So you’re planning on taking an unforgettable trip to Florence, or Firenze, as the locals say. Need recommendations for things to do in Florence?
I’ve got you covered!
In a place like Florence, there is tons to do, so you’ll stay plenty busy while enjoying this picture-perfect Tuscan city. It’s one of the best places to spend some time while in Italy.
What to See & Do in Florence
1. Pay a Visit to David
Take the time to admire Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring sculpture of David in the Accademia Gallery. Be sure to go early in the morning as the line to get in can get pretty long. Absolutely worth the wait, though!
There is also a replica of the David in Piazzale de Michelangelo as well as in Piazza della Signoria, where the statue originally stood before later being moved to the gallery.
2. See the Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza della Signoria
The Palazzo Vecchio is the town hall of Florence. It’s a well recognizable 13th century landmark in the city, with a beautiful courtyard you shouldn’t miss.
The building, with its tower that can be seen from much of the city, sits in the W-shaped Piazza della Signoria, a busy and popular square in Florence. Here, you will also find the Uffizi Gallery.
3. Visit the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is the state museum of Florence and includes works by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Raphael, and many more.
One of the most famous pieces in the museum and a must see is The Birth of Venus by Botticelli.
4. Walk Across the Ponte Vecchio
One of the most popular and well recognized landmarks in Florence is the Ponte Vecchio, or ‘Old Bridge’.
Built over the Arno river that runs through the middle of Florence, the bridge is easily recognized by its unique design.
The Ponte Vecchio bridge is lined with jewelry and souvenir shops, making it feel more like a regular street in the city than a bridge connecting the two sides of Florence.
But, get a view of the bridge from down the river and you’ll notice the shops built onto the bridge create quite an amazing and distinct look.
5. Get Views From San Miniato al Monte
Head up to San Miniato al Monte, an 11th century church perched on a hilltop overlooking the city of Florence. You’ll get wonderful views of the city, and a little exercise as well.
Enjoy walking around the lovely grounds of the church and admiring the views of the city below.
6. Admire The Duomo
No trip to Florence would be complete without standing in the Piazza del Duomo to oggle at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
The dome that adorns the top of the cathedral was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, and is often referred to simply as ‘The Duomo’.
The cathedral’s marble facade makes this architectural masterpiece a one-of-a-kind. Spend some time just admiring the sheer size and scale of this cathedral plopped right down into the middle of Florence.
Going inside the cathedral on the bottom floor is free, but be aware that lines become very long throughout the day, so it’s smart to visit first thing in the morning.
7. Go Up to the Top of The Duomo
You can also buy a ticket to climb to the top of The Duomo and get unparalleled views of the city.
The best thing about this activity is that you truly are ‘climbing’ to the top of the cathedral. You’ll walk up narrow, windy staircases to then basically crawl on hands and knees once reaching the dome.
It is quite an experience, and one I would recommend spending the money on.
Look for tickets to climb the Duomo in advance to avoid missing the opportunity.
8. Visit the Bargello Museum
Another museum to visit in Florence is the Bargello Museum. This museum is located inside the Palazzo Vecchio and boasts a sprawling collection of Renaissance works to admire.
9. Wander the Streets of Florence
If you take just a small amount of time to wander the old streets of Florence, you’re guaranteed to find some interesting hidden gems.
Florence has many leather shops, small local boutiques, chain fashion stores, and more to peruse.
You could also find a self-led walking tour online or just make it up as you go and see what secrets you’ll find in the streets of Florence.
Scavenger Hunt: Look for the small, mouse-sized doors located on the sides of buildings all over Florence. Dating back to around the 17th century, these small doors were used as ‘wine windows’ to sell wine to people in the streets.
10. Buy Italian leather
Florence is one of the best places to buy Italian leather. You’ll notice many shops and stands selling purses, backpacks, belts, and other leather goods.
Keep in mind you’ll likely have more luck finding genuine quality leather goods in small boutiques rather than the many street markets and stands around the city.
11. Get the Best Views in Florence at Piazzale de Michelangelo
Undoubtedly the most popular spot in the city is Piazzale de Michelangelo, and for good reason.
From this spot, you have unobstructed views of the entire city of Florence, and of course an amazing view of The Duomo.
The piazzale is quite large, so you really don’t have to fight for a spot to admire the city from, and there are even a few cafes where you can sit and have a glass of wine while enjoying the views.
12. Take a Day Trip to a Tuscan Winery
If you have enough time in Florence, you can also arrange to take a day tour to a winery in the Tuscan wine country.
Try a Tuscan Chianti, the region’s most popular red wine variety, while admiring the unparalleled beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
13. Watch the Sunset at Giardino delle Rose
Just below the Piazzale de Michelangelo is a lovely terraced rose garden called Giardino delle Rose. This is one of my favorite views of Florence and is often a little quieter than the square above.
Buy a bottle of wine in the Piazzale de Michelangelo and then come to the rose garden to sit in the grass and enjoy the view of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore during sunset.
What to Eat in Florence
14. Eat at Central Market
A hip place to have a bite in Florence is the Mercato Centrale. Here you’ll find a fresh food market downstairs and a food hall upstairs serving a variety of cuisines.
Eating in the market is a fun way to explore the more modern side of Florence, and I promise you won’t be disappointed by the food selection, either.
15. Try Tuscan Cuisine at Trattoria la Casalinga
My personal recommendation for dinner in Florence is Trattoria la Casalinga. The menu is full of classic Italian dishes, including many Tuscan specialities.
When we went, we had the Ribollita, a delicious Tuscan soup, and the Tortellini with Pancetta.
Their menu does change seasonally, and if you’re having a hard time deciding a recommendation from your waiter is the way to go!
16. Throw Down an Entire Pizza
One of my favorite things about Italy is that it’s entirely normal to order, and finish, a whole pizza for yourself.
There are many pizzerias in town where you can get some really good Italian pizza, but some recommendations are Gustapizza, Fuoco Matto, and Pizza Napoli 1995.
17. Get a Panini at Pino’s Sandwiches
The best panini in Florence! With so many to choose from, these sandwiches make for a really good quick lunch, and can even be an on the go lunch if you’re trying to maximize your time in Florence.
18. Try a Michelin Steakhouse
Eat at Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria and you’ll understand why this steakhouse is a Michelin recommendation.
While it can be odd to eat next to a window displaying the meat you’re about to feast on, it’s all part of the experience here!
Be sure to either arrive early to get a table or make a reservation beforehand.
19. Be Adventurous and Try Lampredotto
This traditional Florentine dish is an adventurous one to try while in Florence. Made of tripe, or cow’s stomach, it’s usually served as a sandwich.
Tripe is a love it or hate it kind of food, but trying it while in Florence is a great cultural experience.
Who knows, you might be one of the ones who loves it!
20. Drink Your Fill of Tuscan Wine
Spending any amount of time in Tuscany without getting the chance to try some tuscan wine should be a sin.
At basically every restaurant in town, you can find a delicious glass of Tuscan wine for less than €5. It doesn’t get much better than that! When in doubt, ask your waiter for recommendations.
21. Eat Gelato
Similar to the wine in Italy, it’s obligatory to have gelato at every possible opportunity. Kidding, but certainly don’t miss the chance to have some lovely gelato while in Florence.
Some must try gelaterias in Florence are La Carraia, Carapina, and Venchi.
22. Eat at La Giostra
For an unforgettable meal in Firenze, visit La Giostra for a nice dinner. While the prices are a bit on the higher side, it’s entirely worth it for the wonderful food and the intimate atmosphere.
You’ll love the dining experience you’ll have at La Giostra.
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