Divina Terrazza

Divina Terrazza is the rooftop terrace of the Hotel Cavour, a four-star hotel in a 13th-century palace on Via del Proconsolo, between the Duomo and the Bargello. The hotel's building is steeped in local legend: the hotel tells the story that Dante Alighieri fell in love with Beatrice here, and the medieval streets around it are full of reminders of the poet, including the Casa di Dante museum.

The main reason to come is the view. From the rooftop, Brunelleschi's dome rises over the rooftops so close that it seems almost within reach, and on a clear evening the panorama takes in the cathedral, the bell tower, the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio, the Badia and the Bargello. It is a smaller and more intimate setting than the larger hotel rooftops, with a relaxed atmosphere for an aperitivo or an after-dinner drink.

The terrace is a place for an aperitivo or a glass of wine with a view rather than a full meal. As with all rooftop bars in central Florence, prices include a premium for the location, though a single drink at sunset is an affordable way to see the city from above. Space is limited and opening may depend on the season and the weather, so call the hotel before you go to check that the terrace is open and whether non-residents can visit, and arrive early for sunset on summer evenings.

It suits couples, friends meeting for an early-evening drink and visitors who want a close-up view of the dome without queuing to climb it.

The hotel stands on Via del Proconsolo, about two minutes' walk south of the Duomo and opposite the Bargello. Piazza della Signoria is around three minutes away. Many of the restaurants of the Santa Croce area are within a short walk for dinner afterwards. Bring a light layer in spring and autumn, as rooftops can be breezy once the sun goes down. If the terrace is closed when you visit, the dome can be seen close up from the street on Via del Proconsolo, and Piazza del Duomo is only a short walk away. Hotel guests can ask reception about the terrace's opening times on arrival, and visitors who are not staying can phone ahead to avoid a wasted trip. The surrounding lanes of the medieval centre are pleasant for a short stroll before or after your drink.