Currently working and studying in Florence, Italy, graphic designer and photographer, Rachel Graham (www.rbgarts.com) from New York, New York tells us how to be frugal in Firenze.

In a historic city such as Florence, you’d be surprised at how many mediocre meals you can eat if you’re not in the know.  As an artist and student in this city, it’s always nice to save a buck (or with the current euro/dollar exchange, €0.60) on a nice meal. So, want to paint Firenze red like a true Fiorentini?  Below her suggestions for a great stay.

Day 2:

If you have yet to see the David, it is quite a sight and in one of the two museums that are a “must see”: Galleria dell’Accademia (where you’ll find Mr. David) and Galleria degli Uffizi. which houses several paintings by many of the great Renaissance artists. Just be aware, none of the museums are open on Mondays.  Located right past the Galleria degli Uffizi is the notorious Ponte Vecchio.  Built first by the Romans in 996 AD and used Medici family in the 1500′s, this footbridge has been a huge business center for hundreds of years. The bridge is even mentioned in on of the most famous arias, “Oh mio babbino caro” from Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi.

For lunch on day 2, I suggest true italian pizza.  This is not like your pizza in Brooklyn from Joe’s (although that’s good too!).  Buca Niccolini makes the best pizza I’ve had yet here in Florence.  Located right next to the Duomo on a little side street you can get a great pizza for around 7 euros. They also have an outdoor terrace that looks at the side of the Duomo, which is an incredible site.

One of the newest bar/restaurants in Florence is The Clubhouse.  A larger space than most other florentine eateries, this restaurant serves great food for a great price (pastas for 7 euros, meat for around 10 euro). Also, be sure to try a Dirty Martini or German Chocolate Cake shot from bartender, Ivka.

Now, if you are ready to party late night, and I do mean late, check out one of two private after hours clubs in Florence:  Teatro or Blob.  With a one time membership fee of 10 euros (or going with someone who has one) you can party until the wee hours of the morning.

Check back next week for day 3.