When you take a break from its classic attractions and explore Florence’s contemporary side, you discover that the city is going through a modern Renaissance. Innovative artists and young entrepreneurs are placing Florence in the 21st century, and now you can see something besides Old Masters in an art tour of the city. Start with a visit to F.O.R., the city’s latest gallery where instead of paintings there are displays of cutting-edge contemporary photography by established and emerging photographers. You’ll see works by Umberto Gasche and Massimo Listri, but also look out for new, still-unknown names as the space discovers new talents.

Other contemporary art exhibits can be found at Villa Bardini, a restored 17th century building also known for its attractive gardens. It’s been hosting temporary exhibitions since it reopened in 2007, and its MoBa restaurant and lounge is one of the city’s latest hip hangouts. Chef Umberto Montano’s seafood served in an elegant contemporary space is the attraction, as are the drinks on the terrace overlooking the city.

Also already a major hotspot is the just-opened Q.B. Quantobasta, a multi-concept space that’s a restaurant, a wine bar, and cocktail lounge. It features a sleek interior design, and you can order Tuscan dishes to be accompanied by a variety of wines that you’ll see listed on over 50 pages.

Also opening its doors practically as you read this is Osteria Tornabuoni, found on the ground floor of Palazzo Tornabuoni. The specialty is Tuscan cuisine using only Tuscan ingredients, meaning a careful selection of cheeses from around Tuscany and an exclusively Tuscan wine list. The decor is also home-grown, the creation of Florentine designer Michele Bonan who chose to combine antiques and crystal chandeliers with modern pieces, further showing that Florence is now a harmonious mix of classic and contemporary elegance.

-See the complete Florence city guide.
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