Hidden away in the artisanal Oltrarno district, Ad Astra is Florence’s best-kept secret: a refined nine-room retreat overlooking the city’s largest private garden: Giardini Torrigiani. It’s set within a 16th-century palazzo, once the noble residence of the Torrigiani family, and today belongs to Matteo Perduca and Betty Soldi, owners of a series of boutique hotels in the city. The mood is intimately relaxed — a place where time slows and Florence reveals its quieter side.
Step through the gates, walk up the grand stone staircase and you’ll enter Ad Asta. Inside, interiors feel like the home of an impossibly stylish friend, curated by owner Matteo Perduca in collaboration with designer Riccardo Barthel: think vintage pieces from the 1950s and 60s sit alongside original frescoes and mid-century lighting; velvet armchairs, Persian rugs, and contemporary art add a sense of lived-in beauty.
Each detail speaks of personality rather than perfection: the very essence of Florentine bohemia. Breakfast is served on the terrace overlooking the vast Torrigiani Gardens, a sea of green stretching beyond terracotta rooftops. Guests linger with cappuccinos and pastries, then set out to explore the craft studios and antique shops of the Oltrarno, just steps away.
Pasticceria Buonamici - a locals favourite cafe and excellent frothy cappuccino's.
From Ponte della Carraia down Via dei Serragli, all the way to Porta Romana to uncover hidden boutiques and stores.
Greci-o — a design-led store with some of the cutest homeware finds
La Sorbettiera — the most unconventional flavours in artisanal gelato.
Il Santino - one of the coolest kids on the block for a glass of wine
Ponte Santa Trinita - the most beautiful sunset views painting Ponte Vecchio golden.
Trattoria Cammillo — Florentine tradition at its best: simple, soulful, unforgettable (although they say the chicken curry is a winner). ey say the chicken
Forget the Florence you think you know. Florence reveals itself differently when seen from within.
Thoughtfully designed and built with local voices, the Florence Edition is crafted as a keepsake for the modern wanderer. Far from the crowded Renaissance landmarks, it uncovers neighbourhood life, artisan workshops, immersive itineraries, under-the-radar spots, meaningful encounters, and the places where Florentine culture still thrives beyond the tourist flow.
A book for lovers of beauty, craftsmanship, art, food, culture, and quiet discovery.
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Benvenuti a Firenze
