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17 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

The most popular attractions of Florence, Italy, center around the famous architecture and artwork found in the city – from the works hung in the Uffizi and the Galleria dell'Accademia  to the incredible construction and design of the Duomo and

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Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria free

Loggia dei Lanzi, in the Piazza della Signoria, is an open-air (and free) museum that was designed in the 14th century by Orcagna, an influential architect and artist. Below the building's curved arches are dozens of sculptures (notable ones include Giambologna's Rape of the Sabines and a statue of Perseo holding Medusa's head, by Benvenuto Cellini), which draw crowds of tourists and locals alike. Behind it sits the  Galleria degli Uffizi , which is one of the city's most famous art museums. The Piazza della Signoria is also filled with its (more than) fair share of sculptures, including a towering replica of Michaelangelo's David.

Take your time wandering around, and if you get tired, grab a seat along the Loggia dei Lanzi, or make your way to a cafe near the Fountain of Neptune. Recent visitors said this is a must-see spot and a great area to people-watch, view magnificent sculptures and rest travel-weary feet (though past travelers recommended avoiding the restaurants in this area, calling them "outrageously overpriced"). To avoid the height of the crowds, visit in the early morning or the evening. Access to the area is free 24/7.

Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) free

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (known simply as the Duomo) is not only Florence's religious center, but it's also the city's most recognizable attraction. Occupying the Piazza del Duomo in the heart of the city, this massive Gothic cathedral was erected during the 14th century on the former site of the Roman church, Santa Reparata. You'll know you're in the right place when you find yourself straining your neck to see the church's massive, iconic dome and the intricate marble statues on its facade staring down at you. The red-tiled cupola was designed by Brunelleschi and is described as a must-see by experts and travelers alike.

Visitors like to joke that the cathedral was designed inside-out: its exterior boasts intricate designs and breathtaking features while the interior is surprisingly plain. For many, the main reason to visit is to climb the 463 stairs to the top of the dome (the cupola) where you'll find spectacular views of the city. (Be aware that there is no elevator and some of the narrow walkways require you to stand to the side while people pass in the opposite direction. Some visitors report this is not for the claustrophobic.) However, if you are interested in looking around inside, guided tours are available.

Ponte Vecchio Ponte Vecchio free

Much like  London 's Tower Bridge, the Ponte Vecchio was built to replace an earlier bridge. Once dominated by butchers, fishmongers and bakers, the original bridge was washed away during a flood in the early 14th century. When the new Ponte Vecchio was completed, it too was home to local food stores until Grand Duke Ferdinand I of the Medici family decided to designate this unadorned bridge the epicenter of the city's gold and jewel trade. It has maintained this purpose ever since.

Recent visitors said it is especially beautiful at sunset. If you don't want to overpay for souvenirs, heed the advice of past travelers and avoid shopping along the bridge. You can also book a gondola tour of the Arno River to experience sailing beneath the bridge, though prices can be high (typically starting at 65 euros, or around $71, per person).

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Piazzale Michelangelo Piazzale Michelangelo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're eager to get your steps in, climb up another 1,500 feet to the doors of the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte, one of the oldest churches in Florence. Admission is free and the views even higher up are worth the climb. – Holly D. Johnson

Overlooking the city from its perch in the Oltrarno district, the Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the most popular viewpoints in the city, and it's definitely worthwhile if you're a first-time visitor. This ornate square is known for its spectacular views and its towering replica of Michelangelo's David. Getting to the piazza can be quite the trek on foot, yet a meandering path in front of and below the piazza makes it within reach if you're reasonably fit.

Museo dell'Opera del Duomo Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

Spanning 28 rooms and three floors, the massive Museo dell'Opera del Duomo houses more than 750 works of art covering nearly 720 years of history. In short, it serves to preserve the artistic masterpieces that were once on display in the Duomo . Highlights from the collection include Ghiberti's original Gates of Paradise from the Baptistery (the Baptistery is currently adorned with replicas of the original gates) and Michelangelo's Pietà, which many believe he created to adorn his tomb.

Many past travelers suggested stopping at the museum prior to visiting the Duomo to better understand the historical context of the cathedral and surrounding monuments. Plus, entrance to the museum is covered by the combo ticket you're required to buy if you want to climb the steps of the Duomo or enter any of the other sites within the square. Other visitors advised setting aside plenty of time to admire all of the works housed here. What's more, many others mentioned that this museum is not as crowded as the Uffizi .

Galleria dell'Accademia Galleria dell'Accademia

If you only have a limited amount of time for art museums while you're here, devote some of it to the Galleria dell'Accademia for one simple reason: the David. This is your chance to see one of Michelangelo's most famous works in all his authentic glory and recent visitors say it doesn't disappoint. However, you aren't alone on your mission: The gallery can get flooded with other tourists also eager to see the famous piece, which is why some recent reviewers suggest booking a reservation ahead. While you're waiting for the crowds to clear so you can get your photo of David, take the time to see some of the artist's lesser-known works, including the unfinished Slaves or Prisoners.

While the David is undoubtedly the star here, the museum houses a variety of other works and artifacts, including works by the greatest Florentine painters from the 13th to early 15th centuries, such as Giotto and Bernardo Daddi. What’s more, it displays approximately 50 musical instruments from the private collections of the grand dukes of Tuscany, Medici and Lorraine.

Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi) Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi)

Occupying the first and second floors of the U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi along the banks of the Arno River, the Uffizi Gallery was created by the Medici family at the end of the 16th century. Today, the museum is any art lover's dream: it still displays the family's prominent art collection, which includes such masterpieces as Botticelli's "Birth of Venus," Raphael's "Madonna of the Goldfinch" and Titian's "Venus of Urbino." What’s more, it’s housed in a building designed by Giorgio Vasari that dates back to 1560.

Because of the many works of art housed here, you're going to need to take your time. One of the best ways to see the highlights and learn about the lesser-known pieces is to take a guided tour from a third-party operator, which many recent visitors highly recommend. Some tour operators also offer "skip-the-line" tours, which reviewers also spoke highly of. If you’re not up for a guided tour, you can also rent an audio guide from the museum for an additional 6 euros (about $6.50).

Mercato Centrale Firenze Mercato Centrale Firenze free

Located in an iron-and-glass building designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni in 1874, the Mercato Centrale Firenze is a great place to browse and stock up on tasty Italian foods. The ground floor of the market features vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, fish, olive oil, vinegars, truffle products and other local goods. Upstairs from the vendors, you'll find a modern food hall with shops selling everything from pizza and gelato to Tuscan specialties, such as lampredotto, porchetta and trippa. Here, you can sit down to a meal or pick up items for a picnic. Surrounding the building, dozens of vendors also sell artwork, pottery, jewelry, leather, clothing, souvenirs and anything else you can think of. 

Recent visitors called the market fun and lively to visit, with lots of tempting things to eat and buy. Some recommended stopping in a few times over the course of your Florence visit, although recent visitors have said food you can purchase to eat on-site has become rather expensive. If you want a local to show you around, consider signing up for one of the best tours in Florence , many of which stop at the market.

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Baptistry (Battistero) Baptistry (Battistero)

The Battistero is the oldest religious monument in all of Florence, and although the current façade dates from the 11th century, historians have dated the Baptistery back to the fifth century. It hasn't been proven, but many say that this octagonal building was once a temple dedicated to Mars, the Roman god of war.

Today, this ancient building is a must-see for any art lover. Wake up early to beat the crowds, who flock to the Battistero in search of the Gates of Paradise. Designer Lorenzo Ghiberti's delicate depictions of Christ and other religious symbols on these massive doors inspired awe in even the most renowned artists, including Michelangelo, whose praise of the doors reportedly earned them their name. Note: The doors at the Baptistery are replicas of the originals. If you would like to see the originals, you'll have to pay a visit to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo , which can be found just a short walk behind the Baptistery.

Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto) Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto)

Designed by Giotto in the early 14th century, this ornate 277-foot high bell tower is part of the renowned  Duomo  in central Florence's Piazza del Duomo. Although it is known as Giotto's Bell Tower, it actually required three architects to finish. The changes in style and design are apparent. Today, you can marvel at the tower's external design from the square below – make sure to spend plenty of time admiring the statues and reliefs by such famed artists as Donatello and Andrea Pisano. Or you can climb the more than 400 steps to the top for spectacular views of central Florence, a hike that recent visitors said leads to a better panorama than you get at the top of the Duomo because you get to view the Duomo from this vantage point.

However, the climb can be a real workout, so make sure to pace yourself. Travelers appreciated that there were several places where they could stop to catch their breath and admire the views on the way up to the top, which they said were well worth the steep climb. However, if you're visiting during the summer months, reviewers say you'll want to time your visit for the morning (or right before closing), as the climb only gets hotter as the day progresses.

Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli) Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli)

U.S. News Insider Tip: After perusing the gardens, treat yourself to a glass of wine at Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina, a popular wine bar that sits opposite Palazzo Pitti. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

Originally, these beautiful gardens belonged to the Medici family; it wasn't until the late 18th century that the gates opened to the public. Today, Boboli Gardens (located in the Oltrarno behind Pitti Palace ) offers sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the tourist-trodden city center. While you stroll through this extensive green, keep your eyes peeled for the numerous sculptures and grottos strategically placed along the paths, like Giambologna's Bathing Venus. Also swing by the Isolotto, a large fountain located at the southwestern end of the park.

Basilica di Santa Croce Basilica di Santa Croce

Santa Croce is similar to the  Duomo  in style (both churches represent dominant Gothic traits), and the exterior is stunning, despite not being as elaborate as the Florence Duomo. Visitors come here to pay respects to such notable Italians as artist Michelangelo, scientist Galileo Galilei and political philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, whose tombs and memorials are housed here. Santa Croce is also home to what some say is the most important art collection of any church in Italy, the most notable works being spectacular frescoes done by Giotto.

Recent visitors raved about the architecture of the church and suggested giving yourself plenty of time to explore. Others appreciated that it was removed from the main tourist areas and less busy than other Florence attractions.

Palazzo Pitti Palazzo Pitti

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting the Pitti Palace because of an interest in Medici history, consider booking a private entry into the Vasari Corridor – a hidden passageway Medici members once used to cross the Arno River from the Uffizi Gallery all the way to Pitti Palace. – Holly D. Johnson

If you're headed to Oltrarno for a stroll through the  Bóboli Gardens , it's worth it to take some time to tour the  Palazzo Pitti  (Pitti Palace) as well. This former Renaissance residence is now home to Florence's most extensive grouping of museums. The most notable of the Pitti's galleries is the Galleria Palatina, which – with its impressive collection of works by Raphael, Titian and Rubens – is second in prestige only to the  Uffizi Gallery . Other museums within the palace spotlight everything from historical fashion to household treasures once belonging to the Medici family.

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Palazzo Vecchio Palazzo Vecchio free

Palazzo Vecchio is a central Florence landmark with a long and storied history that dates back to 1299. The ruins of an ancient theater of the Roman colony of Florentia can be seen below from the first floor of this iconic building, and visitors can admire a range of artworks and medieval architecture here.

The Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the Five Hundred) is the most visited and impressive hall in the building due to its massive size, large wall frescoes and various sculptures throughout. There are also many secret routes through the palace, which you can explore with one of many available group tours of Palazzo Vecchio.

Basilica di San Lorenzo Basilica di San Lorenzo

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Church of San Lorenzo is where the famous Medici Chapel is located. You can book a tour to see these elaborate tombs, including the "Chapel of the Princes," through various tour companies. – Holly D. Johnson

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is the oldest Florentine cathedral, thus its external architecture is not as ornate and embellished as others built throughout Florence in later centuries. The church is said to have been consecrated in the presence of Saint Ambrose in 393 and also dedicated to the martyr Lorenzo. That said, the basilica was reconstructed in 1418 by Medici family founder Giovanni di Bicci.

Piazza Santo Spirito Piazza Santo Spirito free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pick up a delicious pizza or two from Gustapizza on nearby Via Maggio and enjoy it on the steps that surround the square. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

Located in the Oltrarno, the neighborhood on the other side of the Arno River (opposite the Duomo ), this square is a lively hub of activity, especially at night when its many cafes and restaurants draw locals out to relax on terraces and patios for a meal or a drink. A main feature of the square is Filippo Brunelleschi's last church, the Basilica di Santo Spirito, which he designed in 1444, but was unable to finish before his death. Antonio Manetti, Giovanni da Gaiole and Salvi d'Andrea finished the church by the end of the 1400s.

Santa Maria Novella Santa Maria Novella

While Santa Maria Novella is not nearly as grand as the world-famous Duomo , it is still one of the most important Gothic churches in Tuscany. Located just 750 feet from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (the city's train station), this cathedral is also easy to find or run into by surprise.

The impressive exterior was designed by artists Fra Jacopo Talenti and Leon Battista Alberti, and the interior features a range of master works, such as Masaccio's Holy Trinity fresco, Ghirlandaio's fresco cycle in the Tornabuoni Chapel and Giotto's crucifix. The Nativity by Botticelli and the Pulpit by Buggiano are also located within the church and worth a look. Recent travelers note that the church museum is also worth exploring, and that even roaming the grounds of Santa Maria Novella can be worth the time and effort due to the natural beauty found on the property.

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Visit Florence, Cradle of the Renaissance

Tuscany is known for its fabulous landscapes, amazing artwork and architecture and its incredible charm. Yet there is only one place in Tuscany where all three of these elements combine effortlessly together and give life to a magical, romantic and absolutely one of a kind city: Florence .

Famous for the immense political and economic power it wielded during the rule of the Medici Dynasty, Florence offered the world a stage for great artistic masters such as Michelangelo , Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci and Galileo.  However, Florence has its roots long before, when it rose and fell several times in the hands of the Romans , the lombardic tribe and others. Each successive age brought new architecture, art and creativity which are still evident in the streets, the many museums , churches , monuments and even the everyday life of this marvelous city .

