Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Florence is full of incredible architecture, great food, and historic significance that will keep you going for days. In fact, there are so many things to do in Florence that it is almost certain you will need more than just one visit. Home to famous artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Leonardo Da Vinci to name a few, you can see why visiting Florence should be on your bucket list.
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Top Things To Do In Florence
When it comes to choosing the best things to do in Florence it can be difficult as there are so many attractions to choose from. Regardless of whether you are an art lover, a food lover, a history buff, or just love beautiful cities, this guide will help you select the best things to do based on your interest.
Planning Your Trip To Florence Right Now?
These are the top tours and activities in Florence. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Florence!
Train travel is one of the best ways to get around Europe. Check out Omio for prices for train travel to Florence.
Top Florence Tourist Attractions and Tours:
- Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery (Best Deal)
- Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano Day Trip (Highly Rated)
- Skip the Line Duomo Skywalk (Likely to Sell Out)
Trust me, there is something for everyone here, tourists flock to Florence for different reasons be it to marvel at the extraordinary artwork or to indulge in food, nearly everyone falls in love with the Tuscan city. These are the top attractions in Florence.
Piazza del Duomo
If there is one iconic building that is synonymous with Florence it is The Duomo. Located in the historic city center of Florence, the Piazza del Duomo is certainly at the top of places to visit in Florence. Standing front and center in the Piazza is the Duomo of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Cathedral of Saint Mary). It is one of Italy’s most recognizable sights with the immense dome towering overhead.
The Piazza del Duomo is a meeting place, a shopping center, and a spot to grab a bite to eat or a glass of wine as you take in the surrounding views of Ciott’s Campanile, the Duomo, and the Baptistery. Go first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome
When one thinks of Florence, the city’s skyline dominated by the iconic Duomo instantly comes to mind. Central to this panorama is Brunelleschi’s Dome, an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time since the 15th century. One of the essential experiences for visitors to Florence is the climb to the top of this magnificent dome.
As you ascend the 463 stone steps, the journey itself becomes a walk through history, revealing the intricate craftsmanship and genius behind this Renaissance masterpiece. Once at the summit, climbers are rewarded with an unparalleled 360-degree view of Florence, stretching out to the Tuscan hills beyond.
This bird’s-eye vista captures the essence of the city, from the terracotta rooftops to the snaking Arno River, and provides a breathtaking perspective that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome is more than just an activity; it’s a rite of passage for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of Florence.
Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral)
No visit to Florence would be complete without going into the Florence Cathedral. it is the crown jewel of the city. Simply known as The Duomo, this is a not-to-miss attraction in Florence. Take a stroll around the 360-degree white marble structure that was once the largest dome in the world. Make sure to climb up its 463 steps for panoramic views of the old city center or head over to Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower) for views of the Duomo itself.
The Duomo is the most popular and central site in Florence so make sure to book your timed entry to the cathedral dome. Get your entry tickets to the Duomo where you can climb all the way to the cupola of the cathedral. Admire the extraordinary frescoes, stained glass windows, marble floors, and vaulted ceilings of the dome while enjoying the beautiful view of the city of Florence.
Giottos Campanile
Giottos Campanile stands adjacent to the Florence Cathedral and the Baptistry of St. John. This free-standing structure stands 84.7 meters (277.9 ft) high and was designed by Italian painter and architect, Giotti in 1334. It is a beautiful tower that stands high above the city. While climbing is a must, it is also beautiful to admire from the ground and from the Duomo.
Corridoio Vasariano
The Corridoio Vasariano has been closed since 2016 but will open in 2022 to visitors. Originally constructed in the 1500s, the Corridoio Vasariano was used by the Medici family and high-ranking officials to walk to Ponte Vecchio. The rich did not interact with the poor and therefore had their own walkways.
The enclosed corridor above Florence begins at the Uffizi Gallery and goes along the Arno River to Ponte Vecchio where it reaches to Medicean Gardens of Boboli and the Grand-Ducal abode of Pitti Palace. Once it opens again in 2022, it will be fully accessible with air conditioning and museums. This is going to be a spectacular attraction in Florence and makes me want to go back just to see it!
Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio is one of our favorite places in Florence overlooking Piazza dell Signoria. With a 300-foot high bell tower, you can’t miss finding Palazzo Vecchio as it looms over the city of Florence. The archeological site sits atop old Roman ruins and was once the Florence town hall and palace of the Signoria of the Republic of Florence.
Don’t miss going into the impressive Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the Five Hundred) showcasing beautiful frescoes and painted ceilings. While visiting Palazzo Vecchio you’ll find secret routes worthy of a Dan Brown novel and you can even go underground to the basement to see the Roman foundations.
Your ticket gets you inside to visit Palazzo Vecchio Museum. private apartments, the Hall of Maps and Torre di Arnolfo” or Arnolfo’s tower where you can climb its 416 steps for breathtaking views of the city. Avoid the lines with this guided tour
Piazza della Signoria
Located beside Palazzo Vecchio, the Piazzale Della Signoria is one of the most beautiful squares in Florence. It is one of the best places to start your tour of Florence as many top sights are located right at Piazza Della Signoria.
Palazzo Vecchio, Loggia Della Signoria, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Palace of the Tribunale Della Mercanzia all are located in close proximity. It is also the best place to eat delicious Italian food like pizza, spaghetti, tiramisu, or panna cotta. If you don’t feel like eating, you can just stay in Piazzale Della Signoria for a while in one of the romantic cafes near the Fountain of Neptune and watch the people passing by.
It is also here that you’ll see a marvelous replica of Michelangelo’s David. In fact, the original David once stood here, but to protect the masterpiece he was moved to the Accademia Gallery. It’s a good thing because today, vendors surround this David statue. See more: Walking Tour of Florence – A Tale of Two Davids
Take a Guided Tour of Florence
One of the best things to do in Florence is to take a guided tour. We took two while in the city and it was the perfect way to learn of Florentine history and to see the sights. A walking tour is a good way to explore the city center, while a driver with a local guide lets you see more in a short time. There are so many historic buildings and museums, that it can be overwhelming.
This guided tour lets you see Florence by sunset with a Tuscan dinner. Your driver will take you to Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery and its Gates of Paradise, and more. You’ll then Let your expert guide lead you through historical paths to admire Piazza Della Signoria to see the imposing Palazzo Vecchio and the Loggia Dei Lanzi. At the end of the tour, enjoy a typical Italian dinner in a local, Tuscan-style restaurant. Details here.
Ponte Vecchio
One of the most famous bridges in the world doesn’t fail to impress visitors as it looks like from a fairy tale. The Ponte Vecchio spans the River Arno and no trip to the city would be complete without walking across this iconic bridge. The Vecchio bridge is the oldest bridge in Florence dating back to 1345.
During World War II, it was the only bridge that was not destroyed, and walking across is one of the top things to do in Florence. The bridge has two levels, however, the upper floor is closed to the public and only opens for special events once or twice a year. Along the lower level are shops where you can buy silver, Florence isn’t the only beautiful city in Europe: Check out our list of the most Beautiful Cities in Europe
Piazzale Michelangelo
One of the best views of Florence for sunset is the Piazzale Michelangelo where you’ll find a huge replica of Michelangelo’s David. You can either take a short walk up the hill or simply take a bus right to the top of it. We walked the entire way from the Piazza Della Signoria taking Ponte Vecchio across the Arno River to Piazzale Michelangelo.
It only took about half an hour and it was a lovely way to explore more of the city. Be sure to stop at the Rose Garden on your way down, especially during May and June, when the roses are in full bloom.
For a unique way to visit Florence, book this Vespa Tour of Florence. On this trip, you’ll make your way from Piazza San Marco to Piazza Michelangelo on a vintage Vespa. En route, admire the panoramic views of the dome and River Arno. After a stop at Piazza Michelangelo, it’s then on San Miniato Abbey to see the beautiful historic cemetery, which is famous for its Medieval history. Details here.
