top 10 tourist attractions in florence italy

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 Top Tourist Attractions in Florence, Italy

The capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is internationally esteemed for its high concentration of Renaissance art and architecture. Because it served as a wealthy and important center for medieval trade and commerce, the city gave birth to the Italian Renaissance movement.

Florence is also credited with propagating many artists, inventors, writers, scientists and explorers as well as inventing opera and the florin currency, which lifted Europe from the Dark Ages.

Simulating one enormous outdoor art museum, the city of Florence attracts millions of tourists every year. Walking is the best way to see the major tourist attractions in Florence. Some of the best places to walk include the Ponte Vecchio, a beautiful bridge spanning the Arno River and featuring a number of high-end jewelry shops.

Map of Florence

15. Mercato Nuovo

Covered with an ornate loggia supported by open arches, the Mercato Nuovo is one of the most unusual marketplaces in Florence. While souvenirs like straw hats are sold here, it’s the history and legends connected with Mercato Nuovo that most attract visitors. In the center of the loggia is the “stone of shame,” a place where debtors were once punished with bare-bottom spankings.

A colorful Italian expression for winding up broke may have originated from this practice. On the southern side of the loggia is the Fontana del Porcellino, a fountain that features a bronze boar statue. Rubbing the snout of the “Piglet” is said to bring good fortune.

14. San Miniato al Monte

Perched high atop a hill, the oldest church in Florence offers panoramic views of one of Italy’s most scenic cities. Behinds its charming green-and-white façade is a treasure trove of beautiful art. Medieval frescoes, mosaics and inlaid-marble floors adorn the chapels of the Romanesque structure. The Renaissance era is well represented too.

With its carved pilasters, medallion ceilings, marble statuary and colorful frescoes, the Cappella del Cardinale del Portogallo showcases the diversity of the era. San Minato is most enchanting in the early evening when Benedictine monks celebrate mass with Gregorian chanting.

13. Piazza della Repubblica

One of the oldest sections of Florence, the Piazza della Repubblica sits on the site of the city’s Roman forum. The Colonna dell’Abbondanza, a monument built in 1431, marks the exact center of the ancient settlement. Densely inhabited during the Medieval Era, the square was completely renovated during the 1800s.

A triumphal arch on the west side of the plaza commemorates its transformation. Today, the plaza is best known for its elegant Neoclassical structures, luxury shops and outdoor eateries, including the famous Giubbe Rosse café, a notable meeting place for artists and writers.

12. Loggia dei Lanzi

Renaissance art and architecture are on full display at this ceremonial building adjacent to a corner of the Piazza della Signoria. Supported by columns topped with Corinthian capitals, wide arches invite visitors to view the sculptures under the bay of this open-air gallery.

Benvenuto Cellini’s bronze statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa is a star attraction. Carved from a single block of white marble, the “Rape of the Sabine Women” by Giambologna is awe-inspiring as well. Considered a masterpiece of composition and movement, the dramatic sculpture was constructed to be viewed from all sides.

11. Santa Croce Church

No visit to Florence is complete without paying homage to the city’s most famous inhabitants, many of whom are buried within the church nicknamed the Temple of the Italian Glories.

The world’s largest Franciscan church, Santa Croce is the final resting place for luminaries like Michelangelo, Rossini, Galileo and Dante. The cathedral’s 16 chapels also feature breath-taking works of art, including frescoes by Giotto painted at the height of his talent.

The realism of his “Death of St. Francis” helped lay the foundation for the Renaissance Era. Located in the cathedral’s first cloister, the Pazzi Chapel is a must-see as well. Built after a design by Filippo Brunelleschi, it’s regarded as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

10. Palazzo Pitti

The Palazzo Pitti is a large 15th century palace situated on the quieter south bank of the Arno river The palace was long the residence of Florence’s rulers until 1919, when it was handed over to the Italian state, which transformed the palace into a museum complex.

In spite of its metamorphosis from royal residence to a state-owned public building, the palazzo, sitting on its elevated site overlooking Florence, still retains the air and atmosphere of a private collection in a grand house.

9. Piazzale Michelangelo

The Piazzale Michelangelo is a large, partly pedestrianized square located across the Arno River from the center of Florence. From the square visitors have a magnificent view over the city.

The spacious square was laid out in 1860 by Giuseppe Poggi, a local architect who is also known for his creation of boulevards around the center of Florence.

8. Boboli Gardens

Located behind the Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens were created by the Medici family in the 16th century. The beautiful and varied Italianesque garden is home to a large number of statues and fountains. The gardens have passed through several stages of enlargement and restructuring work.

They were enlarged in the 17th century to their present extent and have come to form an outdoor museum of garden sculpture that includes Roman antiquities as well as later works.

7. Basilica di San Lorenzo

Situated at the center of the city’s main market district, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the oldest churches of Florence and was the burial place of all

The church, originally designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, is an early example of ecclesiastical Renaissance architecture. The façade of this church was never completed, giving it a striking, rustic appearance. Inside the church is pure Renaissance neo-classical splendor.

6. Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia or “Gallery of the Academy” is certainly the most famous for its sculptures by the great Renaissance artist, Michelangelo. His Prisoners (or Slaves), his St. Matthew and, above all, the outstanding statue of David are what draw most of the hundreds of thousands of visitors the museum welcomes every year.

Other works on display are Florentine paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries, including works by Sandro Botticelli and from the High Renaissance such as Giambologna’s original plaster for the Rape of the Sabine Women.

5. Palazzo Vecchio

One of Florence’s most significant buildings is the Palazzo Vecchio, a grand palace overlooking the Piazza della Signoria. Built in the 12th century, the Palazzo Vecchio housed the powerful Medici family as well as Florence’s supreme governing body for six centuries.

Since 1872, it has served in part as a museum and as the city town hall. This impressive palace packs a wealth of artifacts and art works that include beautiful frescoes, sculptures, painted ceilings, intricate carvings and tapestries that all depict historic and Biblical events.

4. Piazza della Signoria

Serving over the centuries as an important center for politics and the site of several historic episodes, the Piazza della Signoria is a beautiful square centered among some of the top attractions in Florence.

It is here that tourists can visit remarkable places like the Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Museum, the Palazzo Uguccioni, the Loggia de Lanzi and the nearby Ponte Vecchio bridge. This town square is also a treasure trove of notable sculptures such as a replica of Michelangelo’s Statue of David, the Fountain of Neptune, Hercules and Cacus as well as Perseus with the Head of Medusa.

3. Uffizi Gallery

Regarded today as one of the world’s greatest art museums, the Uffizi Gallery is located off the Piazza della Signoria. This former palace was first built in 1560 to house the offices of the city magistrates.

After the ruling dynasty of the Medici family relinquished its power, the palace evolved into an art gallery to showcase its stunning collection of Renaissance art treasures. Opened to the public since 1765, the museum offers thousands of art works by masters like Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Titian.

2. Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest, as well as the most famous, of the six bridges that cross Florence’s Arno River. Up until 1218, this bridge, also known as the Old Bridge, was the only bridge to cross that river.

Historians believe that the original bridge goes back to Roman times. The bridge connected the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace across the river from it. Unfortunately, a flood destroyed the structure in 1333.

Twelve years later, in 1345, the bridge was rebuilt. Workers replaced the original five arches with three, and widened the main part of the bridge. At this time, the bridge hosted shops and houses authorized by the Bargello, who was a combination mayor and magistrate.

Towards the 15th century, the shops were sold to private owners. Butchers, fishmongers and greengrocers occupied most of the shops. However, in 1593, due to the rank smell of the waste from these shops, Ferdinand I dictated that only goldsmiths and jewelers were allowed to own shops on the bridge. Today the shops sell affordable jewelry as well as expensive antiques and leather goods. In addition, the bridge serves as an art museum.

During WWII, the Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge crossing the Arno in Florence that the Germans did not destroy. Instead, they demolished the buildings on each end of the bridge to block access to it. In November 1966, the river again went through a serious flood. This time, however, the bridge withstood the weight of the silt and the water.

The Ponte Vecchio is a work of art, created with elements from all parts of the Florentine character. A walk across it gives one the chance to view and enjoy the many aspects of Florentine life both old and new.

1. Santa Maria del Fiore

Dominating the panoramic view of Florence is the Santa Maria del Fiore, the domed cathedral that is often called the Duomo. Known today as the world’s largest masonry dome, this majestic cathedral features 600 years worth of stunning architecture and art works.

Planning for the new church began in the late 1200s and building started in 1296. Unfortunately, politics and the plague interrupted the construction several times. In 1375, workers were instructed to tear down the partially completed church and start over. Except for the marble on the outside, the Florence Cathedral was completed in 1436.

The first architect to work on the Cathedral was Arnolfo di Cambio. He designed it in the Gothic style and left space for a huge dome to top the building. However, he had no idea how to build this dome. Fortunately, Filippo Brunelleschi, a goldsmith and clockmaker, solved this puzzle.

Added in the 15th century, Brunelleschi’s dome is 45 meters wide and 114.5 meters high (148 and 377 feet), and it is the largest masonry dome ever built. Because of the size of the dome, Brunelleschi made use of a unique building technique that had been used previously in Persia. He used 37,000 tons of brick, stone and timber, along with a unique herringbone pattern of laying the bricks, to create the dome. Four hundred sixty three steps were included to allow access to the top of the dome.

The facade of the Florence Cathedral was only partially built and remained that way for some time. It was then dismantled in 1587-1588. Architects at that time felt that the original Gothic exterior was old fashioned. In 1864, a competition was held to design a new façade. Emilio de Fabris won the competition, and in 1887, his façade was completed. It was a neo-Gothic façade in green, white and red marble, which complemented the cathedral’s 14th century bell tower. The use of circles, squares and triangles distinguished it from other French churches.

There are many great works of art in the interior of the Cathedral. Some of the most beautiful aspects of the Cathedral are the frescoes. The largest of these depicts the Last Judgment, designed by Giorgio Vasiri, but painted by his student, Federico Zuccari.

Through close inspection of the Cathedral, one can notice the differences in architectural styles used through the years. For instance, while the inside of the church, with the big arches and vaults is Gothic style, the dome is Renaissance style. One can find differences such as these throughout the Florence Cathedral.

Best Time to Visit Florence

The best times of year to visit Florence are either in spring or autumn – so from April to June and September to October. This is when the weather is mild but sunny and prices are a bit lower.

In summer, the city is overrun with tourists and the scorching heat makes sightseeing quite unpleasant at times. While July is the hottest month, averaging highs of 29°C (84°F though often much hotter), August is when most locals take their holidays and head out of Florence, closing their shops and restaurants in the meantime.

For a more authentic experience, you may also want to consider visiting between December and February. During this time the city is very quiet, prices are low and there are almost no queues and crowds. The weather is much cooler however, averaging from a low of 8°C (46°F) to a high of 9°C (49°F).

Although Florence doesn’t go all out for Christmas, the decorations and lights make it pretty magical to explore in wintertime. Due to all its romantic streets, many people head here for Valentine’s Day with its carnival also enticing plenty of visitors in the run up to Lent.

Another unforgettable event is the fiercely-contested Calcio Storico which is held each June in Piazza di Santa Croce. An early form of football, it sees colourfully-clad players representing each quarter of the city battle it out before baying crowds of locals and tourists alike.

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Reader interactions.

February 25, 2019 at 1:41 am

Thanks for good advice and tips for places to visit in Florence. We planning to go this summer and looking forward to seeing the places mentioned.

January 19, 2019 at 5:58 am

The streets of Florence are a museum and a tribute to the incredible history of the capitol city of Tuscany. we spent many days getting to know the city by walking and also taking in the entire list that is discussed here. We have been to Florence twice and although it is a long way from Australia it is worth every moment spent travelling. Go to this city and lose youself in the beauty and magic that it has to offer.

August 12, 2018 at 1:55 am

What a great guide! We definitely will keep this in mind, for when we are going to Florence. It is such a lovely place.

April 25, 2017 at 1:47 pm

Wauw. This is a great post with a lot of valuable information. I haven’t been in Florence, but now I will def. consider it again when going to Italy

April 4, 2017 at 7:09 am

Yeah, it is a great list! I think you pick up the most important places and it is not easy because Florence is just full of things to see! I have one extra place to add and that is Piazza Santa Croce and its church. To me that’s the most authentic square you can find and it has a special charm. Of course it is a touristic attraction but less then others and its light is very special. I love to sit on one of its stone bench and just stare at light changing the colour of the Santa Croce Church facade by the sunset. Here you can find some history too, and it is peculiar. http://www.fibnb.com/insights/florence/basilica-of-santa-croce-in-florence/

December 4, 2016 at 4:25 am

Great post with all the best things to do in Florence. I have a few pieces of extra advice: Choose Forti di Belvedere insteaf of Piazzale Michelangelo. The view is at least as awesome, and there are almost no tourists. Do take your time to get lost in the old streets of Florence. Actually this might be the true number 1 thing to do in Florence. If you can – time your visit in Florence for one the many festivals in the city. Especially Scoppio del carro – festival of the exploding cart is fantastic. Hope to see you in Florence sometime.

May 17, 2016 at 3:12 pm

I agree with Jacob’s comment. I went through the list and couldn’t believe that the Galleria dell’Accademia was absent. I have been to Florence many times and always, ALWAYS take friends to see “THE DAVID” first thing.

October 23, 2015 at 12:28 am

Just realized I haven’t written a comment here, so I just wanted to say thank you for this awesome post. I bookmarked it before we went to Florence for 2 days in July this summer and it proved really helpful.

Thank you so much for an awesome guide!

September 12, 2015 at 2:47 am

Great article! I agree, Florence is fantastic. Just imagine all the great artists who lived here.

And yeah, Il Duomo is definitely the #1 attraction. I think you could add Galleria dell’Accademia to the list though – besides from that it’s perfect.

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Florence   Travel Guide

Courtesy of ricardomartinez | Getty Images

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

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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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Top 10 Florence tourist attractions

Discover the Top 10 attractions in Florence . This is a must-see list for first timers who want to make sure they don’t miss a thing in the city of the Renaissance.

Top 10 Tourist attractions in Florence

1. florence cathedral & baptistry.

This one is easy. Anyone visiting Florence needs to start at the heart and soul of the city, the Duomo . Its red tiled Dome is famous all over the world for being a daring architectural experiment. Climbing to the top is one of those experiences you won’t easily forget.

The view from atop Brunelleschi’s dome is well worth the steep (and narrow) climb. There are 430 steps to get to one of Florence’s finest panoramas. Alternatively you can climb Giotto’s bell tower , from where you can take pictures of the dome. Either way, don’t miss the view from up there.

While a visit to the interior of the Cathedral is free, you need a ticket for the climb. This combined ticket also gives you access to the magnificent Baptistry with its amazing mosaics and marble floor, and the Opera del Duomo Museum , where the original Gates of Paradise are kept.

=> INSIDER’S TIP : Remember booking is mandatory. Join this Skip-the-Line Tour that includes the climb and close-up views of Brunelleschi’s Dome . Your professional guide will explain the history and secrets of the Duomo and lead you to a balcony that is only accessible with a group.

2. Piazza Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio

The second stop is Piazza Signoria , the centre of Florence’s political life and its most handsome square. Here you’ll find the town hall, Palazzo Vecchio , with a Medieval fortress-like exterior and a splendid Renaissance interior . The Medici resided there in the 16th century and totally restored it to suit their taste. Right in front of the entrance, a copy of the statue of David welcomes visitors.

The Loggia dei Lanzi is a 14th century addition to the square, originally used for public ceremonies. Today a collection of statues is hosted under the loggia, from Roman sculptures to 19th century. The impressive “Perseus” holding the head of the Medusa is a masterpiece by Renaissance sculptor Cellini.

INSIDER’S TIP – Would you like to discover the mysterious secrets and hidden rooms of this ancient building? Join a Tour of the Secret Passages of the Palazzo Vecchio , and see exclusive sections only accessible with a tour.

3. The Uffizi Gallery

Just off Piazza Signoria you find one of the most illustrious museums in the world, the Uffizi . It consists of over 60 rooms filled with Renaissance art , the most famous works being Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello, Caravaggio, and many Italian and international masters. See our quick Guide to the highlights of the Uffizi .

Any art lover could spend days browsing around the Uffizi’s rooms filled with masterpieces. And if you visit Florence it really is worth going to see what all the fuss is about. Our advice? Book yourself on this 2-hour tour of the gallery that will give you an introduction to the most important works , so you don’t get lost in the ocean of art.

4. Ponte Vecchio

One of the symbols of Florence , the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) has been standing in its spot for seven centuries, and it only gets more beautiful with age. A picture-perfect landmark, the bridge has many goldsmith and silversmith shops that still ply their trade as they did in the Renaissance.

Browse in the shop windows. Buy a golden fiorino as souvenir. Take pictures from every angle. Or simply walk across this ancient bridge and feel the centuries of history all around, while the Arno river rolls peacefully by underneath you.

INSIDER’S TIP : At sunset, stand on nearby Ponte Santa Trinita for the best shot of the Ponte Vecchio.

5. Santa Croce Square & Church

Santa Croce Square is where games and tournaments used to be played, and today it is still the stage for the historic game of “Calcio in Costume”, that happens every 24th June. The rest of the year it is a spacious and lively piazza flanked by beautiful buildings .

The Queen of the square is the Santa Croce Church . This is a vast place with Medieval frescoes that guard the tombs of the VIPS. Michelangelo, Galileo are buried here, no less.

INSIDER’S TIPS – The adjacent Pazzi Chapel is a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture.

=> Discover the Most Beautiful Squares and Best Museums in Florence!

6. Piazzale Michelangelo

Up on the hill, in the ‘southbank’ of Florence , is a vast panoramic terrace where tour buses make their stop and a few stalls offer souvenirs to the tourists that venture up here to take the best photo of the city . As far as tourist attractions in Florence go, this is the daddy.

In a town full of spectacular views , this one beats them all. It’s close enough to the city centre to offer a great view of the monuments, with the massive Duomo dominating everything.

INSIDER’S TIP : you can easily reach Piazzale Michelangelo by bus (12 or 13) from the train station. Alternatively you can go up on foot. The walk will take you roughly 40 minutes.

7. Pitti Palace & Boboli Garden

Pitti Palace is a vast, and forbidding looking, palace that hosts various galleries. You find it on the Oltrarno , a few steps from the Ponte Vecchio. Here you can admire a great collection of Renaissance paintings in the Palatine Gallery , visit the 14 rooms of the grand Royal Apartments , or browse in the Costume or Silverware gallery.

The Boboli Gardens are a vast park with Renaissance fountains, avenues and statues, e great place to relax in the green space .

INSIDER’S TIP : Boboli is a huge green space right in Florence’s historic centre. Best avoided in mid-august, when it’s too hot to enjoy, but at any other time a walk along its tree-lined avenue gives you a welcome respite from the city. Check out the Best gardens in Florence .

8. Santa Maria Novella Church

Santa Maria Novella is our favourite church in Florence , without any doubt. It has everything, from stunning frescoes to a courtyard filled with atmosphere, a facade that’s pure poetry and Masaccio’s famous “Trinity”, where the young artist tried to use perspective, leaving his contemporaries speechless.

It’s very close to the main train station , and the Santa Maria Novella square needs a bit of love and care. But you can easily spend a couple of hours in this church and really feel that you’ve got inside Florence’s soul .

=> Check out 8 Famous Statues in Florence you have to see !

=> 12 Cool and Fun Things to do during your stay in Florence: Wine Window’s, River Cruise, Vespa Tours and more .

9. Accademia. The statue of David

At the Accademia Gallery you find one of the world’s most famous statues, the David . The 4 meter tall masterpiece by Michelangelo , that astonished the Florentine when it was revealed to the public in 1504, is the star of the show.

The gallery hosts other works by Michelangelo, his unfinished – and particularly moving – statues of the “Prigioni’ (Slaves), and some Gothic and mannerist paintings. => VISIT THE ACCADEMIA WITH A PROFESSIONAL GUIDE AND SKIP THE LINE !

10. Medici Chapels

Fans of Michelangelo and the Medici family surely won’t miss the Medici Chapels . Financed by the Medici and designed by grand names such as Michelangelo and Bernardo Buontalenti, the chapels are a celebration of the Medici family, patrons of the art and ruler of Florence .

The New Sacristy is an outstanding example of Michelangelo ‘s ingenuity, and contains the tomb of Lorenzo the Magnificent and his brother Giuliano. The lavishly decorated octagonal Chapel of the Princes, with its profusion of inlaid marble and semiprecious stone, will astonish you.

INSIDER’S TIP : if you love Michelangelo and sculpture, visit the Bargello Museum , a lesser-known but delightful museum hosted in a Medieval building.

=> 20 Things to do to experience the real Florence !

=> My secret Florence, discover the city’s hidden gems

=> Where to find the best coffee in Florence

=> Florence Walking Tours : discover Florence with an expert guide.

=> Tips for planning your trip to Florence

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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.

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

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.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

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.

Fani Kurti/Getty Images

 “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.

Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

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.

xbrchx/Getty Images

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.

Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

“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.

FRANCESCO VIGNALI/Getty Images

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.

Mitch Diamond/Getty Images

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."

Florence tourist attractions & things to do

Top 25 firenze sightseeing, best places to visit & what to do in florence italy.