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Discover VisitFlorence.com Our comprehensive guide to Florence

Our dedicated website VisitFlorence.com will give you practical and useful information about where to park and how to get around . Our team, comprised of locals who live in Florence, shares their experiences to enhance your time in Florence. Whether you are travelling by bus, taxi, plane or train the site is loaded with helpful suggestions about what to expect when you arrive concerning the weather , lines for museums and where to go shopping . The VisitFlorence Team lives in the city of Florence so, we have lots ideas and inspiration for you. Get competent assistance from our Forum with ideas for your itinerary , choose a two day or three day program for your vacation planning, read about the pros and cons of the Firenze Card or simply find out more details about what there is to see.  We have even visited and reviewed accommodations , both in and near Florence, giving you details of where to find family friendly or budget wise solutions.

Enjoy the Flavors of Florence

Florence embodies the intellectual, artistic and cultural center of Tuscany... maybe even Italy. A visit to Tuscany could not be complete without a walk around Florence , photos from Piazzale Michelangelo , a stop at Ponte Vecchio and a stroll along the Arno River.  A trip to Florence must include a visit to the Uffizi Museum , the Accademia and the imposing Palazzo della Signoria . To truly taste the flavor of Florence, one needs to enjoy a gelato in Piazza del Duomo , inhale the perfume of leather at the markets and eat a bistecca Fiorentina in the shade of Palazzo Pitti .

Be Amazed by its Beauty

Florence offers so many unique experiences and events that it will create memories which will live with you long after your holidays in Tuscany are over. All roads, inevitably lead to Florence , so examine our maps and find where you can revel in the awe of a historic skyline , and admire the architectural lines that inspired designers worldwide. The churches Santa Croce , San Miniato , Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo house some of the more important tombs, mosaics and frescoes while the museums will delight you with artwork, bronzes and marble statues and many treasures.

From art exhibitions to musical presentations, events which celebrate wine, culture and good food, history and art, you are sure to find just the right piece of information in the many articles below which link directly with our site VisitFlorence.com.

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Planning a visit to Florence? Or a longer vacation? Don't panic, even if you really will be challenged to decide what to see and what to put off to your next visit among the uncountable things to do and to see, we've selected a few itineraries that will guide you to the discovery of of this amazing city and help organizing your holiday.

Where to stay in Florence?

Visiting Florence with a car or without? Do you want to be in the heart of the city or in the countryside? Here are our suggestions as to the best places to stay in Florence based on your needs!

Florence Tours

Personalized and guided tours of Florence will help you organizing your visit of the city and enjoy all its marvellous attractions. Book in advance the tour that interests you, choose among the many options of walking tours offered and explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the historical center.

Florence Museums

If you're planning to visit Florence, a museum visit is definitely in your itinerary! Which ones to include? It depends on your interestes... paintings, statues, frescoes or intarsias? The most popular are the Uffizi and Accademia Gallerys, but there are many more so give yourself more time in Florence to truly explore the richness in the collections of its museums.

Top Experiences in Tuscany

When it comes to finding where to stay in Florence, you'll have lots of choices - from luxury hotels to family-run bed and breakfasts to self-catering apartments and independent villa rentals. What is best for your holidays? Take a look at our recommendations & reviews for an idea!

So many treasures, you won't be able to see them all! So pick and choose among these top attractions and enjoy what you see in Florence without being in a hurry!

Events in Florence

All the main events taking place in Florence throughout the year: from food festivals to Christmas and Easter celebrations, from art exhibits to music concerts and live street performances, you'll find a long list of things to do and to see whenever you decide to come to visit Florence. Ready to start your virtual - at least for the moment - tour of the Cradle of Renaissance's most eagerly awaited events?

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Whenever we go on holiday, shopping for bringing back home a local souvenir is a MUST, especially if we're vacationing in a city like Florence! From artisan typical workshops to the most famous brand-name boutiques, from local markets to jewelry and luxury shops, Florence is a sort of wonderland for everyone who loves shopping!

Churches of Florence

Consider churches in Florence as museums where you can see the magnificent works of art that were commissioned by wealthy local families during the course of the centuries, both to "atone" for their wealth but also to show off to their fellow citizens their power and influence. Many paintings are in museums, but frescoes are still in their original places.

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10 things to know before visiting Florence

Apr 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Advance planning is the key to getting the most out of your visit to the Tuscan capital’s dolce vita © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Florence has been a key destination on Italian itineraries since the Grand Tour days, when British and German aristocrats traveled through the peninsula to enrich their cultural baggage and gain status. While much has changed since the 17th and 18th centuries, the Tuscan capital remains a major draw, as proven by the thousands of people who reach the city every day.

With an abundance of world-class museums, restaurants and architectural wonders, planning ahead is essential to make the most out of your trip to the cradle of the Renaissance is essential. Here are the things you should know before getting to Florence.

1. Add an extra day or two to your stay

The vast majority of travelers visiting Florence only spend a couple of days in the city. While it is true that the historic center is compact, taking it all in such a short time can be overwhelming. Queues are to be expected around major sights – especially in the high season (April to October) – and as soon as you arrive you will realize that each alley, square and building has a story to tell, a story that deserves more than a hurried glance. Plan for four or five days to avoid rushing from one place to the other and to have some time for spontaneous detours.

2. Getting to the city from the airport is easy with public transport

Expensive taxi rides are easily avoided when flying into the city. Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci airport is well connected to the city center thanks to the T2 tram that runs to and from the Santa Maria Novella railway station. Tickets only cost €1.70 and the trip takes about 25 minutes.

 Discover more on getting around Florence with our guide to the city's public transport options.

3. Consider arriving in a city nearby

When looking for the best way to reach Florence from abroad, it may be worth checking flights to other airports as well. Florence’s airport is relatively small and not serviced by many low-cost airlines. Pisa ’s Galileo Galilei airport sees a lot more traffic – nearly double the passengers than Florence – and links to many European cities thanks to frequent Ryanair, EasyJet, WizzAir and Vueling budget flights. Getting to Florence from Pisa takes a little over an hour with a regional train.

Another destination worth looking into is Bologna , in the neighboring Emilia Romagna region. More low-cost airlines operate in Bologna than in Florence and high-speed Trenitalia and Italo trains run between the two cities in under 40 minutes.

4. Bring comfortable shoes and walk everywhere

Once you reach the inner city, walking is the best way of getting around. The UNESCO-inscribed historic center of Florence, contained between its ancient walls and newer ring road, covers an area of approximately 5 sq km and the main attractions can all be explored on foot. 

There are alternatives: two tram lines run east and west of the city center and bike-sharing services are available in all neighborhoods. Still, with crowds flowing through the narrow streets of Florence’s historic core, walking is often faster and more enjoyable than any other means of transport.

5. Art and history buffs should check out Firenze Card

The Firenze Card is a pass that allows access to most of Florence’s museums for 72 hours, starting from the first visit. At €85 it’s not exactly cheap, but if you are planning to explore many cultural institutions it may be more convenient than buying individual tickets at each entrance. Check the complete list of included attractions on Firenze Card’s official website .

Planning your Grand Tour of Florence museums? Here's a guide to the best.

6. Make restaurant reservations

Some of the more popular trattorie fill up their seats days in advance – if you have specific restaurants you intend to visit during your stay, it’s worth giving them a call to make sure a table in advance. There are exceptions – some historic eateries such as Trattoria Sabatino, Osteria Centopoveri or Trattoria Mario continue to function on a “first come, first served” system. Remember that Italians tend to dine late – don’t expect restaurants to serve food before 7pm.

7. Expect queues to meet David (even with a timed ticket)

It is possible to buy tickets for the Galleria dell’Accademia , home to Michelangelo’s David and other Renaissance masterpieces, valid for specific time slots. This, however, does not ensure that you’ll avoid standing in line outside the museum. Your best chance at avoiding queues and crowds is by visiting first thing in the morning by booking a ticket soon after the opening.

8. Visit Palazzo Pitti before 8:55am for a discount

Palazzo Pitti , the former residence of the Medici family and the largest palace on the southern side of the Arno River, houses one of Florence’s most impressive collections of art, Renaissance-era furniture, period costumes and porcelains, plus a rich program of temporary exhibitions. During most of the year, you will receive a discount if you enter the museum before 8:55am – you will be rewarded for waking up early by paying €12 instead of €16.

9. Don’t expect all museums to be open at all times

In a city that promotes itself as the ultimate art destination, you’d expect opening times to be somewhat consistent. Think again – each institution opens and closes on different days, at different times, with changing hours depending on the season. For instance, the Uffizi closes on Monday, the Cappelle Medicee museum closes on Tuesday and Cappella Brancacci opens on Monday, Friday and Saturday between 10am and 5pm. When planning your tours, make sure to check the opening hours of every museum on your itinerary.

10. Florence is safe, but…

Florence is a safe city, but incidents that can ruin your trip can happen. Pickpockets have been reported in busy areas such as the Santa Maria Novella railway station and on public transport during peak hours when trams are packed with passengers. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

This article was first published Feb 15, 2022 and updated Apr 5, 2024.

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25 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

From Renaissance art to gelato shops, here's how locals recommend exploring the Tuscan capital.

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

If a European getaway — the type where you spend your days museum hopping, visiting historical sites, drinking wine, and doubling your usual daily step count — sounds like your ideal next adventure, it's time to book a trip to Florence . The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it is still home to famous works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, among many artists of the same era.  Sara Pallabazzar, a guide with ToursByLocals , describes Florence as an “open-air museum" where you can experience “the enchantment of past centuries portrayed by works of art” everywhere you go. Adriano Pecoraro, head concierge at Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence , echoes this sentiment, noting that Firenze should be “discovered on foot.” That means you’ll want to pack your best travel shoes to navigate the architectural treasures inside Palazzo Vecchio or to make your way up the 463 steps of the Duomo — an iconic symbol of Florence that Pallabazzar says is “visible from every point in the city.”

Florence is bursting with beauty in the form of frescoed chapels, cobblestoned piazzas, and both natural and manmade masterpieces. There are so many sights to see and things to do, in fact, that it can be difficult to decide what to add to your itinerary. To help narrow it down, we asked a few Florentines to share their recommendations in one of the top cities in the world , as voted by Travel + Leisure readers in this year's World’s Best Awards . 

And if you can’t fit everything into one trip, don't worry. “Florence, to me, is like New York City ,” says Pallabazzar. “You always want to go back.” Read on to discover the 25 best things to do in Florence — whether you’re visiting for the very first time or returning for more Renaissance art, architecture, and unforgettable Italian dishes.

Head to the city's historic center.

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Pallabazzar recommends seeing the historic center of Florence at different times of the day. In the early morning, you’ll get to experience it “without noise and the pressing pace of crowds.” Midday brings droves of visitors, but the destination is “bathed in sunshine.” In the evening, “the lights of the street lamps stretch out over the Lungarni, creating a truly magical effect.”

Visit the Uffizi Gallery.

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The Uffizi Gallery “is a great way to comprehend the genius and the importance of the Medici family, and why Florentines are so proud of their history,” says Pecoraro. “[It’s a] treasure chest of beauty that preserves works of art from the late 1200s to the Baroque, along with an amazing collection of marble groups from the classical period,” adds Pallabazzar. Famous works inside the Uffizi Gallery include Titian’s "Venus of Urbino" and Botticelli’s "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera."

Discover the work of Florentine artisans.

“Florence is world-renowned for its high-end craftsmanship, manufacturing know-how, and creativity," says Pecoraro. "The art of handcraft and the ability of creation is what made Florence shine in Europe during [the] Renaissance.” To provide travelers with a deeper understanding of these manual traditions, Villa San Michele offers an "Art of Making” tour , where guests uncover lesser-known Florentine creations, including jewelry, bow ties, eyewear, crystalware, hats, artisanal perfumery, and pottery.

Check into one of the city’s most opulent hotels.

Courtesy of Four Seasons

After a long day exploring the city, you’ll want to return to a luxurious, comfortable, and far-from-minimalist room — you are in Florence, after all. In our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023, T+L readers voted The St. Regis Florence , Helvetia & Bristol Firenze , Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel , Four Seasons Hotel Firenze , and Brunelleschi Hotel as the top five properties in the city.

Enjoy a bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Max Musto, general manager of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze , describes the bistecca alla Fiorentina as a “mouthwatering T-bone steak cooked over an open flame, seasoned with just a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper.” The dish was recommended by several of our experts; Pallabazzar suggests making a restaurant reservation in advance if you're dreaming of eating a massive Florentine steak. “Real steak is not to be found in the city, or displayed in plain sight in the store window," she says. "You need to go to the countryside, to Greve in Chianti, for example, or Lastra a Signa." 

Appreciate Michelangelo's work inside the Medici Chapels.

The Medici Chapels are part of the San Lorenzo complex — where you’ll also find the Basilica of San Lorenzo — and the burial ground for the members of the Medici family. Michelangelo’s influence is ever-present, as he worked on the mausoleum, the New Sacristy , before leaving for Rome in 1534.

See the city from Piazzale Michelangelo.

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 “One of the best locations to watch Florence from the top hills is Piazzale Michelangelo,” says Ruggero Vannini, head concierge at Hotel Savoy . But, he warns, it can be crowded. As an alternative, he suggests heading to the town of Fiesole for a similar perspective. 

Dine at a local trattoria.

“Dining at one of the many Florentine trattorias is the best way to dive into a timeless local social experience,” says Pecoraro. To get you started, he recommends Buca Lapi , Trattoria Cammillo , and Trattoria 13 Gobbi.

Find all of the Davids.

Travelers interested in art should plan out what Pallabazzar calls “the David experience.” This begins with the Piazza della Signoria to see the replica of Michelangelo’s David, followed by The Bargello , where the bronze Davids by Verrocchio and Donatello are housed. Finally, she says, you’ll reach the Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo’s David, a figure “celebrated by Renaissance artists” and one “that reminds us of lost Florentine freedom.”

Cheers over Negronis.

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Florence is the birthplace of the Negroni, so sipping one (or two) is a must. In fact, “[enjoying] aperitivo at sunset with a view” tops Percoraro’s list of the best things to do while in the city. 

Visit Museo di San Marco.