Basilica San Miniato al Monte
This church is impressing both from the inside and the outside. It’s situated at the highest point of the city, so the view from the top is really breathtaking. The basilica San Miniato al Monte is just a short distance from Piazzale Michelangelo so while you are visiting David overlooking Florence, be sure to check it out. It is one of the best examples of Romanesque structure not only in Italy but also in the whole of Europe!
Galleria dell’Accademia
When picturing the top things to do in Florence, I think many people put witnessing the Statue of David at the top of their list. Well, The Galleria Dell’Accademia is the place where you’ll find the one and only Statue of David. I say one and only because there are actually three statues of David in Florence. Find out where the other two are here
The statue depicts the biblical figure of David standing naked. It is considered to be the world’s greatest sculpture. If the crowds are anything to go by, I’d say that is right! You can’t miss it, a crowd of people surrounds this iconic work of art that attracts as many crowds as the Mona Lisa painting in the Louvre or Sistine Chapel in the Vatican city.
The Accademia Gallery has a lot more to it than Michelangelo’s David though, It houses other great Italian and Renaissance art by the likes of Botticelli, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Pontormo, Andrea del Sarto, Allessando Allori and Orcagna
Basilica di Santa Croce
Another beautiful church of Florence is Basilica Di Santa Croce. It’s the place where some of the most famous Italians were buried. You will find the graves of Galileo, Michaelangelo, and Machiavelli. These people changed the history of the world, so it is great to be able to give them proper honor while sightseeing in Florence, Italy.
While at Santa Croce, stop by the Scuola del Cuoio. Florence is known to have many leather shops to buy quality leather and the Scuola del Cuoio is the largest and most famous leather school in Florence where you can buy quality leather goods.
Uffizi Gallery
You can spend hours at the Uffizi Gallery. This wonderful museum probably has so much to see that you can spend hours and hours in there. This is a wonderful place to see the best of Renaissance Art. Famous artists such as Botticelli, Da Vinci, and Raphael are showcased in the collection. Starting from The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli and finishing on Botticelli’s Primavera you won’t forget your visit.
Make sure you prebook your timed entrance ticket to make the most of your visit to one of the most visited art museums in the world. And we suggest booking a private guide to make sure you don’t miss the best pieces of Renaissance Art with your licensed guide. With a guide you can let them know who you want to see, will it be, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Raphael, Giotto, and Rembrandt. Details here.
Basilica di San Lorenzo
The Basilica di San Lorenzo is the oldest in Florence dating back to 393 AD and was once the main cathedral of Florence until it became the main parish church for the Medici family. It is unassuming from the outside, but make sure to go inside to see its cloisters overlooking the gardens, the crypt where you’ll see the final resting place of Donatello, the interior of the church, and the Medici Chapels.
San Lorenzo Market
Nestled amidst the Renaissance splendor of Florence, the San Lorenzo Market offers a vibrant and sensory-rich experience. A veritable feast for the senses, this bustling market is divided into two sections: the indoor Mercato Centrale, where food lovers can revel in the sight of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and an array of Tuscan specialties; and the outdoor market, where a myriad of stalls overflow with leather goods, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts.
As you wander through the aisles, the aroma of truffle, freshly baked bread, and sizzling street food fills the air, drawing you into Florence’s rich culinary tapestry. Beyond shopping, the San Lorenzo Market provides a genuine glimpse into the daily lives of Florentines and stands as a testament to Italy’s age-old tradition of communal markets. Whether you’re seeking to purchase a delicious Tuscan meal, unique souvenirs, or simply the lively atmosphere of local commerce, the San Lorenzo Market is an indispensable stop on any Florence itinerary.
