Cheering on Your Team in the Cradle of the Renaissance: A Florentine Guide to Sports Bars
Florence, Italy – a city renowned for its breathtaking Renaissance art, architectural marvels, and mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine. But what happens when your favorite football club is playing, or the Six Nations rugby championship is on? Can you truly escape the sporting world in this cultural paradise? Absolutely! While Florence might not have the sheer volume of dedicated sports bars you’d find in, say, London or Dublin, it certainly has its own unique spots where you can catch a match and soak in the local atmosphere. Forget the generic sports chains; here, it’s about finding those authentic osterias and pubs that open their doors to the roar of the crowd.
As a local who loves both a good Florentine steak and a nail-biting derby, I’ve explored the city’s nooks and crannies to find the best places to watch sports. It’s a different experience here. You won’t always find dozens of screens showing every single game simultaneously. Instead, you’ll often find a warm, communal atmosphere, good company, and, of course, excellent food and drink. Let’s dive into the best spots where you can cheer, groan, and celebrate with fellow fans in Florence.
Understanding the Florentine Sports Scene
Before we get to the bars, it’s crucial to understand what ‘watching sports’ means in Florence. Football (Calcio) is king. Fiorentina, our beloved Viola, dominates the local sports conversation. When Fiorentina plays, especially at home at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, the entire city buzzes. You’ll find many locals gathering in bars to watch away games or big Serie A matches. Rugby has a growing following, particularly during the Six Nations, and Formula 1 also garners attention. Basketball and other sports are watched, but with less fervor than football.
The key is that many establishments that aren’t explicitly ‘sports bars’ will put on major games. The atmosphere is often more about the shared excitement and the social aspect than just the sport itself. You’ll likely be watching alongside locals, which is a fantastic way to experience Florentine culture. Expect discussions, passionate debates, and plenty of gesturing – it’s all part of the fun!
The Top Spots for Catching the Game
Finding a dedicated ‘sports bar’ in the traditional sense can be a challenge, but there are several excellent pubs and bars that reliably show sports and offer a great atmosphere. These are my personal recommendations, places I frequent myself:
1. The Fiddler’s Elbow – An Irish Pub Classic
When you’re looking for a guaranteed spot to catch international sports, an Irish pub is often your best bet, and The Fiddler’s Elbow is a Florence institution. Located in the Oltrarno district, this place has been serving up pints and live music for years. It’s cozy, friendly, and expats and locals alike gather here.
Why it’s great for sports: They have multiple screens and are usually very accommodating when it comes to showing various matches, from Premier League football to Six Nations rugby. The staff are accustomed to requests and will often put on the game you’re looking for, especially if there’s a good crowd interested. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a classic pub experience.
Insider Tip: Arrive early, especially for big matches involving the home team or major international tournaments. Grab a seat near a screen and order some classic pub grub – their fish and chips are surprisingly good for being in Italy!
Location: Via Bernardo Rucellai, 11/r, 50123 Firenze FI
2. The Teatroni – A Local Favorite with a Twist
While not exclusively a sports bar, Teatroni in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood often becomes a hub for watching important football matches. It’s more of a community space that blends a bar, a small theatre, and a place for events. This gives it a unique, bohemian vibe.
Why it’s great for sports: They have a large screen and a projector that they set up for key games. The crowd here is often a mix of locals and those who appreciate a more laid-back, alternative scene. It feels less like a commercial sports bar and more like watching the game at a friend’s house – a very Florentine way to do it.
Insider Tip: Check their social media or call ahead to confirm if they’re showing the specific match you want to see. The food here is simple but good, and the drinks are reasonably priced. It’s a great place to mingle with Florentines.
Location: Viarazione, 13r, 50122 Firenze FI
3. Koko – A Lively Pub in the City Center
Koko is a popular pub located not far from the Duomo, making it accessible for many tourists. It has a more modern pub feel with a good selection of beers on tap and a menu that caters to a younger crowd and those looking for a casual bite.
Why it’s great for sports: They usually have several televisions showing a variety of sports, and they are generally receptive to showing major football games. The atmosphere can get quite energetic, especially when there’s a big derby or international competition.
Insider Tip: Their happy hour can be a great deal if you plan to settle in for a few hours. It’s a solid option if you’re staying in the central tourist areas and want a reliable place to catch a game without venturing too far.