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This still-functioning monastery was designed by architect Michelozzo in the 15th century. Today, visitors come to Museo di San Marco for the frescoes and panels by Fra Angelico, as well as its courtyard, cloisters, palazzo, and garden.

Climb Brunelleschi's dome.

The Florence Cathedral (or Duomo) is composed of six separate parts, two of which are the cathedral itself — which was formerly known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore — and Brunelleschi's dome. “One cannot help but tackle the 463 steps to reach the lantern at the top of Brunelleschi's dome," says Pallabazzar. From here, climbers "enjoy a breathtaking view of Florence's rooftops.”

See the Ponte Vecchio from the water.

Translated as “Old Bridge,” the Ponte Vecchio is one of the most well-known images associated with Florence. To get a picture-perfect moment, head out on the river Arno.  “A unique way to have a sense of the city as a whole is to navigate the Arno river in a typical wooden boat guided by the ‘Renaioli,’ romantically sliding their boats under the city's most famous and ancient bridges,” says Musto. 

Venture into the Oltrarno district.

“If you want to discover an alternative Florence, tour the Oltrarno district, the area on the left bank of the Arno river,” says Vannini. Here, he says, “an atmosphere of the old neighborhood” is preserved. Two of the more famous sites within the district are Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, and Bardini Garden — more on that below. 

Stroll through the Bardini and Boboli Gardens.

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Florentine art and architecture also extend to the city’s green spaces and gardens. Behind the Pitti Palace sits Boboli Gardens , which Vannini describes as “one of the largest and most elegant Italian-style gardens.” Bardini Garden is Also on his must-do list. “The Bardini Garden offers wonderful views of Florence from its four hectares of parkland between the left bank of the Arno River, Montecuccoli Hill, and the medieval wall,” he says. 

Make your own perfume at AquaFlor Firenze.

If you want a special souvenir you can use and appreciate long after you've left Italy, register for a session at AquaFlor Firenze . Located in a historic Renaissance palace, the hour-long class allows guests to create their own signature scent and take it home in a 100-milliliter bottle.

Leave the city on a bicycle or Vespa.

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At some point during your trip, Pecoraro suggests journeying to the outskirts of the city, either by bike or scooter. “From Fiesole to Settignano to Maiano, from Forte Belvedere to Poggio Imperiale to Castello — these areas hide incredible treasures, such as ancient charming villas, inspiring historical gardens, vineyard scenarios, and a profound sense of poetry and love,” he says.

Have a glass of Chianti Classico.

According to Pallabazzar, there’s one red you absolutely need to try when in Florence. “Chianti Classico is different from regular Chianti, as it is made from grapes that grow in sandier soils, which makes it lighter than the regular,” she says. “The flavor is strong and robust, and the ruby color [is] very well suited to meats and cured meats.”

Walk through Corridoio Vasariano.

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“Imagine strolling above the bustling streets of Florence on a hidden passage that was built for royalty,” says Musto. Referring to Corridoio Vasariano, he explains that the “architectural marvel” offers a “glimpse into the past as you tread the same path that once connected the Medici rulers to their offices and residence.” Though closed since 2016, the site is slated to reopen in late 2023.

Make a stop at Palazzo Vecchio.

The town hall of Florence, Palazzo Vecchio is an amazing example of Renaissance architecture. Statues by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Giorgio Vasari dot the exterior, and the interior is equally incredible. Inside, you’ll see the private studio of Francesco I de' Medici and the largest room in Florence, the “Salone dei Cinquecento," among other wonders. 

Have a lampredotto for lunch.

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Alongside the Florentine steak, Vannini says you can’t miss the panino al lampredotto . “The lampredotto panino is more than just a simple street food — it’s an institution," he explains. "Eating a lampredotto panino means having a genuine experience with Florentine sauce (literally). It is a dish that embodies the spirit of the city — and more generally, that of Tuscany — in food form."

Sign up for a pasta-making class.

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When in Italy, right? Anyone fascinated by the culinary side of Florence will enjoy learning classic pasta recipes and pasta-making techniques in person. Check out Pasta Class Florence and Riva Lofts for hands-on courses.

Visit Basilica di Santa Croce.

Many famous names, including Michelangelo and Galileo, now rest in the Basilica di Santa Croce, which is also known as the “Pantheon of Florence.” There are 16 total chapels inside; the Capella de Pazzi, credited to Brunelleschi, is the most famous.

Taste dishes that combine bread and tomatoes.

Pappa al pomodoro and panzanella are two tomato and bread-based Tuscan dishes to try during your trip. Pallabazzar calls the latter a “recovery salad,” one made with soaked (then squeezed) bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pappa al pomodoro, on the other hand, is more of a tomato and bread soup. “Made with simple ingredients such as ripe tomatoes, stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil, this dish beautifully captures the essence of Italian comfort food,” says Musto. "It's a flavorful choice, especially on a cooler day."

End your day with gelato.

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There’s nothing better than a cold treat after a day exploring the streets, art, and buildings of Florence. Pallabazzar recommends Vivoli's or Antica Gelateria Fiorentina in Via Faenza, “where you can still taste Buontalenti , a [flavor] invented for the Medici."

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Florence Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing florence.

Your best bet for great food and reasonable prices are the smaller, family-run restaurants on the side streets.

If you’re going to be in Florence for at least three days, get a three-day Firenze Pass for entrance to museums. The easiest place to get one is Palazzo Vecchio.

Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk everywhere, but if you poop out, don't be shy about hailing a cab.

How do you travel like a native in Florence? You don't rent a car. Instead, you walk, or ride your bike, or, if you are brave, ride your scooter, or you take mass transit. Also, you live with the seasons, you appreciate beauty and history, you eat fresh and seasonal foods, and you appreciate living – especially aperitivo! Florence is a walkable, beautiful city. Go and enjoy.

Florence isn't just for world travelers. Grab your camera and get over there! It's an art lover's paradise!

Hammercounty

Florence the centerpiece of Tuscany. There’s so much to see. I recommend you add an extra few days and take in surrounding areas like Pisa and Chianti. My hidden gem is the Della Fortezza Fountain and park; quiet tranquil, nice fountain and near the main train station with the fort walls, but hardly any goes there.

What is the best way to get there?

Florence Airport (FLR) is served by many airline carriers and connects to other major European airports. Pisa Airport is another option and offers a shuttle to Pisa Centrale, where you can get a train to Florence. The trip is around an hour.

The city’s main train station is Firenze Santa Maria Novella (aka Firenze SMN), while the Firenze Campo di Marte station is its secondary.

Several international bus companies offer service to Florence, but Eurolines has the largest network to and from cities across Europe.

For more info on getting to Florence, visit  here .

Do I need a visa?

Since Italy is one of the 26 Schengen Area countries, tourists from those countries do not need a visa for visits less than 90 days, but passports must be valid for at least six months after departure dates. The same goes for Americans.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer: The best time to visit Florence is April-June and September, which is also the busiest and most expensive time as well. The average daily temperatures then are warm, but not too hot, as they can be in July and August when average daily highs can hit 88 Fahrenheit (31 Celsius). To that end, many businesses may close in August for locals to escape the heat.

While you are able to rent cars, they are not recommended when visiting Florence due to traffic restrictions in its city center. Luckily, the city is small enough to navigate on foot. For more info, visit here .

Taxis are readily available in Florence, however, you cannot hail one from the street. You can request one by phone or at one of the several taxi stands throughout the city. For more info and a map of main taxi stations, visit here .

ATAF and LI-NEA buses are one of the main ways to get around Florence, and tickets must be purchased in advance. For routes, fares, and tickets, visit here .

There are currently two Tramvia tram lines making several stops across Florence. They accept the same tickets as buses. For more info, visit here .

ridesharing

Uber and Lyft do not operate in Florence.

Bicycles are a great way to get around Florence, and the city has two locations for its own rental service, “Mille e Una Bici.” For more info, visit here .

Another option is rideshare company Mobike, which is reserved and paid for via its free app. For rates, visit  here .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Central European Summer Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

Plugs and sockets are type F and L with standard voltage 230V and frequency 50 Hz.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip, restaurants.

Tipping in Florence restaurants is not as common as it is in the U.S., though some eateries do add a service charge to your tab. In that case, you won’t need to give more, but obviously, if you were well-cared for, an extra few euros are certainly in order.

Italians generally tip their bartenders by rounding up their tabs to the nearest euro. (If you ate at the bar, though, throw down a few extra euros.)

Tipping drivers is not common in Florence. But, if they were super helpful, one to three euros would suffice.

Tip five to 10 euros if you sought their expertise to explore Florence or land a restaurant reservation (do give more if they got you into a hot spot or went above and beyond). Bellhop: It’s standard to give one euro per bag.

Housekeeping

It’s common to tip at least one euro per each day of your stay. Some hotels leave envelopes for such tips, but if they don’t, a quick note saying “Thank you” will suffice.

Tour guides

Tipping a tour guide is one of the only tipping customs in Italy, and how much depends on the size and length of your tour. Per person, five euros is standard for a half-day excursion or 10 euros for full-day. It’s customary to give at least 10 percent of the total cost of a private tour.

Are there local customs I should know?

The legal drinking age in Florence is 18.

Cannabis is legal for medical use in Italy.

Say “buongiorno” (good day) and “buona sera” (good evening). A two-cheek kiss is also a customary greeting.

Florence is not NYC, so leave your brisk (and aggressive) pace behind and enjoy the sights.

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• Piazzale Michelangelo
• Gallerie Degli Uffizi
• Mercato Centrale
• Galleria dell'Accademia
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• Florence Tourist Information Offices

In order to make the best of their stay in Florence , tourists must be as well oriented as possible and to learn all is necessary for them in terms of street names, piazzas and significant tourist objectives in order to streamline their experience of Florence. To this end, Florence is serviced by five tourist information offices able to provide information and printed materials to any visitor resorting to their services.

Thus, the main tourist information office is located nearby the Piazza del Duomo , and it operates Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 6.30pm, whereas on Sunday and public holidays, from 8.30am to 1.30pm.

Via Manzoni is another thoroughfare to host a further establishment of this kind, with opening hours as follows: Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm.

The Amerigo Vespucci Airport of Florence too host a tourist information office, which is only natural, since plenty of tourists land at this airport which stands out as one of the main entrance gates in Tuscany, with opening hours as follows: 8.30am to 8.30pm every day.

Piazza Stazzione is a further tourist hotspot where a similar establishment can be found. The office has the following opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 7pm, whereas on Sunday and public holidays it works from 8.30am to 2pm.

Finally, tourists can resort to information services provided by the office located in Borgo Santa Croce , an office which operates a little more differentiated depending on the tourist season. Thus, from March to November (the first week of the month), the opening hours as are follows: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 7pm, whereas on Sunday and public holidays from 9am to 2pm. From November to late February: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm; on Sunday and public holidays from 9am to 2pm.

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Florence Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Florence is one of the most famous cities in Italy and a hotspot on the country’s tourist trail. Few people miss it, especially if they are visiting Italy for the first time.

With stunning Renaissance architecture, winding streets, and picturesque white buildings capped with red roofs, Florence is one of my favorite spots in Italy.

If you love art, the number of galleries here will keep you busy for weeks. There are also beautiful Renaissance churches to be explored and you could easily spend hours on foot wandering the manicured pathways at the Boboli Gardens.

The city is also a great jumping-off point for Tuscan winery and food tours. Moreover, Florence is a popular study abroad location so the city also boasts incredible nightlife.

This Florence travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this classic Italian city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Florence

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Florence

1. Spend a day in the Galleria de Uffizi

The Uffizi holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art (including the The Birth of Venus and La Primavera by Botticelli, Bacchus by Caravaggio, and Doni Tondo by Michelangelo). Towards the end of the gallery, there are some portraits and Dutch works that are beautiful too. Be sure to buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. If you go later in the day, there are fewer crowds. Tickets are 20 EUR (plus a 4 EUR online booking fee).

2. Climb Il Duomo

One of Florence’s most popular sites is the Duomo (the cathedral). This huge Gothic building was started in 1296 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers Florence’s historic center. Filippo Brunelleschi, known as the father of Renaissance architecture, engineered the famous dome, which is still the largest brick dome ever constructed. The real highlight is the view from the top where you get a panoramic look at Florence and its iconic red roofs (time slot reservation required). The cathedral itself is free to visit, but if you want to visit anything else in the complex (such as the dome, bell tower, or museum), you’ll need to purchase one of three passes, with prices ranging from 15-30 EUR. The passes are good for three days. You can also get a skip-the-line ticket with exclusive access .

3. Walk along Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge, built in 1345 as the city’s first bridge across the Arno River. Today, it’s the only surviving historic bridge in Florence, as all the others were destroyed in World War II. The bridge is lined with shops selling gold and silver jewelry. It’s closed to vehicular traffic, making it a fun place to stroll around.

4. See David

Housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, Michelangelo’s 16th-century David is one of the most impressive sculptures in the world. At 5.17 meters (17 feet) tall, it’s a lot bigger and more detailed than you think it would be. This is the one piece of art in the city that is a must-see. Admission is 12 EUR and skip-the-line tickets (with a guide) cost 74 EUR.

5. Wander the Giardino di Boboli

Commonly known as the Boboli Gardens, the Medicis (an Italian banking family and powerful dynasty; four popes were Medici family members) designed the landscape and architecture here in the Tuscan Renaissance style that later influenced aristocratic and royal gardens throughout Europe. The gardens are absolutely gorgeous, with ancient marble statues and large fountains everywhere, and the scent from the citrus trees completely flooding your senses. It costs 10 EUR to visit (there’s also a combined ticket for the gardens and Pitti Palace for 22 EUR).

Other Things to See and Do in Florence

1. take a walking tour.

Walking tours are a wonderful way to learn about Florence and there are a handful of excellent free tours in the city. They cover all the highlights and are the perfect introduction to the city. Florence Free Walking Tours runs daily free tours in English. Just be sure to tip!

If you’re looking for a high-quality and detailed tour focusing on the city’s art or history, try Walks of Italy . They’re my favorite walking tour company because their tours offer behind-the-scenes access and are led by informative guides. Tours start at 69 EUR for a 3-hour tour with skip-the-line access to the Duomo and Accademia Gallery.

