I am not really sure whether all others can. Most residents in Florence do not speak English. However, in the heavy touristy Central Historical District (inside the confines of the ancient walls), you will find that people in restaurants and most shops can speak English to,some degree or another.

In 2026, English is exceptionally prevalent in Florence (Firenze), particularly within the historic city center where tourism accounts for over 60% of the local economy. In hotels, major museums like the Uffizi, and high-end restaurants, English proficiency is essentially 100% among staff. Among the general population, approximately 70-80% of younger residents (under 40) speak communicative English, while older residents may have a more limited vocabulary but can often navigate basic transactions. In 2026, Florence remains a primary destination for Americans and Britons, making English the "lingua franca" of the city. However, the experience of the city changes significantly once you step outside the tourist "ring." In the residential Oltrarno or the outskirts, Italian remains the dominant language. While you can easily survive a month in Florence without knowing a word of Italian, learning basic phrases like "Buongiorno" and "Grazie" is highly appreciated and often leads to warmer service in the local trattorias and artisanal leather shops.