Location: Via Borgo Ognissanti, 76R, 50123 Firenze FI
4. Vinaino con Cucina – For the Discerning Fan
This might sound surprising, but some traditional ‘vinaini’ (small wine bars with food) and ‘osterie’ will put on major matches, especially those involving Fiorentina. These are not sports bars by definition, but they offer an authentic Florentine experience. One such place that sometimes shows games, particularly important local ones, is a good ‘vinaino’ in the Santo Spirito or San Frediano areas.
Why it’s great for sports: The atmosphere is incredibly authentic. You’re surrounded by locals, enjoying regional wines and traditional Tuscan dishes. When a game is on, the passion is palpable. It’s less about the screens and more about the collective experience.
Insider Tip: This requires a bit more local knowledge. Ask around in neighborhoods like Santo Spirito or San Frediano for an ‘osteria’ or ‘vinaino’ that might be showing ‘la partita’ (the game). Places like ‘Osteria Santo Spirito’ or ‘Il Santo Bevitore’ sometimes have a TV, but it’s best to call and confirm. You’ll be rewarded with a truly local experience.
5. BrewDog Firenze – For the Craft Beer Enthusiast
If you’re a fan of craft beer and want to catch a game, BrewDog is a reliable choice. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a wide selection of craft beers and a modern, lively atmosphere. They often have sports playing on their screens.
Why it’s great for sports: BrewDog is known for its social atmosphere and usually has games on. It’s a good spot for international visitors who might be familiar with the brand, but it also attracts locals interested in craft beer. They often show a variety of football leagues and other major sporting events.
Insider Tip: Check their schedule or their social media pages. They are often quite good at showing a range of games, and their staff can usually accommodate requests if there’s no conflict with other popular matches. Their burger and beer combos are a great deal.
Location: Via Turati, 22R, 50123 Firenze FI
Beyond the Bars: Experiencing Sports Locally
Watching sports in Florence isn’t just about the venue; it’s about the experience. Here are some tips to make your sports-watching outing memorable:
- Embrace Fiorentina: If you’re in Florence during football season, try to catch a Fiorentina match. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the energy at the stadium or in a local bar watching ‘la Viola’ is infectious. You can buy tickets online or at the stadium box office.
- Learn a Few Phrases: Knowing a bit of Italian will go a long way. “Forza Viola!” (Go Viola!) is essential for football. “Che gol!” (What a goal!) and “Rigore!” (Penalty!) will add to the excitement.
- Pair with Local Delights: Don’t just drink beer. Order a ‘birra artigianale’ (craft beer), a glass of Chianti Classico, or even a Negroni. Pair it with local snacks like ‘tagliere di salumi e formaggi’ (cured meats and cheeses) or ‘bruschetta’.
- Check Schedules in Advance: Big matches, especially European competitions or derbies, can draw big crowds. It’s wise to check the broadcast schedule for the game you want to watch and perhaps even call the bar beforehand to confirm they’ll be showing it.
- The ‘Aperitivo’ Experience: Many bars offer ‘aperitivo’ in the early evening. This is a pre-dinner drink that often comes with a buffet of snacks or small plates. You can often combine your aperitivo with watching the first half of an early evening match.
Where to Find Your Next Game
While the dedicated sports bar scene might be more subdued than in other countries, Florence offers a unique charm when it comes to watching your favorite teams. The focus is on authenticity, good company, and enjoying the moment. Whether you’re in The Fiddler’s Elbow for a classic pub vibe, Teatroni for a more local, bohemian feel, or even an unsuspecting osteria that’s decided to put the Fiorentina match on, you’re in for an experience.
For those looking to explore the world of craft beers and perhaps catch a game, check out offerings and news at dropt.beer. They often feature insights into how different establishments cater to sports fans and the beverage industry. You can also explore their shop for unique finds, and their blog for more news and trends in the beer world here and here. Remember, the best sports bar experience in Florence might just be the one you discover by following your instincts and the sound of cheering locals.
So, next time you’re in Florence and craving a sporting fix, don’t despair. Embrace the Florentine way, find a cozy spot, and cheer on your team with a glass of local wine or a cold craft beer in hand. Forza!
