The typically Medieval streets of Sant’Ambrogio are ever-popular for their atmosphere and the many artistic and cultural gems to be found. While the options here are endless, some of our favourites include the Libreria Antiquaria Gonnelli on via Ricasoli 14, an antiques bookstore, auction house and publishing house since its foundation in 1875. A much-loved placed for local artists and writers, familiar names from the Macchiaioli movement and others including Giorgio De Chirico and Ottone Rosai are known to have frequented the book-lined store, that has now moved to piazza d’Azeglio 13 for its current ventures.

The best-known monuments in this area are piazza de Ciompi and piazza Sant’Ambrogio, two places that often see market stalls set up and even street performances so you’re never quite sure what treat is in store. Continue on to via Verdi, where we’ll stop to admire Bottega Filistrucchi, onsite since 1720 when it was created as a shop for hair accessories and make-up. Now, it’s specialized in wigs and masks for the theatre, having equipped notable national and international performers with their essential kit. 

And finally, take note of La Farmacia del Canto delle Rondini, operating since 1300 at the corner of via Verdi and via Pietrapiana, before being moved to its current location in via Pietrapiana during the Fascist period. Known as Canto alle Rondini, you’ll find furnishings in neo-Gothic style designed by architect Adolfo Coppedè, providing an intriguing backdrop to the pharmaceutical products.

Every guidebook features the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, adored throughout the ages for its magnificent façade and even more enticing treasures within. Once you’ve taken your fill of this well-known landmark (but really, there’s never enough time!) head on towards via dei Neri 44 to stock up on Tuscan treats at La Bottega, where you’ll gaze in awe at the walls lined high with the best of local wine and gourmet food. The store is located in part of the medieval complex of San Remigio Church, dating back to the year 1000. From the marble shelves to the Palladian floor and wrought iron window frames, there’s much more to look at than just the enticing products. 

Time to use good old-fashioned snail mail to connect with loved ones – let’s face it, we’ve all had enough screen time! Marzotto Cartolerie (stationary store) on Borgo degli Albizi 86 is a literary lovers paradise. Established in 1890 by Antonio Marzotto, a noble from Treviso, it’s located on the ground floor of the gorgeous 16th century Palazzo Ramirez de Montalvo built in 1558 with the façade decorated by Bernardino Poccetti to a design by Giorgio Vasari. Step inside to choose from the array of notebooks and writing accoutrement that range from artisanal to practical. 

And now to rest: your dreams are bound to be sweet when surrounded by the historic walls of the luxurious Hotel Bernini in piazza San Firenze, 29. Overlooking Palazzo Vecchio - the site of some of the most transformative moments in Florence’s history - the hotel was founded in 1790 in the building that dates back to the 14th century, owned by the renowned Della Pera family who were ancestors of the historic Peruzzi family. It has now been elegantly and lavishly restored.

Make sure when taking your stroll from place to place, to look up and around. There’s almost always a surprise awaiting in the historic center, whether it’s an unusual architectural detail, a work of street art, or the centuries of history engrained in every brick.