Text and cover image by Rebeca Jin and Jennifer Xu.
Summer is here, bringing rising temperatures that make chilled drinks not just a treat but a necessity. There’s nothing better than enjoying some iced beverages while seeking refuge from the strong rays of the sun. Here are our favourite spots around Florence that offer delicious bubble teas, iced fruit teas, and even complementary desserts. Each store has a wide variety, allowing you to try something new and avoid flavours that might not suit your taste. Check out these places with classmates or friends for some summer fun!
Where to Find the Best Iced Bubble Teas and Summer Drinks in Florence: 3 Must-Try Spots
Il Ciccio Pasticceria: a Small Spot with Big Summer Energy
Although many of you may already be familiar with this place, it still deserves a mention on this list as it offers a diverse drinks menu ranging from coffee to teas and even smoothies, including their popular bubble tea.
They offer an array of cold drinks, especially iced fruit teas with customisable sugar levels and even an option for less ice. We recommend trying their drinks, especially their flavourful matcha. Whether you’re cooling off after a lecture or catching up with a friend, Il Ciccio is your go-to oasis in the city centre—friendly, fast, and always delicious.
Via delle Belle Donne, 17r, Florence
I Am Qi, the Perfect Place for Ice-Bubbled Teas and Movie Night Vibes
If you’re looking for a drink that’s as refreshing as it is Instagram-worthy, I Am Qi should be high on your summer hit list. This stylish and colourful tea bar serves up a wide selection of —from classic bubble tea to vibrant iced teas made with real, juicy fruit. Every sip feels like a mini tropical escape, even on the hottest Florentine afternoon.
Perfect for those who love fresh flavours without overwhelming sweetness, you can fully customise the sugar level to suit your taste—yes, even opt for zero sugar. Whether you’re a longtime boba addict or just bubble tea-curious, there’s something on the menu that will pleasantly surprise you.
While it’s a bit farther from campus, the stroll is well worth it, especially since it shares the same street as Cinema La Compagnia. Pro tip: Stop by for a cold drink before catching a film, and turn your movie night into a full-on experience.
Via Camillo Cavour, 92r, Florence
Machi Machi: Trendy Taiwanese Bubble Tea and Iced Drinks in the Heart of Florence
Tucked away in the underground corridor of Santa Maria Novella train station, Machi Machi feels like stepping into a pop dream—think pastel colours, playful packaging, and an explosion of flavours in every cup. It’s not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a full sensory experience for both the eyes and taste buds.
As part of a popular Taiwanese bubble tea chain loved worldwide, this Florence location brings a serious dose of summer vibes. Whether you’re craving a fruity iced tea, a rich milk-based boba, or a vibrant smoothie that could double as a dessert, you’ll find something here that’s as fun to drink as it is to photograph.
Their menu caters to all various tastes—whether you’re into bold, sweet flavours or prefer something more subtle and refreshing. Don’t forget to check out their cute branded merchandise if you’re a fan of aesthetic details. It’s perfect for a quick refreshment between travel connections or just a flavorful break during your city explorations.
Piazza dell’Unità Italiana, 25, Florence