Palazzo Pitti
There are so many museums in Florence it can be difficult to choose which one to see. Well, when in doubt, choose one of the largest. Palazzo Pitti is one of Florence’s biggest Museums where you can walk through the former residence of the Medici. It is a large complex located on the Arno River with several galleries to explore including the Gallery of Modern Art, The Costume Gallery, and Italian art. Inside you’ll see works of art by Italian icons such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Pietro da Cortona, and Rubens.
Boboli Gardens
Located directly behind Pitti Palace are the beautiful Boboli Gardens designed by the Medici Family. Boboli Gardens is a beautiful display of greenery adorned with Renaissance statues, grottos, and fountains. It’s a stunning garden that is more like an open-air museum. Don’t miss seeing the Grotta del Buontalenti which is an artificial cave complete with stalactites and stalagmites. You can book timed entries which give access to Boboli Gardens, Bardini Gardens, and Grotta del Buontalenti.
Piazza della Repubblica
Piazza Della Repubblica is one of the main squares in Florence, marking the center of the city. The Square has stood since Roman Times and was once the Jewish Ghetto, but it has undergone many changes throughout the years. It is the perfect place to grab an espresso at either Caffé Gilli, Caffé Paskowski or Caffé delle Giubbe Rosse. Here you can people-watch or take in a street performance. There is a carousel and the column of the Abundance.
Take a Vespa Tour
If you are looking for unique things to do in Florence, take a Vespa tour of the Tuscan countryside from Florence. Nothing says Italy more than driving a vintage Vespa through the streets. Follow your tour leader along the Arno River as you make your way to the quiet roads of Tuscany. On your way out you’ll stop at one of the oldest churches in Florence and stop for a view of the Florence Skyline. It’s then on to the hills for sightseeing and a stop to eat some of Tuscany’s best prosciutto and cheese with a glass of Chianti. More details on this highly rated tour here.
Take a Tuscan Wine Tour
One of the best things to do in Florence is to book a food tour for a taste of Tuscany. Florence is located in the heart of the Tuscan region of Italy, and you know what that means? Great wine! Book this tour of Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting where you’ll visit vineyards to sample local wines. It includes up to 5 wines each! Learn about the winemaking process and what it takes to be classified as Chianti Classico. followed by sampling with wine, cheese, bread, and olive oil. My mouth is watering. Details here
If you don’t want to leave the city, this Florence wine tour takes you on a walking tour through Florence where you’ll enjoy tasting glasses of both white and red wines. The wine is paired with special snacks and the flavor of the local crostini with each sip of wine. Finish your tasting session with a glass of wine too.
Florence Street Food Tour
If there is one thing you cannot miss doing in Italy is to sample its delicious food. A street food tour takes you around the heart of the city to sample some delicious cuisine. Local favorites to try are schiacciata with balsamic vinegar, cantuccini, fresh homemade pasta, traditional pappa al Pomodoro, and more. It may not be on the menu, but when we visited Florence, we couldn’t get enough of the gelato. During this tour, you’ll also visit a local market. Details here.
Have a Florentine Steak
In the heart of Tuscany, Florence is not only a haven for art enthusiasts but also a paradise for food lovers. Among the city’s gastronomic treasures, the “Bistecca alla Fiorentina” stands out as a must-try. This traditional Florentine steak is a thick cut of T-bone sourced from the region’s Chianina cattle, one of the oldest cattle breeds in the world.
Cooked over open flames to a charred exterior and tender, juicy inside, this steak is a simple yet profound testament to Tuscan culinary tradition. Enjoying a Bistecca alla Fiorentina in a bustling Osteria, complemented by a glass of local Chianti, is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the rich flavors and heritage of Florence. For those seeking an authentic taste of the city, diving into this succulent delicacy is as essential as marveling at the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery.
San Gimignano
Just a short journey from the bustling heart of Florence lies San Gimignano, often referred to as the ‘Manhattan of the Middle Ages’ due to its iconic skyline of ancient towers. This UNESCO World Heritage site, perched atop a hill overlooking the Tuscan countryside, offers a picturesque retreat from city life.