2. Visit the baptistery

Consecrated in 1059, the baptistery of John the Baptist is one of Florence’s oldest buildings. The octagonal baptistery that you see today was rebuilt from an earlier building dating back to the 4th-5th century CE. It was here where famous Renaissance figures, including poet Dante Alighieri and members of the Medici family, were baptized. Standout features include the three sets of huge bronze doors and the interior of the dome, which is covered in golden mosaics. Admission is part of one of the Duomo passes, which range from 15-30 EUR depending on which group of monuments you want to see.

3. Visit the Piazzale Michelangelo

Head to the Piazzale Michelangelo on the south side of the Arno River for a great cityscape view. It requires a good hike up a hill but it’s a great way to see the stunning view of the city without paying to climb the Duomo. Florentine architect Giuseppe Poggi designed the space in 1869 specifically to showcase Michaelangelo’s works. There’s a bronze cast of David here, along with bronze casts of some of the artist’s other works. If you aren’t able to or can’t walk up the hill, you can take city buses 12 or 13 to reach the top.

4. Lounge in Liberia Café la Cité

This is a combination bookstore, café, and cultural center. It’s a great spot for some in-depth conversation with locals and a prime atmosphere for getting some work done. They host a lot of weekly events too, such as readings and writing workshops. It’s open late (until midnight most days), when the atmosphere changes into a trendy, book-filled bar with great cocktails.

5. Admire Palazzo Pitti

Palazzo Pitti was built in 1457 for the Pitti family and was later sold to the Medici family in 1549. As major patrons of the arts, this palace serves as a beautiful ode to the Medici family’s contribution to the cultural advancement of Florence. It hosts an impressive collection of paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, including works by Filippo Lippi and Botticelli. Admission is 16 EUR (combined admission for Pitti and the Boboli Gardens is 22 EUR).

6. Explore the National Museum of Bargello

The museum, which originally dates to the 13th century, is home to original works by Bandinelli, Donatello, Antonio Rossellino, and other Renaissance masters. It has the largest Italian collection of Renaissance and Gothic sculptures in the country and is just a short walk from the Piazza della Signoria. Admission to the museum is 11 EUR.

7. Visit the Sant’Ambrogio Market

Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest districts in the city, and in fact is the oldest market in Florence, having been around since 1873. Although it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo, the market here is completely underrated. It’s not as famous as the Central Market, and so its atmosphere is much more laidback. While you’re here, try some traditional foods like lampredotto (made from cow’s stomach), cured meats like finocchiona (fennel salami), pecorino sheep’s cheese, and local wines. You’ll find some excellent Tuscan food at the Trattoria Da Rocco restaurant. The market is open 7am-2pm from Monday-Saturday.

8. Hang out in Piazza Santo Spirito

Piazza Santo Spirito is a public square located in the quiet district of the Oltrarno. In the mornings, the place is bustling with market stalls. Once the sun goes down, locals flock to the bars and restaurants. There’s a nice church to admire at the center of it all as well.

9. Visit the Stibbert Museum

This is one of Florence’s most interesting and unique museums, though it doesn’t get the same attention as the city’s other museums since it’s tucked away on the outskirts of town. This is the private collection of Frederick Stibbert, who also donated his villa and gardens to the city. There’s some fascinating stuff amongst the collection of 36,000 artifacts, including historic armor from the Middle East and a completely reconstructed army of medieval knights sitting on their horses in the great hall. The main attraction: Napoleon Bonaparte’s cloak from when he was coronated. Admission is 8 EUR.

10. SUP on the Arno River

If you want a unique way to see the Arno River, head out for a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) session with Toscana SUP. You’ll paddle your way underneath the Ponte Vecchio and then take a break for a glass of Chianti (you’re in Italy, after all!). Tours start from 60 EUR and last two hours.

11. Check out the Biblioteca delle Oblate

This public library is housed in the former Convent of the Oblate and is a popular study spot for students. It’s an important cultural center too, with an entire section dedicated to local history on the first floor. When you’re done browsing, go to the rooftop terrace for a coffee at the Caffetteria delle Oblate. There’s a great view of the Duomo from here and it’s never crowded with tourists. Note: the cafe is temporarily closed.

12. Admire Santa Croce

Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan church in Italy and holds the tomb of Michelangelo (there are also funerary monuments to Dante and Leonardo da Vinci here too). It’s an interesting place to explore if you have already covered the highlights and have extra time in town. There are usually rotating exhibitions here as well. Admission is 8 EUR.

13. Take a vineyard tour

Florence is surrounded by vineyards, many of which can be accessed via day tours. Most tours visit a couple of vineyards and include some samples. Expect to pay at least 50 EUR per person for a half-day trip. If you have your own vehicle, you can arrange your own tour (but you won’t be able to drink). Many vineyards also operate B&Bs or Airbnbs, which makes for a nice getaway if you want to splash out for a night.

14. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Florence’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Florence has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, this tour is for you! Tours from 89 EUR.

For more information on other cities in Italy, check out these guides:

• Cinque Terre Travel Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• Naples Travel Guide
• Pisa Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sorrento Travel Guide
• Venice Travel Guide

Florence Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs 30-55 EUR per night, while a bed in a dorm with 8-10 beds costs 27-40 EUR.Private rooms cost 85-150 EUR per night during peak season.

In off-peak season, 4-6-bed dorms are 27-33 EUR while 8-10-bed dorms are 25-30 EUR. Private rooms are 70-100 EUR in off-peak season.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and a couple of hostels also have self-catering facilities and offer free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – During peak season, budget two-star hotels start at 80-90 EUR per night. During off-peak season, rooms start at 60 EUR. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are usually included.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for as little as 40-75 EUR per night (though prices are usually double that). You can rent entire homes (usually studio apartments) for closer to 100-125 EUR per night if you book early.

Average cost of food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, and olives and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu. In Florence, popular dishes include bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), lampredotto (tripe sandwich), tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo (pasta with mushrooms and truffles), and of course gelato.

While eating out in the city is expensive, the good thing about Italy is that you can get pizza and pasta for reasonable prices. A filling meal at a casual Italian restaurant won’t cost more than 15 EUR. You can get a small personal pizza for about 10 EUR or less.

If you want to splash out, a mid-range meal with drinks and an appetizer costs around 35 EUR.

You can find cheap sandwich shops all over the city for 4-6 EUR. A fast-food combo (think McDonald’s) costs around 8 EUR.

Chinese takeout is around 6-10 EUR for a noodle or rice dish, while a meal at a Thai restaurant is around 10-15 EUR.

Beer is around 4-5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs 1.50 EUR. Bottled water is around 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 45-55 EUR. This gets you basic staples like pasta, seasonal produce, rice, and some meat.

Backpacking Florence Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Florence, my suggested budget is 65 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying the parks and plazas. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the museums and doing a vineyard tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 250 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need per day. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day, who knows!). We just want to give you a general idea of how to budget your money. Prices are in EUR.

Florence Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Florence is one of the most expensive cities in Italy. A visit here can really set you back, mainly due to all the museum tickets you’ll buy (as well as all the delicious food you’ll eat). Fortunately, there are some ways to save money in Florence. Here are my top tips:

• Eat cheap – Eating near Piazza della Signoria or in the square can be very expensive. If you move further away from the busy tourist hubs, you’ll find cheaper places to eat.
• Travel on foot – Public transportation in Florence isn’t quite as necessary as in other European cities because most attractions are within walking distance. Skip the bus and walk if you can. You’ll save a few euros.
• Get the Firenze Card – If you are going to do lots of sightseeing, this card provides free entry to the top museums, tours, and attractions. It costs 85 EUR and is good for three days. Note: The Firenze Card is currently unavailable.
• Get a Duomo Pass – If you don’t want to get a Firenze Card but still want to visit the monuments of Piazza del Duomo, you’ll want to get one of the three passes: Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti. These range in price from 15-30 EUR depending on which monuments you want to see and are valid for 3 days.
• Pass on the bread – Some restaurants charge extra for bread or breadsticks set on the table — but they won’t tell you until the bill comes. Decline the bread to save money.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine at the store for just a few euros. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in Florence so use Couchsurfing to find free accommodation. It’s the best way to save money and connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Take a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history of the city, see the main attractions, and fill in your day without spending a lot of money. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Florence

There are several budget-friendly hostels in Florence. My favorite places to stay in the city are:

• Plus Florence
• Archi Rossi Hostel
• Ostello Bello Firenze (15% off and a free welcome drink if you’re a member of HostelPass )
• YellowSquare Florence

How to Get Around Florence

Public transportation – Florence, especially the city center, is very walkable. You can get between all the top sights (like the Duomo and the Uffizi) in just a 5-10 minute walk. The furthest you will walk to see just about any attraction is 30 minutes.

That said, if you need public transportation to get around, Florence’s Autolinee Toscane bus system is efficient and reliable. A bus ticket that’s valid for 90 minutes costs 1.50 EUR (or 2.50 EUR if purchased on the bus, though drivers often run out of tickets). You can get tickets at just about any newsstand or kiosk. You can also buy ten 90-minute tickets for 14 EUR.

Bicycle – Florence is mostly flat and ideal for cycling. Rentals start around 10-15 EUR per day. E-bikes cost 30-45 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis aren’t cheap here, so I don’t recommend taking them. The base rate is 4 EUR, and then it’s an additional 1 EUR per kilometer. Skip the taxis if you’re on a budget!

When to Go to Florence

Florence is a year-round destination. The warmest months are July and August, which is also peak season. The average high throughout July and August is 31°C (88°F). Temperatures are slightly cooler in June and September, but these months are also very busy.

December and January are the coolest months, with an average high of 11°C (52°F). From March-May and October-November, temperatures average 7-13°C (46-55°F). It gets a bit rainy during this time, especially in November. Make sure you have a few layers with you.

My favorite months to visit are during the spring and fall when the weather is still nice but the crowds have thinned out.

How to Stay Safe in Florence

Florence is a very safe place to backpack and travel – even if you’re traveling solo or even as a solo female traveler. While violent crime is rare, scams and pick-pocketing are common, especially at major tourist sites. Be vigilant around Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio and always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Don’t buy “skip-the-line” tickets from people on the street as they are usually scamming you and selling you fake tickets. To learn more about scams, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid here.

It’s also a good idea to avoid wandering around the city alone at night, especially in Santa Maria Novella.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe, however, the standard precautions apply (when out at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink, avoid walking home alone at night if you’ve been drinking, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Florence Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Florence Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence, Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

It would take weeks to see everything Florence has to offer. Almost any one of its dozens of churches would be the prize tourist attraction of a smaller city. Some of its sights are among Italy's best-known icons — Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo's David , Brunelleschi's Dome — and the entire city is a showcase of the Italian Renaissance, the humanist artistic movement that broke Europe out of the Dark Ages.

But even among such an illustrious collection of palaces , churches , museums , and landmarks, some stand head and shoulders above the rest. As you consider all the things to see and do in Florence and plan your days of sightseeing, you won't want to miss the highlights that have made Florence one of Europe's most popular cities.

You'll be sure to find the best places to visit by using this handy list of the top attractions and things to do in Florence.

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo

2. battistero di san giovanni (baptistery of st. john), 3. see florence from piazzale michelangiolo, 4. uffizi palace and gallery, 5. piazza della signoria and the loggia dei lanzi, 6. galleria dell'accademia (academy gallery), 7. san lorenzo and michelangelo's medici tombs, 8. palazzo vecchio (palazzo della signoria), 9. santa croce, 10. ponte vecchio, 11. palazzo pitti (pitti palace), 12. santa maria novella, 13. san miniato al monte, 14. bargello palace national museum, 15. stroll through boboli gardens, 16. explore the oltrarno and take a break in piazza santo spirito, 17. palazzo medici-riccardi, 18. mercato centrale: florence's food market, 19. bardini museum and gardens, 20. brancacci chapel, 21. museo galileo, 22. shop for leather at piazza santa croce, where to stay in florence for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to florence, map of tourist attractions in florence, italy, florence, italy - climate chart, more things to see and do.

Piazza Duomo and the group of buildings that form its cathedral complex gather some of Italy's greatest artistic treasures into one relatively small area. As you tour the baptistery, the bell tower, the cathedral, and its museum, you'll see some of the best-known masterpieces of art and architecture by the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance -- Ghiberti, Brunelleschi, Donatello, Giotto, and Michelangelo.

Begin by walking around the square to admire the intricate inlaid marble exteriors, then step inside each one to look more closely at the stained-glass works of art that greet you wherever you look.

If waiting in long lines to buy a ticket is not your idea of fun - especially on a hot day - consider the Skip the Line: Florence Duomo with Brunelleschi's Dome Climb tour. This 2.5-hour guided tour includes the cathedral, the dome, the baptistery, entrance fees, and the option to visit the Opera del Duomo Museum on your own.

• Read More: Exploring Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

From any angle, inside or out, the 12th-century octagonal baptistery is a consummate work of art. Its marble façade, the intricate mosaics of its interior, and the art works it holds all merit a place high on your list.

But the magnificent bronze panels that Ghiberti created for the doors facing the cathedral trump them all. Nowhere has bronze been worked with such exquisite expression as in these Gates of Paradise . For a closer look, and to see some of the treasures that have been made for the baptistery, visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo , the cathedral's museum.

So often misspelled as Piazzale Michelangelo that even city tourism material occasionally slips up, this terrace above the city is an obligatory stop for tour buses, and the spot from which all those postcard shots of the cathedral are taken. During busy tourist seasons, the best time to enjoy it in relative peace is late afternoon or early evening; it's especially lovely at sunset.

Although you can get a 360-degree panorama of Florence from the dome of the cathedral, only from this terrace can you fully appreciate how Brunelleschi's dome dominates the city center. Nor can any other height give you this sweeping city view that encompasses the Ponte Vecchio , Palazzo Vecchio, Santa Croce, and other landmarks.

You can walk here, climbing from the riverbank through the gardens, or take bus 12 or 13. While you're here, continue up to the church of San Miniato al Monte or stay on the bus to the church and walk back down.