Florence sights Top 25, an overview of the main tourist attractions, activities, sightseeing, must see landmarks and best things to in Firenze, Italy. What are the top attractions in Florence Italy?

Top 25 Things to do in Florence - Attractions & Landmarks

What are the best things to do in Florence Italy ? Florence city, or Firenze, is a great open-air museum for anyone who loves history and culture. It is a city in Italy full of interesting museums, squares, churches, statues and Renaissance art. Firenze has more to offer than just the famous landmarks and highlights such as the Ponte Vecchio , the Florence Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio . During your stay in Florence, make sure to visit these top 25 of most beautiful Florence tourist attractions and landmarks to get a good impression of what this Renaissance city has to offer. Click on one of these must see attractions to learn more about these unique sights and places to visit in Florence Italy .

Popular places to visit in Florence Italy

What more to do in Firenze? In addition to the above tourist attractions, you can undertake many fun Florence activities , sightseeing tours and excursions. In the city of Firenze full of culture, renaissance and beautiful palaces you will easily enjoy yourself for a few days. Some suggestions for things to do in Florence Italy :

More things to see in Tuscany: best day trips

Florence is located in the beautiful region of Tuscany, where you can find beautiful vineyards of the Chiantia region and numerous medieval villages. In addition, Florence is the ideal base for exploring beautiful cities such as Siena , Lucca and Pisa . Read more about the best day trips in the area and what to see around Florence Italy.

More excursions

Where are the sights in Firenze Italy?

FAQ Things to do in Florence - 25x sights and main attractions

Main attractions are the must see Duomo, Florence Cathedral, and the Uffizi Museum. Other places of interest include Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza della Signoria square, Pitti Palace with the Boboli Gardens, the Medici Chapels, the Galleria dell'Accademia, Piazzale Michelangelo and the Basilica di Santa Croce. In this article you can read all about the Top 25 Things to do in Florence .

This is highly recommended, the Uffizi museum is often sold out for a long time in high season or at other times you will have to queue for a long time. However, you can easily pre-arrange your tickets. More info about tickets for the Uffizi Gallery .

Visiting the interior of the Duomo of Florence is free. You do need to book tickets to climb the dome with a magnificent view, the adjacent museum and the baptistery. The Duomo is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Florence. More info about tickets for the Duomo di Firenze .

Michelangelo's original David is now in the museum Accademia Gallery . However, you will find large replicas of the David at the Piazzale Michelangelo viewpoint and at the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio in the central square Piazza della Signoria.

Best things to do in Florence

Uffizi Gallery & Tickets

Duomo, the Florence Cathedral

Ponte Vecchio

Must-see attractions in Florence

Galleria degli Uffizi

Duomo & Piazza della Signoria

Home to the world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, Florence's premier gallery occupies the vast U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi (1560–80),…

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

Santa Maria Novella

The striking green-and-white marble facade of 13th- to 15th-century Basilica di Santa Maria Novella fronts an entire monastical complex, comprising…

Palazzo Vecchio

This fortress palace, with its crenellations and 94m-high tower, was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio between 1298 and 1314 for the signoria (city government…

Museo di San Marco

San Lorenzo & San Marco

At the heart of Florence's university area sits Chiesa di San Marco and an adjoining 15th-century Dominican monastery where both gifted painter Fra'…

Florence's duomo is the city's most iconic landmark. Capped by Filippo Brunelleschi's red-tiled cupola, it's a staggering construction whose breathtaking…

Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

This awe-inspiring story of how the duomo and its cupola came to life is told in this well-executed museum. Among its sacred and liturgical treasures are…

Cupola del Brunelleschi

A Renaissance masterpiece, the duomo's cupola – 91m high and 45.5m wide – was built between 1420 and 1436. Filippo Brunelleschi, taking inspiration from…

Galleria dell'Accademia

A queue marks the door to this gallery, built to house one of the Renaissance's most iconic masterpieces, Michelangelo's David. But the world's most…

Museo delle Cappelle Medicee

Nowhere is Medici conceit expressed so explicitly as in the Medici Chapels. Adorned with granite, marble, semiprecious stones and some of Michelangelo's…

Basilica di Santa Croce

Santa Croce

The austere interior of this Franciscan basilica is a shock after the magnificent neo-Gothic facade enlivened by varying shades of coloured marble. Most…

Palazzo Pitti

Boboli & San Miniato al Monte

Commissioned by banker Luca Pitti in 1458, this Renaissance palace was later bought by the Medici family. Over the centuries, it was a residence of the…

Museo del Bargello

It was behind the stark walls of Palazzo del Bargello, Florence's earliest public building, that the podestà (governing magistrate) meted out justice from…

Museo degli Innocenti

Shortly after its founding in 1421, Brunelleschi designed the loggia for Florence's Ospedale degli Innocenti, a foundling hospital and Europe's first…

Cappella Brancacci

Fire in the 18th century practically destroyed 13th-century Basilica di Santa Maria del Carmine, but it spared its magnificent chapel frescoes – a…

Museo Novecento

Don't allow the Renaissance to distract you from Florence's fantastic modern art museum, at home in a 13th-century pilgrim shelter, hospital and school. A…

Museo di Palazzo Davanzati

Home to the wealthy Davanzati merchant family from 1578, this 14th-century palazzo (mansion) with a wonderful central loggia gives you a view into…

Giardino di Boboli

Behind Palazzo Pitti, the fountain- and sculpture-adorned Boboli Gardens – slowly but surely being restored to their former pristine glory thanks to a €2…

The 414-step climb up the cathedral's 85m-tall campanile, begun by Giotto in 1334, rewards with staggering city views. The first tier of bas-reliefs…

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Considered one of Florence's most harmonious examples of Renaissance architecture, this unfinished basilica was the Medici parish church and mausoleum. It…

Basilica di Santo Spirito

The facade of this Brunelleschi church, smart on Florence's most shabby-chic piazza, makes a striking backdrop to open-air concerts in summer. Inside, the…

Giardino Torrigiani

Astonishing. Behind the unassuming facades of Via de' Serragli lies a vast, secret garden – Europe’s largest privately owned green space...

Piazzale Michelangelo

Turn your back on the bevy of ticky-tacky souvenir stalls flogging David statues and boxer shorts and take in the spectacular city panorama from this vast…

Ponte Vecchio

Dating from 1345, iconic Ponte Vecchio was the only Florentine bridge to survive destruction at the hands of retreating German forces in 1944. Above…

Corridoio Vasariano

This 1km-long covered passageway, currently closed for restoration work, connects Palazzo Vecchio with the Uffizi and Palazzo Pitti. Vasari designed it in…

Battistero di San Giovanni

This 11th-century baptistry – the oldest religious building on the vast cathedral square – is a Romanesque, octagonal-striped structure of white-and-green…

Villa e Giardino Bardini

This 17th-century villa and garden was named after 19th-century antiquarian art collector Stefano Bardini (1836–1922), who bought it in 1913 and restored…

Chiesa e Museo di Orsanmichele

This unusual and inspirational church, with a Gothic tabernacle by Andrea Orcagna, was created when the arcades of an old grain market (1290) were walled…

Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana

Beyond the Basilica di San Lorenzo ticket office lie peaceful cloisters framing a garden with orange trees. Stairs lead up the loggia to the Biblioteca…

Basilica di Santa Trinità

Built in Gothic style and later given a mannerist facade, this 14th-century church shelters some of the city's finest frescoes. Right of the main altar,…

Palazzo Strozzi

This 15th-century Renaissance mansion was built for wealthy merchant Filippo Strozzi, one of the Medici's major political and commercial rivals. Today it…

Should you notice something gone awry with street signs in Oltrarno – on a No Entry sign, a tiny black figure stealthily sneaking away with the white bar…

Museo Marino Marini

Deconsecrated in the 19th century, Chiesa di San Pancrazio is home to this small art museum displaying sculptures by Pistoia-born sculptor Marino Marini …

Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia

Once part of a sprawling Benedictine monastery, this cenacolo (refectory) harbours arguably the city’s most remarkable Last Supper scene. Painted by…

Street Levels Gallery

Take a break from Renaissance art with this pioneering urban street-art gallery. Exhibitions showcase the work of local street artists, including street…

Fondazione Salvatore Romano

For a change of pace from the Renaissance, head to this Gothic-style former refectory safeguarding an imposing wall fresco by Andrea Orcagna depicting the…

Via de' Tornabuoni

Renaissance palaces and Italian fashion houses border Via de' Tornabuoni, the city's most expensive shopping strip. Named after a Florentine noble family …

Piazza della Signoria

The hub of local life since the 13th century, Florentines flock here to meet friends and chat over early-evening aperitivi (predinner drinks) at historic…

Palazzo Medici-Riccardi

Cosimo the Elder entrusted Michelozzo with the design of the family's town house in 1444. The result was this palace, a blueprint that influenced the…

Forte di Belvedere

Forte di Belvedere is a rambling fort designed by Bernardo Buontalenti for Grand Duke Ferdinando I at the end of the 16th century. From the massive…

Museo Galileo

On the Arno river next to the Uffizi in 12th-century Palazzo Castellani – look for the sundial telling the time on the pavement outside – is this state-of…

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20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Florence is one of the most popular travel destinations in Italy, so much so that it's often listed on itineraries for first-time visitors to the country alongside other favorites like Rome and Venice. One of the wealthiest cities during the Italian Renaissance, Florence is home to classical works of art, historic architecture, and natural beauty as well as a rich history of culinary excellence .

The capital of the Tuscany region sports a large number of impressive sights and attractions, including some of Italy's most impressive museums and cathedrals. Along with picturesque streets and piazzas (squares), elegant buildings and bridges, colorful markets, and excellent shopping areas, you'll find some of the best restaurants in the country in this thriving city. Fortunately, Florence's centro storico  (historic center) is compact, flat, and extremely walkable, meaning you'll be able to easily take in all of its top attractions , from world-famous sites to other lesser-known discoveries.

Feast on Gelato in the City Where It Was Created

FilippoBacci / Getty Images

According to local folklore, Florentine native Bernardo Buontalenti created gelato in the 16th century; Catherine de' Medici was a big fan and its popularity soon spread beyond Florence and throughout Italy, Europe, and the rest of the world. Americans can thank Italian immigrant Giovanni Biasiolo, who brought it to the U.S. in the 1700s.

Choose from all sorts of fruit flavors or try other favorites like tiramisu, coffee, chocolate, or hazelnut. You really can't go wrong when it comes to choosing a gelato vendor, though it's worth paying attention to the color of the pistachio flavor, which should lean toward olive green to reflect the color of the nuts, and not be any brighter.

Test Out Leonardo da Vinci's Creations

Leonardo Interactive Museum

Discover the sheer genius of one of the greatest creators of all time and enjoy a rare chance to try some of the machines he designed at the Leonardo Interactive Museum in Florence. You can see some of the mechanisms he produced up close, view engineering sketches of other creations, and test your bridge- and dome-building abilities as you try to recreate some of his masterpieces yourself, among other interactive activities at this fascinating museum.

Geek Out at Museo Galileo

Museo Galileo

Located along the Arno River, Museo Galileo digs into the interesting life and studies of Galileo, the prominent 16th-century scientist who was actually born in Pisa, about 90 minutes east of Florence. Check out the Museo's monumental sundial, an enormous working time-keeping device, as well as more than 1,000 objects collected since the 1560s throughout the rule of the Medici and Lorraine families.

Learn About Legendary Literature at Museo Casa di Dante

Museo Casa de Dante

Whether or not you read Dante's "Inferno" or "The Divine Comedy" in high school, Museo Casa di Dante is still a fascinating place to visit during a trip to Florence. The former home of Dante Alighieri serves as a museum dedicated to his life and works, featuring state-of-the-art technology to tell the story of the legendary 13th-century writer, poet, and politician and how he helped shaped Italian literature.

Tour Il Duomo and the Baptistery

Florence's most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore . Construction began in 1296, but the building wasn't consecrated until 1436. Its exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, sports several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside are dozens of paintings, sculptures, and 44 stained-glass windows designed by notable Renaissance artists like Donatello depicting Jesus, Mary, and the saints. The main attraction of this massive structure is Brunelleschi's Dome, a masterpiece of architecture and construction. You'll definitely want to buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to the top.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist , from the 11th century, is one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Located in both the Piazza San Giovanni and the Piazza del Duomo across from Florence Cathedral and the Campanile di Giotto , its exterior is made of green and white marble and flaunts three sets of amazing bronze doors, the most famous of which are the "Gates of Paradise," designed by sculptor Lorenzo Ghiberti. The chance to see the massive exterior doors portraying scenes from the Bible and the interior dome's mosaics featuring even more Biblical depictions make the Baptistery worthy of a visit all on its own. 

Learn About the Buidling of the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Set on Piazza del Duomo to the right of the church, the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo houses many of the original works and blueprints from art and architecture related to the city's Duomo complex. The original versions of Lorenzo Ghiberti’s panels for the Baptistery doors can be seen here, as well as exhibits of architect Brunelleschi’s plans and Renaissance-era tools used to build the Duomo. 

Climb the Campanile (Bell Tower)

The Campanile (bell tower) is also located in Piazza del Duomo. Principal architect Giotto di Bondone began work on the structure in 1334, and its lower level is commonly called Giotto's Campanile even though he died before its completion. Inside , you'll find intricately detailed relief carvings and sculptures as well as replicas of the 16 original life-sized statues created by artists like Andrea Pisano and Donatello (the originals can be seen in the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo) . If you climb the 414 stairs—there's no elevator in this Gothic tower—you'll be rewarded not only with great views of the Cathedral and its dome but of Florence and the surrounding area as well.

Explore Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria

Ponte Vecchio (old bridge), built in 1345, was the first bridge in Florence to cross the Arno River and is the only surviving one from its medieval days (sadly, the other bridges were destroyed during World War II). The always-crowded bridge is lined with shops selling gold and silver jewelry. From Ponte Vecchio, you'll have great views of the Arno River and beyond.

Nearby, Piazza della Signoria is the heart of the city's historic center and home to a free open-air sculpture exhibit. Loggia della Signoria houses some important statues, while a replica of Michelangelo's David  stands on the square. The piazza, which has been the city's political center since the middle ages, is also the site of both its town hall and the medieval Palazzo Vecchio , where you'll find elaborately decorated rooms and private apartments that are open to the public.

Visit David at the Galleria dell' Academia

The Galleria dell' Accademia in Florence houses important paintings and sculptures ranging from the 13th to 16th centuries. Along with works by important Renaissance artists like Uccello, Ghirlandaio, Botticelli, and del Sarto, you'll find one of the most famous sculptures in the world, Michelangelo's "David," as well as an interesting collection of musical instruments, which was assembled by the Medici family. Book your tickets ahead of time if you plan to stop by this popular destination as lines to get in and see the statue of David can be quite long.

Admire World-Class Art at Uffizi Gallery

The Galleria degli Uffizi is home to the world's most important collection of Renaissance art, as well as thousands of paintings, antique sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, tapestries, and other artwork ranging from medieval to modern times. The famous institute is home to masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo , Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Perugino, and Raphael. You'll want to allow plenty of time to fully appreciate all of their collected works, so set aside at least a few hours to visit.

Uffizi Gallery is also one of Italy's most crowded museums, so it's a good idea to buy tickets ahead of time to avoid long ticket lines. The gallery also offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month, but expect higher than normal crowd levels if you choose to attend then.

Wander Through Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace

Across the Ponte Vecchio, you'll find Giardino di Boboli (Boboli Gardens), a huge park on a hillside in the middle of Florence. Located behind Pitti Palace, its beautiful gardens and fountains offer great views of Florence from Forte Belvedere. This famous park is also a terrific spot for a picnic before or after you check out the palace and tour its many galleries.

Florence's largest palace, Palazzo Pitti, was once the seat of the Medici family. Originally the home of a banker named Luca Pitti, this massive building houses the living quarters of its past inhabitants as well as eight galleries full of art, period costumes, and jewelry. Tickets are required to enter the palace, but discounts are available if you combine your visit with other Florence museums.

Walk the Halls of Santa Croce

Santa Croce , located in Piazza Santa Croce, is the largest Franciscan church in Italy and where you can find the tombs of several important Florentines including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Its vast interior also contains exceptional stained glass windows and frescoes, including one of Brunelleschi's most important works, Cappella dei Pazzi. Enter the complex of Santa Croce from Largo Bargellini, just around the corner from Piazza Santa Croce, where you'll find the ticket booth.

Take in Views from Piazzale Michelangelo

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Piazzale Michelangelo is a fabulous outdoor terrace on the south (or left) bank of the Arno River. Its position high on a hillside means visitors who make the climb (or take the bus) are rewarded with incredible views of the city and river below. The Piazzale, named for Michelangelo Buonarotti, is adorned with bronze copies of some of his most famous sculptures.

The view at sunset, when the Florence skyline is spread out before you, is one of the most unforgettable sights in Italy. While you're waiting for it, wander around Giardino delle Rose and Giardino dell'Iris on either side of Piazzale Michelangelo or head over to Basilica di Santo Spirito, a residential district featuring dozens of cafes and restaurants .

Stop by San Miniato al Monte Abbey

If you've made the climb to Piazzale Michelangelo, continue another 10 minutes or so to the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte, a beautiful 11th-century abbey where, on most days at 5:30 pm, monks still observe a Gregorian chant. The interior is every bit as lovely as its green and white marble exterior, so take the time to go in and look around.

People-Watch in Lively Piazza Santo Spirito

This lively piazza and the Santo Spirito neighborhood that surrounds it form part of the city's "Left Bank," a colorful, slightly bohemian area favored by local residents and visitors seeking a slice of authentic Florence. By day, you'll find produce vendors and interesting shops set up around the piazza, while by night, crowds from bars and restaurants spill out onto the main streets and nearby sidewalks.

Basilica di Santo Spirito, which appears rather plain from the outside, contains several important works of art and is open to the public most days of the year. Next door, you'll find Museo della Fondazione Romano, which houses " Cenacolo di Santo Spirito ," a piece of art by Andrea Orcagna.

Visit Museo di San Marco and Bargello National Museum

For a bit of art history beyond Michaelangelo and the other famous Renaissance artists, visit the San Marco Museum to see the works of Fra Angelico, an early Renaissance painter and monk, who painted several of his best-known frescoes on its walls and in its humble cells. It's also the former home of his predecessor, revolutionary monk Savonarola. Visit the rooms of both Savonarola and Fra Angelico, which contain several of their personal effects as well as a famous portrait of Savonarola painted by fellow monk Fra Bartolomeo. 

Nearby, the 13th-century building that houses the  Museo Nazionale del Bargello , or more simply "The Bargello," once served as a police barracks and a prison. Nowadays, it's a sculpture and decorative arts museum featuring works by Michelangelo, Donatello, Verrocchio, and Giambologna. Located in historic Palazzo del Podestà and established in 1865 by royal decree, The Bargello was Italy's first official national museum. You'll find fewer crowds here than at other big museums in Florence.

Dig Into the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Firenze

Florence's National Archaeological Museum houses collections of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian works of art, many of which were amassed by the Medici family. The museum also has one of the best collections of Etruscan artifacts, including the priceless Chimera of Arezzo, an intact bronze statue of a mythological lion with a snake for a tail and a goat head protruding from its side. Part of the Tuscany Museum Complex, admission is required to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Florence, but you can pair your ticket with entry to other nearby museums for a discounted price.

Visit the Dead at the Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee)

Florence's ruling Medici family was known for its ruthless ambition and grandiosity, characteristics that were as true in death as they were in life. Constructed to house the remains of several members of the royal family, Cappelle Medicee is an elaborate mausoleum for the Medici dukes, complete with enormous tombs and sculptures by Michelangelo. Nowhere else in the world can you observe the Renaissance master's work this close up. The tomb's sculptures, including allegories of Night, Day, Dawn , and Dusk , are among his most contemplative works.

Go on a Well-Deserved Shopping Spree

Florence offers some of the finest shopping in Europe, featuring everything from leather goods and jewelry to souvenirs and fine art. Whether you want to visit a luxury retailer, high fashion boutique, or explore open-air markets selling local goods and antiques, there are plenty of ways to shop in Florence all year long. Start in the Piazza San Lorenzo area to pick up some antiques and souvenirs. Across the Arno River, Piazza Santo Spirito is the place to go for produce as well as vintage clothing, accessories, antiques, and pottery. Mercato Nuovo (Porcellino) on Via Porta Rossa and Mercato Centrale are also great places to find local fashions and delicacies.

Otherwise, the large indoor and outdoor San Lorenzo Market offers everything from produce and clothing to leather goods and cheap souvenirs. The outdoor portion of the market starts at Piazza San Lorenzo, featuring hundreds of stalls packed with merchandise. The indoor market, or Mercato Centrale, is foodie heaven, with stalls selling locally-sourced produce, meats, and cheeses, and a dining hall where you can pick out lunch or a snack from one of a dozen or so gourmet vendors. 

Purchase Perfume and Soaps From Officina Profumo

Head to Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella for perhaps the most unique gifts—for yourself or friends back home—in all of Florence. Affiliated with Santa Maria Novella church, Officina Profumo is one of the oldest apothecaries in the world and still makes perfumes, soaps, and elixirs according to centuries-old recipes developed by monks. A trip to the Officina is part shopping spree and part museum visit, as the fancily packaged soaps, creams, and perfumes are as tempting as the ancient bottles and fixtures are interesting.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 20 Best Things to Do in Florence (Italy)

20 Best Things to Do in Florence (Italy)

Florence is renowned as one of the most cultural and historical cities in the world and is packed full of amazing architecture and places of significance. As the capital of the Tuscany region of Italy, Florence has a population of 383,000 and a wider metropolitan population of 1.5 million. This wonderful city lies in the central region of Italy and has a well developed rail network with connections to Pisa and Bologna .

