Wine Windows in Florence: Where to Find Florence’s Famous Buchette del Vino

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If you’ve ever wandered the cobblestone streets of Florence and noticed a tiny arched window tucked into a palace wall, you’ve likely found one of the city’s charming secrets: the historic wine windows.

Known locally as Buchette del Vino, these small openings once served wine directly from noble Florentine families to the public. Today, they’re one of the most delightful hidden gems in Florence.

Here’s everything you need to know about where to find the secret wine windows in Florence — plus tips for spotting them on your next trip.

What Are the Wine Windows of Florence?

The wine windows date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Wealthy families would sell wine produced on their estates directly to customers through these tiny street-level windows. It was efficient, tax-friendly, and surprisingly modern.

Many of the windows were sealed up over time, but in recent years, several have been restored — and some are even serving wine again.

Where to Find the Secret Wine Windows in Florence

One of the easiest ways to navigate the Buchette del Vino is to take a Florence Wine Windows walking tour. While wine windows are scattered throughout the historic center, certain neighborhoods have higher concentrations.

1. Oltrarno (Best Area for Wine Windows)

Across the river from the main tourist hub, Oltrarno is home to many preserved wine windows.

Walk around:

• Via Santo Spirito

• Borgo San Frediano

• Via dei Serragli

One of the most famous active wine windows is located at Babae, where you can actually order a glass of wine through the tiny opening—just like centuries ago.

2. Near the Pitti Palace

Close to Pitti Palace, you’ll find several historic palaces that once belonged to noble families who installed wine windows.

This area is perfect for combining art, history, and wine-window hunting in one afternoon.

3. Around Santo Spirito

The lively Piazza Santo Spirito area has multiple wine windows hidden in plain sight. Some are easy to miss—look for small arched doorways about the size of a large book.

Pro tip: Go during the gorgeous golden hour at sunset. The lighting makes them easier to spot and perfect for photos.

4. Near Palazzo Antinori

One of the most historic wine families in Tuscany, the Antinori family, once used wine windows in the city. Around Palazzo Antinori, you may still spot preserved examples embedded in the stone walls.

How Many Wine Windows Are There?

The Associazione Buchette del Vino has documented over 150 surviving wine windows in Florence. Some are bricked up, others restored, and a handful are operational.

They even provide maps and updates for travelers wanting to find them.

Tips for Finding the Secret Wine Windows

• Look low—about waist height.

• Scan old stone palaces rather than modern buildings.

• Explore quieter streets, not just major landmarks.

• Don’t rely solely on Google Maps—part of the fun is discovering them yourself.

Can You Still Order Wine From Them?

Yes—but only at select locations. Some bars and wine shops have revived the tradition, especially in recent years.

Ordering a glass through a tiny Renaissance-era window is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Florence.

Suggested Self-Guided Walking Route

Start near Palazzo Antinori → Cross the Arno River → Explore Santo Spirito → Wander Oltrarno side streets → End near Pitti Palace.

Allow 2–3 hours for a relaxed stroll with photo stops and, of course, a glass of wine.

Why the Wine Windows Are So Special

The secret wine windows of Florence are more than Instagram-worthy photo spots. They’re living pieces of Renaissance history—a reminder of how commerce, architecture, and daily life intertwined centuries ago.

And best of all? They’re completely free to find!

Next time you’re in Florence, keep your eyes on the walls. You might just discover a tiny window into the city’s past.