Few would argue the Uffizi's place among the handful of world's top art museums. Its collections are simply staggering in their diversity and quality, and even if art is not your main interest, you should see the highlights of the paintings here.

You'll come away understanding a lot more of how Florence's 14th- to 16th-century painters changed the face of western art, as you see the transition from the stilted Byzantine images to the life-like figures and landscapes of the Renaissance artists.

The vast building stretching along the river was one more of the Medici palaces but was intended not as a residence, but to house governmental offices, scientific studies, and part of their growing art collection. One of its loveliest spaces, the octagonal Tribuna , was commissioned especially to display the most prized paintings and jewels of Francesco I de' Medici.

You can bypass the long wait for admission and go straight to the entrance with a Skip the Line: Florence Accademia and Uffizi Gallery Tour that gives you priority access as well as a guided tour.

• Visiting the Uffizi Gallery in Florence: 12 Top Highlights, Tips & Tours

This broad square has been the center of power in Florence since its 14th-century origins - and perhaps even before, as Etruscan and Roman remains have been found below its pavement. Today, it is the social center as well, a favorite meeting place filled with tourists and locals. At its center is the Neptune Fountain , at one side the Palazzo Vecchio , still housing the city's government.

Against the wall of the Uffizi, which forms one end of the piazza, is the Loggia dei Lanzi , an outdoor sculpture gallery with several notable pieces. Most widely recognized of these is Benvenuto Cellini's best-known work, Perseus with the Head of Medusa . In front of the Palazzo Vecchio is a copy of Michelangelo's David .

• Read More: Exploring Piazza della Signoria in Florence: A Visitor's Guide

Michelangelo's best-known work, David , is copied all over Florence, but inside this art museum, you'll find the original. Unfortunately, as a result of an attack on the sculpture, it is now behind glass, but it still never fails to inspire.

The David isn't the only Michelangelo here, nor is it the only important masterpiece. In the sculptures shown in the same gallery, you can almost watch Michelangelo at work as you see the four unfinished slaves, meant for a tomb in Rome, seemingly in the process of being released from the marble.

Here, also, is his St. Matthew for Florence cathedral, also unfinished. You'll want to look in the other galleries to see highlights by 13th- to 16th-century Florentine artists, especially if you do not plan to see the Uffizi Gallery collections. Sandro Botticelli's Madonna is a highlight.

You can save time waiting in the long lines at both these outstanding art museums with a Skip the Line: Florence Accademia and Uffizi Gallery Tour that takes you straight to the entrance, as well as a guided tour.

The Medici commissioned the best talent for the family church and burial chapels: Brunelleschi for the church and Michelangelo for the chapel intended to memorialize their most illustrious princes. Both artists died before finishing the work, but Brunelleschi's church was completed according to his plans.

Michelangelo's chapel, called the New Sacristy, was not; in fact, it was never completed at all. But what he did finish is considered one of the world's crowning achievements in marble sculpture. As you tour the church, the Old Sacristy , the New Sacristy , the Princes' Chapel and the Laurenziana Library, you'll find the works of other Renaissance masters, including Donatello and Lippi.

• Read More: Exploring San Lorenzo in Florence: A Visitor's Guide

History, art, and power echo in the opulent rooms and grand galleries of this fortress-like palace in the center of Florence. From here, the city/republic was ruled, and its powerful Medici family commissioned the leading artists and architects of the day to design and decorate their offices and apartments.

Be sure to sign up early for one of the free tours, so you'll get to see some of the secret passages the Medici used to move among the rooms; return in the evening (save your ticket) to climb to the roof for sunset views of the city.

• Read More: Exploring Palazzo Vecchio (Palazzo della Signoria) in Florence: A Visitor's Guide

Behind the geometric marble inlay of its typical Tuscan façade, Santa Croce is both art-filled church and mausoleum for some of Florence's greatest names. Among its treasures are several landmarks of Renaissance art.

You will want to look especially for Cappella Bardi with some of Giotto's major frescoes, and in the adjacent Cappella Peruzzi, for more of them, which inspired Masaccio and Michelangelo. Donatello's Christ Crucified is considered one of the finest examples of Florentine Renaissance humanism. The frescoes in Cappella Baroncelli are the greatest work of Taddeo Gaddi.

But the most famous is Cimabue's magnificent Crucifix, one of the first to move from stiff Byzantine to naturalistic Renaissance styles, influencing the greatest artists that followed. In the nave, you'll find the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, Ghiberti, the composer Gioacchino Rossini, even Machiavelli.

The Ponte Vecchio may well be the most widely recognized icon of Florence, and its graceful arches topped by a jumble of shops is most certainly one of the city's prettiest scenes. The bridge has traditionally been the home for the shops of Florence's talented goldsmiths, and a stroll across it still shows a dazzling array of fine jewelry.

But most tourists don't realize that another set of treasures hides above their heads. The purpose of the bridge, of course, was to link the two sides of the Arno, and the Medici needed to cross frequently between their offices in the Palazzo Vecchio and their apartments in the Pitti Palace . So they commissioned the architect Vasari to build a passageway, officially called the Percorso del Principe (Passageway of the Prince), but now more often known as the Corridoio Vasariano, Vasari Corridor .

You can see its line of evenly matched windows above the shops. It's not just a hallway; lining its walls is a priceless collection of portraits, mostly self-portraits, by artists that include Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Velásquez.

A day at the Pitti Palace complex (and you could spend a day seeing it all) gives you a little taste of the many things Florence has to offer: an outstanding art gallery, a Medici palace, Florentine craftsmanship, museums, history, royal apartments, and one of Italy's premier gardens.

If a day isn't quite what you had in mind, at least tour the palace to see the Royal Apartments and the sumptuous rooms, where you'll find paintings by Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Tintoretto, and other masters - a collection almost rivaling the Uffizi - hanging not in gallery style, but as decoration for rooms designed for entertaining and show.

• Read More: Exploring the Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens in Florence: A Visitor's Guide

Although this Dominican church has the familiar striped façade of inlaid marble worn by several other churches in Florence , here it has been interpreted quite differently, tracing graceful curving designs, imitating windows, and highlighting rows of arches in the lower story.

The artistry continues inside, with some of the city's finest frescoes, by such masters as Masaccio, Giotto, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Lippi, Paolo Uccello. As if that weren't enough, an entire chapel is lined with Andrea di Bonaiuto's frescoes, some of the greatest artworks of 14th-century Italy.

In addition to the frescoes are a marble pulpit designed by Brunelleschi, his wooden crucifix, Vasari's Rosary Madonna, and a bronze by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Stop in at the convent's historic pharmacy, where they sell herbal balms and floral lotions.

The sight of San Miniato al Monte's inlaid green-and-white marble façade is worth the short climb beyond the favorite viewpoint of Florence, Piazzale Michelangiolo (or you can stay on the bus to ride here).

This was the first time this dramatic effect was used in Florence, where it soon became the most popular façade decoration. But unlike the later facades, this one rises to a large gold mosaic. The portico effect looks back to Classical Roman architecture, and the mosaics are distinctly Byzantine inspired, both influences that blend into the new Tuscan Romanesque architectural style.

Inside, there's a spacious open nave, with a mosaic floor and painted wooden ceiling, ending at a magnificent Renaissance chapel under a glazed blue-and-white terracotta ceiling. More Byzantine-style mosaics, a 12th-century marble pulpit, and the decorated choir screen are all highlights,

Even more outstanding is the sacristy. Its walls are lined by the vibrant panels of Spinello Aretino's 14th-century masterpiece, Life of St. Benedict . It is among the most splendid rooms in Florence, and equal to those in any palace.

Address: Via delle Porte Sante, 34, Florence

The four Michelangelo masterpieces alone are reason enough to put the Bargello Palace on your list of things to do in Florence. Works by Donatello, the della Robbias, Cellini, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and 14th- to 16th-century Tuscan artists fill the palace, along with a room of ivory carvings and a collection of majolica.

An entire room is filled with enamels and gold work, a Florentine specialty during the Renaissance. This emphasis on decorative arts and sculpture sets the Bargello apart from the rest of Florence's art museums .

Address: Via del Proconsolo 4, Florence

Behind the Pitti Palace, the Medicis' Boboli Gardens rise up the hillside in 111 acres of green terraces. Grand Duke Cosimo I spared no expense in their building, between 1550 and 1560, and the result became the model for royal gardens all over Europe (including Versailles ). Still beautifully manicured, the gardens climb to overlooks that reveal increasingly sweeping views over the city.

Throughout are fountains, statuary, and a faux cave complete with stalactites and stalagmites carved into the hillside, the Grotta del Buontalenti .

Other things to see include a maze, formal beds, even an amphitheater in the quarry hole left from removing stone to build the palace. At the highest point is the terrace of the Kaffeehaus, and at the top of the hill overlooking Boboli Gardens, Casino del Cavaliere houses a rich collection of porcelains owned by ruling families, including the Medici and the Savoy.

The Oltrarno is worth exploring for its atmospheric lanes and the workshops and studios of Florence's famous artists in wood, silver, and gold work; gilding; miniature mosaics; decorative papers; and leather bookbinding. You're sure to be tempted by the works for sale in the small shops, and there is no better souvenir or gift than a beautifully bound journal or a gilded wooden box.

Make your way to Piazza Santo Spirito, a lively square that's more intimate than the grander, busier ones across the river. Find an outdoor table at a café or restaurant and watch shoppers at the morning market or children playing ball after school.

Although it's not one of the best-known churches in Florence, the Basilica of Santo Spirito is one of the purest Renaissance churches and is filled with notable paintings and sculpture, especially in the transept chapels

More restrained in its furnishing and décor than the showy palaces of later members of the Medici family, Palazzo Medici-Riccardi is more in line with the earlier dukes, who governed a more democratic society. Completed in 1464, it was the home of the Medicis for nearly a century until Cosimo I moved to the Palazzo Vecchio.

A staircase leads from the courtyard to the Palace Chapel, decorated with well-preserved frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli that give a good sense of court life in 15 th -century Florence.

Although the Riccardi family, which owned the house after the Medicis, made alterations, the Medici Museum on the ground floor retains the original Medici interior. Here, also, is one of Filippo Lippi's most important works, Madonna and Child, painted in1442.

Address: Via Cavour 1 & 3, Florence

Official site: www.palazzo-medici.it

If you have begun to worry that Florence is just one giant open-air museum, it's time to meet some Florentines as they go about their daily routines. There's no better place to find them than in the enormous food market, Mercato Centrale.

To get here, you may have to run a gauntlet of street stalls selling everything from cheap plastics to "authentic Italian crafts" that are mass-produced, mostly in Asia. But once inside and immersed in the fragrance of fresh herbs, flowers, and garden produce, you'll rub elbows with women shopping for ingredients for today's dinner.

Don't overlook this as a source of welcome gifts to take home, including fine Tuscan olive oils, olives, candied fruits, and luscious nougat. On the upper floor, you'll find food courts, a good place to visit for a quick lunch.

Address: Piazza del Mercato, Florence

In the late 19 th century, artist and collector Stefano Bardini bought a group of buildings on a hillside in the Oltrarno, overlooking Florence. From these, which included a chapel and a former palazzo dating from the 14 th century, he created a setting for his collections of art and priceless antiquities.

To create this museum, he used architectural features salvaged from demolished medieval and Renaissance buildings. Monumental fireplaces, doors and windows, columns, carved stonework, entire staircases, paneling, carved Venetian woodwork, even entire ceilings have been retrofitted into a highly eccentric home for his equally eccentric collections.

But the resulting palazzo and its magnificent artworks are not the only attraction for tourists. After completing his museum, Bardini bought a neighboring garden overlooking the river and transformed it into an outdoor gallery to display some of his sculpture collections.

The Bardini Gardens overlook Florence, a lovely place to get away from the crowds and rest your eyes amid the greenery and flowers. The best time is in April, when brilliant purple wisteria covers the pergola and fills the air with fragrance. A long staircase, mosaic fountains, an English garden, and a terrace with a café make it a pleasant place to relax. Entrance to the garden is separate from the museum.

Bardini Gardens

• Costa San Giorgio 2, Florence

Bardini Museum

• Via dei Renai 37, Florence

You would never guess by looking at the plain façade of Santa Maria del Carmine church that inside holds one of the great masterpieces of the 15 th century . Frescoes on the walls and ceilings of the chapel depict the life of St. Peter and Old Testament scenes by Masaccio and Masolino, who were well-known artists in the early 1400s, friends of Brunelleschi and Donatello.

The works, especially those of Masaccio, are remarkable for their vivid color and vitality, demonstrating some of the first use of perspective, and showing facial expressions that give life and energy to his figures.

Masaccio is considered the first great Italian painter of the Quattrocento period (15 th century) of the Italian Renaissance and the founder of the Early Italian Renaissance . The chapel was left unfinished by the two painters and was completed later in the 1400s by Filippino Lippi. Although the chapel is an important landmark, and a magnificent work of art, it is one of the least known treasures of Florence.

Address: Piazza del Carmine 14, Florence

With the abundance of Renaissance painting, sculpture, architecture, and other masterpieces in Florence, it's easy to forget that the Renaissance was about more than art. Science was a major concern of the Humanists as they broke away from the confines of religion to explore their universe. And they saw art and science as connected and inseparable.

The Museo Galileo proves this, with tools of astronomy, navigation, surveying, and exploring that are priceless works of art. You'll see Galileo's own instruments, and the work of some of Florence's foremost artists in metal, wood, gold, and other arts in the collections of compasses, tools, and magnificent world globes.

Address: Piazza dei Giudici 1, Florence

Official site: https://www.museogalileo.it/en/

Fine leatherwork has been a tradition in Florence at least since Renaissance times, when leatherworkers had their workshops around Santa Croce, close to the tanneries along the river. That neighborhood is still the best place to shop for Florentine leather goods. To find the best quality, and at fair prices, shop at the leatherwork school or at an artisan's studio shop; some of the other shops, like the street market vendors, sell imported and imitation leather goods.