During ancient history, Florence was once a Roman city and then developed into a thriving medieval commune. It is hailed as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, and throughout the 12th, 15th and 16th centuries, was one of the most important cities of the world. Notable residents of Florence included Machiavelli, Lorenzo Medici, Dante, Michelangelo, Donatello, Galileo and Raphael.

Today, tourism is undoubtedly a major part of the economy of Florence and an average of 13 million people visit the city each year. Aside from tourism, Florence has a major industrial sector and is a producer of such goods as furniture, rubber, chemicals and food. Industrial districts such as Prato-Pistoria have historically exported high-quality goods such as Vespa scooters. If you are looking for a dose of culture and want to see fantastic buildings such as the Duomo, Florence will not disappoint.

Lets explore the best things to do in Florence :

1. Florence Cathedral

Possibly the most celebrated cathedral in the world, the Duomo as it is simply known in Florence is the jewel of the city.

It was initially constructed in 1436, but the astonishing front facade wasn’t completed until the 19th century.

Located in the centre of the old city, the Duomo stands out for miles and creates an imposing sight amongst the other medieval buildings.

The exterior and front facade of the Cathedral are monumental – covered in white marble and red, pink and green polychrome designs; the colour and style is breathtaking.

Furthermore, an immense dome sits at the read of the cathedral and can be accessed via a series of steps.

Although the interior of the cathedral is quite bare in contrast, it still speaks of grandeur and has several interesting pieces such as the large clock face and the magnificent Last Judgement fresco that covers the underside of the dome.

Suggested tour : Duomo Guided Tour & Reserved Cupola Access

2. Giotto’s Campanile

Many people believe that Giotto’s Campanile is connected to the Duomo however it is a separate building in its own right.

This structure is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is one of the most renowned designs in the city.

Split into five distinct levels, the exterior of the tower features polychrome marble decoration that is also present on the Duomo in brilliant green and pink colours.

Constructed in 1334 through to 1359, the building was designed by the famous artist Giotto, but finished by Talenti who added the last levels after Giotto died 1343. A plethora of sculptures, artwork and decorated panels cover the tower and it is a true masterpiece of Renaissance art.

Aside from the decoration, you can also climb the 414 steps in the tower for fantastic views of Florence and the Duomo.

3. Palazzo Vecchio

Whilst the Duomo is the most important religious building, the Palazzo Vecchio is the most importance administrative building in Florence.

This structure stood as the palace of the Signoria of the Republic of Florence and was also a town hall in later years.

Originally built in 1299, the Palazzo was designed by the same architects that worked on the Duomo and the church of Santa Croce.

With a square design and a number of crenulations, the building almost looks like a castle; it also has a large bell tower.

On the front facade, a series of coast of arms can be seen that represent various families and important individuals relating to the history of the city.

The interior of the palace is also sublime with a series of originally decorated rooms such as The Hercules Room and The Room of Cybele.

Recommended tour: Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour

4. Ponte Vecchio

Florence is full of famous buildings and the Ponte Vecchio is an extremely famous and old bridge.

Spanning the river Arno, the Vecchio Bridge is noted for the number of shops that are built into the sides of the bridge, its decorated history and the plethora of shops that line the main walkway.

History records date the bridge as early as 996 but its true origin is unclear.

Walk onto this fantastic structure and look at the various shops and vendors – You will find jewellers, art dealers and souvenir shops.

Once at the midpoint, the bridge opens up and you are rewarded with fantastic views down the river Arno.

Aside from walking on the bridge itself also walk along the Corridoio Vasariano to see the exterior of the Ponte Vecchio and its marvellous house-like attachments.

5. Basilica of Santa Croce

Whilst the Cathedral of Florence boasts immense size, the Basilica of Santa Croce is truly beautiful and inviting.

Constructed at a similar time to the Duomo, it also features a front facade that includes pink, green and red marble polychrome panels contrasted with polished white stone.

Sitting in the Piazza di Santa Croce, the Basilica takes centre position and frames the square perfectly.

Aside from the beautiful exterior, the interior is home to the tombs of some of the most influential Renaissance artists and scholars in the world including Galileo, Michelangelo and Machiavelli.

6. Baptistery of St. John

Completing the trio of buildings associated with the Cathedral of Florence, the Baptistery sits in front of the main facade of the Duomo and is a completely separate building.

As one of the oldest buildings in the city, the Baptistery has been revered and its exterior features the wonderful “Florentine” design that is similar to both the Duomo and Giotto’s Campanile.

The three sets of bronze doors are of particular interest and depict various religious scenes and human virtues.

Inside the Baptistery, a stunning golden Byzantine style fresco covers the ceiling and upper walls and depicts the last judgement and other stories from the Bible and Genesis.

7. Uffizi Palace and Gallery

Located just off of the Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi Palace and Gallery is a renowned art museum and is considered one of the most important Italian museums in the world.

The building itself is a marvel and the inner courtyard features a series of intricate columns and arches that are adorned with marble statues.

Inside the museum there is an immense collection of Renaissance Art from artists such as Botticelli, Da Vinci, Titian and Raphael.

It is one of the most wondrous collection of Renaissance art in the world and many of the pieces are simply fantastic such as The Baptism of Christ by Da Vinci, the Adoration of the Magi by Botticelli and the Sacrifice of Isaac by Caravaggio.

For loves of art and history, the Uffizi Palace will provide hours of engagement.

Available tour : Skip the Line: The Uffizi Gallery Ticket and Tour

8. Basilica di San Lorenzo

Sitting in close proximity to the Duomo, the Basilica di San Lorenzo was constructed under the designs of the powerful Medici family that ruled Florence for many years during the Renaissance.

Although not as grand and ornamental as the Duomo, this church is still an impressive building with its huge dome and characteristic terracotta tiled roof.

Inside the church is a plethora of beautiful artwork and decoration including a gold and white gilded ceiling and a superbly decorated dome interior.

Many frescos and sculptures frame the dome and create an interesting mix of patterns and colours.

Furthermore, a great deal of the Medici family are buried here and their tombs inside the chapel are quite exquisite.

Tickets available online : Entrance Ticket to the Basilica of San Lorenzo

9. Piazza della Signoria

Secondly only to the Piazza del Duomo, the Piazza della Signoria is just as important and contains a myriad of buildings and classical art.

The square is located to the south of the Piazza del Duomo and is easily accessible due to its central location.

The main structure of the Piazza is the magnificent Pallazo Vecchio with its huge clock tower and fantastic statues of David and Hercules.

To the left of the palace is the wonderful fountain of Neptune, and to the right is the Loggia dei Lanzi which contains some beautiful Renaissance sculptures including Perseus, Menelaus and Hercules.

Finally, a grand statue of Cosimo Medici stands near the fountain of Neptune, and a host of high-end shops line the buildings.

10. Galleria dell’Accademia

Located in close proximity to the Piazza del Duomo and the Basilica di San Lorenzo, the Gallery of the Academy of Florence is a hugely important museum.

A simple building that you might pass buy if you didn’t know where it was, the Gallery contains some masterpieces of Renaissance art including the original Michelangelo’s David sculpture.

Aside from this original piece of genius, the museum also houses other sculptures and works from Michelangelo and is split into several different interesting halls.

Here you can find a wealth of historical art, and also a great deal of history pertaining to 14th and 15th century Florence.

Finally, there is also a museum of musical instruments that contains a myriad of old and unique musical inventions.

Recommended tour : David at Accademia Gallery: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

11. Palazzo Pitti

Located on the Southern Banks of the River Arno, the Palazzo Pitti has stood since the 1400’s as a fine example of Renaissance architecture.

A grand square sits at the front of the palace and frames the symmetrical front facade perfectly.

Although once home to Italian royalty and powerful families such as the Medici’s, the palace now stands as the largest museum complex in Florence.

Inside the palace, there are a myriad of different galleries that are all richly decorated, but also contain a host of Renaissance artwork.

The Jupiter room for example contains some amazing frescos but also the famous Veiled Lady by Raphael.

Other well known artists featured include Titian, Rubens, Caravaggio and Vernonese.

12. Boboli Gardens

Connected to the Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens are immense and beautiful.

Covering an area of 45,000 square metres, the gardens are some of the largest in Florence and are a true delight to walk through.

Created in the 16th century, the Boboli Gardens feature a myriad of different sections including a main lawn with a fountain and obelisk, a selection of worldly trees, plants and flowers, and several large ponds complete with water features.

If you want to escape the city, you can find solace in this wonderful place and enjoy the beautiful designs and natural specimens.

Suggested tour : Boboli The Medici Gardens & Hidden Messages

13. Piazzale Michelangelo

This square offers the best view of Florence and of the Cathedral in the entire city.

Located on the South banks of the River Arno, the Piazzale Michelangelo sits high on a hill near the Boboli Gardens and the Palazzo Pitti.

In the centre of the square stands a wonderful Bronze statue of David, and at the edge of the square there is a series of vendors and artists selling their wares.

The view from the Piazza is unrivalled and you can truly see Florence in all its glory, framed against the River Arno.

If you are looking for a truly memorable photograph, this is the place to be!

14. Church of Santa Maria Novella

Located in front of the main railway station, the Church of Santa Maria Novella is a beautiful structure that has a similar design to both the Duomo and the Basilica of Santa Croce – Another fine example of Renaissance architecture using polychrome and white marble to create a striking front facade.

Whilst the exterior and surrounding Piazza are magnificent in their own right, the interior is a true marvel too.

Contained within the church is a myriad of chapels dedicated to various wealthy and prominent Florentine families during the Renaissance era.

Detailed frescos cover the walls and ceilings and the church contains artwork from famous artists including Botticelli and Ghiberti.

15. San Miniato al Monte

Located high up on a hill on the far side of the Arno River, the San Miniato al Monte is a charming church that has a fantastic front facade that is similar to Florence Cathedral.

If you take the time to walk to the church and adjoining monastery, you will be rewarded with stunning views across to the old centre of Florence – From here you can see the magnificent Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio.

Aside from the views, the church itself is truly spectacular with a white and green marble front facade.

The interior is just as decorative and features some amazing frescos, artwork and marble columns.

Furthermore there is a plethora of ancient artwork on the walls and a funerary monument to Cardinal James.

16. Piazza del Duomo

Located in the centre of Florence, the Piazza del Duomo is one of the main squares in the city and contains some sublime architecture.

This is a great place to start your tour of Florence and from here you can see the magnificent Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Campanile, The Baptistery of St. John and the Loggia del Bigallo.

Aside from the buildings, there is also a myriad of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy , plus a range of souvenir stalls and vendors.

As one of the most thriving and busy parts of the city, the Piazza del Duomo is an absolute must!

17. Corridoio Vasariano

The Vasari Corridor was originally created as a private walkway for Cosimo de Medici from the Palazzo Pitti to the Palazzo Vecchio – The high ranking individuals of Florence during the 1500’s were often reluctant to walk out in the public.

Starting at the Palazzo Vecchio, the enclosed corridor stretches alongside the Arno river, and then cross over the Ponte Vecchio and continues on to the Palazzo Pitti on the other side.

Inside the corridor there is a host of artwork and refurbished paintings that have been damaged in years past.

Although the corridor is currently closed for renovations, you can still marvel at its design and trace its passage from start to finish.

18. Forte di Belvedere

Standing in the grounds of the Boboli Gardens, the Belvedere Fort is the second largest fort in Florence and takes a commanding position on the southern banks of the River Arno.

Constructed in the late 1500’s the fort was meant to demonstrate the power and wealth of Florence during this period.

Today you can admire the fantastic architecture and design of this Renaissance fortification and understand why it held such a strategic position.

Furthermore you can also see across to the city and take some amazing photographs of the historical landscape.

19. Statue of David

Possibly the most renowned and well-known sculptures in the world (not just because of his genitals), the Statue of David is a magnificent piece of renaissance art created by the legendary artist Michelangelo.

This statue depicts the biblical hero David who was said to be the first King of Israel and it is renowned due to its fantastic detail and unwavering accuracy of depicting the human form.

The original statue can be found in the Galleria dell’Accademia and a replica stands proudly at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio.

20. Bargello Museum

Another of Florence’s fine museums, the Bargello Museum contains a myriad of Renaissance sculptures and artwork.

Located a short walk to the north east of the Piazza della Signoria, the Museum is housed within a building that once served as a castle and fortification in the Middle Ages – You can still see the guard tower and the crenulations.

Inside the building is a large collection of important sculptures including works by Donatello.

Particular sculptures of interest include David by Donatello, Bacchus by Michelangelo and a bust of Christ by Lombardo.

20 Best Things to Do in Florence (Italy):

• Florence Cathedral
• Giotto's Campanile
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Ponte Vecchio
• Basilica of Santa Croce
• Baptistery of St. John
• Uffizi Palace and Gallery
• Basilica di San Lorenzo
• Piazza della Signoria
• Galleria dell'Accademia
• Palazzo Pitti
• Boboli Gardens
• Piazzale Michelangelo
• Church of Santa Maria Novella
• San Miniato al Monte
• Piazza del Duomo
• Corridoio Vasariano
• Forte di Belvedere
• Statue of David
• Bargello Museum

19 BEST Places to See & Things to Do in Florence, Italy (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Florence, Italy, and feeling overwhelmed?

Indeed, with so many impressive landmarks and museums, deciding what to see and do in Florence is not always easy, especially if your time in the city is limited and you also want to make a few day trips nearby.

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Florence, in this guide we focus mainly on the VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Florence that are worth your time the most if you are visiting the city for the first time .

In addition to the ‘must-sees’, we also share a couple of our personal favorite things to do in Florence – experiences that will make your visit so much more memorable.

For all the sights and attractions in Florence mentioned in this guide, we also include our experience-based tips and useful information for your visit.

At the end of this article, you will also find a map of the best places in Florence . It will help you plan your sightseeing itinerary and make the most of your first trip to the beautiful Firenze . Take a look!

The cultural capital and one of the most beautiful cities in Italy , Florence (Firenze) is famous for its art, spectacular architecture, and rustic cuisine. Nestled on the banks of the Arno River and surrounded by the scenic Tuscan countryside, it is home to the world-famous artworks of Michelangelo, but also Botticelli, da Vinci, Rafaello, and many others.

You’ll find gorgeous Renaissance buildings and monuments at every turn and the city is filled with traces of its historic wealth and power.

With so much to explore, it’s really not easy to decide which of Florence’s landmarks to see unless you have at least 3-4 days in the city. So in this guide, we mostly focus on the top sights, places that are worth it the most if your time is limited.

At the same time, your visit will be much more pleasant if you get a bit off the beaten path as well, even if just to get a drink and enjoy the views from some of the amazing rooftop bars in Florence . So in our guide, we include a few additional recommendations, beyond the ‘musts’.

TIP: I also recommend that you check our Florence 1- day itinerary for recommendations on how to see the very best of Florence in a short time.

Here are the best things to see and do in Florence:

1. Duomo & Brunelleschi’s Dome

The most recognizable landmark of Florence, the Cathedral or the Duomo is absolutely not to be missed when visiting Florence for the first time.

And there’s a lot more to see and do here than it looks at first sight! So much, in fact, that we listed the main attractions as separate points in this guide.

But let’s start with the main sight – the Duomo – first. The spectacular Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore is an enormous structure towering high above the skyline of Florence. The fourth-largest cathedral in the world, its beautiful exterior is covered in a combination of pink, green, and white marble.

Inside you’ll see many beautiful frescoes and mosaic pavements, along with a magnificent 15th-century clock that still works to this day. However, the interior of the Dome is not nearly as impressive as that of the other magnificent churches in Florence. The most decorative is the inside of Brunelleschi’s Dome above the altar.

One of the best things to do at the Duomo is climb Brunelleschi’s Dome , which covers the cathedral. Climbing the 463 steps to the top is the only way to see its incredible paintwork from close by. In addition, the panoramic views of Florence from the top of the dome are simply stunning and well worth the effort.

Climbing the dome is one of the most popular things to do in Florence. Luckily, you can get timed tickets in advance , so you don’t have to waste time ( guided tours are also available). These tickets/tours normally also include a visit to Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, and Cathedral Museum (you can find more information about these places further below).

Alternatively, there are many more tours that include a climb here, usually in combination with some other sights nearby.

Good to know: The cathedral itself is free to visit, but there’s usually a long queue to get in. If you climb the dome, you can enter the cathedral via a separate entrance and get to see it without extra queuing. Be sure to dress appropriately when you visit the cathedral (knees and shoulders covered).

TIP: Not widely known is the fact that in addition to climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome, you can also visit the Duomo Terraces .

This level can only be visited with a guided tour (it also includes the Dome climb) . While the Duomo terraces aren’t an absolute must, we opted for this option and found that it was quite interesting.

It gives you a very different perspective on the Cathedral itself, plus you get to enjoy some nice city views from yet another angle. It’s also really special to be able to visit a place that not many people get to see.

Our experience: Because we wanted to see the Duomo terraces and also visit Galleria Accademia with a guide, we opted for this amazing tour . It includes the Duomo Dome climb, exclusive access to the Duomo terraces, as well as Galleria Accademia (Michelangelo’s David).

2. Giotto’s Bell Tower

Standing right next to the cathedral, you’ll find another landmark of Florence, Giotto’s Campanile . This is the cathedral’s bell tower .

The construction of this magnificent tower began in 1334. Thanks to its unique coloring and sculptural decorations it is considered to be one of Italy’s most beautiful spires.

If you like to see the best high-angle view of the Duomo and its impressive dome, be sure to climb the 414 steps to the very top! The views from here are almost as impressive as from Brunelleschi’s Dome, except that you also get to see the dome itself .

TIP: If you have the time and are physically capable, I highly recommend both – the dome climb and Giotto’s bell tower. If you have to choose just one, most people go for the dome. Both towers give you great views of Florence, but the artwork of the Last Judgment in Brunelleschi’s Dome is just too special to miss.

We did both and found that each experience was unique and worth the effort. This ticket includes everything there is to see at the Duomo including Giottos’ Bell Tower, the Dome climb, and more. While the dome climb is timed, you can come back to Giotto’s Tower at any time you like. It’s also open quite late and tends to be much less busy.

3. Piazza del Duomo & the Baptistery of St. John

Piazza del Duomo is Florence’s main square, home to the cathedral and the splendid buildings of Giotto’s Campanile and the Baptistery of St. John.

There are other impressive buildings to see there, too. These include the Loggia del Bigallo (originally a place for lost or abandoned children awaiting adoption) and the Palazzo Nonfinito (Unfinished Palace), which now houses the Museum of Mankind.

The Baptistery of St. John is the oldest religious site in Florence. It dates right back to the middle of the 12th century. It’s wrapped in marble just like the Duomo and the bell tower, but its most stunning features are its incredible bronze doors , which were added in the 15th century. You can see the impressive doors from the square – no need to enter inside.

However, the interior of the Baptistery is equally spectacular, with some beautiful mosaics lining the ceiling of this octagonal building. So if it’s not too busy, be sure to check it out! The good thing is that most people only spend a few minutes inside, so even if there’s a queue, it moves very fast.

Good to know: The ticket to the Baptistery of St. John is usually included with the tickets for the Dome climb and/ or Giotto’s Tower. Most tickets also include admission to Museo dell’Opera del Duomo , which contains many of the original works of art created for the Duomo, and also the Crypt of Santa Reparata , where you can see archeological remains under the cathedral.

You can easily spend half a day at the Duomo complex if you want to visit all these places. But if your time is limited, my personal top-3 would be the Dome climb, Giotto’s Tower, and the Baptistery. If it’s not busy, the Crypt of Santa Reparata can be visited in 10-15 minutes, so I’d consider that too.

4. Uffizi Gallery

It would be unthinkable to go to Florence without paying a visit to the Uffizi Gallery . Established in the 16th century, this is one of the oldest museums in the world. This galleria actually gave name to all the art galleries in the world.

This awesome art museum is the most visited museum in Italy. It’s considered equally as important as the Louvre in Paris or New York’s Metropolitan Museum. You’ll find some of the most important renaissance masterpieces in the world here. These include works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raffaelo, and Leonardo da Vinci .

You could easily spend an entire day admiring the thousands of unique exhibits, but it’s so overwhelming too. As a minimum, allow yourself at least 2 hours to see the very best pieces. However, the challenge is to know where to go and what to see, so I highly recommend visiting the Uffizi Gallery with a guide .

TIP: There are so many tours that visit Uffizi that the choice can get really overwhelming. After lots of research, we opted for this small-group tour and it was absolutely excellent.

Good to know: If you decide to go on your own, be sure to get timed entrance tickets ! The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most popular attractions in Florence, so the crowds here are enormous.

PRO TIP: If you can, try to visit very early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The busiest hours are between 10 am and 3 pm. Also, be sure to do some research about the main paintings in the gallery so that you don’t miss them. Also, please note that Uffizi Gallery is closed on Mondays.

TIP: Check out the Uffizi Gallery Café on the top floor. It has a lovely outdoor terrace with a view of Palazzo Vecchio – it’s a nice place to rest a bit after all the sightseeing.

5. Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) is the most iconic bridge and one of the must-sees in Florence. It’s located right next to the Uffizi Gallery and connects the city center to the other side of the river.

Until 1218, this was the only bridge crossing the River Arno, and later it remained the only bridge that the fleeing Germans did not destroy in World War II! What you see today is a slightly more recent version which was rebuilt in 1345 after a flood.

There have always been shops on the bridge, however, originally, they were occupied by butchers, tanners, and blacksmiths. This changed in the 16th century when the Medici family built the Vasari Corridor over the bridge and found the meat smell disturbing. Since then, the colorful bridge is lined with gold- and jewelry shops.

The bridge makes a lovely spot for a romantic evening stroll. But my personal favorite time to come here is very early in the morning when there are hardly any people around. This is the only time when you can see the bridge empty.

TIP: In addition to walking over this bridge, it’s just as interesting to simply see it from the sides. That way, you can better appreciate its unique structure. The Ponte Vecchio is especially impressive from a distance. For the best views and photos, head to Ponte Santa Trinita, but don’t forget to see the bridge from the west side too – it’s from here that you can also see the Vasari Corridor (more about it further below).

6. Michelangelo’s David – Galleria dell’Accademia

Galleria dell’Accademia (Accademia Gallery) is another must-see in Florence, attracting huge crowds. The Gallery of Fine Arts was founded here in 1563, making it Europe’s very first art academy.

The main attraction in this museum is the most famous statue in the world – Michelangelo’s ‘David’. Also not to be missed are Giambologna’s ‘Rape of the Sabines’, plus Botticelli’s ‘Madonna and Child’ and ‘Madonna of the Sea’.

In addition to its famous statues, you’ll find collections of paintings from local artists, religious prints dating back to the Middle Ages, and even works created by Accademia’s students.

The building also houses a fascinating Museum of Musical Instruments. It contains more than 50 instruments, some of which were owned by the Medici family and made by famous violin maker Antonius Stradivarius.

Good to know: This is Florence’s second most visited museum and it’s much smaller than the Uffizi Gallery. So the queues here are usually very long. Be sure to get the timed priority entrance tickets online , as they allow you to jump the queue. Please note that Accademia Gallery is closed on Mondays.

TIP: If you want to visit both the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi museum with a guide, you’ll find plenty of tours that include the two museums .

7. Piazza della Signoria

Located in the heart of the old town, the L-shaped Piazza della Signoria is one of Florence’s most beautiful town squares. Filled with incredible sculptures, statues, Neptune Fountain, and home to the impressive Palazzo Vecchio, this square feels somewhat like an open-air museum.

Don’t miss the extraordinary sculptures at Loggia dei Lanzi, right under the terrace of the Uffizi Gallery café. Also note a copy of Michelangelo’s ‘David’ at the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio. If you don’t have the time to see the original at Galleria dell’Accademia, this gives you a bit of an idea of how special it really is. And if you think this one is impressive, the details of the original will take your breath away.

Be sure to pop back and visit the square in the dark as well. The lit fountains, statues, and buildings give it a magical appearance.

Piazza della Signoria is a great place to learn more about the city’s history, or simply hang out and people-watch. There are many cafes nearby and lots of benches on which to take a break and enjoy a gelato .

TIP: Try to avoid the tourist-oriented gelaterias selling ‘mountains’ of colorful ice cream. Instead, ask locals for recommendations or go for the less colorful, artisanal gelato. One of the better gelaterias in this area is ‘Perché no!’, just 2 minutes walk from Piazza della Signoria. Be sure to try the traditional Florentine ice cream flavor ‘buontalenti’ . It’s named after Bernardo Buontalenti, a 16th-century artist, who is often credited as an inventor of Italian gelato .

8. Palazzo Vecchio & Views from Torre di Arnolfo

The city’s most important historic government building, the 13th-century Palazzo Vecchio now serves as Florence’s town hall and houses a museum. In addition, you can also climb Arnolfo Tower for some of the best views in Florence. The most famous postcard views of the city are photographed from this tower.

Some people prefer to do this to climbing the Duomo dome, as it gives you a great view of the Duomo itself. Having done them all, I think that each is worth it (I know, I’m not helping here). But Arnolfo Tower climb is not as high as the Duomo Dome or Giotto’s Tower, and it’s also less busy and cheaper.

Soaring to 95 meters high, the palace towers over the city, its foundations resting on the remains of an ancient Roman theatre. This means that a visit here gives you a glimpse of three different eras – Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance.

With its cubic shape and battlements, the building of Palazzo Vecchio looks quite impressive and unique from the outside. But its interior is even more stunning. You can see beautifully carved columns and a fountain in the courtyard, then climb the grand staircase to reach the main floor housing the incredible Salone dei Cinquecento .

Good to know: Just as for all the main sights in Florence, it’s best to book your Palazzo Vecchio tickets in advance . This allows you to skip the line and avoid the disappointment of not being able to visit (tower tickets are timed too).

The standard museum ticket doesn’t include the entrance to the tower, so be sure to select that option if you want to do it. Here you can get a ticket that includes both – entry to the palace as well as Arnolfo Tower.

TIP: If you have extra time, consider a guided ‘secret passages’ tour . This tour takes you to the areas of the building that are not accessible to the general public and helps bring the incredibly interesting history to life. Of course, there are regular tours too.

9. Palazzo Pitti

Palazzo Pitti is another incredibly beautiful place to see in Florence. Located on the other side of the river in the Oltrarno district, this magnificent palace has had many famous residents over the years, including the Savoy, Lorraine, and Medici families, along with the Grand Dukes of Tuscany.

Once the largest residence in Florence, it is still one of its most impressive! The Galleria Palatina – filled with Italian works of art – is its most famous room, but you can also see contemporary pieces in the Galleria d’Arte Moderna and silverware in the Museo degli Argenti.

The Royal Apartments are also open to visitors, along with the Galleria del Costume. Here you can see how tastes in clothing worn at the palace changed over time. Once you have seen all the rooms and exhibits inside the palace, take time to stroll through the famous Boboli Gardens (more info below).

This palace has a reputation for closing some of the smaller museums quite regularly. If there is one you particularly want to see, then I recommend checking it is open before buying your ticket. On the other hand, there is so much to explore here that you won’t be able to see everything anyway. Some parts of the palace and the gardens were indeed closed during our visit, but we didn’t feel like we missed much. We ran out of time just trying to quickly see some of the musts.

Good to know: The cost of admission to Palazzo Pitti includes all the museums housed within. You need to buy a separate ticket to visit the Boboli Gardens. You can get your tickets for the palace and Boboli Gardens in advance, but normally, you should also be able to get them on the spot. Online tickets will save you time since you won’t have to queue. Keep in mind that Pitti Palace is open daily except on Mondays, whereas the gardens are open daily.

These combination tickets include Piti Palace, Boboli Gardens, and Bardini Gardens. While not nearly as impressive as Boboli Gardens, Bardini Gardens are very pretty too, and they offer really nice views of Florence.

TIP: You can also opt for the Palazzo Pitti tickets that also include Uffizi Gallery (+ the gardens and two other museums as well). These are valid for 5 days, so you don’t have to visit all the places on the same day either. However, as already mentioned before, I’d really consider visiting the Uffizi Gallery with a guided tour, so in that case, your ticket to this museum will already be included.

10. Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens are located right behind the Palazzo Pitti. Dotted with beautiful fountains, sculptures, and ancient oak trees, these spectacular gardens have become one of my personal favorite places in Florence. Somehow we completely overlooked them on previous trips, but now that we visited here recently, I can’t recommend them highly enough!

These gardens were designed by the Medici family and their layout was used as a model for many other European courts, Versailles in particular.

One of the prettiest parts is the lovely Viottolone (Cypress Lane), a sloping avenue fringed with trees and the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. It takes you all the way to Vasca dell’Isola (Island Pond), a pretty pond with a fountain and sculptures at its center.

Don’t miss the beautiful rose garden Giardino dei Cavalieri (the Knights Garden). It’s a bit uphill at the very end of the garden and you may wonder if it’s worth the effort, but it sure is. The view of the Tuscan countryside from here is so beautiful.

Other must-sees inside the gardens include Grotta del Buontalenti , an impressive grotto right at the start/end of the Vasari Corridor. Just nearby, there’s also a smaller Grotta di Madama , that’s really special too.

Good to know: Boboli Gardens are usually open daily and the main entrance is through the courtyard of the Pitti Palace. You can get a ticket in advance , but you should also be able to get it on the spot.

TIP: There is A LOT to see at both Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens. If you are short on time, I recommend taking a tour that includes both, so you don’t miss the highlights. Tours run all year round and take around 3 hours. This is one of the best tours that covers all the highlights here.

11. Vasari Corridor

Connecting Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery in the city center with the Pitti Palace on the other side of the Arno River, the Vasari Corridor ( Corridoio Vasariano ) is one of the most intriguing places in Florence. It was built in 1565 by the Medici family to give them easy and secure access between the two palaces.

This 1 km-long elevated passageway can best be seen from the Uffizi Gallery or from the western side of the Ponte Vecchio bridge (the corridor is actually built on top of the shops located on the bridge). It contains antique statues, 16th-century frescoes that were once on the exterior of the corridor’s walls, and memorials connected to bombings that occurred in Florence in the mid to late 20th century.

Good to know: This passage has never been really open to the general public, with few exceptions, and has always been surrounded by some mystery. However, this is about to change. The Vasari Corridor is undergoing a complete renovation. It was supposed to open to the public a few years ago, but the opening was delayed time and again. At the moment of the last update, they don’t even show the approximate date anymore.

When/if it opens, you’ll be able to walk from the ground floor of the Uffizi Gallery, over Ponte Vecchio, and all the way to Boboli Gardens. You’ll need a separate ticket for this and more information will be available here by the time when the actual opening date is in sight.

12. Basilica di Santa Croce

Florence has many wonderful churches, but this one may just be the best! If you visit just one church in Florence inside, make it the Basilica of Santa Croce , located on the Piazza di Santa Croce in the city center. It’s worth it even more than seeing the inside of the Duomo.

This impressive Basilica has a stunning neo-Gothic facade with colored marble and white stone. Just as most other Basilicas in Florence, it also has an impressive courtyard. However, in the case of Basilica di Santa Croce, it’s the inside of the church that is worth visiting the most.

Inside, light pours onto the wide nave through the gorgeous stained glass windows and highlights the imposing marble pulpit created by the Renaissance sculptor Benedetto da Maiano. The church is also filled with Donatello sculptures, beautiful frescoes, and the tombs of some very famous people .

Don’t miss the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Rossini, and Machiavelli, to mention just a few. You’ll also see the tomb of Dante, although he’s actually buried in Ravenna and not in Florence where he was born.

Good to know: The entry fee includes admission to the entire church complex, including the museum, cloisters, etc. You can get tickets online in advance , but when we visited, they were more expensive because they charged an extra reservation fee. We found that it was easy enough to visit without advance reservation (and it’s more flexible too), but this might depend on when you visit, of course.

13. Basilica di San Lorenzo & Medici Chapels

No list of the best things to do in Florence would be complete without mentioning Basilica di San Lorenzo . Consecrated in 393 by Saint Ambrose of Milan, Basilica di San Lorenzo claims to be Florence’s oldest church. For a period of around 300 years, it was actually the city’s cathedral. But one of its main claims to fame is that it was also the parish church of the Medici family, so it remained an incredibly important building.

Located in the center of Florence’s main market district, the basilica complex has 5 different sections to explore. These include the pretty cloister, the library, the church itself, The Old Sacristy, and the Medici Chapels – the burial place of the Medici family.

While the church and the cloisters are interesting to see, I find that the Medici Chapels ( Capelle Medici ) are worth a visit most of all. I’d even dare say that this is one of the most remarkable places to see in Florence. In addition to the Medici tombs, you can also see some sculptures by Michelangelo, such as the statues of Dawn and Dusk at the Tomb of Lorenzo Duke of Urbino.

Good to know: You need separate tickets for the basilica (which give you access to the main church, crypt, and cloisters), the library, and the Medici Chapels.

The church is easy to visit and you can just get the tickets on the spot without any advance planning. I’m not sure about the library – it wasn’t open when we visited, and frankly, it didn’t look like it was an absolute must-see in Florence. But the Medici Chapels are well worth it and this is one of the places where you might want to consider booking tickets in advance.

The Medici Chapels have somewhat unusual opening times, so it requires some planning. Also, because the chapel isn’t big, they only allow a certain number of people. You may get lucky that the queue is not too long and you can just get a ticket upon arrival. However, if you absolutely want to be sure to visit inside without wasting time, it’s best to get a timed entrance ticket in advance.

14. Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

There are so many churches in Florence that you could spend days and days trying to see all of them (and who has the time or interest, right?).

But as far as the very best ones go – and well worth a visit – there’s one more church that deserves a mention among the top places in Florence. That’s the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella .

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is located right next to the main railway station of Florence (which is actually named after this church). Founded between 1279 and 1357 by Dominican monks, the basilica has stunning stained glass windows and a Gothic interior filled with frescoes. You can see lots of works by famous artists here, including Brunelleschi, Botticelli, and Vasari’s ‘Madonna of the Rosary’.

We found that the cloisters of this basilica are particularly impressive. As you leave the hustle and bustle of the busy city behind the thick walls, it feels like stepping inside a real oasis of calm.

Good to know: The Basilica is open daily, with hours depending on the season and day of the week. While they also offer online tickets , we just got ours on the spot and it wasn’t busy at all. See their website for more practical info. Please also note that you are not allowed to take large bags into the church and there is no cloakroom. The closest place to leave them is in the lockers at the railway station. Regular day-backpacks should be ok.

TIP: If you visit around noon, you may see how the sun shining through the stained glass window marks the time of the year on the calendar on the floor.

15. San Lorenzo Market

Mercato Centrale Firenze , aka San Lorenzo Market , is one of the most popular places to visit in Florence for tourists. If you are looking for a nice place for lunch or even dinner, it’s definitely a great choice.

This bustling market is actually made up of two markets. The Mercato Centrale is indoors and devoted to food , whilst the outdoor section lining the surrounding streets sells everything from clothing and leather to pottery and souvenirs. This is a great place to buy gifts to take home, but it’s so overwhelming that I wouldn’t even know where to start choosing… Also, nearly all the goods sold here are marked at prices higher than you should expect to pay, so be sure to haggle.

I recommend that you come to San Lorenzo Market for some local food from various regions in Italy . The indoor market has many cafes and various places selling food, including a big food court on the top floor. And since the market is located so close to most of the main tourist sights in Florence center, it’s really simple to plan a visit (or a few) here.

We had lunch at Mercato Centrale a few times. From Tuscan specialties at one of the wine shops ( enoteca ‘s) on the ground floor to fresh pasta in the food court upstairs, everything was delicious, well-priced, and served with a smile. If you are brave enough to try the traditional Florentine sandwich lampredotto (made with tripe/cow stomach), head to the ‘Da Nerbone’ restaurant upstairs.

TIP: If you want to avoid the crowds and find a good place to sit, it’s best to arrive at the market before the popular Italian dining times. So for lunch, it’s best to come a bit before noon. Most locals have lunch at around 1-2 pm and the market gets really busy at that time.

Good to know: If you want to take food from the market back home with you, chat to your vendor about which products are permitted across different borders. The vendors all speak very good English and are very knowledgeable on this subject. They will also vacuum pack items for you on request.

16. Views from Piazzale Michelangelo

Located on a hill on the Arno’s south bank, Piazzale Michelangelo is Florence’s most famous sunset spot. It offers truly jaw-dropping panoramic views across the city. And whilst it is extremely popular (and crowded) in the evenings, the views across the city skyline and Tuscan hills are spectacular whatever time of day you choose to visit.

There is plenty to see and do on the square itself, which contains lots of replicas of Michelangelo’s statues and a memorial to the artist. There is also a loggia containing a restaurant and coffee bar, lots of street vendors, live music from time to time, and a very vibrant atmosphere.

If you come here in the evening on a nice sunny summer’s day, it almost feels like you are attending some kind of festival…

Good to know: You can drive to the square (there is a car park) or take the bus or a taxi. But if you don’t mind a bit of uphill climbing, you can also easily walk here from the city center! On the way, you’ll see the Porta San Niccolò – a high watchtower that was once part of the city’s defenses – and the beautiful Giardino delle Rose (rose garden) which is free to visit.

TIP: We visited Piazzale Michelangelo with this highly-rated e-bike city tour . We opted for the 6 pm tour in summer and were at the viewpoint about an hour before the sunset. We got to enjoy some spectacular views in a beautiful light with little effort. However, please note that biking in the center of Florence is not something you should do if you haven’t biked for a while. But if you bike at home once in a while, you should be just fine.

17. Piazza Santo Spirito & Basilica di Santo Spirito

One of Florence’s liveliest neighborhoods, the area around Piazza Santo Spirito is one of the nicest places to soak up a more local atmosphere in Florence!

Constantly busy, this area attracts an ever-changing crowd of local artisans, intellectuals, and students. In the morning, you can visit a local market here. But the area really comes to life at night, when the surrounding galleries and boutiques close, and the restaurants and bars begin to open.

In addition to enjoying a refreshing drink at one of the square’s many open terraces, be sure to visit the Basilica di Santo Spirito . This little church was Brunelleschi’s last masterpiece. It looks quite plain from the outside, but inside it is filled with many noteworthy pieces of art. These include The Cenacolo – a depiction of the Last Supper.

Good to know: In keeping with its hip and happening atmosphere, Piazza Santo Spirito holds regular markets and fairs. Local artisans display their wares on weekdays, whilst the weekends are set aside for vintage goods and food.

TIP: If you are looking for a nice restaurant for dinner , you’ll find plenty of great choices in this area. However, it’s best to book in advance. Or hope for some luck and use the trick of arriving at the restaurant as soon as it opens, before the locals start to arrive at 8-8.30 pm.

I indicated some of our favorite restaurants (not just in this area) on our map below.

18. Fontana del Porcellino

No list of the best things to do in Florence would be complete without mentioning the Fontana del Porcellino . And no, it can’t compare to the incredible architecture and Renaissance masterpieces you see in the city, but it’s one of those places that you really can’t miss when visiting Florence.

Fontana del Porcellino is the local nickname for the rather unique bronze boar fountain , located in the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, also known as the Leather Market. It’s just a short walk from the main tourist attractions in Florence, just one block from Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria. Well worth a quick stop.

This famous pig has appeared in the 2001 film Hannibal and two different Harry Potter films. Originally placed to provide water to merchants trading locally, it is now a popular spot for making wishes! Tradition also has it that if you rub the boar’s nose before you leave Florence (and put a coin in its mouth), you are sure to return one day in the future.

Good to know: The fountain stands at the small market where you can buy all kinds of leather goods – purses, wallets, etc. If you find the street vendors at Mercato San Lorenzo overwhelming, this market is much smaller.

19. Florence Rooftops

Now that we covered all the must-sees in Florence, there’s something else that I’d like to add. Something that is not a must in any way, but will make your visit to this beautiful city so much more memorable. The stunning views from the rooftop bars and restaurants in Florence.

With such incredible architecture and a stunning setting surrounded by the Tuscan hills, Florence has some of the most beautiful skylines of any European city. You’ll see some amazing views if you climb the dome of the Duomo or the towers mentioned in our guide, but this doesn’t compare to a more relaxing experience of enjoying the amazing views from the rooftop bars and restaurants.

TIP: If you want to enjoy the best views without having to plan much, visit rooftop terraces during the day. For the best light and sunset views, go about an hour before sunset, but try to reserve a table in advance if possible.

There are so many beautiful rooftop bars in Florence that I felt they deserve a separate guide with more info. So if you are looking for a nice place to enjoy some of the best views in the city without too much effort, definitely check it out via the link below. It also includes the best hotels with rooftops – something to consider for an even more memorable stay!

LEARN MORE: Florence Rooftop Guide

More suggestions for things to do in Florence

As you can imagine, there is much more to see and do in Florence than covered in this guide.

While the places mentioned above will keep you busy for at least 2-3 days, here are some additional suggestions for what to see and do in Florence that are worth it if you have more time and/or want to escape the biggest crowds.

More things to do in Florence city:

• Riccardi Medici Palace . A beautifully-preserved Renaissance palace, just near the Basilica of San Lorenzo.
• Bargello National Museum . Located in one of the oldest buildings in Florence (1255), this is now a beautiful art museum where you can see the sculptures of Michelangelo and Donatello, among many other masterpieces.
• Leonardo Interactive Museum . This is a very popular museum featuring life-size machines based on the drawings of Leonardo da Vinci. Here, you can actually interact with the exhibits, so it’s really fun for the whole family. This is quickly becoming a very popular place to visit in Florence, beyond the traditional ‘must-sees’, so it’s best to get timed tickets in advance .
• Cooking classes. If you are looking for something special and more local to do in Florence, check out the big selection of cooking experiences .

Of course, one of the best things to do in Florence is simply wandering around the city center, exploring its incredible architecture, cozy streets, and looking for little hidden gems that will make your trip even more special.

In addition to the main attractions in Florence city center, there’s so much to see nearby . You can visit Bologna from Florence or Cinque Terre (even if just for a day), or rent a car and explore the nicest places and towns in Tuscany on your own. Or you can also opt for one of the many organized tours.

