On a recent trip to Italy, I stopped in at Castellana looking for another pipe. While l love my new…read morepurchase, the highlight was talking with Giovanni, the owner. He was so helpful and one of the kindest people I have ever met. I hope to visit his shop again someday. He and his shop are an absolute delight!

Giovanni's shop was a highlight of my time in Florence (along with practically everything in this…read morebeautiful city). His knowledge, gracious manner and patience with customers made his shop truly special. Purchased some lovely Tuscan cigars and a Savenelli pipe. Giovanni reminded me to think of him and Florence when I smoked it. Of course I could do nothing different!

Awesome little place. Pretty great range of cigar offerings. Very helpful folks working there. Had…read morea hard time finding cigars in the area--this place is GREAT! Thank you for a great experience!

I haven't actively looked for hookas, but if I was ever in the need to buy one I would likely come…read morehere and check theirs out, because I haven't really seen many around the center. They have not just the basics but a pretty decent assortment of cigarettes, cigars and pipes. In fact, when la Castellana is closed for a month of vacation in Ferragosto (the specialized cigar and pipe shop on the back of the duomo), he sends his clients over to this tabacchi! They always have unique gifts/souveniers on display, and altough they are a tad pricey, you gotta give it to these guys cause they are in the center right in front of the duomo!

This is my go to spot. I choose from a selection of King Palm rolls or papers in a variety of…read moreflavors, burns slow and even, no tobacco. Friendly people too and thank you.

For cigar smokers... After searching for a good cigar store (and coming up empty) we were pointed…read morein the direction of this store in Piazza della Repubblica. It doesn't look like a typical cigar store from USA however don't let its appearance fool you Very knowledgable, friendly well priced and a wide range of cigars. Centrally located and easy to find. Make it a stop on your visit to Florence.

There is a young man in this shop who is SO lovely. I was traveling through a few months ago, and…read morewanted to send a bunch (30!) postcards back to the US. Our entire transaction was 2 minutes long- 10 seconds to actually take care of the purchase, by card- and the rest was spent making small talk and laughing, in half-English, half-Italian. This morning I went back, as I have more postcards to send. The older man was working, and he did not speak ONE word to me. I asked for stamps in Italian, and he threw them at me. I tried to pay with my card, and he THREW IT BACK IN MY FACE and grunted. There was a line behind me, so he then proceeded to try to help the next person- a man. I then offered him cash for the mass of stamps, which he accepted, but our 30 second interaction included NO speaking on his part. Not a word. I feel so sorry for the younger man who works here (he's probably in his late-40s or early 50s) because he's amazing, and truly made one of my first experiences in Florence so wonderful. But the older man had the power to destroy 3 months' worth of wonderful experiences with the beautiful people of this country with his extraordinarily offputting rudeness!

Absolutely the BEST pizza I've had in Italy- thin crust and NOT soggy!!!! Try pizza marinara (no…read morecheese but ALL flavor) the service is amazing- especially after rude or indifferent service much of Italy employs- the food is fresh, fun, light, and thoroughly enjoyable and flavorful. The staff is very friendly and the prices beyond reasonable. Like a little drink to enjoy with food? The prices are outstanding and pours VERY generous!!!! Do not even hesitate , this place is the bomb!!! Best!!$ best we've had in 4 cities so far!!! Total win!

My friend and I had the veggie pizza with added red onions, olives, and garlic, which was amazing!…read moreThe cheese - oh the cheese, so delicious! And the Goloso fruit dessert was a perfect finish to our meal! The service was impeccable! Our waitress, Alice was very attentive, efficient, and friendly. I highly recommend her!