Wine Windows in Florence and Where to Find Them
You’ve probably seen them on Instagram or TikTok—those tiny, charming wine windows in Florence where people sip vino straight from a hole in the wall. After one too many dreamy reels, I booked a trip to Florence, determined to find these historic gems myself. But once I got there? Crickets. There wasn’t nearly enough info on where to spot them. So I did the digging, wandered the streets, and sipped the wine—and put together this handy guide so you don’t have to scroll for hours. Let’s go wine window hunting!
What Are Wine Windows, Anyway?
Locally known as buchette del vino, these little openings have been part of Florence’s wine-loving culture for centuries—literally. With wine-making roots that go back 3,000 years, it’s no surprise that Florence figured out a genius way to serve wine long before modern bars were a thing.
There are more than 180 wine windows scattered across Florence today (and around 285 are still well-preserved, though not all are functional). They look like mini arched windows or holes in stone walls, framed in wood or stone, just big enough to pass a single glass through. Behind many of them? Yep, a wine cellar.
A Quick History of the Wine Windows in Florence
Back in the 16th century, the ever-resourceful Cosimo de’ Medici allowed local wine producers to sell directly to customers—from their own homes—tax-free. The catch? No storefronts. Enter: wine windows. A loophole in the wall, quite literally.
Fast forward to the plague years, and these little openings became a safe way to pass wine, food, and even medicine without contact. While they were sealed shut and forgotten for years, the pandemic brought them back to life—offering Florentines a socially-distanced way to enjoy their vino. And then? Social media did its thing.
How to Order from a Wine Window (So You Don’t Look Confused Like I Did)
Check for a queue – If there’s a line, join in and enjoy the anticipation.
If not, knock or ring – Many windows still have a bell or knocker.
Look for a menu nearby – Usually posted on the wall. If not, just ask what’s available.
Place your order and pay right away.
Wait for the bell – The server will ring when your glass is ready.
Enjoy one glass at a time – The windows are small, so they serve drinks individually.
Grab a seat nearby – Some spots have outdoor tables, but if not, find a quiet piazza corner and enjoy your drink like a local.
Where to Find Wine Windows in Florence
While they’re dotted all over the city, you’ll have the most luck in these neighborhoods:
Santo Spirito
Nestled on the quieter side of the Arno, this area was home to both artisans and nobility. The wine windows here are often set into elegant old buildings—blink and you’ll miss them.
City Center
This is where you’ll find some of the OG wine windows, owned by Florence’s most powerful families—Antinori, Frescobaldi, Rucellai, Verrazzano, to name a few. They’re surrounded by shops and tourists, but keep an eye out near old palazzos—you’ll spot them!
What to Look For:
A small, arched hole in the wall, usually with a tiny wooden or metal door.
A stone or wooden frame, often looking like a miniature version of a church window.
Sometimes there’s a small sign or plaque next to it explaining its history.
They’re often tucked into urban palaces, especially in older neighborhoods, so keep your eyes at street level and don’t blink! You can also find the full official list of wine windows in Florence here.
10 Wine Windows in Florence to Add to Your Bucketlist
Babae
📍 Via Santo Spirito, 21R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Just steps away from the Arno River, Babae offers one of the most charming wine window experiences in Florence. Known for its breakfast and Tuscan-style appetizers, this was the first wine window to reopen in 2019 and sparked a new wave of interest in these historic buchette. To order, simply tap the little bell beside the window and wait for your glass of wine to appear. There’s no formal seating outside, so consider strolling down to the riverbank for a scenic sip.
Cantina dei Pucci
📍 Via de’ Pucci, 4, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Located in the historic Palazzo Pucci, just seconds from the Duomo, Cantina dei Pucci boasts one of the city’s smallest and most photographed wine windows. Reopened in 2020, this spot serves an extensive list of wines by the glass, but be prepared to queue—especially in the evenings. Luckily, there’s seating right outside, so you can relax and soak up the historic surroundings while you wait.
Belle Donne
📍 Via delle Belle Donne, 16R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Tucked near the famous Via delle Belle Donne corner, this two-storey hidden gem is as stylish as it is functional. The wine window at Belle Donne is flanked by two large wine bottles—so you won’t miss it. Order a glass to go (note: it’s served in a plastic cup) and head up to the terrace for a relaxed meal or cocktail. While there’s no outdoor seating directly at the window, the area’s quaint alleys make for a great backdrop for that perfect Instagram shot.
S-Malto Firenze
📍 Borgo dei Greci, 150122 Firenze (FI), Italy
S-Malto was once known for serving comfort beers and bites straight through its wine window, adding a fun twist to the tradition. However, current listings show the business as permanently closed, so double-check online or on Google Maps before planning a visit.
Il Latini
📍 Via dei Palchetti, 6R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
A Florence institution, Il Latini is beloved for its hearty Tuscan dishes—especially the iconic Fiorentina steak. While the restaurant is often packed, even with a reservation, you can pass the time by grabbing a glass of wine through their historic window right next to the entrance. Though their kitchen hours are fixed, the window adds a delightful and practical pause before your meal.
Divin Boccone
📍 Via delle Caldaie, 20, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Less of a restaurant and more of a cozy neighborhood grocery-meets-wine-bar, Divin Boccone offers a warm, personal experience. With different-shaped wine windows and a friendly owner, it’s a great stop for both a quick glass and a bottle to go. Located in the Oltrarno district, it's ideal for a local, laid-back break from sightseeing.
Fiaschetteria Fantappié
📍 Via dei Serragli, 47, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy
Known as one of the city’s top wine shops, Fiaschetteria Fantappié combines variety with charm. Their wine window serves an exceptional range of local vino, and the few small tables outside provide the perfect setup to enjoy a casual, authentic Florentine evening.
Osteria San Fiorenzo
📍 Borgo dei Greci, 1r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
In the Santa Croce neighborhood, Osteria San Fiorenzo boasts a wine window with a view. A small patio invites you to enjoy your drink overlooking the iconic basilica—a romantic and atmospheric stop, especially at sunset.
De’ Bardi Ristorante
📍 Via de’ Bardi, 25R, 50125 Florence, Italy
Located just across the Arno, De’ Bardi offers a wide selection of classic Tuscan wines, bubbles, and cocktails. While not as famous as other wine windows, it’s a solid choice if you're exploring the Oltrarno area and looking for a relaxing pour without the crowds.
Vivoli
📍 Via Isola delle Stinche, 7r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Florence’s oldest gelateria joins the wine window revival—Vivoli serves up scoops of gelato through its own historic window. Reopened in 2020, it’s a wonderful spot for families with kids who want to experience this quirky tradition in a sweet, playful way.