MARINA SERENA CACCIAPUOTI

The co-founder and creative director of online travel magazine Italy Segreta shares her key hometown haunts

- 

WHERE TO STAY

Stella d'Italia is a stylish boutique hotel on the upper floors of a 16th-century palazzo in the heart of the city. Each room tells a story about Florence. The internal courtyard, rooftop views of Via Tornabuoni and wraparound frescoes in the breakfast area make it one of my favourite stays. I also love Casa Howard, which is chic yet easygoing. The rooms have custom-made fabrics, antique furniture and décor sourced by the owners from their travels around the world.

WHERE TO EAT

Cantinetta dei Verrazzano is very local and is still run by the owners. You can come for a cappuccino or quick lunch—there aren't many better salty hits than the pea focaccia or the cecina cured meat. Pasticceria Gualtieri dal 1933 bakes the best pastries in the city, with vegan and gluten-free choices. The café is known for its mimosa cakes and bongo cream puffs.