Here are some of the best day tours from Florence:

• Cinque Terre: This is the most popular and best-rated day tour .
• Tuscan towns & countryside: This is the best-rated day tour (you visit Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena, and more).
• Wine & Tuscan countryside: This is a very popular half-day tour . This full-day tour takes you to the beautiful Val d’Orcia (including Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano).

READ ALSO: What to See & Do in Siena & Best Things to Do in Montepulciano

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Florence

Florence is a very walkable city and all the main sights are located really close to each other.

But to help you orient, I created this map indicating all the best things to do in Firenze mentioned in our guide. I also included a few restaurant recommendations, based on our most recent experience in the city.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to some of the best experiences and things to do in Florence. I hope that this guide helps you plan your visit to this incredibly beautiful historic city and make the most of your time there.

No matter what you have learned about the Renaissance period from books or television, there is nothing quite like visiting its birthplace and seeing its marvels first-hand.

READ ALSO: How to see the best of Florence in 1 day

Where to Stay

As already mentioned, Florence’s city center is quite compact and very walkable. So you can stay pretty much anywhere within 15-20 minutes walking distance from the Duomo and it will be ok.

That being said, one of the most convenient areas – especially if you are traveling by train – is the area close to the main railway station (Firenze Santa Maria Novella), or between the station and the river. It’s just a few minutes walk from the main landmarks AND you don’t have to take a taxi or walk far with your luggage.

Here are some hotel suggestions within a short walking distance from the railway station:

• €€€€€+ The Westin Excelsior .
• €€€€€ Hotel Calimala .
• €€€€ Hotel Croce di Malta (this is where we stayed on a recent trip – it has a beautiful rooftop bar and a garden pool!).
• €€€ Hotel Machiavelli Palace .
• €€ B&B Le Stanze del Duomo (one of the best-rated affordable hotels near Duomo).
• €+ Plus Florence (one of the most popular low-budget options).
• € Hotel Bodoni .

More travel inspiration for some of the nicest Italian cities:

• Best cities to see in Italy
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• Hidden gems of Rome
• Best things to do in Venice (+ Doge’s Palace & Venice Gondola )
• Best things to do in Milan
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• Best things to do in Siena (+ Siena Cathedral )
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• Best things to do in Naples
• Best things to do in Verona
• Best things to do in Ravenna
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• Milan in 1 day
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Some of our favorite places in Italy:

• Best places to visit in Italy
• Best Places to See at Lake Como
• Capri Island
• Naples area
• Best places in the Dolomites
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• Varenna (Lake Como)
• Best towns to visit in Lake Como
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• Tuscany Itinerary
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• Italy trip itinerary for 2 weeks (all the ‘musts’ in the shortest possible time)
• For more inspiration, please see our Italy travel blog .

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Thursday 12th of October 2023

I'm putting together my FIRST trip/MBM to Italy (talk about overwhelming).... so glad I found your site! I would like to take a day trip via train from Florence to Siena, is that an option and if so, what is the speed train system? Thank you ~

Saturday 14th of October 2023

Hi Terri, yes, of course, you can easily visit Siena from Florence in a day. There are also tours available (but they usually visit several towns, spending little time in each - ideal if you want to see a lot in a day, but not ideal if you want to explore deeper). So if you just want to explore Siena, it's better to go on your own. Traveling in Italy by train is really simple and straightforward. You can use websites like Omio to compare all the best transportation options for any route you want to take and book your train/bus tickets. Between Florence and Siena, you can opt for a train or a bus. In this specific case, the bus is faster, but the train can be more comfortable and trains run more frequently. PS You may also want to take a look at our guide to the best places to see in Siena. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 23rd of August 2022

You write the the best blogs! I enjoy reading them and they help a great deal in planning my trips. Thank you! :)

Friday 26th of August 2022

Thank you so much for your kind feedback, Rima. Happy travels!

Michael Cicchi

Monday 13th of June 2022

I will save this article for use also. I believe I would have to live here for two weeks.😀

Tuesday 14th of June 2022

:) Yes, indeed, Michael, there's so much to see in and around Florence. You could easily spend a few weeks in Tuscany and never get bored. Happy travels!

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17 Top Attractions and Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Florence is synonymous with the European Renaissance, leather handbags, and practically the word Tuscany itself! Together with Rome and Venice , it makes up what I call Italy’s “big three” – the top three cities people typically see on a first-time visit to Italy . While I’m staunchly “team Rome” when it comes to the debate of favorites, Florence is a strong contender. There’s simply so many things to do in Florence, and all these things are relatively close, making it a lovely city to explore entirely on foot. From the world-famous artwork, to the surrounding scenery, I’m sure Florence will keep you entertained when you visit. So keep reading for my top things to do in Florence, Italy!

If you’re hell-bent on seeing absolutely anything and everything in Florence (beyond even these 17 top things), definitely consider the Firenze Card . With it, you get free entry into 75 different sites for 72 hours from entering the first site. It’ll set you back €85, so I recommend deciding everything you want to see, tallying up the entry fees, and deciding that way. If I’m being honest, I don’t think it really makes sense for a two or three day first-time visit to Florence. Instead, I can highly recommend the Grande Museo del Duomo Ticket . It covers the first six items listed in this post for the totally-reasonable price of €18, plus a €2 pre-sale fee if bought in advance via the official website. 

Now that that’s all out of the way, let’s get to the top things to do in Florence!

Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral), also known as the Duomo di Firenze and Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the city’s shining star. It was the largest church in Europe at the time it was built, and many today credit it as the birthplace of the European Renaissance itself. Entry is free, but lines are typically over an hour wait.

If the Duomo is Florence’s shining star, then the Cupola (Bruneschelli’s Dome) is the Duomo’s shining star. It was quite the archaeological feat, constructed without any supporting structures beneath it and requiring the invention of entirely new tools to do so. To visit, you must select a specific time slot when you buy your ticket. Otherwise, you will be turned away at the door. (I saw it happen, and trust me, it’s sad to see after such a long wait time!) Make sure knees and shoulders are covered, as climbing to the top necessarily requires entering the cathedral.

Campanile di Giotto

Really? More stairs? Yep! But trust me, it’s worth it! The Campanile di Giotto (Giotto’s Bell Tower) offers lovely views over all of Florence, just like the Cupola does, but it also grants you that iconic vantage point of the Dome itself (the view in the previous photo). It’s an absolute must, in my opinion.

Battistero di San Giovanni

The Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of San Giovanni) sits right across the cathedral and matches perfectly in it’s green, pink, and white exterior. But I was shocked when I entered to find a completely Byzantine-style interior filled all the way to the ceiling with stunning golden mosaics. With the late-morning sun rays beaming in through the windows, it truly was borderline magical, so I definitely recommend a visit inside. Pro tip: Tourist crowds will be snapping pics of the gold doors outside, but those are copies. The real doors are in the Opera Duomo Museum!

Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo (Opera Duomo Museum) will help you appreciate and understand why all this Duomo stuff is such a big deal to Florence and to the Renaissance. Plus, it houses all the original works of a lot of outdoor copies, so it might be worth a quick visit since it’s included in both the Grande Museo del Duomo Ticket and the Firenze Card.

Cripta di Santa Reparata

The Cripta di Santa Reparata (Crypt of Santa Reparata) is included in both the Grande Museo del Duomo Ticket and the Firenze Card, which was the only reason I saw it. But once I got there, it was actually pretty interesting! It’s basically church ruins from 405AD just chillin’ right there underneath the main cathedral. The unfortunate thing about the crypt is that you have to wait in the same line as for the free Duomo entry. So definitely time these two activities together!

Piazza della Repubblica

The Piazza della Repubblica (Square of the Republic) is one of the main squares in Florence. It’s marked by the colorful merry-go-round off to one side and the Colonna della Dovizia (Column of Abundance) near by.

Piazza della Signoria

The Piazza della Signoria (Square of the Lordship) is another main square in Florence, and a much more impressive one, in my opinion. It’s simply got so much going on! There’s the Nettuno (Neptune) fountain, the David statue copy in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, and Loggia de Lanzi. The Loggia de Lanzi is my favorite part of the square, as it’s basically an open air museum with dramatic sculptures that normally should be tucked away in a building! 

Palazzo Vecchio

The Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace) was once Florence’s city hall, built to house the Florentine Republic’s government organizations. Today, it is a museum with an impressive medieval facade and tower. I chose not to enter, aside from the inner courtyard, but it’s supposed to have an epic view of the Duomo from inside.

Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) is one of the most iconic sites in all of Florence, known for it’s cute little shops hanging off the bridge over the Amo River. It’s the oldest bridge in Florence, hence the name, and it’s truly impressive how much hustle and bustle goes on inside the bridge itself.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo (Michelangelo Square) is famous as the best viewpoint in Florence. It’s likely the furthest out you’ll get during all your sightseeing, but it’s definitely worth the slight trek – and the stairs at the end! Once up there, you’ll find it’s a lovely spot to sit and stay a while, so bring some snacks and drinks (like everyone else does!).

Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia (Accadamia Gallery) is honestly famous for one thing and one thing only – the David statue by Michelangelo. Yes, you could suffice with seeing the fake copy outside the Palazzo Vecchio, but if you’re like me and you suffer from FOMO (or, ya know, you’re knowledgeable about art), you’ll have to see the real thing. It’ll set you back €12, plus a €4 online skip-the-line fee via the official site . 

Galleria degli Uffizi

The Galleria degli Uffizi (Uffizi Gallery) is currently Italy’s top art museum, but it didn’t start out that way. Uffizi actually means “offices” in Italian, which makes sense because this building was originally the Medici family’s offices. The Medici’s definitely loved their art, which they collected here to impress their guests. Today, that collection and more (including the iconic Birth of Venus painting) is open to the public for €12, plus €4 for the skip-the-line online booking fee via the official site .

Mercato di San Lorenzo

The Mercato di San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo Market) is your one-stop-shop for leather haggling shopping in Florence. I absolutely loathe haggling or bartering of any sort, so if you’re like me, I still recommend a visit to window shop and eat. This market is actually a two-in-one along with the Mercato Centrale (Central Market), which is a large indoor building with tons of food stalls. Yum!

Basilica di Santa Croce

The Basilica di Santa Croce (Santa Croce) is worth visiting simply for the beautiful area and buildings surrounding it. I did not enter the church (since entry was not free, and I actually just stumbled upon it en route elsewhere) but apparently it houses Michelangelo’s tomb.

Palazzo Pitti

The Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace) was the official Medici family residence. Today, it houses several museums, which you can enjoy for €16, plus €3 for booking skip-the-line tickets online via the official site . Originally I wasn’t interested (once you’ve seen enough European palaces, you feel you’ve seen them all!), but I later regretted not budgeting enough time to see the palace’s Giardino di Boboli (Boboli Gardens). The gardens are €10, plus €3 for booking skip-the-line tickets online via the official site . When I went in mid September in the late afternoon, there was no line.

Cappelle Medicee

The Cappelle Medicee (Medici Chapels) or Cappella dei Principi (Chapel of the Princes) is part of the Basilica di San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo Church). This was the Medici family’s official church and family tomb. Like with everything else the Medici’s did, they went all out! I only admired from the outside, but I’ll definitely enter on my return visit.

FREE 14 Day Italy Itinerary E-Book

Will you be exploring more than just Florence while traveling Italy? If so, skim through my ridiculously detailed  two week Italy itinerary . I made it especially with first-time visitors to the country in mind, but it’s honestly lovely for anyone who simply has a lot to see in a little time. I’ve also made a printable, condensed version of that two week itinerary with  every important detail  you’ll need once on the ground. Just download the PDF, print it double-sided (so four pages total), and you’re good to go for your trip. It even has a map! Click below to get it emailed to you.

What do you think?

Are you planning a trip to Florence? Let me know any questions you still have in the comments below, and I’ll get back to you. Have you already been to Florence? Let me know any hidden gems I missed, so that I can know for my next return!

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Further Reading...

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10 comments.

Kitti Around the World

It was so great to walk down memory lane through your blogpost. I loved Florence so much, and my favourite thing to do there was watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo.

That Travelista

Seriously a perfect sunset spot!

Oh my goodness I miss Florence so much! These photographs are beautiful and are only wanting me to go so much more!!

Thanks so much, Amy!

emailgetlost

Florence looks beautiful! Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore looks especially stunning! And the view from the bell tower looks amazing! I always like seeing the cities I visit from a high vantage point! I hope I get an opportunity to visit Florence soon. Thanks for the great guide!

I love high vantage points too!! Florence has several to choose from, all stunning (and all requiring a climb lol!).

Florence has been on my list of Italian cities to visit for so long! I’m definitely saving this post for when I eventually plan my trip there!

Yay! I hope you love it when you go, Krista!

I used to live in Italy but I could only take time off work during the high season, so I kept delaying visiting Florence until I could go when there were fewer crowds… and then I never made it! Your photos are definitely making me kick myself!

Oh I totally know what you mean about dreading destinations known for crowds! But some places honestly “deserve” them and that makes me feel less annoyed (especially as I am adding to the crowd myself lol).

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11 Top Attractions and Things to Do in Venice, Italy

15 top attractions and things to do in verona, italy, that travelista.

15 Places to Visit in Florence and Tuscany + Things To Do

Florance is located in central Italy on the Arno River. Florence along with the Tuscany region is home to one of the highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

If you ask me what me to name my favorite destination in Italy, I’d easily tell you it’s Florence! This city in Northern Italy is famous for being the birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the most beautiful historical centers in Europe. It is rich in old architecture, history, and art — among them Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

Florence is well-worth visiting on its own but what made me put it at the top of my bucketlist in Italy was its position as an excellent base to explore other travel goals nearby including the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa; wineries and well-preserved medieval towns in Tuscany; and the colorful seaside villages of Cinque Terre.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Florence travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Florence Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Florence Itinerary + Travel Guide .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Tuscany Guided Day Tour – Siena, San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Chianti (from Florence)

Florence Cathedral-Duomo Tour with Fast Track Entry + the Secret Terraces

Florence City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Open Top) and Leonardo da Vinci Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket

Private Guided Walking Tour Florence

Pisa Half Day Tour from Florence

Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence

View all travel tips on: Florence .

Where to stay in Florence:

Best Luxury Hotels in Florence

Splurge at the best 5-star and 4-star hotels in Florence.

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Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

Historical Center

Horto Convento

EUR 200  / USD 234 / PHP 12,314 or less

4-Star & 5-Star hotel promo rates  — Grab massive discounts on luxury rooms available for booking today.

EUR 120  / USD 140 / PHP 7,388 or less

Recommended 3-Star & budget hotels  — Great-value rooms for travelers seeking comfort at affordable rates. Perfect for those traveling with family & friends.

Hotel del Corso

EUR 80  / USD 94 / PHP 4,926 or less

Best budget hotels in Florence  — For travelers looking for decent yet affordable accommodations.

Hotel Miceli

EUR 40  / USD 47 / PHP 2,463 or less

Best hostels & budget hotels  — Cheap hotels & places to stay for backpackers/solo travelers on a tight budget.

Plus Florence Hostel

EUR 20  / USD 23 / PHP 1,231 or less.

Cheapest places to stay in Florence.

1. Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Location : Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. North bank of the Arno River. . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Florence Walking Tour

Florence Duomo Express Guided Tour

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2. Piazzale Michelangelo

Location : South bank of the Arno River. East of Florence historical centre. . Save on Google Maps .

3. Pitti Palace

Location : Piazza de’ Pitti. South bank of the Arno River. . Save on Google Maps .

Florence Pitti Palace Tour

4. Boboli Gardens

Location : Piazza de’ Pitti. Beside Pitti Palace. . Save on Google Maps .

5. Palazzo Vecchio

Location : Piazza della Signoria . Save on Google Maps .

6. Uffizi Gallery

Location : Piazzale degli Uffizi . Save on Google Maps .

Uffizi Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket in Florence

Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour with Fast Track Entry

7. Arno River

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8. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Location : Piazza di Santa Maria Novella . Save on Google Maps .

9. Florence Historical Centre

Where to go near Florence

10. Leaning Tower of Pisa & Pisa Cathedral

Location : Piazza del Duomo . Save on Google Maps .

Pisa and Cinque Terre Guided Day Trip from Florence or Pisa

Tuscany Day Tour with Lunch from Florence

11. Siena Historical Centre

Location : Siena province, Tuscany region . Save on Google Maps .

12. San Gimignano Historical Centre

13. Monteriggioni Castle

14. Chianti Wine Tasting & Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Location : Chianti Hills, Central Tuscany. Spans Florence, Siena and Arezzo provinces. . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Tuscany

15. Cinque Terre

Location : La Spezia province . Save on Google Maps .

Cinque Terre – All 5 Villages Hiking Day from Florence

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Florence that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Florence

Florence tourist spots, things to do in Florence, where to go in Florence & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Florence

Most accommodations in Florence are conveniently located in the historical center, within easy walking distance to the main tourist spots.

If you're looking for an affordable room, consider booking a budget hotel or hostel located in the area of Santa Maria Novella train station, but not too far from the Florence Cathedral (Duomo).

If you're set on a splurge, book your stay in the area between the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Santa Croce.

Splurge / Historical Center

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Mid-Range / Historical Center

Budget / Historical Center

Budget Backpacker / Historical Center

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Florence hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Best 10 (+1) Attractions to Visit in Florence

Known as one of the greatest travel destinations in the world, Florence is internationally esteemed for its high concentration of Renaissance art and architecture. In fact, the city is also known as the “Cradle of Renaissance”, as it gave birth to this artistic movement.   Capital of the enchanting Tuscany region , the compact historic centre of Florence is a sort of amazing outdoor museum, as it is crowded with amazing attractions such as imposing cathedrals and basilicas , picturesque squares , narrow alleys filled with handicraft shops, and hundreds of beautifully preserved monuments and palaces .   So, here’s an overview, brought you by ItalyXP , of the top 10 (+1) tourist attractions that visitors must see in Florence .

Florence Cathedral

The imposing Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore ("Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower" in English,) is the main Cathedral in the city of Florence . Also known simply as the Duomo of Florence , it was built in 1296 on the site of the 7th century Church of Santa Reparata , the remains of which can be visited in the crypt.   Its world-famous dome , which dominates the whole historic centre , was added in the 15th century on a project of Filippo Brunelleschi , the most important architect of the early Renaissance .   The internal walls of the Dome are wonderfully frescoed by the greatest artists of that period. Another important part of the Cathedral complex are the 278 feet high Campanile (or Bell Tower ) and the octagon-shaped Saint John’s Baptistery , one of Florence’s oldest buildings .   Being the icon of the city and one of the most renowned monuments in Italy , a tour of the Cathedral (which includes visit to the crypt , the Baptistery and the Campanile ) is a prerequisite for any visitor in Florence !

Uffizi Gallery

This world-famous gallery is one of the most visited places in Italy , with over 1.5 million visitors each year, and among the oldest and most important art museums in Europe .   The Uffizi Gallery is located on the top floor of the Uffizi Palace , a U-shaped majestic building designed in 16thcentury by Giorgio Vasari . In its interior is housed an artistic heritage of inestimable value, which includes thousands of paintings , from Medieval to contemporary times, as well as hundreds of monumental statues and lots of other pieces of art . Wandering through the halls of the gallery you’ll have the opportunity to admire some absolute masterpieces made by the greatest artists of all time, such as Caravaggio , Michelangelo , Piero della Francesca and more.   The Uffizi Gallery is a must-see for art lovers (but not only), but better to be visited through a guided group tour or, if you want something more intimate and exclusive, a private tour !

Piazza della Signoria

This incredible square was named after the  Palazzo della Signoria , also known as the  Palazzo Vecchio , which stands prominent in the centre of the square. Since its foundation, in the end of the 13th century, this L-shaped square has been the  centre  of the Florentine political and administrative life.    Over the centuries, some of the original traits of the square have disappeared, such as the ancient brick paving, but even today  Piazza della Signoria  still maintains its unique magnificence: although not that vast as some other squares in other  Tuscan cities  (like  Siena ), it is extremely lively, and considered one of the main meeting hubs for both locals and tourists, just as it was in the past.   To discover all the secrets and legends about this amazing square , don't miss a guided tour of the centre of Florence .   Looking for a fun and unique way to explore Florence's must-see tourist attractions ? Try the "VIP small group tour around Florence by bike with gelato"! Hop on a bike and let a local guide take you through the city's historic center, while enjoying a refreshing gelato (Italian ice cream) along the way. This Florence bike tour is the perfect opportunity to experience the city's beautiful art and architecture while enjoying a delicious treat. Book your bike tour Florence and Tuscany day tour now , and discover the Cradle of Renaissance in a fun and unforgettable way!

Ponte Vecchio

Universally considered one of the main icons of Florence , the Ponte Vecchio (which literally means “old bridge”) is the oldest of the city’s six bridges across the Arno River .   The Ponte Vecchio is believed to have been first built in Roman Times, and over the centuries it has been damaged several times by flooding of the river and wars. But fortunately, its majestic silhouette has arrived intact to the present day.   Since the 13th century there have been stores of all kind, crowded along its portico. Later on, those shops have been continuously altered with external terraces and raised parts, extending towards the river and transforming the original Ponte Vecchio ’s structure into a chaotic and asymmetric (yet fascinating) bridge.   Always open to the public, the Ponte Vecchio makes a very suggestive route for a nice stroll, especially with the romantic evening light. Don’t miss a visit to this historical bridge during your tour of Florence !

