Optional Entry to a Club and the Night’s End

The final part of the tour offers the chance to step into a local club at Via Verdi for €15 more. If you’re up for dancing and more late-night fun, this is a great way to round off your evening. The tour ends conveniently close to the club entrance, so you can stay as long as you like or head back to your accommodation.

What You’ll Love About the Tour

Guides Who Know Florence Inside Out

Many reviewers rave about the guides, describing them as fun, knowledgeable, and personable. Brady, the host, is highlighted as someone who “knows the nightlife well” and makes solo travelers feel immediately comfortable. One guest mentions that after the tour, they returned to the same bars the next night—testament to how genuine and local the spots are.

Authentic, Local Bars

Unlike commercialized tourist traps, the selected venues are places that locals cherish. Many reviews emphasize how the tour takes you to “hole-in-the-wall” bars, revealing Florence’s hidden gems. These spots often have good deals if paid in cash, and some reviewers appreciated that drinks and shots are not included, allowing you to control your spending.

Social Games and Fun Atmosphere

The social elements—games, icebreakers, casual conversations—are a hit. Reviewers note how these activities foster instant camaraderie, transforming strangers into friends. The relaxed vibe means you can truly enjoy the night without feeling rushed or pressured.

Good Value for Money

At just $23.11 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the insider access and friendly guides. Although drinks are extra, the tour’s focus on affordable, quality local venues helps keep costs manageable. Many guests feel they received more than their money’s worth in terms of entertainment and authentic experiences.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Drinks Not Included

While the tour itself is budget-friendly, drinks and shots are not part of the price. Depending on your drinking habits, this could add up, but the guide’s focus on affordable venues helps keep costs reasonable. If you’re planning to drink heavily, budgeting extra is wise.

Loose Itinerary

Some travelers mention that the schedule is flexible—more about experiencing Florence’s nightlife than ticking off a strict list of stops. If you prefer a tightly organized plan, this might feel a bit casual. However, others appreciate the freedom to explore based on the group’s energy and interests.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9:30 pm, the tour lasts around 2 hours 20 minutes to nearly 3 hours. Be prepared for a late evening, especially if you want to stay out longer at the club. Also, book at least 10 days in advance, as it’s a popular activity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This pub crawl is ideal for solo travelers looking to meet people in a relaxed setting, couples seeking a fun night out, or even locals wanting to discover new spots. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic local venues, social games, and a lively atmosphere. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable stops and optional club entry, while those who want a guided, knowledgeable host will find it a big plus.

If you’re after a curated night out that combines sightseeing, socializing, and local flavor, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember that drinks are extra, so plan your budget accordingly.

Practical Tips for Your Florence Pub Crawl

• Book in advance: The tour is usually booked about 10 days ahead, so reserve early to secure your spot.
• Arrive on time: The meeting point is right in Piazza Santa Croce at the Monument to Dante, a central and easy-to-find location.
• Bring cash for drinks: Many venues offer better deals if paid in cash, and it helps keep your spending under control.
• Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking between stops, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Stay flexible: The loose schedule means you can linger at places you enjoy or skip others if you prefer.
• Consider the club: If you’re into dancing and late-night fun, the €15 club entry is a worthwhile addition.

FAQ

Is this pub crawl suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how welcoming and easy it is to meet people, especially with guides like Brady who foster a friendly atmosphere.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks and shots are not included. However, the guide takes you to affordable venues, and many travelers find the costs manageable, especially if paying cash.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Monument to Dante Alighieri in Piazza Santa Croce, a central and well-known location.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes of fun, starting at 9:30 pm.

Can I stay longer at the club?
Yes. After the tour, you can opt to pay €15 for entry to the club and stay as long as you like.

What type of venues do we visit?
The stops are local favorites, street bars, and small venues loved by Florentine locals, not touristy spots.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Yes. The tour caters to groups of up to 18 travelers, making it intimate enough for conversations but lively enough for fun.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring cash for drinks, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive ready to socialize and enjoy Florence’s vibrant night scene.

Final Thoughts

This Florence Pub Crawl in the Old Town offers an authentic, enjoyable way to experience the city’s nightlife beyond the typical tourist spots. Guided by friendly locals who know the best hidden gems, you’ll get a taste of Florence’s genuine social scene, filled with laughter, games, and great conversations. The mix of relaxed venues and a lively atmosphere makes it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups who want to connect and discover local favorites.

While drinks are extra, the focus on affordable, quality stops means you can enjoy a night out without overspending. Plus, the option to continue the night at a club ensures that your evening can stretch into dancing and late-night fun. This tour delivers value, authenticity, and a chance to make new friends in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

If you’re looking to add a fun, social dimension to your Florence visit, this pub crawl could be just what you need.