THE 20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE ITALY
HOW TO HAVE THE MOST INCREDIBLE TRIP TO FLORENCE ITALY
We had the pleasure of visiting Florence in the summer of 2019 and again, in April 2022 during Holy Week. According to Conde Nast Traveler magazine, Florence is one of the 20 most beautiful cities in Europe and it’s easy to see why. Florence is a marvel to look at, with its stunning architecture, fantastic art masterpieces from the likes of Michelangelo, da Vinci and other notorious artists and gorgeous Tuscan gardens and sweeping valleys. Florence is truly a must-visit while in Italy.
This blog post is about how to have the most incredible trip to Florence Italy and the 20 best things to do in Florence.
A Perfect Trip to Florence
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is an open-air museum filled with rich history, timeless works of art, and some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the majestic Florence Duomo and its awe-inspiring Campanile di Giotto to the unparalleled treasures of the Uffizi Gallery, the city offers countless top things to see and do. Stroll through the historic center of Florence, where every corner reveals the legacy of greats like Leonardo da Vinci, Lorenzo Ghiberti, and Michelangelo. The Piazza della Repubblica, a perfect place to begin your exploration, is a short walk from the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David, an absolute must-see. Whether marveling at the Pitti Palace and its Royal Apartments, wandering through the Mercato Centrale for fresh produce and artisanal goods, or enjoying a guided tour of the Medici Chapels, Florence is truly the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Must-Visit Spots in Florence
A visit to Florence wouldn’t be complete without discovering its main attractions and hidden gems. Climb to the top of the dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore for a beautiful view of the entire city, or admire the striking architecture of Giotto’s Bell Tower from the ground floor. Explore Piazza Santo Spirito, a good place for live music and authentic Italian dining, or take a day trip to nearby San Gimignano or the stunning Cinque Terre. Art lovers will be enchanted by the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air museum showcasing Renaissance sculptures, and the Palazzo Strozzi, a Renaissance palace with fascinating exhibits.
To make the most of your visit, start your adventures in the early morning to avoid long lines, especially during high season. For foodies, the Mercato Nuovo and its food court offer a great way to savor Tuscan delights like olive oil and wine. Florence is, without a doubt, the right place for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Italian Renaissance.
WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE ITALY
The entire historical center of Florence is considered a UNESCO World Heritage sight which means that there are many things to see and do in Florence.
Florence Cathedral (The Duomo) + Piazza del Duomo – This is the mother of all cathedrals and a must-visit while in Florence. It’s free to enter the Duomo, but there’s a fee for the museum and nearby Baptistery.
Giotto’s Campanile – this ornate bell tower next to The Duomo consists of 414 internal steps to the top of the overlook. As there is a fee to go to the top of this bell tower, it’s best to get the special pass that includes all of the nearby cathedrals and baptistery or take the guided tour. The view is worth it!
Baptistery of St. John – The Baptistery is renowned for its three sets of artistically important bronze doors with relief sculptures. It was the heart of the Republic, celebrating its wealth and prestige as it glorified the city’s patron saint.
must visit museums in Florence Italy
Galleria dell’Accademia (Statue of David) – if you’re in Florence, you must check out this famous statue at the Galleria dell’Accademia. This is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture created in marble by Michelangelo between 1501-1504. The statue of David symbolizes strength and independence, embodying the city of Florence. Click here for a GUIDED TOUR.
Uffizi Palace and Gallery – this gallery is considered one of the best art galleries in the world. It is famous for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings. Most of the exhibits are dedicated to the Renaissance era and as it’s one of the top-visited museums in Florence, definitely get your entrance tickets ahead of time.
Palazzo Vecchio – check out this opulent town hall of Florence, located in the immense Piazza della Signoria. Today, the palace is still considered the Florence City Hall, but it also serves as a museum where the Medici collection is on display.