Basilica of the Holy Cross

Known as the Basilica di Santa Croce in Italian, the Holy Cross is one of the oldest Franciscan basilicas and, in terms of its dimensions, also one of the most magnificent in all of Florence . The current building was built in 1294 for the Franciscan Order , although according to the legend it was founded by Saint Francis himself.   Located on the vast Piazza Santa Croce , it is known for its great artistic wealth and for being the burial place for some illustrious Florentine personalities , such as Michelangelo , Galileo and Machiavelli .   The chapels in its interior are beautifully decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Saint Francis and other famous biblical episodes.   The Basilica of the Holy Cross is a must-see during your romantic tour of Florence .

Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens is a monumental park in the centre of Florence , created by the Medici Family in the 16th century. It is located right behind the Palazzo Pitti , which originally was the principal residence of the grand ducal family but today houses several important museums.   This enchanting green oasis is one of the earliest Italianesque gardens , filled with sculptures, Roman antiquities, fountains and natural caves. The complex has passed through several stages of enlargement and restructuring works, and over the centuries it has been enriched with more and more art works.    The Boboli Gardens is the perfect place for escaping the summer heat or for admiring the beautiful colors of autumn and spring. 

Galleria dell'Accademia

The   Accademia Gallery  (“Accademia della Galleria” in Italian) is the second most visited museum in    Florence  (the first being the Uffizi Gallery ) and every year is assaulted by thousands and thousands of tourists.    Instituted in 1784, the  Accademia Gallery  is surprisingly small compared to other famous museums in  Italy , but it boasts an impressive artistic heritage, especially because it houses what is considered the most important sculpture in the world: the  David , a magnificent giant marble statue, over 4 meters tall, created by artist  Michelangelo Buonarroti .   However, even if the vast majority of people come exclusively for this giant marble statue, there are several other amazing art masterpieces to see in the Accademia Gallery , and you can visit them through a guided group tour or - if you want something more intimate and exclusive - a private tour !

Palazzo Vecchio

The castle-like silhouette, with its tall tower and crenellated walls, has made the Palazzo Vecchio one of the most famous Florentine landmarks.   Built at the beginning of the 14th century, the Palazzo Vecchio is the town hall of  Florence . The current building  stands where once was an ancient theatre of the Roman colony, dating back to the 1st century, whose ruins can be visited in the underground floor of the palace.   The harsh exterior architecture of the Palazzo Vecchio hides a luxurious interior, with vast halls beautifully adorned with frescoes, decorations and monumental sculptures. Don’t miss a visit to this amazing building !

Mercato Nuovo

The Mercato Nuovo (literally “new market”) is a covered market located in the historic centre of Florence , just a few steps from the Piazza della Signoria . It is so called to distinguish it from the Mercato Vecchio (literally “old market”), which was completely demolished, along with the Ghetto , to make way for the  Piazza   della   Repubblica .   The imposing portico – or “loggia” – was built in the middle of the 16th century for the vendors of silks and luxury goods such as jewelries. However, today is mostly intended for the sale of leather goods and souvenirs.   The biggest attraction of the Mercato Nuovo is the Fontana del Porcellino (Piglet Fountain), , a bronze sculpture depicting a wild boar, which is why the square is often colloquially referred as the Piazza del Porcellino . According to tradition, rubbing the animal’s nose would ensure a visitor to return to Florence !   Note: the fountain in the Mercato Nuovo is just a replica of the original one, dating back to the 16th century, which is housed in the Palazzo Pitti .

Vasari Corridor

Built in 1564 on design of Giorgio Vasari , by order of the Medici Family , the Vasari Corridor is one of the hidden gems of Florence . It consists in an elevated passage-way that begins on the south side of the Palazzo Vecchio , snakes its way through the  Uffizi Gallery  and the  Ponte Vecchio , to finally join the Pitti Palace .   Almost one  kilometer long, the Vasari Corridor holds over a thousand paintings, all dating from the 17th century and 18th centuries, as well as an important collection of self-portraits.     The entrance to the Corridor is located on the first floor within the Uffizi Gallery , but it is set up as a separate area: its unmarked door often escapes the attention of most visitors that crowd the Uffizi every day, ignoring that behind that featureless door stands a great treasure!   The Vasari Corridor is always closed to the public, and it can only be visited upon reservation on a guided tour (which includes skip-the-line tickets to the Uffizi Gallery !).

(+1) Piazzale Michelangelo

Built in 1869, this large square is nestled atop a hill: the perfect place to enjoy a breathtaking view of Florence ’s skyline and the surrounding rolling hills. Despite being a little bit far from the historic centre , as it’s located on the other side of the Arno River , the Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the most popular sites in the city, beloved by among both tourists and locals.   The Piazzale Michelangelo is dedicated to Michelangelo Buonarroti , the most famous Renaissance artist in Florence : at the centre of the square stands a bronze replica of his masterpiece, the “ David ” (the original marble statue can be admired in the Accademia Gallery ).   This monumental terrace offers terrific picture opportunities, as you can admire the Ponte Vecchio , the Cathedral’s Dome and many other attractions of Florence : a must-visit place for your panoramic tour of Florence .

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Top 17 Things to do in Florence (Italy)

A lot of the things to do in Florence are  related to the city’s strong connection with Renaissance art and architecture. Several famous people from the period were either born in Florence or lived a part of their lives here. These include poet Dante Alighieri, artist and sculptor Michelangelo, politician and writer Niccolò Machiavelli and astronomer/scientist Galileo Galilei.

Some of the main top tourist attractions in Florence are situated in the Piazza del Duomo, including the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. This cathedral’s brilliant dome by Brunelleschi is one of its major Florence highlights.

Other than this, there are several things to see in Florence for art lovers such as the Uffizi Galleries, the Palazzo Pitti, and the Accademia Gallery. Those with a love for science will be delighted with the exhibits at the Museo Galileo. You can enjoy the attractions and views of Piazza della Signoria and Piazzale Michelangelo.

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Why should you visit Florence?

Do you love art, culture, history, and good food? If you said yes to all, then there’s no doubt you’ll fall in love with Florence! It is, after all, one of those cities in Italy many famous people throughout history lived and fell in love with. As mentioned above, iconic historical figures such as Michelangelo has lived in this famous historical city. Not to mention, you’ll see notable architectural designs in the city you won’t find elsewhere!

Regarding food, you’re in Italy ! Florence, of course, offers great varieties that will tickle your love for food, and on top of that, it is only thirty minutes away from Bologna – the culinary heart of Italy. So, yes, you should visit even just for 2 days and perhaps even visit Cinque Terre from Florence .

Read further to learn more about other Florence points of interest!

Experiences and best things to do in Florence

Go to a local market

Going to a local market is the most amazing and fun thing you need to do during your travels. When you are planning your trip and thinking about what to do in Florence, do not forget to add Mercato Nuovo to your list of Florence tourism. This market is also known as Loggia del’ Porcellino, because of a copy of a bronze wild boar by Pietro Tacca originally made in the sixteenth century.

Why is this statue so important? Well, there is a popular tradition that rubbing the nose of it will bring you the fortune, and you will come back to Florence. Another thing you need to do after rubbing the nose is to put a coin in the mouth of the boar and make a wish. If your coin tumbles through the grate whence the water flows, your wish will come true. You can find the original statue at Palazzo Pitti.

Besides doing this superstitious thing, here you can buy all sorts of goods, like clothing, shoes , jewelry, bags, food, fruit, etc. This is the new market in the city, and the old one, Mercato Vecchio, was located at today’s location of Piazza Della Republica.

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Go cycling and explore the city

Florence is noT big city. It plays an important part in the historic, artistic, and cultural center of Italy , but the city is not that big itself. So, one of the best things to do in Florence , if you want to explore the city and see all these cute little streets, is to rent a bike!

Renting bicycles in Florence is not that expensive, and it is one of the best ways to explore the entire city, especially during spring and summer . This is also perhaps a cheaper alternative to travel around the area and see the best of the city on your own!

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→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Florence, Italy

→ Best tours: Check out this bike tour around Florence!

Go on a wine tasting tour around Chianti Region

There are so many Florence tours that will take you from the city to the vast region of Tuscany where, not only you’ll get to see stunning views that looks like it was taken from a fairytale, but you’ll also get the chance to learn about Chianti’s long history and wine traditions.

It is worth the trouble, truthfully speaking, as wine in this region is well praised all over the world! Sip some Chianti Classico or some Brunello whilst overlooking stunning vineyards and epic views of the region.

If you’re interested to participate in a wine tasting tour or event, make sure to check this post about how not to ruin a day of wine tasting – they gave real vital tips for those who want to take wines seriously!

Read also:  

→ Get this Chianti specific wine tour to experience one of the best wine region in Italy!

Top Landmarks and attractions in Florence

Galleria Degli Uffizi

If you are an art lover wondering what to do in Florence , head to the Uffizi Galleries, one of the Florence must-see and most visited art museums in the world. Situated close to the Piazza del Duomo, the museum collection gifted by the House of Medici contains masterpieces by the who’s who of the Renaissance art world.

Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt are just among the famous artists whose works are displayed here. There are several rooms with paintings, statues, and sculptures in this 16th-century building. A must visit the room with paintings by Sandro Botticelli.

TIP: You can skip the line at the Uffizi if you purchase the ticket beforehand, so you don’t have to wait for long. There are so many Florence top attractions, after all!

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→ Alternatively, you can get this 2-hour priority entrance tour or this cheaper timed entrance to Uffizi Gallery !

Visit Piazza Della Signoria

Among the interesting places to go in Florence, Piazza della Signoria’s main attraction is the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall that is now a museum. At the entrance, you can see a copy of Michelangelo’s famous sculpture David along with the sculpture of Hercules and Cacusby Bandinelli.

Inside the Palazzo, there are courtyards and chambers, including the fabulous Salone dei Cinquecento. It has attractive paneled ceilings and artistic displays such as frescoes and sculptures. Another fascinating aspect is the fact that the building was built on the site of Roman ruins, which you can also see on your visit here.

The main building in the square is Palazzo Vecchio . This palace was the home to Florentine rules, and today it is the city hall. During history, this building had changed its name many times – Palazzo del Popolo ( People’s Palace), Palazzo Dei Priori ( Prior’s Palace), Palazzo Ducale ( Duke’s Palace). Today’s name, Palazzo Vecchio, was given after the Medici family moved to their new palace, Palazzo Pitti, by the river Arno.

While you are enjoying the surroundings and the beauty of Palazzo Vecchio, you think you are looking at the best of Florence. But your adventure is just starting. Take a moment and enjoy listening to Italian music, practice it, and live the moment . This square is always full of people, walking and enjoying the scenery.

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Where to stay: Best hotels in Florence, Italy

Best tours: Check out this amazing walking tour that takes you around Florence following Dan Brown’s Inferno route

Visit Piazza del Duomo

Explore this square that contains some of the most exquisite places to see in Florence. Admire the details of the Cattedrale di santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral). If possible, climb up the 414 steps in Giotto’s Campanile (tower) located in the square for stunning views, including that of the brilliant cathedral dome.

Another captivating site is the Florence Baptistery, with its gorgeous doors and lovely mosaics on the interiors of its dome. Several prominent people, including Dante, were baptized here. The vicinity of the square also has restaurants and shops.

Duomo is one of the greatest tourist attractions and one of the most amazing places to visit in Europe. The fact that you are standing in front of the 800 years old building takes your breath away. Just imagine the scene of its constructions and think for a moment that this building is here in front of you today.

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Take a walk along the Ponte Vecchio

When you think of Tuscany and what to see in Florence , the first place you think of is Ponte Vecchio . This bridge is one of the most photographed and one of the most picturesque places in Europe . The old bridge was built in 1345, on the narrowest point of Arno river.

If you decide to take a walk along this bridge, you will have the opportunity to visit numerous shops here. It is considered that these shops were here since the bridge was constructed. The reason why so many shops are located here is very simple. If the shops were on the river, on “no man’s land,” the owners didn’t have to pay the taxes to the city and government.

Today, here, you can find shops owned by jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers.

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Visit Palazzo Pitti

Once the former residence of the Medici family, the Palazzo Pitti–a massive palace complex–is today the biggest museum in Florence. It is not only impressive in its size but also remarkable for the wide range of exhibits housed in various galleries and rooms. You can see some amazing Renaissance artworks by famous painters in the Palatine Gallery.

Other attractions include the Planetary Rooms and the Royal Apartments. The Palazzo Pitti also has a silver museum, a gallery of modern art, and a carriages museum.

You can explore the extensive Boboli Gardens situated on the property. It contains lush green areas, sculptures, fountains, ponds, and much more. The Palazzo Pitti is your answer to what to see in Florence for an enriching art experience.

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Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce

A wonderful church with 16 chapels, the Basilica di Santa Croce is also on every tourist’s list of places to visit in Florence. It is among the most popular Florence, Italy attractions as it contains the tombs of famous Italians. You can see the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo, whose contributions to the country and the world are immense.

Also buried here are Niccolò Machiavelli and the composer Gioachino Rossini. A splendid feature of the church and the chapels are the incredible frescoes by Giotto and Gaddi.

You can also feel the serenity in the cloisters here.

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Piazzale Michelangelo, and San Miniato al Monte Church

While views from the cathedral dome and the bell tower are marvelous, Piazzale Michelangelo is another place in Florence with a splendid view of the city. And, you don’t even have to climb numerous steps for it. Built-in honor of Michelangelo, the square offers a panoramic view of the major attractions in Florence during the daytime and especially at sunset.

From here, you can also visit the beautiful church of San Miniato al Monte located close by on a hilltop. The 11th-century church, with its pretty exteriors and interiors, also has a monastery beside it.

A cemetery situated on the property includes huge family tombs adorned with statues.

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Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral)

An engineering marvel, the huge brick-built dome of the cathedral, is the most striking feature of the cathedral. Of course, the exterior of the cathedral designed by Arnolfo di Cambio too is impressive with intricate details. In contrast, the interior is simple.

The centerpiece is the remarkable dome (cupola) built by Filippo Brunelleschi. You can see the inside of the dome is close proximity by climbing to the top through a series of 463 steps. Well, it’s not an easy climb, but you will be rewarded with a close-up view of the dome’s stunning frescoes of the Last Judgment by Giorgio Vasari.

Also, the rooftop has panoramic views of Florence. Definitely among the top Florence attractions!

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Accademia Gallery

One of the top things to do in Florence goes on a visit to the Accademia Gallery, where you can see the original statue of David. It is a sculpture that deserves to be seen by every visitor, after all, it is one of the most important works of Michelangelo. That’s not all. The Florence museum also contains additional works by Michelangelo as well as various paintings by other artists.

Besides this, the Accademia Gallery has an excellent collection of musical instruments, including harpsichords and violins. If you were thinking of what to see in Florence that showcases the genius of Michelangelo, this is it.

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→ Skip the line at Accademia Gallery with an overall Florence walking tour.

Mercato Centrale

Do you know what to do in Florence in-between visits to tourist attractions? Eat! You can enjoy delicious food options at various restaurants, but if you want an assortment of food under one roof, head to Mercato Centrale. Savor Tuscan food and buy various food products at this market.

While the ground floor has a variety of products such as vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, spices, and more, the upper floor is where all the foodies can go to devour an amazing range of dishes. You will usually find a crowd here, but there are plenty of seats. Drop by for lunch or dinner, and the top floor is open until midnight.

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Museo Galileo

If you are a science buff, and even if you are not, Museo Galileo is one of the unmissable Florence tourist attractions. Situated in the 11 th century Palazzo Castellani, this museum has a range of fascinating exhibits as well as an interactive area, popular with both adults and children.

See the interesting scientific items and instruments such as telescopes, globes, especially Santucci’s armillary sphere, and thermometers. There are several other captivating exhibits related to science. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.

Undoubtedly, the Museo Galileo is one of the best places in Florence.

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Church of Santa Maria Novella

Among Florence activities that involve religious structures, the Church of Santa Maria Novella is a lovely site to visit. Corinthian columns, stained glass windows, and frescoes adorn the church. There are superb works of art inside, including Masaccio’s Holy Trinity, as well as frescoes by Filippino Lippi.

The pulpit of the church was created by Filippo Brunelleschi, the man who also designed the dome of the Florence Cathedral. If you are looking to visit, the church is situated near the Santa Maria Novella railway station.

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What to eat and restaurants in Florence to try

Truffle Pasta in Savini Tartuffi

Located in the market hall, this restaurant is famous for its to-die-for truffle pasta. For €20, you’ll see the chefs prepare the pasta in front of you and witness them shave fresh truffles from San Marino on top of your meal. It is quite expensive, but it is absolutely worth it!

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Florentine Steak

This steak is not for the weak! Not only you’ll get it perfectly medium-rare, but it is oozing with so much juiciness as it is a T-bone cut steak, so it has so much flavor that will surely melt in your mouth. You can find the list of places where to get the best Bisteca Alla Fiorentina in Florence !

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Eat your steak with a good Chianti Classico

You’re in Tuscany after all, and Chianti is legit just a jizz away, so why not pair your steak with a good glass (or bottle ) of red from the famous wine county of Italy? Thank me later.

Enjoy Tuscan food, and take a cooking class!

Italy is one of the best travel destinations in the world when it comes to food. There are so many different dishes you need to taste. There are numerous variations of pizza, pasta, and lasagna that every tourist needs to try.

The most famous dishes of this region are Schiacciata, Cantucci, Zuppa di Fagioli, Panzanella, gelato, Ribollita, Pappardelle with cinghiale sauce, Olive oil, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, Lampredotto and so on!

Have you always dreamt of learning how to cook like a real Italian woman? Then is there a better way to do it than taking a cooking class at the Tuscan farm or household?

Well, if you decide to take this class, you will be learning from Italian grandmas, the world’s greatest chefs, and using the ingredients that are coming from the local market or from the gardens of the farm. After all, spending some time learning how to cook, eating amazing food, and meeting new people is the best way to spend a pleasant afternoon in Tuscany.

If you’re interested, you can learn how to find the right cooking class in Florence for you!

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Have extra time? Look at these day trips from Florence!

Florence sightseeing can also involve going on day trips to the surrounding regions. You can enjoy a Chianti wine tour or visit Pisa , famous for its leaning tower. On your Chianti tour, you can travel through picturesque landscapes dotted with town squares, vineyards, and castles . Visit wineries where you can taste the best Chianti wines teamed with delicious Tuscan food.

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→ You can check out this Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, with Lunch and Wine in Chianti !

San Gimignano

Have you ever heard of this place? If not, then you’re in for a treat! San Gimignano is a hill town just outside Florence, and you’ll find it interesting as its medieval walled town will keep you entertained because of its beauty and surrounding areas. Not to mention, a famous gelateria called Dondoli is located here. You’ll know which one it is because you’ll find super long lines outside! But is it worth it? In short, yes.

Read also:   Top 10 Best Day Trips from Florence

If Florence hasn’t satisfied your appetite and you’re still looking for something more to eat, then head over to the student city of Bologna ! Only about thirty minutes away from Florence by train, you’ll find yourself in culinary heaven as Bologna is considered the heart of cuisine in Italy!

Read the full blog posts:   Top Tourist Attractions and Things to do in Bologna

Check out these activities in Florence

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

5 thoughts on “Top 17 Things to do in Florence (Italy)”

Thank you for this great article about Florence, your pictures are stunning! The sunsets from Piazzale Michelangelo are indeed impressive and for someone who lives in Florence, I agree that it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

amazing post written on Florence

Hey Evan, I really wanted to pin the gorgeous pink image but when I tried it said the image was unavailable. Maybe it’s just me but worth a check! 🙂 Loved the article, I just want to see more pictures from your trip.

Oh shoot! I have some issues with my website last few months but I hope you manage to pin it somehow 🙂

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17 Best Places to Visit and Things To Do in Florence and Pisa | Top 17 Must See Tourist Attractions in Florence and Pisa, Tuscany, Italy

In the Summer of 2021, we decided to set off for a marathon road run, A Summer Escape to Northern-Central Italy and San Marino | A 6000 km Road Trip across Milan, Tuscany, Florence, Pisa, San Marino, and Como from the Netherlands | Travel Itinerary, Tips, and Tricks , which was our first travel outside the Netherlands since December 2019, as we waited to first get vaccinated against COVID-19. Therefore, it goes without saying that this trip after almost 1.5 years gave us back the long-lost feeling of freedom and hence will hold an emotional place in our hearts forever. So based on our experience, today I’m going to take you along with me on a ride across the 17 top tourist attractions in Florence and Pisa. Let the journey begin!

Welcome to Florence and Pisa

Tuscany is renowned for its exquisite scenery, magnificent art, architecture, and extraordinary charm. However, Florence is the only location in Tuscany where all four of these characteristics come together seamlessly to create a majestic, charming, and utterly unique city. Florence is known for the vast political and economic influence it held during the Medici dynasty and for providing a platform for world-renowned personalities like Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, Galileo, Marconi, Botticelli, and Machiavelli, to name a few. The art, architecture, and monuments from the Renaissance era entice millions of tourists to visit the city every year. Because of its rich cultural and architectural history, UNESCO designated Florence's Historic Center as a World Heritage Site in 1982, Forbes named it the most beautiful city in the world in 2010, and Lonely Planet rated it among the top 10 cities to travel to in 2022.

