When people think of Florence, they often picture Renaissance art, incredible architecture, and delicious Tuscan cuisine. However, there’s a hidden historical gem that many first-time visitors miss: the “buchette del vino,” or wine windows. Dating back to the 17th century, these tiny openings in the walls of noble palaces allowed families like the Antinori, Frescobaldi, Rucellai, and Verrazzano to sell their wines directly to passersby—without paying extra taxes!
What’s more, these wine windows also provided a clever solution for social distancing during past epidemics. Customers could place their order and receive their wine (and return the payment) through the window without making close contact—an idea that came back into use even during modern times.
My Florence Transfer Adventure
I’m Edward Barreda, the owner of Rome City Transfers, a private car and driver service specializing in high-quality transfers for both tourism and business. A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of driving a couple from Rome to Florence in one of our Mercedes-Benz vehicles. During our scenic journey, I mentioned the city’s fascinating wine windows.
Their curiosity was instantly piqued, so after settling into their hotel, we strolled through the Santo Spirito neighborhood—an area renowned for its artisan workshops, noble palaces, and the highest concentration of these wine windows. Our highlight was a stop at Babae, a modern eatery that has brought back the centuries-old tradition of serving drinks through a tiny window. My clients loved ordering a glass of Chianti from this hidden hatch, feeling like they’d stepped back 400 years in time!
Where to Find Wine Windows in Florence?
- Santo Spirito: This bohemian district is the perfect place to spot many original buchette del vino. Explore the winding streets, admire Renaissance facades, and keep your eyes on the walls!
- City Center: In the historic heart of Florence, you can still see windows that once belonged to major winemaking families. Just look for small, arched openings on palace exteriors.
Some Notable Spots with Active Wine Windows
- Babae – Believed to be the first in modern times to reopen its wine window in 2019. Perfect for an aperitivo on the go.
- Belle Donne – An elegant eatery where you can pair a Tuscan wine (served through the window) with classic local dishes.
- S-Malto Firenze – A casual pub, known for burgers and pizza. They’ve adapted the tradition to serve craft beer through their window.
- Il Latini – A historic restaurant famed for bistecca alla fiorentina. Their wine window is right by the entrance.
- Cantina dei Pucci – Located in the Palazzo Pucci. They offer an impressive selection of Tuscan wines by the glass.
- Vivoli – One of Florence’s best-known gelaterias. They reopened their window to serve gelato during the pandemic.
- DiVin Boccone – A gourmet shop selling artisanal Tuscan products and their own wines; the latest discovery by the Wine Window Association.
- Fishmood Modalità Pesce – A fresh fish restaurant rumored to occupy a building where Leonardo da Vinci once purchased his wine through a similar window!
Why a Private Transfer Makes the Difference?
If you’re curious to experience the wine windows of Florence, consider a private transfer from Rome to Florence with Rome City Transfers. Here’s why:
- Comfort & Relaxation
Travel in spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicles, perfect for small or large groups. - Professionalism & Punctuality
We pride ourselves on impeccable timing and friendly, knowledgeable drivers. You’ll never face the hassle of waiting in long lines or dealing with crowded stations. - Personalized Itinerary
Want to stop for photos, grab a snack, or explore a Tuscan village on the way? Just let us know! We tailor each journey to your preferences. - Safety & Style
As an NCC (noleggio con conducente) service operating for years—also in collaboration with Uber—we prioritize both elegance and high safety standards. - Door-to-Door Service
Whether it’s from Rome Fiumicino Airport or your hotel in the city center, we’ll pick you up and drop you off exactly where you need to be.
See you soon for your next Italian adventure!