Cozy tables outside a café, an aperitivo in the open air in the historic center, this image will become less common in Florence going forward. The city is significantly tightening its rules for outdoor dining in large parts of the old town, restaurants and bars will soon no longer be permitted to serve guests outside. Anyone planning a visit should be aware of the new regulations.
Outdoor dining banned entirely on 50 streets
At the heart of the new rules is a far-reaching ban on outdoor seating along around 50 particularly sensitive streets and squares in the old town. These include prominent locations such as the Ponte Vecchio, the Piazzale degli Uffizi, the Via Roma, and the Piazza di Santa Maria Nuova. Tables, chairs, and umbrellas in front of establishments will no longer be permitted in these areas.
73 additional zones subject to stricter requirements
In another 73 zones, outdoor dining will still be allowed, but under considerably stricter rules. Permitted structures are divided into five categories, ranging from simple tables and chairs without a raised platform to fully enclosed structures. Plastic tarps and tents are banned outright; instead, potted plants and greenery are intended to enhance outdoor areas and integrate them into the urban landscape.
UNESCO protection and the fight against the "mangificio"
These measures are part of the UNESCO Regolamento, extended through 2031, for the protection of the historic center. At the same time, Florence is taking action against the so-called "mangificio," the oversaturation of the old town with fast-food outlets and food vendors. The goal is to curb commercial monoculture and preserve the distinctive character of the World Heritage Site.
Why Florence is taking action
The backdrop is ongoing complaints from residents about overcrowded alleyways and blocked squares. City authorities want to reduce the strain of mass tourism and protect the historic atmosphere. Not everyone is enthusiastic: some restaurateurs fear for their livelihoods, as they rely heavily on outdoor seating, and accuse the city of placing aesthetics above the vitality of the center.
What this means for visitors
For visitors to Florence, this means that many of the most beautiful corners of the old town will no longer feature terrace seating, but there will be more room to stroll and unobstructed views of monuments and squares. Those seeking the classic aperitivo with a view of the Ponte Vecchio will need to look elsewhere. A piece of Florentine joie de vivre is changing, in favor of preserving the historic backdrop.