From Florence, a mere 1.5-hour drive west takes us to the city of Pisa. Once a naval force to rival Genoa and Venice, today’s Pisa is best known for a construction project gone horribly wrong commonly known as the ‘Leaning Tower of Pisa,’ which was once a wonder of the world. The town's center has an impressive collection of well-kept Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches, and Renaissance piazzas with a lively street life dominated by a bustling cafe and bar scene.

To know about other Instagrammable places in Tuscany apart from Florence and Pisa, please read our article Ultimate Photography Location Guide to Tuscany | Top 37 Instagram Photo Spots in Tuscany | 37 Best Places to Visit in Tuscany, Italy .

A Brief History of Florence and Pisa

The Etruscans originally lived in the current region of Tuscany, which Rome annexed in 351 BC. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the area that would later become known as Tuscany (Toscana in Italian) was ruled by a number of different dynasties, including the Herulians, Ostrogoths, and others, before becoming an independent political unit with its own kings. The manufacture of textiles, trade, banking, and agriculture brought wealth to the cities of Pisa, Siena, Arezzo, Pistoia, Lucca, and especially Florence during the Middle Ages. The city-states frequently fought one another in order to seize power and territory. Though Pisa was the chief port and the hub of woolen manufacturing in Tuscany, over time Florence began to dominate and dwarf all other cities in the area. Internal factional conflicts aided in the Florentines' conquest of Pisa in 1406. Pisa briefly declared its independence when French forces invaded Italy in 1494, which was followed by 15 years of wars and sieges until Florence retook control of it in 1509.

During the fifteenth century, Florence was eventually ruled by an oligarchy of affluent nobles, including the powerful Medici banking family. During this period, the arts and literature experienced a time of incredible development that is known as the Renaissance or "rebirth" thanks to the support of these affluent households. After the fall of the Medici, the Austrian Dukes of Lorraine assumed control of Tuscany until 1861 when Tuscany opted to merge into a unified Kingdom of Italy. Florence served as the capital of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy from 1865 to 1871. Due to the popularity of the works by Dante Alighieri, Petrarch, Giovanni Boccaccio, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Francesco Guicciardini, the Florentine dialect, which serves as the foundation of Standard Italian, evolved into the national tongue of Italy.

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Florence and Pisa

1. piazzale michelangelo, florence.

On the hills south of Florence's historic center, Piazzale Michelangelo was constructed as per the designs of the architect Giuseppe Poggi. When Florence became the capital of Italy in 1869, the entire city underwent a thorough urban renewal which included the ‘Lungarni’ (riverside walkways following the Arno), the ‘Viali di Circonvallazione’ (a series of 6-lane boulevards replacing the 14th-century city walls) on the right side, and the ‘Viale dei Colli’ (8-kilometer-long tree-lined avenue) on the left side, on whose top Piazzale Michelangelo was built to serve as a panoramic terrace overlooking the skyline of Florence comprising the enormous Duomo (Florence cathedral), the Ponte Vecchio bridge, the Boboli Gardens, and the Arno river.

This lavish terrace is a classic example of 19th-century architecture that Poggi dedicated to displaying the great Florentine Renaissance artist Michelangelo's works of art (at least replicas) such as the David and the Medici Chapel sculptures from San Lorenzo basilica. Poggi created the hillside building with a loggia behind the completed terrace as a museum showcasing Michelangelo's creations. The structure never served its intended purpose, and now houses the restaurant La Loggia.

2. Bronze Replica of Michelangelo’s David at Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence

Frequently said to be the most beautiful sculpture in the world, Michelangelo created David between 1501 and 1504 when he was only 26 years old. Even though the Pieta in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, which Michelangelo finished two years earlier, demonstrated the young artist's artistic brilliance, it was David that established his genius. Today, there are 30 life-size reproductions of David scattered throughout the globe, with Florence hosting two of the most well-known. The first is a marble replica standing at the Piazza della Signoria in front of the Palazzo Vecchio which replaced the ‘original’ David that was moved to Accademia Gallery to protect it from the elements, and the second, a bronze replica, is in the Piazzale Michelangelo.

Nine pairs of oxen pulled the bronze replica of Michelangelo's David to Piazzale Michelangelo in 1873. This monument is in a prime location, guarding the city from above and keeping an eye out for all the wonders Florence has to offer.

3. Ponte Vecchio on Arno River, Florence

The Ponte Vecchio, or "old bridge," is the oldest and most imposing bridge in Florence that is still in use. Taddeo Gaddi, a Giotto student, created the Ponte Vecchio, which was completed in 1345. The Ponte Vecchio is well-known for the numerous shops on and near the bridge, which were formerly the preserve of butchers, tanners, and blacksmiths. Duke Fernandino, however, saw to it that they leave since they produced too much noise and smell. Jewelers and goldsmiths took their place who could also afford greater rent.

Earliest documentation of Ponte Vecchio dates back to 966 AD and is said to be the only bridge across the Arno in Florence until 1218. Originally made of wood, it was badly damaged during the flood of 1333, after which it was rebuilt in stone in 1345 as a triple arch bridge. It was the only bridge over the Arno that the fleeing Germans did not burn during World War II. Instead, they destroyed the historic structures on each side to prevent access. When the Arno again breached its banks on November 4, 1966, the bridge amazingly resisted the immense weight of water and mud.

4. Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John), Florence

It's easy to recall Dante's lines from the Divine Comedy referring to the Baptistry of St. John in Florence as "my beautiful San Giovanni." It is one of Florence's most significant landmarks and is situated in Piazza del Duomo, directly in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo di Firenze). Although its exact history is unknown, it is thought to have been constructed over the ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Mars, the Roman god of war, that dates to the fourth or fifth century AD. It was initially built as a small basilica in 897. It was consecrated in 1128 as the Baptistry of Florence, making it the city's oldest ecclesiastical structure. All Florence Catholics were baptized there up until the end of the 19th century.

The Baptistry features an octagonal shape and an octagonal lantern with a cupola. It is dedicated to Florence's patron saint St. John. Its exterior is covered in white Carrara marble and green Prato marble, both of which have geometric patterns typical of Florentine Romanesque architecture. On three of the four sides, there are three big doors that are renowned for their embellishments. By 1330, Andrea Pisano had completed the first bronze door (Southern Door), which the influential Arte di Calimala (or Merchants Guild, specializing in the importation of fine fabrics) had commissioned. It featured images from St. John's life. Lorenzo Ghiberti, who triumphed over Filippo Brunelleschi in a competition, constructed the second door (Northern Door), representing stories of the life and passion of Christ from the New Testament, between 1403 and 1424. The third door (Eastern Door) also constructed by Ghiberti between 1425 and 1452 and named by Michelangelo the ‘Porta del Paradiso’ (Gates of Paradise), is entirely gilded and features scenes from the Old Testament. The eastern door, which leads to the Duomo, has historically been regarded as the most significant door. Today, the doors at the baptistry are replicas, while the original doors are now on display in the Museum behind the Duomo.

In his famous 2013 thriller novel Inferno (which was also adapted into the Hollywood movie of the same name), author Dan Brown says "Legend proclaims that it is physically impossible, upon entering the Baptistry of San Giovanni, not to look up." In this novel, the protagonist Professor Langdon and Sienna Brooks (played by academy award winner Tom Hanks and Felicity Jones, respectively, in the Hollywood adaptation) visit this baptistry when they are trying to figure out where the words on the back of Dante's death mask are leading them to.

Piazza del Duomo with Duomo di Firenze on the left and Baptistry of St. John on the right

‘Gates of Paradise’ at Baptistry of St. John

5. Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo di Firenze), Florence

Santa Maria del Fiore designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, was the largest church in Europe when it was finished in the 15th century, and is now the third largest church in the world (after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and St. Paul's Cathedral in London). It measures 153 meters in length, 90 meters at the intersection, and 90 meters high, measured from the ground to the bottom of the lantern.

The Duomo with the Campanile (Clock Tower) by Giotto beside it, stands just opposite the Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John) on the Piazza del Duomo. Arnolfo di Cambio started construction on the cathedral in 1296, and it took two centuries to finish. In 1412, it was dedicated to Santa Maria del Fiore, the Virgin of the Flower, an obvious reference to the lily, Florence's emblem. On a Filippo Brunelleschi design, the magnificent Renaissance dome, the biggest masonry vault in the world was constructed between 1420 and 1436. It has a diameter of 45.5 meters and a height of more than 116 meters.

Pink, white, and green marble are used in a decorative fashion to cover the church's exterior. The cathedral has a central plan with the dome and a longitudinal plan with a Latin cross inside. The four oval arches are supported by eight substantial grouped pillars that split the longitudinal plane into three naves. The floor is covered with polychrome marbles.

6. Palazzo Vecchio, Florence

The Florentines chose to construct a palace in 1299 to house the republic's administrative bodies and to serve as a symbol of the republic's and the people's sovereignty. This edifice was started on the remains of the Palazzo dei Fanti and the Palazzo dell'Esecutore di Giustizia in Piazza della Signoria by Arnolfo di Cambio, the architect of the Florence Duomo and the church of Santa Croce. A number of generations were required to finish the work, suffering alterations, and extensions, as was the case with other significant projects of the time.

In order to transform the structure into his dwelling in the 16th century, Cosimo I de Medici had it reorganized and decorated. As a result, it took on its current appearance and was designated as the Ducal Palace. Later, once Cosimo I de Medici relocated to the Pitti Palace, the Palazzo Ducale was renamed Palazzo Vecchio and used as the government complex and safekeeping facility for valuables. To move from one location to another with greater comfort and privacy, Cosimo I had a corridor built that connected the Pitti Palace with the administrative buildings which is now the Uffizi Gallery, and another corridor that connected Pitti Palace with Palazzo Vecchio which was called the Vasari Corridor. Today, Palazzo Vecchio is the town hall of Florence (also houses a museum named Museo dei Ragazzi) and has the marble replica of Michelangelo’s David in front of it. It overlooks Piazza della Signoria that houses the Neptune Fountain by Bartolomeo Ammannati, and Loggia dei Lanzi (an arched open building with statues like Perseus with the head of Medusa by Cellini, Rape of Polyxena by Pio Fedi, Rape of the Sabine Women by Giambologna, and Hercules and the Centaur Nessus by Giambologna, to name a few).

Palazzo Vecchio houses the Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the Five Hundred), which was constructed in 1494 during the brief Republic of Fra Girolamo Savonarola. Instigating a public insurrection against the Medici, Savonarola succeeded in driving them out of the city and from power. Savonarola supposedly boosted the number of Florentines eligible to serve in the government to over 1,000 after establishing his new republican regime. Consequently, a sizable hall was required to hold at least 500 Florentines at once and hence the name of the hall. Savonarola was detained in 1498, hung, and burned at the stake in the Piazza della Signoria labeled as a "heretic, schismatic, and for preaching new things."

In Dan Brown’s novel Inferno, it is the ceiling of the ‘Hall of the Five Hundred’ that has the painting of ‘Apotheosis of Cosimo I de' Medici’ by Vasari, which the antagonist tears through and falls to her death onto the floor. Also, it is in Palazzo Vecchio’s museum where Robert Langdon finds Dante’s Death Mask which can actually be visited in the museum.

Hercules and Cacus by Baccio Bandinelli at the gates of Palazzo Vecchio

‘Hall of the Five Hundred’ inside Palazzo Vecchio

‘Apotheosis of Cosimo I de' Medici’ by Vasari on the ceiling of ‘Hall of the Five Hundred’

Dante’s Death Mask

7. Marble Replica of Michelangelo’s David in front of Palazzo Vecchio, Florence

Among all the reproductions of Michelangelo’s David all over the world, the one in Piazza della Signoria, in front of Palazzo Vecchio, where the original was replaced by it in 1910, possibly is the most notable. In 1873, the original sculpture was brought indoors and placed in Florence's Accademia Gallery, where it continues to draw large crowds today. Luigi Arrighetti created this rendition, which is titled ‘Copy of David.’

8. Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence

Simone di Francesco Talenti, Lorenzo di Filippo, and Benci di Cione constructed the stunning arched gallery known as the Loggia dei Lanzi in the fourteenth century at the Piazza della Signoria just in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The building process took place between 1376 and 1382. The elegantly proportioned open gallery was created in a late Gothic style, which was unmistakably an inspiration for the upcoming Renaissance style. One of the most well-known Renaissance artists, Michelangelo, even suggested that the gallery be extended around the entire Piazza della Signoria, but Cosimo I de' Medici, Duke of Florence, ultimately rejected the idea because it would be too expensive.

Originally, the loggia was used to host public gatherings, public festivities, and formal Florentine Republic events. The custom of placing sculptures in the loggia began when the Florentines drove out the Medici, who had dominated the city for more than 150 years. However, the Medici family soon recovered control of Florence, and Duke Cosimo I commissioned Benvenuto Cellini to create a sculpture of the mythical hero Perseus holding Medusa's severed head. That and some of the other masterpieces present in the Loggia dei Lanzi are shown below.

Perseus with the head of Medusa by Cellini

Rape of Polyxena by Pio Fedi

The Rape of the Sabine Women by Giambologna

Hercules and the Centaur Nessus by Giambologna

Menelaus supporting the body of Patroclus

9. Neptune Fountain, Florence

Right in the middle of Piazza della Signoria, close to the Palazzo Vecchio, one can find the stunning Neptune Fountain (Fontana di Nettuno), which was constructed by Bartolomeo Ammannati and Giambologna between the years 1563 and 1565 to commemorate the opening of a new aqueduct. Three juvenile newts, two sea Gods, and Doride Oceania with her daughter Nereide Teti surround the enormous sculpture of the sea God, who is depicted as riding on a chariot pulled by four horses. The faces of Neptune and Cosimo I, a well-known proponent of these fountain realizations, which he viewed as a representation of the prestige and repute of the Granducato of Florence, bear a striking resemblance.

10. Equestrian Statue of Cosimo I di Medici, Florence

The Equestrian Statue of Cosimo I de Medici, created by Giambologna between 1587 and 1594, is one of the charming monuments located at Piazza della Signoria. Ferdinando I de Medici commissioned the statue to honor his late father, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, who had vanished about 15 years earlier. It was an instant hit and was repeated with a variety of other riders on a much smaller scale for statuettes.

After mastering the human form by the 1580s, Giambologna had switched his attention to the horse, which had almost as much appeal to the ancient Greeks and Romans. He approached the issue scientifically and produced his bronze masterwork, an equestrian statue of Cosimo I, Grand Duke of Tuscany. This statue continues the Renaissance practice of using equestrian statues to symbolize a ruler's authority, which is evident from the statue of Marcus Aurelius in ancient Rome and the Regisole in Ferrara.

His horse of choice was compact and rotund, with a short body and well-rounded rump, and its features were accentuated by the sinuous tail, elevated front hoof, and furiously curling mane. The beast's enlarged veins, rolling eyes, and perked-up ears communicate its vivacity and attentiveness. The trotting horse in this statue is standing with its right leg up, like in earlier statues, but unlike Marcus Aurelius, Cosimo is wearing stirrups, and his horse is displaying the restraint of the bridle, albeit with little tension. Cosimo, like Gattemalata, is wearing armor, a sheathed sword, and a military baton.

11. Basilica di Santa Croce, Florence

Basilica di Santa Croce (or Basilica of the Holy Cross) is the largest Franciscan church in the world. According to legend, St. Francis himself erected Santa Croce. Arnolfo di Cambio, probably, started work on the current church's (which was meant to replace the old structure) construction on May 12, 1294, and some of the wealthiest families in the area contributed to its cost. Its sixteen chapels, many of which are embellished with frescoes by Giotto and his pupils, as well as its tombs and cenotaphs, are its most prominent characteristics.

Since all of Florence's notable sons are buried in Santa Croce, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Guglielmo Marconi, Ugo Foscolo, Rossini, Niccolini, and Capponi, it is known as the Tempio dell'Itale Glorie (Temple of the Italian Glories). It also houses the funerary monument of Dante since his body was not allowed to be brought back to Florence (he's buried in Ravenna where he died in exile).

Tomb of Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni

Tomb of Galileo Galilei

Tomb of Niccolo di Bernardo dei Machiavelli

Tomb of Ugo Foscolo

Tomb of Gioachino Antonio Rossini

Tomb of Gino Capponi

Tomb of Lorenzo Bartolini

Funerary Monument of Dante Alighieri

Funerary Monument of Guglielmo Marconi

Funerary Monument of Antonio Santi Giuseppe Meucci

Funerary Monument of Carlo Marsuppini

12. Art Galleries of Accademia and Uffizi, Florence

Most visitors to Florence, the epicenter of the Italian Renaissance, would mistake it for an outdoor museum. The squares and structures themselves serve as a reminder of earlier times and architectural heritage. From Brunelleschi to Michelangelo, some of the most renowned artists of their time planned, built, and embellished Florence's cathedral, churches, and numerous palaces, all of which can be freely observed from the exterior. However, you must walk inside and visit at least one or two museums while you are here if you want to see Florence's other side, the side that houses the majority of its riches. The greatest brains of all time envisioned and produced the paintings, sculptures, and frescoes that can be found there.

Without a doubt, the reason for the Galleria dell'Accademia's fame is the sculptures by the great Renaissance artist Michelangelo. The majority of the hundreds of thousands of visitors the museum greets each year are drawn in by his Prisoners (or Slaves), his St. Matthew, and, above all, the great figure of David. All of Michelangelo's sculptures, according to him, were already present in the marble block; he merely needed to free them. These figures provide a superb depiction of his ideas since they appear to be attempting to escape the rough marble that is imprisoning them.

The Uffizi Gallery is a U-shaped structure that was formerly used as an office building. In order to house the magistrates, the Florentine Guilds' seats, a large theater, and the judiciary offices (hence the name "Uffizi," which means offices in Italian), Cosimo de Medici commissioned his favorite architect Giorgio Vasari to construct a grandiose building next to the Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of power. With works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, it currently has the highest concentration of Renaissance art in the entire globe. The famous ‘La Primavera’ (1480) and the ‘Birth of Venus’ (1485) by Botticelli are two of the most cherished examples of Renaissance artwork. Leonardo da Vinci's Annunciation (1475) and Adoration of the Magi are the subjects of a complete room (1482). Apart from these, it houses the Madonna series by Raphael, Giotto, Filippo Lippi, and Botticelli.

13. The ‘Original’ David of Michelangelo in Accademia Gallery, Florence

Michelangelo’ David sculpted in marble between 1501 and 1504 is a masterpiece of Renaissance art. David is a marble statue of the Biblical character David shown as a naked person that stands 5.17 meters (17 feet) tall and is a popular topic in Florentine art. David was originally commissioned by the Opera del Duomo (Vestry Board) as one of several prophet statues to be placed along the east end of Duomo di Firenze’s roofline. The Board's consuls requested Michelangelo to finish a task that had been started by Agostino di Duccio in 1464 and continued by Antonio Rossellino in 1475. The massive slab of marble was ultimately rejected by both sculptors because it included too many "taroli," or flaws, which may have jeopardized the stability of such a massive statue. Due to this, this large slab of marble was lying in the courtyard of the Opera del Duomo for 25 years. Even though he was only 26 years old in 1501, Michelangelo was already the most well-known and highly compensated artist of his time. He eagerly embraced the task of sculpting a large-scale David, and over the course of more than two years, he labored nonstop to produce one of his most beautiful works of art in sparkling white marble. Although the Vestry Board had chosen a religious theme for the statue, no one had anticipated such a revolutionary interpretation of the Biblical figure.

Book 1 Samuel recounts the story of the conflict between David and Goliath. Near the Valley of Elah, Saul and the Israelites were battling the Philistines. Twice each day for 40 days Goliath, the Philistines' champion, challenged the Israelites to send out a champion of their own to decide the outcome in a single battle. Only young shepherd David agreed to take on the assignment. David denied Saul's armor because it was too big and instead took only his sling and five stones from a nearby brook. Thus, David and Goliath faced off against one another, David equipped simply with his rock, sling, confidence in God, and courage, and Goliath with his armor and shield. David used all of his strength to fling a stone from his sling at Goliath, striking him in the middle of the forehead. Goliath then fell to the ground on his face, and David chopped off his head.

Traditionally, David has been shown triumphant over the dead Goliath following his victory. Verrocchio, Ghiberti, and Donatello, among other Florentine artists, each painted a different image of David standing over Goliath's severed head. For the first time ever, Michelangelo decided to show David before the combat. Michelangelo caught David at the height of his focus as he is tense with attentive eyes and pulsing veins on the back of his hands. He is resting on the contrapposto, a traditional stance that is both calm and vigilant. The figure stands with one leg supporting its entire weight and the other leg extended. This causes the hips and shoulders of the figure to rest at different angles, giving the entire body a small s-curve. His practically imperceptible slingshot over his shoulder emphasizes that David's success was the result of cunning, not brute force. He exudes extraordinary self-assurance and focus, two characteristics of the "thinking man," who was idealized throughout the Renaissance. Some of the details' proportions are unusual for Michelangelo's art. The figure features a head that is abnormally big and an imposing right hand. The statue's initial placement on the cathedral roof line may have necessitated these enlargements since key features of the sculpture needed to be drawn attention in order to be seen from below.