Walking through its narrow cobbled streets, one is transported back in time, surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval architecture. The town’s 14 remaining towers, which once symbolized wealth and power, now offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Alongside its architectural wonders, San Gimignano boasts local culinary delights, including the prized Vernaccia white wine and saffron-infused dishes. While Florence is the crown jewel of Tuscany, a detour to San Gimignano provides a serene and enchanting counterpoint, making it a must-visit for those exploring the region.
Take A Day Trip To Piza
One of the most popular day tours from Florence is to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A lot of people will say not to go to Pisa, but we loved our visit to Pisa. We highly recommend spending the night to make the most of your trip.
A mere hour away from Florence, the city of Pisa beckons with its world-famous Leaning Tower. But this iconic tilted structure is just the beginning of what Pisa has to offer. Located in the city’s Piazza dei Miracoli, or “Square of Miracles,” the tower shares its fame with the neighboring Pisa Cathedral and Baptistry, both exemplars of stunning Romanesque architecture. While many visitors come to snap that quintessential photo “holding up” the Leaning Tower, there’s much more to explore.
The city’s medieval streets, riverside views along the Arno, and vibrant student life, courtesy of the University of Pisa, bring a lively atmosphere to this Tuscan gem. As the day unfolds, enjoy Pisan delicacies in local trattorias and discover a rich tapestry of history that extends beyond its tilted wonder. A day trip to Pisa from Florence is not only an exploration of one of the world’s most recognized monuments but also an immersion into the authentic spirit of Tuscany.
And Lucca
A jewel of Tuscany, Lucca offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of Florence. Encircled by Renaissance walls, this ancient city is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and age-old churches that tell tales of bygone eras.
One of Lucca’s unique features is its perfectly preserved walls, which have now been transformed into a pedestrian promenade, allowing visitors to leisurely stroll or bike while soaking in panoramic views of the city and its verdant surroundings. The Romanesque architecture of Lucca’s cathedral, the Duomo di San Martino, and the iconic Guinigi Tower with its rooftop garden stand as testaments to the city’s rich history and architectural prowess.
Intimate and steeped in a laid-back ambiance, Lucca offers cozy cafes, artisanal boutiques, and the genuine warmth of its locals. Just a short train ride or drive from Florence, a day trip to Lucca promises a serene immersion into Tuscany’s timeless charm.
Stop by Siena
Just a short journey south of Florence, the picturesque city of Siena beckons with its terracotta rooftops, winding medieval streets, and a storied past that rivals its Tuscan neighbors. Stepping into Siena feels like a voyage back in time. Dominated by the stunning Piazza del Campo, renowned as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares and the stage for the famous Palio horse race, Siena offers a more intimate Tuscan experience.
The city’s cathedral, Duomo di Siena, stands as a Gothic masterpiece adorned with exquisite frescoes and inlaid marble floors. Throughout the day, travelers can explore countless charming alleys, discover local trattorias serving authentic Sienese dishes, and sip on robust local wines. As the golden hour casts a warm glow over the city, Siena’s enchantment becomes palpable. A day trip here not only complements a Florence adventure but also enriches one’s appreciation of Tuscany’s diverse historical tapestry.
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy
The Duomo / Piazza Della Signoria
The Duomo is one of the best places to stay in Florence for your first trip. The Duomo neighborhood is as central as it gets and is one of the best places to stay in Florence for sightseeing and museums. It is close to the Piazza Della Signoria and walking distance to all the world-renowned museums and cobblestone streets near the Ponte Vecchio.
