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Caffè Gilli

Florence's oldest café since 1733: Art Nouveau elegance, divine pastries, artisan chocolates, and timeless mixology in Piazza della Repubblica's heart.

★★★★★4 (7009)

Caffè Gilli, nestled in the heart of Florence on Piazza della Repubblica, is Florence's oldest café, founded in 1733. This historic gem blends Art Nouveau elegance with exquisite pastries, artisan chocolates, classic Italian coffee, and a refined bistrot menu. Step into a Belle Époque world of luxury, where tradition meets contemporary mixology in a timeless setting perfect for breakfast, aperitivo, or dinner.

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A brief summary to Caffè Gilli

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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Via Roma, 1r, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50123, IT
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Luxury
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Indoor
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Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Monday
8 am-10 pm
Tuesday
8 am-10 pm
Wednesday
8 am-10 pm
Thursday
8 am-10 pm
Friday
8 am-12 am
Saturday
8 am-12 am
Sunday
8 am-10 pm

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    Getting There

    Walking

    From Florence Santa Maria Novella station, 10-15 min walk (800m) via Via Panzani; free, flat paths.

    Public Transport

    Bus C1/C2 from station to Piazza della Repubblica, 5 min, €1.50; frequent service.

    Taxi

    5 min ride from station or Duomo, €10-15; easy drop-off at piazza entrance.

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    Local tips

    Opt for the historic tea room on the left for an intimate Belle Époque experience away from the counter bustle.
    Sample the Negroni variations at the cocktail bar, crafted with premium spirits honoring classic Italian mixology.
    Visit early morning for authentic Florentine breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino amid fresh pastry aromas.
    Reserve outdoor seating for piazza views, ideal on sunny days with the café's covered dehors.

    Discover more about Caffè Gilli

    Historical Legacy

    Founded in 1733 by the Swiss Gilli family under Grand Duke Gian Gastone de’ Medici, Caffè Gilli began as a sweet shop on Via de’ Calzaiuoli, quickly captivating Florentine nobility with its confections. It relocated to Via degli Speziali in the late 19th century, then to its current iconic spot in Piazza della Repubblica around 1900, becoming a hub for literary cafés amid the city's vibrant café culture.

    Art Nouveau Splendor

    The interior evokes Belle Époque grandeur with ornate columns, intricate decor, and a famous arched glass entrance featuring the city's most renowned clock. To the right lies the bustling counter for quick coffees and pastries; to the left, an intimate tea room preserves century-old intimacy. Outdoor seating offers prime views of the bustling piazza.

    Pastry and Chocolate Mastery

    Renowned for alta pasticceria, Gilli crafts masterpieces from premium ingredients, blending Tuscan tradition with modern techniques. Indulge in flawless pastries, monorigine chocolates diffusing elegant aromas, and seasonal sweets that honor centuries of artisanal excellence. Each creation balances flavors, textures, and visual artistry.

    Bistrot and Mixology

    The bistrot elevates Italian classics with contemporary twists for lunch, dinner, or brunch, featuring vegetarian options and international influences. The cocktail bar, led by expert bartenders, revives authentic classics like Negroni with premium spirits and creative variations, in an atmosphere of refined sophistication.

    Florence's Living Salon

    As Florence's salotto, Gilli draws locals and visitors for its unchanging quality since 1733. Owned by the Valenza family since 1991, it remains a sensory journey through history, where the scent of fresh espresso mingles with chocolate and the piazza's energy.

    A brief summary to Caffè Gilli

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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