After visiting Palazzo Vecchio, you can climb the 400 steps of the Arnolfo tower for one of the best views of Florence. This tower is less busy than Giotto’s Campanile and makes for a more calm experience.
fantastic plazas in florence italy
Piazza della Signoria – the w-shaped immense square is the main point of the origin and history of the Florentine Republic and still maintains its reputation as the political focus of the city. This square is famous for its statues, Palazzo Vecchio, a replica of the David statue, and the Neptune fountain. It’s also a great place to get gelato and people-watch!
Ponte Vecchio – opened in 1345, this is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the Arno River, in Florence, Italy. The only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during the Second World War, it is noted for the shops built along it. Having shops on such bridges was once a common practice.
must visit churches in Florence italy
Basilica of Santa Croce – This is one of the largest Franciscan churches in the world and the resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo. It was established in 1294 and is the second biggest temple in Florence, only slightly smaller than the Duomo. The interior sculptures and frescoes (wall paintings) by Giotto, Brunelleschi, and Donatello are impressive and highly valued.
Basilica di San Lorenzo – This church is hidden behind a huge brick wall, which is hidden by market stalls. The original construction was inaugurated in 393 (!!), and then in 1059, the present Romanesque version was built. Later, it became the family church of the Medici and was enlarged between 1418-1421 by the famous architect, Brunelleschi, paid for by the Medici. Subsequently, Brunelleschi died, Cosimo de Medici was expelled from the city for political reasons and the church was put on hold until 1461. In the 17th century, the Cappella dei Principi was added as a mausoleum for the Medici family. Visiting this church makes for an important history lesson.
Santa Maria Novella Church – This church is situated opposite and lends its name to, the city’s main railway station. Chronologically, it is the first great basilica in Florence and is the city’s principal Dominican church. If you are arriving in Florence on the train, you will see this church as you enter/exit the train station.
San Miniato al Monte – church standing atop one of the highest points in the city. It has been described as one of the finest Romanesque structures in Tuscany and one of the most scenic churches in Italy.
must visit places on the other side of the Arno River
Palazzo Pitti – this gigantic palace has a very-storied past. These days, the palace and the Boboli gardens house the Palatine Gallery, the Silver Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, the Costume Gallery, the Porcelain Museum, and the Museum of Carriages. The museums are impressive, but I highly recommend that you spend the majority of your time at the Boboli Gardens.
Boboli Gardens – Anytime I travel, I have to check out gardens and parks. I’m also refreshed and re-energized by greenery and fresh air. The Boboli gardens are splendid! Begun in 1549 and designed by Niccolò Pericoli, known as Tribolo, for Duchess Eleonora of Toledo, the Boboli Gardens are one of the most important examples of an Italian garden. On a hillside behind the Palace, the Gardens are arranged geometrically with a symmetrical, regular positioning of trees and flowerbeds. I could spend all day at this phenomenal garden. Make sure you go to the very back of the garden to get an expansive view of the lush, Tuscan hills. Here’s a timed entrance ticket that’s highly recommended.
Piazzale Michelangelo – Located on the plateau to the south of the Arno River, the Piazzale Michelangelo is the best lookout to see the most impressive view of Florence.
must visit gardens in Florence italy
Bardini Garden – This gorgeous garden is one of Florence’s best-kept secrets. The garden is composed of three separate areas, each created in a different time period, which adds to the architectural and agricultural diversity. The park’s center contains the grand staircase that was constructed in the 17th century. On one side of the staircase, you can find the Anglo-Chinese garden created in the 19th century. And the other side of the staircase hosts the garden’s agricultural park. This is such a beautiful park, esp during the spring season with cascading vibrant flowers and a plethora of purple Wisteria flowers.
Rose Garden – another fantastic garden to visit in Florence. It’s located right by the Michelangelo plaza and the perfect time to visit is in the spring when the roses are in full bloom and putting on a show. But, it’s also a great place to visit any time of the year. Take a picnic or snacks and enjoy the view!
arno river in florence italy
Arno river – This is the famous river that runs right through Florence and separates the north and south sides. It’s one of the most important rivers in Italy as it flows 240 km to the Ligurian Sea. There are many fun activities you could do on the river including a boat cruise with live music, SUP, kayaking, and sitting down at one of the riverside refreshment spots.