Hotel Bernini Palace is one of the top-rated luxury 5-star stays in Florence. 15th-century building with rooms featuring Murano glass chandeliers. Minutes from the major sites. Check out Availability & Prices on TripAdvisor and Booking.com
Uffizi Harmony – This is a great hotel for an affordable stay for its central location next to Piazza Della Signoria square and the Uffizi Gallery. Check out Availability & Prices TripAdvisor or Booking.com
San Lorenzo And Santa Maria Novella
San Lorenzo and Santa Maria Novella is the best neighborhood to stay in for shopping in Florence. It is near the Central train station and Basilica Of Santa Maria Novella
Grand Amore Hotel and Spa is an elegant hotel in a central location. Offers a wellness center, lounge bar, and cathedral views in select rooms. Check out Availability & Prices on TripAdvisor or Booking.com
B&B Lorenzo de’Medici – Cozy option in the heart of the San Lorenzo district. Rooms have a desk, with some including a kitchenette. Continental or Italian breakfast is served every morning. Check out Availability & Prices on TripAdvisor or Bookiing.com
Santa Croce
Santa Croce is a great place to stay in Florence to feel like a local while still being central and convenient to walk to. This neighborhood offers some of the best bars and restaurants, architecture, and nightlife in the city. Close to Piazza Santa Croce or wandering amongst the famous tombs of renowned Italians, this neighborhood has a lot going on.
La Maison du Sage – Luxurious and elegant bed & breakfast right next to Santa Croce Basilica. Check out Availability & Prices on TripAdvisor or Booking.com
Benci House – Near Palazzo Vecchio, featuring an on-site restaurant and a beautiful terrace that looks over Bardini Garden. Availability & Prices on TripAdvisor or Booking.com
How to Get to Florence, Italy
Florence, Italy can be reached by flying into Rome or Milan and then catching the train to the main railway station.
Pisa also has an international airport that you can fly into and then catch the bus to Florence. If flying from within Europe, some airlines fly into Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport.
Most people arrive in Florence by train. The Main Railway Station, Canta Maria Novella. The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo and 20 minutes to Piazza Della Signoria and the Uffizi. It is one of Italy’s busiest train stations.
Fun fact, the train station got its name from the Basilica Of Santa Maria Novella which is located across the piazza.
And these are the best things to do in Florence. There is good reason that this is one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy. With so many iconic works of art and beautiful architecture, taking a trip to Florence is one to remember.
Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. A must to visit, together with Venice and Napoli.
Interesting article about the sights in Firenze. Tip: the picture of 3 (San Miniato al Monte) and 4 (the Cupola) should be switched. For the rest, if you’ve time definitely visit the amazing Palazzo Pitti.
Florence is one of the best cities in Italy as last lear I visited there for 2 days but at that time due to lack of time I couldn’t explore it so going back again there next Monday so I was looking for some best recommendations of best things to do there thanks for letting me know what to do there on priority basis.
Thank you for sharing this great article and your pictures are fantastic, especially the one with the sunset and the Duomo. It is indeed one of the most beautiful cities in the world, you have to visit Florence to understand! The Duomo never gets old,
Stunning photos…
thanks for the list…
florence is an epic place with beautiful architecture and awesome street art works…
I had usually needed to head to Florence, however just haven’t had the way yet…all your posts in there are stunning, this precise labyrinth looks so enjoyable, the cave chapel likewise!
I really hope I truly do get to visit sooner or later, maybe when we’re funding Europe once again. Regards for sharing. http://www.tripindicator.com/car-hire/florence-airport.html
Nothing better than finding what is sought with such good quality. I’m already with your list that will be my guide for this next month. Thank you.
Thank you for the kind words!
Amazing photos, stunning scenes and beautiful art. Florance is my dream city. Thank you for the inspiring post.
Beautiful , both the local and the photos are breathtaking . Thanks for sharing this with us wonder .
I have actually been to Florence and it has to be one off the 1o most amazing and beautiful cities in Europe to visit. I had an incredible time. If I go back I will be sure to use your list as a guide.
Mark
Very beautiful photos, but the one that you displayed for Basilica San Miniato al Monte is in fact Basilica Santa Maria Novella. The two are extremely similar and easy to be confused, but still different.
This is a must visit place. Photos are really awesome and interesting. Thanks for this interesting article.
All the photo’s are stunning, can’t imagine in word. The Piazza del Duomo city is look like a paint i still don’t believe that its a city not paint amazing .