When most people think of Florence, they picture Renaissance masterpieces, stunning architecture, and delicious Tuscan cuisine. Yet one of the city’s most captivating traditions is often overlooked: the buchette del vino, or “wine windows.” These tiny arched openings in the walls of historical buildings once allowed Florentine families to serve wine directly to passersby.
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of driving a Canadian couple from Rome to Florence in one of our Mercedes-Benz vehicles, booked through our private transfer service. During the scenic journey, I told them about these fascinating wine windows and how they have recently come back into use—even in modern times. Intrigued, they asked to see them firsthand upon arrival.
A Stop at Il Latini
Our main destination was Il Latini, a historic restaurant in Florence famous not only for its own wine window—located by the entrance—but especially for serving one of the city’s most iconic dishes: the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. As soon as we stepped inside, my clients could smell the unmistakable aroma of sizzling, perfectly seasoned steak on the grill.
I explained to them that an authentic Bistecca alla Fiorentina is cut thick (at least three fingers high), ideally from the prized Chianina or Maremmana beef, and always cooked rare. At Il Latini, they serve it on a wooden board, still sizzling, accompanied by classic Tuscan sides like beans with local olive oil, and of course, a glass of Chianti. Watching my guests’ excitement as they savored each bite of the tender, flavorful steak was a highlight of the trip.
Discovering Florence’s Wine Windows
After our meal, we strolled through the historic center of Florence, where you can still spot other wine windows tucked into noble palaces and centuries-old facades. It’s a unique experience to see how these tiny openings continue to captivate visitors and offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
Why Choose Rome City Transfers
Beyond Florence’s charm, my Canadian clients were delighted by the ease and comfort of traveling from Rome with a private transfer. Here’s what you can expect when you choose Rome City Transfers:
- Comfort & Relaxation: Enjoy a spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle, ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
- Professionalism & Punctuality: We pride ourselves on impeccable timing and expert drivers, so you never have to deal with crowded trains or long lines.
- Customized Itinerary: Want to stop for photos or explore a hidden Tuscan village en route? We tailor each journey to your personal preferences.
- Safety & Style: As an NCC (private car hire with driver) service with years of experience and a collaboration with Uber, we ensure both elegance and top safety standards.
- Door-to-Door Service: Whether you’re departing from Rome Fiumicino Airport or a hotel in the city center, we’ll pick you up and drop you off exactly where you need to be
If you’d like to experience Florence’s historic wine windows and the unforgettable taste of a genuine Bistecca alla Fiorentina, I’d be delighted to organize your next journey from Rome. Contact us to discover how our private transfer service can enhance your Italian adventure!
See you soon in Florence for your next culinary and cultural escape!