Where to Eat in Florence
- Il Vegano – This was our favorite place to eat when we went to Florence. The lasagna is really delicious! It’s also interesting that they have an art gallery.
- Flower Burger – vegan fast food chain with beautiful, colorful burgers. It’s a great place to take kids!
- Santo Falafel – great prices and a great location to get some tasty vegan falafel.
- Nirvana – This is a great place for delicious veganized classic Italian dishes.
- Pappagioia – This buffet-style vegan bistro with a garden is adorable and the food is quite tasty.
- Le Fate – personalized menu for each zodiac sign – this bistro connects astrology to food and is an interesting concept. It definitely gives you something to talk about with your fellow diners.
where to stay in FLORENCE ITALY
- Aramis Rooms – fantastic location near the center and comfy rooms, click HERE
- Residenza D’Epoca La Basilica – amazing location and price, click HERE
- Tornabuoni Place – gorgeous room and view, click HERE
- Albergo Firenze – right in the center with great prices, click HERE
- Florest Guest House – adorable room with great location, click HERE
Fun Paid Experiences in Florence Italy
- Skip the line Uffizi Entrance Tickets
- Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour
- Duomo Guided Tour
- Campanile Tour and climb to the best view
- Boboli Gardens timed entrance ticket – my FAVORITE thing to do in Florence!!
- Florence Boat Cruise – Cruise on the Arno River with live music and see the beautiful city from the water.
- Tour of Florence by Eco-kart – a great way to help the environment and your legs.
When to go to Florence Italy
Anytime is a great time to go to Florence! However, if you enjoy better weather and fewer crowds, a good time to visit is in the shoulder seasons, March-May and September-November. The summer months are HOT, and humid with mosquitoes and many crowds. You’ll enjoy yourself much more if you visit Florence during the shoulder seasons.
HOW TO GET TO FLORENCE
The first time we went to Florence, we took a 2.5-hour train from Venice. The landscape along the way was magnificent as we got to see Tuscany with its verdant hills and tawny-hued villas. The second time we went to Florence, we rented a car in Rome and drove from Rome. Although, it’s much better to take a train because parking in Florence is a nightmare and very expensive. But, if you plan on going to the Italian countryside, then renting a car makes sense. We always use this service to rent vehicles in Europe: DISCOVER CARS
Final Thoughts on Florence
Florence is a city that seamlessly blends the elegance of the Renaissance with the charm of the Middle Ages, making it one of the best places in the world for art, history, and culture enthusiasts. From exploring the Galleria degli Uffizi, where masterpieces of Renaissance art are displayed on its second floor and upper floor, to wandering through the Old Palace and discovering its secret passage, Florence offers a rich historical context that is truly worth visiting. The city center is filled with treasures, including some of the oldest buildings, like the 15th-century structures near the Piazza di Santa Croce, where Dominican friars once gathered. An insider tip for visitors is to enjoy a wine tasting tour in the Tuscan countryside, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the region’s culture.
The best time to visit Florence is during the quieter seasons, when you can leisurely explore its landmarks without the crowds. The main square and its iconic white marble cathedral, along with Giorgio Vasari’s contributions to the city’s artistic legacy, are unforgettable highlights. Visiting the first floor of the Old Palace provides insight into Florence’s political past, while the vibrant atmosphere of the city center beckons you to uncover more. Wrapping up your day with a stroll through Piazza di Santa Croce or a tour of the many galleries and palaces is always a good idea. Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of Renaissance art or delving into Florence’s historical context, this city never ceases to amaze.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend items that we truly love!
OUR MUST-HAVE ITEMS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing! They are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful for all the hills in Portugal! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking in Portugal.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – I seriously wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack that we can easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- If you want to feel like a local, then get this backpack. It’s all the rage in Europe!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re here, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
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