Florence Nightlife

Between 1996 and 2006 this popular bistro and nightspot was called Capocaccia. In its most recent, all-black redesign it has been aptly named “Noir,” but it remains one of Florence's favorite establishments for aperitifs and an American-style Sunday brunch.

Set in a prime position overlooking the pedestrian square before Palazzo Strozzi, Colle Bereto is a popular hangout from early evening till late night, especially Thursday through Saturday during the summer months. You'll need to book a table to mix with the designer-clad crowd in the upstairs VIP privé.

Named after the famous cocktail invented in Florence by Count Negroni, this tiny bar in the San Niccolò area of the Oltrarno (upstream from the Ponte Vecchio) is always packed. Weekends feature lounge and electronica music (compiled on CDs, a la Buddha Bar) and the place gets so busy that the partying spreads to the sidewalk and leafy square opposite.

There's an impressive pool of experienced entrepreneurs in the entertainment business behind this acclaimed new venture combining clubbing, fashion, beverage and food, art exhibits and themed events. The club is only open September to May, but the same team organizes guest events at different venues over the summer months. Admission is strictly for members (membership is $32). Most of the décor is leftover from its former incarnation as a swingers’ club: lots of mirrors, lavish couches, even beds. There are three areas: White (Heaven), Red (Purgatory), and Black (Hell, formerly the S&M area).

This isn't just the only real superclub left in downtown Florence: it's been there for several decades and is still going strong. Try to get on the guest list for free or discounted entry (check for flyers on lampposts near the disco entrance), but even at full price the cover charge is reasonable and includes your first drink. Each night of the week has a different theme, from hip-hop to high fashion.

This Carioca-themed venue is another longstanding favorite. On most nights you can enjoy a Brazilian buffet dinner followed by a live act for a bargain set price. Stay on for some late night dancing when the bar becomes a Latin disco venue after midnight (further charge applies).