Archival records reveal that Michelangelo kept his work on the monument a secret until January 1504, when he finally revealed it. Since he was working outside in the courtyard, he became wet while doing his job. It is reported that he made a wax model of his design and submerged it in water, so perhaps this is where he got the idea for his working style. He would let the water level fall as he worked and then sculpt with various chisels what he could see taking shape. He only occasionally ate, according to his biographer Ascanio Condivi, and when he did sleep, he did it with his clothing and sometimes even his boots still on. After more than two years of arduous effort, Michelangelo made the decision to show the Vestry Board members his "Giant." They were the only ones to see his 14-foot-tall David when it was unveiled in January 1504; they all agreed that it was too perfect to be positioned so high in the Cathedral, therefore it was decided to choose another location in town. To choose a suitable location for David, the city council assembled a commission of roughly thirty people, including painters like Giuliano da Sangallo, Sandro Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Nine potential sites for the statue were examined throughout the protracted discussion, and ultimately the statue was erected in Florence's Piazza della Signoria, the city's political hub. The half-mile journey from Michelangelo's workshop behind Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral to the Piazza della Signoria took four days and forty men.

Standing in the middle of Piazza della Signoria, staring intently in the direction of Rome, the home of the Medici family, with a foreboding expression, the statue quickly came to stand as a symbol of the freedom and liberty of the Republican ideals, demonstrating Florence's resolve to protect itself from the powerful rival states and the Medici family’s hegemony. Up until 1873, it remained in Piazza della Signoria. Then, in order to safeguard it from harm and more deterioration, it was transferred into the Galleria dell'Accademia.

To see the ‘original’ David by Michelangelo, I advise you to reserve the museum tickets in advance due to the high volume of visitors.

Original statue of Michelangelo’s David in Accademia Gallery

14. Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John), Pisa

One of the most renowned ecclesiastical settings in the entire world is found within the Pisa Cathedral Complex, often known as Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo). The Pisa Cathedral Complex is made up of the Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John), Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral), and Camposanto (cloistered cemetery), and one particularly renowned campanile or bell tower, commonly known as the ‘Leaning Tower of Pisa.’

The Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John) in Pisa, which is 54.86 m high and 34.13 m in diameter is the largest baptistry in Italy. It was built in place of an earlier baptistry and was built between the years 1152 and 1363. The famed Pisa structures, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo di Pisa (Cathedral of Pisa), surround this towering and magnificently designed baptistry.

It was designed by Diotisalvi, as shown by the fact that he inscribed his initials on the two pillars. The Pisa Baptistry is a good illustration of how the architecture transitioned from Romanesque to Gothic styles over time. The bottom section has rounded arches in the Romanesque style, and the top sections have pointed arches in the Gothic form. The Baptistry is made of marble, as is typical of Italian design.

Piazza del Duomo with Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John) on the left and the Pisa Cathedral and the Leaning Tower on the right

15. Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral), Pisa

The Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral) is the oldest and largest building in the Pisa Cathedral Complex. After defeating the Saracens (Muslim invaders) at Palermo in 1063, Pisa's fleet acquired the resources to begin construction on the Cathedral. At the time, Pisa was a major player in the Mediterranean Sea and required a Duomo worthy of its stature. St. Mark's Basilica in Venice started to be rebuilt that same year, demonstrating the fierce competition between the two maritime republics to build the most exquisite and opulent place of worship. A new architectural style known as ‘Pisan Romanesque’ was developed by architect Buscheto by fusing elements of Eastern architecture, Byzantine design, and Lombard embellishment; a style that spread from here to several regions ruled by the Pisans.

In order to demonstrate that Pisa had no fear of invasion, the church was built outside of its early medieval walls. The chosen location had previously been utilized as a necropolis during the Lombard era, and at the beginning of the 11th century, a church that was to be called Santa Maria had been started but never completed there. Prior to being given the formal name Santa Maria Assunta, Buscheto's majestic new church was known as Santa Maria Maggiore. The 1118 expansion made it the largest Cathedral in Europe for about a century and the pride of the city.

16. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa

The Torre Pendente (Leaning Tower), one of Italy's most famous landmarks, lives up to its name by shockingly veering 3.9 degrees off the perpendicular. Although it took over 200 years to construct, the 58-meter-tall tower, meant to be the campanile (bell tower) of the Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral), was already deteriorating when it was opened to the public in 1372. The tilt, which was brought on by a thin layer of unstable subsoil, gradually got worse over time until it was ultimately stopped by a significant stabilization project in the 1990s. But despite all of that, the tower with its seven bells, one for each musical note, the largest of which, cast in 1655, weighs a full three and a half tonnes, has actively participated in both human and divine timekeeping for the last 600 years. Due to this, it had found its place among the Seven Wonders of the World.

Under the direction of the architect Bonanno Pisano, construction started in 1173, but his designs failed almost right away. He had only completed three of the tower's seven tiers when he was compelled to stop work when it began to sag. When construction recommenced in 1272, masons and artisans made vain attempts to strengthen the foundations. But they persisted, progressively constructing straight up from the lower levels to make up for the lean. But once more, due to a war between the Italian city-states of Genoa, Lucca, and Florence, construction had to be put on hold, and it wasn't until the second part of the 14th century that it was finally finished. Some experts now feel that the tower would have undoubtedly fallen to the ground had there not been this gap, which allowed the soil to settle.

During the ensuing 600 years, the tower continued to slant at a rate of approximately 1 mm every year. By 1993, it was 4.47 meters out of plumb and tilted more than 5 degrees. To combat this, steel cables attached to nearby buildings were joined to steel bracing draped around the third story. As workers carefully dug out soil from beneath the northern foundations, this kept the tower in position. The tower sunk to its 18th-century level and corrected the lean by 43.8 cm after about 70 tonnes of soil were removed from the northern side. According to experts, this will ensure the tower's survival for the ensuing three centuries.

But the question that keeps hovering in the mind of the observer is how has the tower survived all these years considering its perilous position and how has it been able to endure at least four significant earthquakes in the area since 1280 without being damaged. According to a recent study, the dynamic soil-structure interaction phenomena (DSSI) are solely responsible for the tower's robustness. Ironically, the same soil that created the leaning instability and nearly took the tower down is also responsible for its survival throughout these seismic occurrences. In other words, because of the soft soil and the height and stiffness of the tower, the building is safe from earthquake damage. Simply put, it doesn't vibrate when there are tremors. The Leaning Tower of Pisa appears to be secure for many years to come because, according to the experts, it actually holds the world record in DSSI impacts.

Children under the age of eight are not permitted in or up the Leaning Tower, which can only accommodate 45 people at once. To reserve a time slot for later in the day, book in advance online or head directly to a ticket office when you arrive in Pisa. This will help you avoid disappointment. The 35-minute visits include a steep ascent of 251 occasionally slick steps without any elevator. Cameras are basically the only items you are allowed to take with you; all other things, including handbags, must be left at the free luggage drop-off station next to the main ticket office.

17. Other Places to Visit in Florence and Pisa

In Florence, if you have time after visiting all of the places listed above, I recommend paying a visit to Palazzo Pitti (15th-century palace of Florentine rulers), Boboli Gardens (16th-century gardens built by the Medici Family behind Palazzo Pitti), and the basilicas of Santa Maria Novella, San Miniato Al Monte, and San Lorenzo (with the Medici burial chapels).

In Pisa, if you have time after visiting all of the places listed above, I recommend paying a visit to Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Museum) and the Composanto (cloistered cemetery) located within the same Pisa Cathedral Complex as the Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of St. John), the Pisa Cathedral, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa (Piazza del Duomo).

So that brings us to the end of our journey across the 17 top tourist attractions in Florence and Pisa. Please let us know in the comments below if you enjoyed reading this article.

If you want to know more about Tuscany and the best places to visit and photograph there, please read our article Ultimate Photography Location Guide to Tuscany | Top 37 Instagram Photo Spots in Tuscany | 37 Best Places to Visit in Tuscany, Italy . And if you want to read the day-by-day account of our 6000 km road run across Northern-Central Italy during summer 2021, please visit our article A Summer Escape to Northern-Central Italy and San Marino | A 6000 km Road Trip across Milan, Tuscany, Florence, Pisa, San Marino, and Como from the Netherlands | Travel Itinerary, Tips, and Tricks . Until then, merry traveling and happy shooting!

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Shirshendu Sengupta is an award-winning photographer and travel blogger based in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area, the Netherlands. His images and articles have been featured in several international magazines, journals, newspapers, and websites.

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Best Things To Do in Florence Italy

A florentine love affair: best things to do in florence, italy.

I f you haven’t been to Florence , you haven’t been to Italy. It’s that simple. The “Athens of the Middle Ages”, Florence was once one of the world’s most important cities during the medieval times. It was the crux of several trade routes, bustling with activity and prosperity. This much is obvious to us until now — as the epicenter of the Renaissance, Florence is an ever-unfolding display of priceless art and architecture. It also has a rich history, with such literary figures as Dante Alighieri and Niccolo Machiavelli molding their literary wit amidst its affairs.

But this is just one of Florence’s facets. As part of the Tuscan region, Florence is the perfect jumping point for a sojourn to the countryside. Tuscany is famous for producing some of the best wines in Italy, with such products as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino. This distinction is highlighted by the fact that the vineyards of Tuscany are also among the most scenic spots this side of the world!

So you see, Florence sights are for everybody. Let’s break down some of the best things to do in Florence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site !

Take a Walking Tour

Florence is a compact city, and it is best explored on foot. The thing is, there are so many things to see here that you’d probably get lost as you follow the artworks at every turn! The best way to go about this is through a walking tour (take a look of our suggestion of favorite walking tours in Florence here). Aside from having the benefit of a guide to explain to you why you should be looking at this particular piece of art over the dozens more around the corner, you also get the rare chance to slip past the hundreds in queue for the main attractions. If you pick the right tour, you could also get the chance to slip behind the scenes and view Florence from a different perspective.

Also, many places in Florence tours are best with a small group. The breathtaking Duomo, for example offers something via walking tours that you can’t get as a casual tourist. There are also certain walking tours that include within their itineraries places that only locals know. Whether this is an excellent cup of espresso in an out-of-the-way cafe, or the best aperitivo this side of Tuscany, tours can give you a much-needed local’s eye view of the place.

Being a very touristy area, there are lots of pretty good tour operators in Florence . Get Your Guide is a major one, with exclusive trips through the most iconic spots (and a lot of hidden places only Florentians see). They also have a personalized tour that puts you in step with a local, so you can see the ins and outs of your chosen neighborhood!

Walking Florence Tours to Consider

• Walking Florence Tour of Historical Center
• Renaissance City Walking Tour
• Uffizi & Academia Small Group Walking Tour
• 3-Hour Skip-The-Line City Highlights and David
• Florence: Secret History Tour

Major Attractions Included in Most Florence Tours

Santa maria novella church.

I’m going to take a guess and assume you’ll be rolling into Florence via train (which is among the most comfortable ways of travel). You’ll end up at the Santa Maria Novella Station (S.M.N). You’re in luck, because there’s a significant tourist attraction just across the street!

This is the Santa Maria Novella Church, located on the northern riverbank of the Arno. The white-and-green marble of the facade is famous in itself, but the real star here is Masaccio’s Trinity which is located in the church! It may not look like much, but it is the first ever painting in the history of art to utilize true perspective. Pretty sweet, huh?

Galleria dell’Accademia

After this bit of intro, let’s look at one of the most famous and most important sculptures of the Renaissance — Michelangelo’s David. There are many replicas scattered throughout history, but the original is housed in the Accademia Gallery. Aside from the imposing statue at the center, set aside an hour or so to look at the many other works of art inside.

It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance or book one of those skip-the-line tours as queues can get as long as an hour and a half during the busier periods! The Galleria is almost a kilometer (around 10 minutes away) from the Santa Maria Novella Church. On the way you will pass through some other famous spots like the San Lorenzo market, which we’ll save for later.

This is undoubtedly the most iconic and most outstanding piece of art in the whole of Florence. Officially, it is called the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, but everyone just knows it as the Duomo — the famous cupola is made by Brunelleschi, and is free to enter so you can admire it from the inside. There are also tours that allow you to climb to the towering structure’s very top with a small group. It’s a slight chore but you will be greatly rewarded with a magnificent vista of Florence.

Aside from the Duomo itself, the entire Piazza del Duomo has a set of other attractions. There’s Giotto’s bell tower, and the Baptistery with its magnificent “Gates of Paradise”. These other spots require another ticket (covering all of them), and you can buy them directly from the ticket office on-site.

To get to the Duomo from the Accademia Gallery, head down Via Ricasoli (about 500 meters).

Piazza della Signoria

Another cove of art in the historic center of Florence is just 500 meters away, through the Via dei Calzaiuoli. The Piazza della Signoria is known not just for being the city’s political center for most of its existence, but also for having a collection of notable sculptures. Don’t miss Neptune’s Fountain and the Equestrian Statue, both landmarks of the city.  There is also the Loggia dei Lanzi and the Orsanmichele, both nearby and both sporting multitudes of stunning statues

Boboli Gardens

We’re taking a long walk this time (or a short taxi ride, your pick). From your hotel, head over to the Boboli Gardens. It’s best to do this early in the morning, when you can get to enjoy an aspect of Florence too few people see: the green and pristine outdoor views. The gardens are connected to the Modern Art Gallery, so you may want to check those out, too. But even if you’re still full of art from the previous day, you’ll appreciate the well-trimmed greens and beautiful blooms around here.

Ponte Vecchio Bridge

From the Boboli Gardens, head on a stroll towards the Ponte Vecchio. This is around a kilometer away, and the winding route will take you through some of Florence’s oldest and most scenic alleyways — the same places where the ancestral families of the city have lived for centuries! At the end of the kilometer-long walk, the Ponte Vecchio looms calm and steady. Arguably the city’s most enduring landmark, the “Old Bridge” (as the name literally means) has bridged the Arno since the 12th century!

As a plus, the Ponte Vecchio is near one of the best pizza places this side of Italy. Make sure to try Gusta Pizza’s Napoli-style wood-oven pizza for lunch!

Uffizi Gallery

Not even 200 meters from the Ponte Vecchio is your next stop, and one that will probably take up a good 2 hours of your day. The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the world’s biggest and most expensive art collections, and the queues here can get really long! Buying your tickets beforehand (or better yet, getting a guided tour) is absolutely a must.

The place around the Uffizi is also pretty remarkable in its architecture, so don’t just hurry through it!

Fontana del Porcellino

If you think the surroundings are familiar, it’s because you’ve been here yesterday! You would have also passed by the Piazza della Signoria in your 5-minute walk to the Fontana del Porcellino. It’s also a great time to go on a last-minute shopping spree, as the route lies amidst some of Florence’s high-end shopping places.

Once you’re done, pass through Via Por Santa Maria and head straight until you get to Piazza del Mercato Nuovo. Turn left here, and you will be greeted with the sight of Florence’s famous bronze boar. It is said that rubbing the boar’s nose guarantees a return to Florence!

Piazza della Repubblica

We’re going to end our Florence tour with the Piazza della Repubb

lica, the place where the city was founded. Today, it is a great park surrounded by beautiful architecture… and it is also home to a really pretty carousel!

Go On a Wine Tour

The beauty of wine tours from Florence is that they also double as scenic day trips. There are lots of wine-producing areas in the Tuscan countryside. Most of them easily reachable from Florence (and the rest just a train transfer or two away).

For example, the classic Chianti Classico area produces some of the best wines in the world. It also houses some of the most raw vineyard sceneries anywhere. You can stop by a wine estate on your wine tour, to learn about the secrets of the earth and winemaking in general. San Gimignano is further away, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that looks like a medieval town frozen in time. Aside from its iconic skyline, it is also famous for the Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

The town also offers a special treat within its vineyards. The aesthetic marvel of “spiral vineyards” is breathtaking to behold! The Giachi family owns one at the San Gimignano. Don’t forget to ask around for the history of the wines here — you’ll be in for an intellectual treat.

Wine tours can also be arranged with a trustworthy tour operator. There are a variety of wine tours from Florence, with wine pairings for everything from history to a cooking lesson. Check out sites like Get Your Guide to learn more!

Consider These Food Tours

• Secret Food Tour in Florence
• Italian Food Market & Cooking Experience
• Florence Food Walking Tour
• Gourmet Food Tour Florence
• Carmignano Half-Day Wine and Food Tour from Florence
• Heart of Florence: Authentic Dinner and Concert
• Florence Night Tour by Electric Bike with Gelato Tasting

Market Day at the Mercato Centrale

Tuscany has many markets and Florence some of the best. This is the central market and the perfect shopping haven for all things truly Italian. It may be tempting to follow the tourist crowds into the San Lorenzo market outside, but ditch that plan and go here instead!

The cast-iron structure is perfect for both foodies and those looking for the farm-fresh produce that Italian cuisine is famous for. The ground floor, you’ll find all kinds of meats — from the basic seafood, pork, beef, and chicken, to the more exotic wild boar and rabbit. Cured meats, sausages, and more are also present. Of course, cheese and olive oil are everywhere!

At the second floor is a food court that gives you a perfect vantage point for a hefty breakfast. Some stalls even have made-to-order sandwiches. Don’t miss Da Nerbone, a local food institution that was founded in 1872. It is a cafeteria-style eatery with Tuscan delicacies. Make sure to come in early for their panino con bolito , as the place is completely swamped at lunch! This is located at the southern corner of Mercato Centrale. There are also many artisan food shops elsewhere, where you can see traditional Italian food made from scratch and using traditional processes.

And of course, a cup of Italian coffee or an aperitivo is just the perfect accompaniment to a meal here! The Mercato Centrale is located between Via Sant’Antonino and Via dell’Ariento.

Shop Til You Drop at the San Lorenzo Market

After you’ve absorbed the local glory of the Mercato, it’s now time to move towards the more touristy stuff. The San Lorenzo market is a large group of stalls surrounding the Mercato Centrale. It is known for its endless variety of leathercraft, which is one of the Tuscan region’s specialties (as it’s not always food-related). Here you can also buy lots of clothing items, and a few souvenirs to take home.

Pro tip — the place caters to the foreign crowd most often, so there are lots of tourist traps. Make sure you’ve made the rounds before even reaching for your wallet! Haggling and bargaining is also a norm here, so don’t be afraid to ask if you think the price can go down.

One cool thing here is that you may ask for a specific type of product and you may end up being brought to a warehouse where they stock these goods before they get to San Lorenzo. Some would just lead you somewhere nearby where they have extra stock, but who knows what you’d end up finding! The San Lorenzo Market is closed only on Sundays and Mondays.

Dine and Be Merry

The food stalls at the Mercato are perfect for those on a budget (trust me, they’re not all that pricey). But if you have some extra to splurge with, there are some places you should visit.

One of them is Caffe Gilli, which has been in business since 1733. That’s way back to the time the Medicis ruled Florence! Located at the Piazza della Repubblica, Caffe Gilli serves some really tasty pastries in an opulent and entirely traditional setting.

Another one is the Borgo San Jacopo, which is a Michelin Star stop on the banks of the Arno. Yes, that Arno River which has some of the most stunning Florentine views anywhere! The outdoor seating is magnificent. Don’t miss the potato spaghetti, whose pasta is made entirely of potatoes (no flour!). Indeed, this place specializes in creating magnificent dining experiences from simple (and often audacious) ingredients. Visit them at Borgo San Jacopo 62/R.

Get a Closer Look at the Local Florence Sights

When you’re in Florence, it’s very easy to get lost in all the architectural and artistic beauty that you may forget how local life is just as fascinating. For a quick look, head over to the Piazza Santo Spirito (16R) which is the center of the city’s artisan section. This bohemian plaza hosts a number of bars and restaurants, plus a street market, all under the gaze of the beautiful Basilica of Santo Spirito. Here you can find everything from antiques to produce, and of course you can find Florentians going about their lively daily business. Make sure to stay for the nightlife to get a different perspective of the place!

And if you’d like to see just how colorful Florence can get, go here on June 24 in time for the festivities of St. John the Baptist! He is Florence’s patron saint, and on this date everything happens in Florence. Everything — parades, games, marathons, fireworks, football matches, boat races, and more!

Getting To And Getting Around Florence

Italy has a very good train system, so if you’re starting from another Italian city you can just hop onto a train and look for the Florence station. If you’ll be coming from overseas, however, you’re most likely going to end up in Vespucci Airport. You might also be travelling via a rented car (as most European tourists) — if so you will take the A1 Motorway which links the northern and southern sides of Italy. This runs by Florence, so it’s easy to follow. If you’re coming from the west coast, the A11 Motorway is your friend.

Another convenient way to get to Florence is via coach, which is an option even if you’re from another country. Eurolines operates international buses from such notable cities as Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, Prague, and more. The city is also littered with several drop-off and pick-up points, which also make coaches a good option for travelling around Florence (especially if you’re with your luggage).

That said, it is most advisable to travel around Florence on foot. It is the smallest among Europe’s famous cities, and you can literally walk to any famous work of art from the train station! There are places that require quite a bit of hike, sure, but there’s no better way to appreciate the unfolding displays here at the Cradle of the Renaissance than by walking.

Yes, Florence is a very colorful place, not just one in oil paints and stone reliefs, of history and art. Hopefully this has enlightened you to all the things to do in Florence. This list is but an appetizer — take each turn, travel each road, and you’re sure to find a section of Florence that is as romantic and yet as unique as the last.

A Florentine Love Affair: Best Things to do in Florence, Italy – Pin for Later