Inside the cloister of Santa Croce, the Scuola di Cuoio leatherworking school produces fine handmade leather goods, and you can watch the students fashion wallets, boxes, handbags, and leather jackets. There you'll find Francesca Gori's one-off handbags in rare and exotic leathers, designed especially for the school. You'll also find luggage, bound books, belts, jewelry boxes, and leather clothing.

Also on Piazza Santa Croce is Misuri, in a former palazzo covered in frescoes, with equally fine traditional craftsmanship and designs.

Address: Piazza Santa Croce, Florence

Official site: www.scuoladelcuoio.com

From the UNESCO-acclaimed complex of the cathedral, baptistery, and Giotto's Campanile to the museums and gardens of the Pitti Palace, on the opposite side of the Arno River, Florence's main tourist attractions lie within easy walking distance. And surprisingly, there are plenty of places to stay in the centro storico (historic center). Here are some highly rated hotels in Florence:

Luxury Hotels :

• Adjacent to the cathedral and some of the best shopping streets, Brunelleschi Hotel has recently renovated guest rooms in a historic building with a medieval tower. Superb service, views of the Duomo, and complimentary breakfast add to its appeal.
• Close to attractions but just beyond the crowded streets of the main tourist area, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze rooms have views over Florence and the gardens.
• Famed for its exceptional guest services, Portrait Firenze is on the Arno River overlooking Ponte Vecchio, a block from the Uffizi Gallery.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Family-run Hotel Davanzati , in the historic center near Piazza della Signoria and the cathedral, offers free breakfast and a relaxing patio but no elevator.
• In the historic center, but a short walk from the busiest streets, Hotel Orto De Medici has individually decorated, soundproof rooms, some with private balconies.
• The highly popular Hotel David , on the Oltrano side of the Arno on the way to Piazzale Michelangelo, includes free breakfast and is especially handy for those driving to Florence, offering free parking.

Budget Hotels:

• In a historic home halfway between Santa Croce and Piazza della Signoria, Hotel Santa Croce has free breakfasts that include cappuccino; there's no elevator, but the staff helps with luggage.
• Free buffet breakfast and Wi-Fi, a short walk from Santa Maria Novella rail station and the major attractions, make Hotel Fiorita a good choice for budget travelers.
• In a quiet residential neighborhood a few streets from Santa Croce, Hotel Orcagna is an inviting budget option, with attractive rooms (some with balconies) and free breakfast.
• Getting Around : You can save both time and energy with a Florence City Hop-on Hop-off Tour that stops at 18 of the top attractions in the city, including the must-see view from high above the city at Piazzale Michelangiolo. You can choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass for unlimited rides and 360-degree views from the open-air bus.
• Tuscany Day Trip: Rolling hills bathed in golden light and quaint hilltop villages surround the city of Florence, and the Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour is a great way to see the highlights. An experienced guide will you in a luxury air-conditioned coach to Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa. The tour includes a three-course lunch, entrance fees to Siena Cathedral, and a detailed map of all the destinations.
• Cinque Terre Semi-Private Day Trip: If you want to add another of Italy's famous attractions to your itinerary, the Cinque Terre Semi-Private Day Trip from Florence is an excellent option. See the colorful, cliff-hugging villages of this stunning stretch of coast and cruise across the water between Manarola and Vernazza. This full-day tour allows time for you to explore the villages and includes entrance fees to the coastal walking path, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, the boat ride, and a snack. To ensure personalized service, the tour is only for small groups, with a maximum of eight people.
• Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hiking : For incomparable views and one of the top experiences in Italy, hike a 5.5-kilometer stretch of the famed Cinque Terre walking path between towns on a Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Optional Hiking . The tour includes time for a swim, and transport from Florence on an air-conditioned coach.

Places to Visit near Florence: Several of the best places to visit in Italy are close to the city. The beautiful medieval city of Siena to the south is crowned by one of Italy's most magnificent - and largest - cathedrals, filled with more art masterpieces than some major museums. This and a string of Medici villas are all easy day trips from Florence .

Where to Go from Florence: Pisa's famous Leaning Tower is one of the top tourist attractions in Italy , and only the beginning of beautiful Renaissance monuments and artworks to see there. Less well-known - and less crowded- is the charming, small city of Lucca , surrounded by walls so thick, there's a popular promenade along their tops. Beyond, the Tuscan coast leads into Liguria, with the five villages and magnificent scenery of the Cinque Terre .

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15 Amazing Things to Do in Florence Italy | Ideas for a Memorable Visit

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

The capital of Tuscany, a historic center, home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art, architecture, numerous art museums, and Michelangelo’s famous David, Florence, Italy — Firenze in Italian — should definitely be on your must-visit list when you come to this beautiful European country. A mere wander around the city will leave you gaping with awe, and possibly a sore neck from looking up. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, the whole city is a living museum and a walking tour during your visit to Florence will have you admiring its frescoes and unique works of art.

Its airport is small, so it’s best to fly into the larger city of Bologna, or Italy’s capital — Rome. From both cities, excellent high-speed trains connect to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station in excellent time, plus Train Italia — the main train provider — has an excellent app to book tickets and check train times.

I was lucky to be hosted in both Bologna and Florence. Here, I share some fantastic travel tips and my personal travel guide for things to do when visiting Florence for the first time, plus some not-so-obvious tourist activities.

15 Amazing Things to Do in Florence Italy

1. palazzo vecchio.

Art, statues, history — it’s all here in Florence, and where better to start your exploration than the town hall, also known as the Palazzo della Signoria (where Leonardo Da Vinci was commissioned to paint a huge mural, the Battle of Anghiari) due to its proximity to the Piazza della Signoria. Palazzo Vecchio is a striking palace where art and history combine magnificently with Roman ruins, a medieval fortress, and Renaissance chambers and paintings. It’s also an archaeological site as it sits on top of the ancient theater of the Roman colony of Florentia, dating back to the A.D. 1st century. 

This is certainly one to enjoy if art and history is your thing, or even if not — just stand outside and admire the 14th-century architecture.

2. Piazza Della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is L-shaped and directly outside of the Palazzo Vecchio, showcasing many statues of historical importance to Florence, as well as being a great spot to sit in one of the many cafés that line it. Both locals and tourists flock here to gape at the Palazzo Vecchio, which is also en route to one of Florence’s — and indeed one of Italy’s — most important art attractions, the Uffizi Gallery.

Pro Tip: It gets very busy in the middle of the day, so to avoid being pushed in all directions, keep your possessions in a money belt under your T-shirt just in case.

3. Uffizi Gallery

Adjacent to the Piazza della Signoria is unarguably the most famous art gallery in Italy. Italians are proud of the Uffizi, constructed in the 1500s and housing many ancient sculptures and paintings dating as far back as the Middle Ages to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raffaello, among many more and also Dutch, Flemish, and German painters. 

If you just want to appreciate the building and not spend a lot of time on the art, or leave your companion to it, then head to the cafeteria on the second floor that has magnificent views across Piazza della Signoria and meet each other later. 

Pro Tip: Open Tuesday–Sunday 8:15 a.m.–6:50 p.m., last entry 5:30 p.m. Busiest times of the day are 10 a.m.–12 p.m., so either go early or later in the afternoon.

4. Accademia Gallery 

Also known as the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, although smaller than the Uffizi, it’s famous as it houses Michelangelo’s David , a 17-foot marble statue of a standing nude male representing the biblical hero from David and Goliath , who has also been considered something of a political figure in Florence.

Art connoisseurs will love the gallery in general for its large collection of paintings by local artists from the 1300s to the 1600s. You’re sure to marvel at the building’s design too, meaning you don’t necessarily have to be a fan of art in order to appreciate this masterpiece.

Pro Tip: Due to its popularity, it’s best to get to the gallery pretty early to avoid lines. It opens from 8:15 a.m. until 7:15 p.m. with the best times to visit early morning or after 5 p.m.

5. The Arno River And Ponte Vecchio Bridge

If for some reason you’re tired of art galleries and museums, then a stroll in the glorious spring and fall weather along the promenade of the River Arno — the river that cuts through Florence and flows eventually into the Mediterranean on the west coast of the country — is a pleasant way to spend a morning or afternoon.

There are 12 bridges crossing the river, five main ones in the city center and the most famous being the Ponte Vecchio — built at the Arno’s narrowest point, the only bridge to have escaped destruction in World War II and with the wooden construction dating back to Roman times, Florence’s oldest bridge. Rebuilt with stone in 1345 after a flood in 1333 destroyed the original, the bridge was initially lined with butcher shops for about 150 years in the 1400–1500s but were replaced with gold merchants in the 1600s by ​​Ferdinando I de Medici because the butchers would throw their waste into the river, creating an awful smell.

Today, you can wander over the bridge and still see the remnants of the original merchants, and buy gold jewelry from the shops there.

6. The Brunelleschi Dome

The largest masonry vault in the world, at 45.5 meters (149 feet) in diameter and 116 meters (381 feet) in height, the Brunelleschi Dome was built by Filippo Brunelleschi between 1420 and 1436. The history of the dome and how it was constructed is magnificent. It’s possible to look around the dome — well worth it — and to also climb it.

Pro Tip: Book your tour and climb on separate days. It’s only possible to book online, which is handy as it means you have advance tickets.

7. Mercato Centrale

Rather than always choosing a restaurant, grab a bite to eat at the Mercato Centrale — the Central Market (Piazza Del Mercato Centrale) where there are artisan food stalls on two levels selling Tuscan cuisine. Order your food and eat at one of the many tables scattered around. If you have a particular dish you wish to try after consulting its website, it might be best to reserve a table, especially over weekends and public holidays. But the whole concept of the Mercato Centrale is to pitch up and see what you’d like to eat. 

You’ll also find local Tuscan meats and cheeses to take home with you, or in the northern corner, a seafood area where vendors sell fish and shellfish from around Italy. 

Before or after filling your stomach, pop outside and wander around the outdoor San Lorenzo market where you can purchase leather goods. 

8. Food Tour Of Florence

On the subject of food, you shouldn’t leave Florence without taking a food tour of the city. I lucked out by joining Eating Europe’s Florence sunset tour in the original working-class neighborhood of Oltrarno — across the river Arno where our gregarious and passionate guide not only took us to various spots to sample different cheeses, including with rare truffle, appetizers such as stuffed calamari and savory cheesecake, wine tasting accompanied by a traditional Italian delicacy that I won’t ruin the surprise and Tuscan beef peppery stew. We also had the opportunity to learn about the history of our gastronomical delights.

One of our stops allowed us to mix our own Negroni cocktail, reportedly originating from Florence in 1919 when, after having traveled to London and tasted gin, Count Camillo Negroni asked the barman at his favorite Cafe Casoni to replace the soda in an Americano cocktail with gin, and voila, the Negroni was born.

Samples of Tuscan delicacies are what you’ll come away with on an Eating Florence tour… it’s well worth it for a brief and interesting history lesson, too. And, as you finish up your tour, ask your guide for a tip on where to buy the best gelato. You must try this famous ice cream on your visit to Florence.

9. 25 Hours Hotel Companion Bar

A stone’s throw away from the regenerated area of Santa Maria Novella, a lesser-known and more authentic Florentine neighborhood and minutes from the train station, taking up a whole block is the new 25 Hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino.

Once a convent in the 13th century, and then a pawnshop until as late as the 1990s, this epic conversion project designed to rejuvenate a community area, has a total of 171 rooms, 66 in the original monastery building next to the delightful San Paolino church, a small apartment with private garden and pool and, more importantly for non-guests, the traditionally Italian with an international twist, Companion Bar.

Open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., enjoy your Negroni or specially mixed cocktail of your choice in these unique surroundings and take in the architectural marvel of the building. Enjoy your drink in the historical Florentine way; standing on the pavement in front of the bar as your drink is passed through the buchetta del vino — literally “little wine holes.”

Pro Tip: It’s a good choice of hotel for a base on your Florentine adventure as it’s a traditional district, about a 7-minute stroll to the river, and has taken the theme of Florence to heart with cleverly designed Dantesque Heaven and Hell rooms and suites.

10. Santa Maria Del Fiore

This Florence Cathedral, the Gothic-style Santa Maria del Fiore , started construction in 1296 and was completed in 1436. It’s a must-visit on your Florence itinerary as it was the largest in Europe when it was completed in the 15th century. 

11. Piazzale Michelangelo

Another thing to do when on your visit to Florence, and a must-visit for any first-time visitor, is to spend time in the Piazzale Michelangelo. Although slightly farther from the city center, i.e., about a mile from the Brunelleschi Dome, the Piazzale is a square across the river offering superb views of Florence and its surroundings.

12. Pitti Palace

Located on the south side of the River Arno, a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio Bridge, Pitti Palace is a huge Italian Renaissance palace divided into five museums. Pitti Palace hosts a vast collection of works, such as the Palatine Gallery, with art from Florence’s famous Medici family; the Palatine Chapel; and the Gallery of Modern Art, with paintings and sculptures from Neoclassicism to the 1930s.

13. Boboli Gardens

Directly behind the palace, you’ll find the Boboli Gardens. Created by Florence’s Medici family, with its ancient and Renaissance statues, it’s a living museum in itself. 

14. Caffe Gilli

Think coffee and pastries in a swanky, historic setting. Caffe Gilli , located on the corner of Piazza Repubblica, has been the place to sip your espresso since 1773. Known worldwide for their delicacies, you mustn’t leave without trying something. If you visit around Easter or Christmas, try traditional Italian desserts like colomba or panettone. Grab a box of chocolates and bonbons as a souvenir.

Pro Tip: Table service is an extra charge; Italians typically just sip the drink quickly while standing at the bar.

15. Giardino Bardini

Somehow, the magical silence and stunning architecture in the Bardini Gardens get lost in the crowd of places to visit while in Florence. Restored and reopened to the public in 2006, the garden boasts epic views of the river Arno and the city below.

The baroque flight of steps and the wisteria tunnel are the most picturesque parts of the garden and both lead to a cafeteria and a restaurant. By walking among colorful flowerings and trees you’ll be immersed in the seven centuries of the history of the Villa Bardini and the City of Florence.

Pro tip: If you visit the garden during April, the magnificent purple wisteria arch is in bloom.

If you have enough time, visit San Miniato Al Monte, Piazza Del Duomo, and the Basilica DI Santa Croce.

Bonus: Bologna 

As it’s only 28 minutes by high-speed train to Tuscany’s second-largest city, Bologna , a day trip is well worth it if you’re spending a few days in the region.

Yet more culture, art, and museums await — the difference with Bologna, though, is its vibe. As a student city, it has a more bohemian feel to it, where locals and students alike intermingle well in the community together. There are 400,000 citizens, and 87,000 of those are students!

Bologna is most famous, however, for its UNESCO-designated porticos , or arches. In the city center alone — spanning from the main square of Piazza Maggiore, there are 24 miles of these stone arches that can be explored with a good guide. 

Bologna Welcome organized a Portico tour, and I was lucky to have a lovely guide show me around and explain the history. Porticos were originally designed in the 11th century to help create more surface area and room for the private buildings as the city expanded its trading activities and the arrival of more professors and students of the university.

They are a meeting point, and as you wander around this beautiful city, you’ll see lots of cafes and pavement tables where people congregate to drink their coffee and enjoy life and good conversation. In the past, as Bologna was popular for trading fabrics such as silk since the 1300s, several markets opened under them. It’s no wonder they’ve been designated World Heritage importance as they help preserve the cultural and social fabric of this unique city.

As you’ve seen, there’s so much to explore when you visit Florence and Bologna. Hopefully, this article has whetted your appetite to spend time in this region of Tuscany during your Italian vacation.

How Do I Skip the Museum Lines in Florence?

You can buy tickets for the city’s top museums anywhere from a day to years in advance on the official Florentine Museums’ website. Millions of tourists every year will make a beeline for each famous museum sometime during their stay. So, don’t miss out.

How Many Days Do You Need in Florence?

Exploring Florence and its rich history is possible in a day or two, but staying for at least three or four days would be perfect. If you’re not into museums and don’t plan to go on day trips, you can cover the other highlights of Florence in just two days.

Is Florence Better Than Rome?

It depends on your preferences. Rome is best for ancient history and Roman ruins, while Florence is best for Renaissance and classic Italian culture. If you have to choose one, choose the one that suits your personal interests.

What To Do When Not Visiting the Museums in Florence?

Museums are not the be-all and end-all of when you visit Florence. Explore the streets. piazzas and markets, dine in a rooftop bar, admire the beautiful architecture and monuments, climb to the top of Palazzo Vecchio, and hunt for hidden gems.

Is It Easy to Drive in Florence?

Yes, in comparison to Italy’s other capital cities, Florence is actually one of the better places to navigate from behind the wheel. One thing to keep in mind though is that Florence’s city center is littered with restricted areas accessible only with a permit.

She writes for a variety of digital and print travel media including The Telegraph newspaper and various inflight airline magazines including features in European carriers such as Wizz Air and hotel and restaurant reviews for easyJet. Her debut novel, Girl Gone Greek — available from Amazon — has been made into a film script, winning Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2018 London Greek Film Festival and Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2020 Santorini Film Festival.

Are you planning to take a trip to Florence? We can help! At Introducing Florence you'll find updated information about what to see , where to stay , the best places to eat , and much more!

Florence Travel Guide

• General Info
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Florence
• Where to Stay
• Where to eat
• 48-Hour Itinerary

Florence (Firenze in Italian) is a small cultural metropolis that offers visitors some of the world’s top museums and art galleries . The city is a real open-air museum and is the birthplace of the Renaissance .

Why visit Florence?

Tuscany is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and as the capital of the region, Florence is mainly visited for its museums , its fashion boutiques, its tasty Florentine cuisine, for an unforgettable experience watching the sunset over the Ponte Vecchio or to admire some of the most stunning Renaissance artwork, like the sculpture of David . If we're sure of something, is that Florence will leave no visitor indifferent.

Florence is a tourist destination that can be seen in one day or in a week . Some travellers prefer to go for a day or two from Rome to see the top attractions and get a feel for the city, while others prefer to take their time in Florence and take advantage of their trip to visit other villages and towns in the stunning region of Tuscany. Whether it be for a day, a week or a month, visitors will want to return to Florence in the near future .

How to organise your trip?

Before preparing your trip to Florence, we recommend reading about the city’s history and general information , which can be useful for when you're in the metropolis. Then why not read about  Florence’s top attractions , the best museums and art galleries ?

When it's time to look for a hotel,  we suggest reading our article on the best areas to stay in Florence. And just before travelling, we recommend reading about the region’s traditional cuisine , so that you do not miss out on any of the city’s top dishes. With all this information, you'll guarantee an unforgettable trip to Florence.

Book your hotel in advance

Since Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, we recommend booking your hotel or accommodation as far in advance as possible. Check out the following link and  you'll find all types of hotels, hostels and apartments with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to 75% off if you pay directly at the hotel.

• Hotels in Florence – Book online for the best rates guaranteed

Want to discover other Italian cities?

If you're travelling through Italy and want to find information on other great places to visit, check out our travel guides of Rome , Milan and Venice .

top activities

Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip Take a day trip from Florence and discover three of Italy’s most beautiful cities . The Tour also includes an exquisite 3-course Italian lunch at a winery.

Private Tour of Florence Discover the most emblematic landmarks of Florence accompanied by an exclusive guide. The birthplace of the Renaissance awaits!

Accademia Gallery Guided Tour Accompanied by an expert guide, skip the line and get straight into the Accademia Gallery and discover Renaissance masterpieces including Michelangelo's “David”

San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Day Trip Set off on a fabulous day trip from Florence and discover Tuscany’s medieval towns, beautiful countryside and wine territory .

Florence Cathedral Tour + Dome & Terraces Discover the Italian Renaissance on our tour of the Florence Cathedral . You'll have access to the temple, the panoramic terraces & the Brunelleschi Dome !

Free Walking Tour of Florence Join us on this free walking tour in Florence. We'll explore the  historic centre of what is a Renaissance open-air museum and uncover the Tuscan Capital's past.

Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner During this Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner, a professional chef will guide you step by step to make some of the most typical dishes of the region.

Chianti Half-Day Wine Tour Explore the Chianti wine region during a half day trip from Florence and visit two rustic wine estates, where you will enjoy a tasting of local produce.

Pompeii Train Excursion In Florence & want to visit the Roman city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius? Don't hesitate to book this excursion to Pompeii by train !

Cinque Terre Day Trip Take a day trip to Cinque Terre - a group of fishing villages on the Italian Riviera surrounded by hills and vineyards. One of the best day trips from Florence!

On our unforgettable electric buggy tour of Florence, we'll explore  one of the Italian Renaissance's most important cities  in a fun and unique way. Let's go!

Palazzo Vecchio Secret Passages Tour Wind your way through a labyrinth of hidden doors and corridors concealed within an ancient Florentine palace on our Palazzo Vecchio Secret Passages Tour.

Pienza, Monteriggioni & Montalcino Day Trip Join us on a route of medieval Tuscany on this day trip to Pienza ,  Monteriggioni and  Montalcino . We'll see the most charming corners of Tuscany !

Florence Hop On Hop Off Bus Discover Florence’s top sights, monuments, squares, and streets at your own leisure along the route of this Hop-On Hop-Off tour bus.

Pisa and Lucca Day Trip Take a day trip from Florence to discover Pisa and Lucca, two of Tuscany’s most-visited cities, and their famous attractions including the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Opera in the Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio Enjoy a live performance of the famous opera interpreted by the three tenors in an unsurpassable auditorium : the Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio church.

Pisa and the Leaning Tower Half-Day Trip Set off on a day trip to Pisa and explore one of the most visited cities in Italy on a guided tour of the centre and then climb the world-famous Leaning Tower.

Baptistery & Duomo Museum Tour + Giotto's Bell Tower Explore two of the most important buildings in Piazza di San Giovanni on this tour of the Baptistery & the Opera del Duomo Museum .

Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour Skip the line and visit the most important museum in Florence with a professional guide. The Uffizi is a must-see for all first time visitors to Florence.

Florence Outlet Shopping Tour Take a shopping trip just 40 minutes from Florence and discover the Barberino Outlet with over 200 stores, including Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Nike and Prada.

Medici Florence Tour Dive head first into  Florence ! Stroll through the street on a guided tour as we uncover the impact of the famous Medici family on the city's architecture .

Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour Skip the line and step into the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall and one of the city’s most emblematic buildings with an expert English-speaking guide.

Pienza & Montepulciano Day Trip + Wine Tasting Travel into the heart of Siena on this day trip . You'll visit two villages famous for their charming atmosphere and sample some fine local wines .

Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip On this tour, we'll remember the film Under the Tuscan Sun travelling through the regions of Umbria and Tuscany and visiting towns such as Assisi and Orvieto .

Chianti Wine Tour Discover one of Italy's most famous winemaking regions with this Chianti Wine Tour. Visit this charming town in the picturesque Tuscan landscape.

Pitti Palace & Palantine Gallery Tour Discover the Medici dynasty's place of residence and be fascinated by one of Italy's largest art collections with this Pitti Palace & Palantine Gallery Tour.

Guided Tour of Santa Croce Basilica Discover the beautiful Tuscan church, originally dating back to 1212, hosting a great amount of artistic wealth with this Guided Tour of Santa Croce Basilica.

Florence Cathedral Guided Tour Fall in love with one of the jewels of the Italian Renaissance with this fantastic guided tour of Florence Cathedral. It's perfect for art and history lovers!

Chianti Vespa Tour Touring the Chianti region is incredible, but doing it on a Vespa while soaking up the smells and sounds of Tuscany makes it a unique experience.

Private Day Trip from Florence Explore the areas surrounding the Renaissance capital with a Private Day Trip from Florence. Discover the charming Tuscan region with an exclusive guide.

Sant’Ambrogio Market Food Tour On this food tour of the San Ambrogio market , you'll get to taste the delicious schiacciata of the award-winning All'Antico Vinaio sandwich shop  and much more!

Pizza and Opera in Florence Would you like to enjoy an unforgettable evening in Florence ? Then, don't miss this pizza dinner and opera in the Oltrarno district of the Renaissance city!

Florence Food Tour On our Florence food tour , we'll visit the San Lorenzo Market and several restaurants. We'll also taste lots of delicious, traditional Tuscan products .

Sunset in Siena and Chianti Dinner Set off on a day trip to the magnificent city of Siena and admire a beautiful sunse, then head to a wine estate in the Chianti area. A perfect Tuscan evening.

Inferno Guided Tour Are you a fan of Professor Robert Langdon's adventures? Follow in his footsteps with this Inferno Guided Tour and discover the settings of the novel and film!

Renting a Vespa with an audio guide is the most fun and typical way to discover all the treasures that surround Florence , the city of the Renaissance.

Medici Riccardi Palace Guided Tour Visit one of the most important buildings of the Renaissance on this Medici Riccardi Palace tour. You'll learn how the most powerful family in Florence lived!

Hard Rock Cafe Florence Enjoy delicious American cuisine in a restaurant decorated with tons of rock 'n' roll memorabilia at the Hard Rock Cafe in Florence !

Italian Pizza & Gelato Workshop Experience Italian cuisine first-hand and cook alongside a professional chef on this Italian Pizza and Gelato Workshop. Enjoy making your own delicious dishes!

Venice Day Trip Discover the most famous floating city in the World when you take this brilliant trip to Venice, Italy's most enchanting city.

Bargello Museum Guided Tour Admire remarkable works of art to come from the Italian Renaissance with this Bargello Museum guided tour . Discover the impressive techniques and history.

On this electric bike tour of Florence and Piazza Michelangelo , we'll ride through one of the most beautiful areas of the capital of Tuscany.

Electric Boat Ride & Tuscan Lunch Experience the charm of Florence from a unique vantage point with this electric boat ride on the Arno River , followed by a delectable Tuscan lunch .

Mount Vesuvius Day Trip Hop on a train to Naples for a day trip to Mount Vesuvius - ascend to the summit aboard a minibus and learn about this historic volcano from an expert guide.

Chianti Tour by Vintage Fiat 500 Spend the day driving a beautiful and  classic Fiat 500  and explore Tuscany’s stunning landscape and its scattered medieval and Renaissance villages

Florence City Pass Save money while travelling in Florence with the Florence City Pass ! Also, enjoy priority access to the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery .

Florence, Accademia and Uffizi Gallery Tour Take a guided tour of Florence’s historic center followed by the visit to two of the city’s most famous museums: Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery.

Piazzale Michelangelo Walking Tour This walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo will take us to one of the most famous squares in Florence, from where we'll look out over the city of the Arno .

Florence Mysteries & Legends Free Tour On this free tour of Florence , we'll get to know the darker and more hidden side of the city while discovering its most surprising mysteries and legends .

Florence Walking Tour Take a guided tour of Florence and discover why it is considered the cradle of Renaissance while you admire its most emblematic monuments and buildings.

Learn how to make some Italian dishes and delicious desserts   with this pasta and pastry workshop in Florence . You'll get to sample your creations!

Florence Mysteries & Legends Tour The beautiful Italian city of Florence is a hive of legendary tales and hidden secrets. Explore its most mysterious corners on this guided walking tour.

Arno River Boat Tour On this peaceful boat ride through Florence, we'll navigate the Arno River and cross under the arches of the Ponte Vecchio in an authentic Florentine gondola!

Why read our Florence guide?

Our Florence tourist guide has been created by travelers like you to help you plan your trip and get the most out of it, all the while saving money.

The information in this guide was updated in February 2024. If you find any errors or anything you think we should change, please get in touch .

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Some Practical Information & Other details

As you plan your visit to Florence, some basic information about the city is useful. We have collected some particular details below to help you as you plan your visit to Florence.

You'll find tips and suggestions the best ways to move around the city, where to park if you're driving, general information on weather (as well as forecast) and maps in order to help you plan your stay in Florence!

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• Getting to Florence
• Moving around Florence

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The ZTL Area in Florence: Avoid it like the plague!

If you are considering driving in Florence, here is everything you need to know about the ZTL zone in Florence, the much-feared restricted traffic areas you find in many Italian cities. Where are the boundaries, who can enter, when? Continue reading for more details.

17 Things to Know Before Coming to Tuscany (and Italy)

Planning your first vacation to Italy and Tuscany? Read our top tips on things to know before you come to Italy!

Where to Park in Florence

A useful map of parking lots around Florence's historical center, perfect for leaving the car outside the ZTL while you visit for the day. Includes free parking areas as well as information on opening hours and costs for parking in Florence.

A Brief History of Florence

A brief overview of Florence's history, presented as a timeline of the major events which have shaped the course of the city's history and its present.

Top Experiences in Florence

Practical Information

Practical details and information on Florence, from hospitals, pharmacies to emergency numbers and tourism offices.

Where to stay in Florence?

Here are some tips and suggestions about Florence and the areas where you can stay at during your visit to this beautiful Renaissance city: center, city and surroundings.

Parking in Florence with Parclick

Staying in the center of Florence and have a car? Want to drive into the ZTL for a day trip, without fear of fines? Then we recommend you look into using a private garage in the center so that the ZTL entrance will be taken care of! Book your parking directly online with Parclick to know which garage is best and how to get there.

Fun Cultural Differences

It can be even more fun to slide right into the culture & traditions if you know the whys and wherefores.  Read here for an insider's perspective of the do's and don'ts while traveling in Florence.

Before You Arrive: Be Prepared

It helps to know the lay of the land before you arrive: all those little details about travelling abroad that become essential once you get here.  Read here for some important details & practical info while exploring Florence.

Why visit Florence in the low season?

There are many reasons, including being more budget-friendly and enjoying less crowded sights! Read our article for more reasons why visiting Florence in its low season is a good idea.

Our Travel Guides

Visit Florence Italy - Firenze Travel Guide

N°1 florence travel guide - tips for sightseeing, tourism in firenze city.

All sighstseeing, tourist attractions information and tips for your city break in Florence such as visiting the sights and highlights. What to visit in Firenze Italy? Your trip starts on FlorenceTips.com

Relive the Renaissance during a city break to Florence

Florence, or Firenze , is the capital of the famous Italian region of Tuscany . It is one of the most visited cities in Italy , attracting approximately ten million tourists every year. This online Florence travel guide will inform you about all the Attractions in the Tuscan capital and provide you with some useful tips to make a visit to the city as successful as possible. For example, it is advisable to book and reserve your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. When you take this information and tips to yourself, you are assured of a successful city trip to the city of the Renaissance, Florence !

The foundation of Firenze

Florence city was founded in the year 59 BC by Emperor Julius Caesar. He named the Roman settlement Florentia and used the area as a large Roman army camp. Something you can still see in the street map of Firenze even now. Florentia was especially important, because it was on the Arno River and as a result a fertile valley for the Roman troops.

A lively period in the Middle Ages

After the time of the Romans, Florence fell into several hands, as in the sixth century in the hands of the Longobards, a Germanic people. After this, Florence became a separate city-state and in the thirteenth century Florence took a leading position thanks to a flourishing trade in textiles and wool, supported by the Florentine banking system

The period of the Medici in Italy

In the course of time, the power of Florence city, which lay first in the hands of guilds and later of the republic, passed to noble families. The most famous example of this is the Medici family. For three centuries, the Medici ruled Firenze and later much of Tuscany. The Medici were a banking family who helped Florence reach its growth. During the time of the banking family, Florence grew into the intellectual and cultural heart of Europe, where an artistic flourishing took place. Well-known names such as Dante, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Donatello and Petrarca date from this period, which we know as the Renaissance and the reason why we still have Florence on our to do list.

Events in Firenze

During a city break Florence you can attend a number of well-known events. For example, on Easter Sunday, the Florentines have the Scoppio del Carro, detonating a decorated bullock cart in front of the Duomo to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. In addition, on the Sunday after Ascension, there is the Festa del Grillo, where singing crickets are sold in the Parco del Cascine to spread happiness. In May and June there is also the Florence Music Festival, with classical concerts, operas, recitals and ballet performances at various locations in the city. Sports fans can also attend a match of the famous football club Fiorentina or music lovers can attend a concert at the Nelson Mandela Forum.

Tourism in Firenze Italy

There are so many impressive attractions to see in Florence that you could argue that the entire city is a museum and as such is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Below is a brief overview of the most famous tourist attractions that you must see. Many of these sights are within walking distance of each other in the downtown area, but some noteworthy attractions are just outside the city. That is why you can reach many places on foot and for the hard-to-reach places you can take public transport.

The Florentine churches

The most famous landmark in Florence has to be the Duomo or Santa Maria del Fiore. The 115 meter high dome of the Duomo di Firenze and the adjacent Campanile have defined the Florentine skyline for centuries. When visiting the Florence cathedral , don't forget the Baptistery opposite, known for its bronze portals by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The Santa Maria Novella , opposite the train station, is a Gothic church dating back to the fourteenth century. The Santa Maria Novella is known for the Strozzi Chapel, which is inspired by Dantes La Divina Commedia. The Santa Croce is also a Gothic basilica, which can be found in Piazza Santa Croce. The Santa Croce as supposed to surpass the Santa Maria Novella, but is best known for the famous people buried there, such as writer and philosopher Machiavelli.

The palaces in Florence Italy

The Palazzo Vecchio has been Florence's main palace for centuries, functioning as a government building. Today you can visit it as a museum and enter the palace spire for panoramic views of the city. Another attraction worth visiting is the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, a residential palace of the Medici family, which later housed the Riccardi. Also the impressive Pitti Palace with the accompanying Boboli gardens is a loved attraction.

Uffizi, Accademia and other museums

The Galleria degli Uffizi is the most famous museum in Florence Italy . The art collection goes back to the collection of the Medici. The most famous work of art present is Botticelli's Birth of Venus. The previously mentioned Palazzo Pitti has also become a museum, showcasing everything from clothing to art. The accompanying Boboli gardens are also a museum in itself. Other museums include the National Bargello Museum, the Museum of Galileo Galilei and the Monastery with the San Marco Museum.

Other places to visit in Florence

More tips for visiting Florence Italy: the famous bridge over the River Arno, the Ponte Vecchio , is also one of the most famous sights of the Tuscan capital. This bridge is characterized by the many jewelers, whose shops are build on the bridge. If you cross the Arno, you will soon arrive at a palace with beautiful, large gardens: the Boboli gardens . These gardens are known for the works of art that can be found there, such as the famous Grotta Grande. Also visit the famous squares, such as the Piazza della Signoria , Piazzale Michelangelo and the Piazza della Repubblica .

Best activities and places to visit

• Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi is the most famous museum in Florence, which includes famous works of art by Botticelli and Rubens. Tour the art periods, which stretch from the Middle Ages to the modern era, and let yourself be enchanted by the splendor.

Top 25 Florence attractions

Florence Italy is a great open-air museum for anyone who loves history and culture. The Tuscan city is full of interesting museums, squares, churches, statues and Renaissance art and is more than just the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo or Palazzo Vecchio.

• Top 25 Florence

The Duomo is the landmark that everyone thinks about when thinking about Florence. Dominating the skyline of Florence, it has become a true landmark of the city. Climb Brunelleschi's 115 meter high dome for a beautiful view of the city.

• Accademia Gallery

The Galleria dell’Accademia is an art school, where a large collection of sculptures is collected that served to inspire the students. The most famous statue in the Accademia is Michelangelo's original David.

• Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence's most famous bridge over the river Arno. The bridge is best known for its shops, which are located on the bridge. Blacksmiths, tanners and butchers used to live here, but nowadays you will mainly encounter jewelers here.

• Palazzo Vecchio

For years, the government of Florence took place in the Palazzo Vecchio. Even today, the Firenze city council still resides here. Today, however, the palace has more of a function as a museum, partly because of the famous frescoes that you can admire here.

Traveling to Florence (Italy)

Florence city can be reached in several ways. First, the city has a small airport , Amerigo Vespucci Airport. If you are already in Italy and are taking a return trip to Florence, you can also easily reach the Tuscan capital by train. By train, regional or high speed, you will arrive at Santa Maria Novella, from where you only have to walk a few minutes to get to the historic center.

Best time to travel to Firenze & Tuscany

Florence city, like the rest of Italy, has a Mediterranean climate , which means that in the summer months, in the driest months, the city has a rainfall of less than thirty milliliters. The month with the most rainfall has three times as much rainfall as the driest month. Due to the influence of the Mediterranean, the daytime temperatures in Florence are quite high and less extreme weather conditions occur. The summer months of July and August are often very hot with days averaging thirty degrees Celsius. Many Florence tourist attractions respond to this with good air conditioning, but the Duomo with its narrow stairs, it is better not to climb in direct sunlight. The best time to visit Firenze is therefore in spring or autumn, where you will still have sunny days but without the oppressive heat of the summer months.

Video: Florence Sightseeing

Where is firenze city located in italy.

Firenze is the capital of the Tuscany region of central Italy. The capital Rome is located 273 kilometers south of Florence city. Bologna is 104 kilometers north and Venice is already 256 kilometers away. Milan is even 307 kilometers away.

Best things to do in Florence

Top 25 Florence Attractions

Uffizi Gallery & Tickets

Duomo, the Florence Cathedral

15 things you must do in Florence, Italy

Posted: December 17, 2023 | Last updated: December 18, 2023

The magic of Florence is well documented, to say the least, but it can be easy to overlook just how great this city really is. The Renaissance capital is right up there with the most famous places in the world, a city of endless artistic treasures, iconic foodie pleasures, and enough cultural heritage to fill an entire country. What are the best things to do in Florence? Check out our list of essentials so you can start planning your trip today! 

It's impossible to work on a list of the best things to do in Florence without listing the Duomo right off the bat. The largest church in town was built in 1296 and attracts tourists like a magnet. So many people come here daily that you'd think Catholicism was the new Tik Tok. Let's be honest, though: we're all here for the architecture, the view from the top of the Duomo and the layered, colorful fresco by Giorgio Vasari. 

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A museum that showcases the Renaissance from its beginning to end, The Uffizi Gallery provides an excellent overview of the most decadent era in art history.  The walls are lined with works by Raphael, Leonardo and Michelangelo (basically, all the Ninja Turtles), as well as works by other Italian masters like Botticelli and Caravaggio. Plus, the venue is home to one of the great rooftop bars. Grab a spritz and enjoy a view no paintbrush could capture. 

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Piazza Michelangelo

Speaking of views, there's only one place where you can get a panoramic view of the whole city. Piazza Michelangelo offers a view of the countryside, the Duomo, Arno and Palazzo Vecchio, and all those magnificent houses in between. 

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Mercato Centrale

Dodge the wait time at restaurants and instead head inside this 19th-century market. Home to some of the freshest fruit, wine and veggies in Florence, Centrale's second floor is packed with vendors serving up dishes you can't find anywhere else.

Did we mention Florence might have the best food on the planet? Whether the stories are true or not, the city's restaurants are packed with locals who can't get enough of their cuisine. Zeb is one such place, a Michelin Guide restaurant serving up some of the best dishes in town. Make sure you book in advance, though, cause everyone who lives here knows that the food at Zeb is to die for. 

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Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio is a gorgeous structure in the main square, making it a great stop if you're short on time or want a birds-eye-view of Florence. Plus, the hall of 500 is a room you really can't miss.

Boboli Gardens

Step back in time (literally) as you wander through one of the oldest gardens in Italy. This estate was once home to monarchs and artists and remains one of the most verdant areas in the city. The landscape is lined with statues, fountains and flowers, and overlooks both the tiles of the town and the treetops of the tillage. Bring a book, a friend and some food--there's no better place to have a picnic. 

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Bibliotecca della Oblate

There are more cafes in Florence than there are Starbucks in Los Angeles, but sitting in the throngs of tourists can take away from the glamour of it all. If you want to enjoy an espresso with a view of the Duomo, away from all the noise and vendors and music, head over to Biblioteca Della Oblate for a coffee done right. There's a reason locals have been coming here for years--it's about as peaceful as the city gets.  

Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is emblematic of the city of Florence. Looming over the Arno River with arched shoulders, this medieval bridge is considered one of the most famous sights in Europe, one that's stood the test of time. Like the rest of Florence, it somehow hasn't aged a day since it was built. 

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Galleria dell' Academia

Let's be honest: the Statue of David carries this museum like Lebron carried the 2018 Cavs. There's not much here, but Michelangelo's statue remains such a dominant force, you just have to buy a ticket. 

Piazza della Signoria

This square is home to some of the finest art in Florence, as well as other tourist attractions like the Uffizi Gallery, Gucci Gardens and Palazzo Vecchio. Swing by at night for a free concert, or come in the morning to see the center as it was 500 years ago--awash in sunlight, silence and statues. 

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Cappelle Medicee

Cappelle Medicee is one of the oldest and largest domes in Florence and one of the city's best-kept secrets. Originally built as a showcase for Medici's art collection, it was turned into a chapel and now houses a room full of Michelangelo's. Even better? No crowds! 

Giardino Bardini

If you want a slice of nature without actually going to... nature ... there's no better place to visit than Giardino Bardini. Lined with olive groves, fountains and wisteria, everything here is tailor-made for relaxation. 

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Florence is full of ice cream parlors, but with all due respect, not many will offer you a proper taste of gelato. For that, head to the fashion district where you can find a little joint called Perche No. Not only does it have the softest, most celebrated gelato in town, but it's also got a tiramisu that can go toe-to-toe with any tiramisu in Paris. 

Tuscan Hill Towns

Take a day trip to one of the many hill towns in Tuscany. The options are endless, and you'll be able to soak up that famous Tuscan sun you've been reading about. In the summer months, Sienna is where most people go, though it's San Gimignano that offers the ultimate hill town experience. Surrounded by medieval towers, lined with cobblestone alleys and ripe with overgrown vines, this is the perfect spot to unwind after a week in Florence. 

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