Best of Florence: 27 Incredible Things to Do in Florence, Italy

I clearly remember my first visit to Florence when I was just 19 years old. There’s nothing quite like seeing the Duomo for the first time – it left me completely awestruck. Since then, I’ve returned to this Renaissance city more times than I can count, often bringing family and friends along to experience their own first-time magic.

Florence is one of those cities that feels almost too good to be true. The cobblestone streets, incredible food, inspiring craftsmanship, and the sheer number of masterpieces packed into just a few square miles make it unforgettable. While the city is intimate in size, the depth of its history can feel wonderfully overwhelming.

I am the kind of traveler who wants to see it all. I crave the iconic experiences, like marveling at Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery or admiring Botticelli’s masterpieces at the Uffizi.

But I also want to see the city from a local’s point of view. I want to eat at family-run trattorias far from the tourist crowds, sip coffee at the café tucked in the back of a bookstore, browse a tiny frame shop owned by the friendliest Italian craftsman, buy handmade marbled stationery from a small boutique, and explore interesting museums often overlooked by most visitors.

In this guide, you’ll find all of that – the renowned sights you can’t miss and my personal recommendations for a more authentic Florence experience. From smaller museums and artisan shops to local restaurants, here’s my list of the 27 best things to do in Florence, Italy.

Before You Visit

• Book in Advance: Florence is one of Italy’s most popular destinations, and the main attractions can get very crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. To avoid long lines and disappointment, book tickets for the top sights like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and Brunelleschi’s Dome well in advance –ideally at least a month before your trip. High-speed train tickets and guided tours should also be booked early for the best prices and availability.

• Double Check Open Dates: Many museums, churches, and attractions in Florence are closed one day a week – often on Mondays or Tuesdays – so make sure to double-check their opening hours when planning your itinerary.

• Reserve Restaurants: Florence has an incredible dining scene, and the best restaurants tend to fill up quickly. Make reservations for dinner a at least a week in advance, or even earlier (2 weeks ahead) if you’re visiting during peak travel times.

Best Things to do in Florence

1. Visit the Duomo (Florence Cathedral)

The Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, or simply the Duomo, is Florence’s most iconic landmark. Brunelleschi’s dome remains an architectural marvel even today, and the cathedral itself is one of the largest in the world.

Construction began in 1296 and was completed 140 years later, in 1436. However, the stunning marble facade—with its intricate green, white, and pink detailing—wasn’t finished until the late 19th century.

Entry to the Duomo is free, and while there’s almost always a line, it moves quickly. Keep in mind, though, that the interior of the church is surprisingly plain compared to its elaborate exterior. That said, it’s worth stepping inside to admire the view of the dome from below.

The Duomo is part of a larger complex that includes the Dome, Bell Tower, Baptistery, Museum, and Santa Reparata. Visiting all five sites will take at least half a day, but I highly recommend it.

Tickets for the Duomo Complex

While entry to the Duomo is free, access to the other sites within the complex requires purchasing one of three passes. I recommend the Brunelleschi Pass, as all the sites are worth visiting. Be sure to reserve your tickets online well in advance—ideally at least a month before your visit.

• Brunelleschi Pass: This pass includes access to all five sites: the Dome, Bell Tower, Baptistery, Museum, and Santa Reparata. The ticket is valid for three calendar days from the selected date. However, you must reserve a specific time slot for the Dome and adhere to that exact time; otherwise, entry will be denied. Unfortunately, several people ahead of us were turned away because they assumed they could visit the Dome at any time during the three-day period.

• Giotto Pass: This pass grants access to four sites: the Bell Tower, Baptistery, Museum, and Santa Reparata. The ticket is valid for three calendar days

• Ghiberti Pass: This pass includes access to three sites: the Baptistery, Museum, and Santa Reparata. The ticket is valid for three calendar days.

Sights within the Duomo Complex

Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome

Experience an up-close look at Filippo Brunelleschi’s architectural masterpiece and Giorgio Vasari’s stunning Last Judgement, which covers the interior of the dome. To visit, you’ll need a Brunelleschi Pass and a reserved time slot—this step is mandatory, so plan ahead.

The climb involves 463 steps (no elevators), but the effort is well worth it. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360° views over Florence.

Giotto’s Bell Tower

Designed by Giotto and completed in 1359, this bell tower rises 278 feet (84.7 meters) above Florence. Climbing the 414 steps to the top rewards you with a spectacular view of the Duomo—arguably one of the best perspectives of the cathedral’s dome.

One thing to note: there’s a wired fence surrounding the balcony, which can make it tricky to take photos, especially if you’re using a larger camera like mine.

Baptistery

This 11th-century baptistery is well worth a quick visit. Inside, the ceiling vault is decorated with magnificent 14th-century mosaics depicting various religious figures and scenes.

While the Gates of Paradise by Ghiberti are incredible to see in person, note that the doors on the baptistery are replicas. The original gates are preserved and displayed in the Opera del Duomo Museum, just a short walk away.

Opera del Duomo Museum

This museum was an unexpected highlight of my visit to Florence—and, to my surprise, it was practically empty, which is rare for this city. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of medieval and Renaissance sculptures, including the original Gates of Paradise by Ghiberti and The Deposition by Michelangelo.

I particularly enjoyed the detailed models of Brunelleschi’s dome, which offer fascinating insight into its construction, as well as remarkable works by Donatello. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which provides a stunning close-up view of the dome.

Santa Reparata

Hidden beneath the cathedral, Santa Reparata is the site of the original basilica that once stood where the Florence Cathedral is today. Dating back to the 5th century, it was eventually demolished to make way for the grander structure we see now.

Take some time to explore the ruins and admire the beautifully preserved mosaic floors. The space offers a fascinating glimpse into Florence’s early history and the origins of its iconic cathedral.

2. Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s most important museums of Renaissance art, showcasing paintings and sculptures by the period’s greatest artists. Many of the works were donated by the Medici family from their personal collection.

Some of the Uffizi’s most iconic masterpieces include The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Botticelli, Medusa by Caravaggio, Annunciation and Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci, and The Ognissanti Madonna by Giotto.

These are just a few highlights. The museum is huge and takes at least three hours to explore.

To make the most of your visit, I highly recommend a guided tour – like this one –it’s a great way to enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed. Alternatively, consider booking an early morning tour to get ahead of the crowds.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM. Tuesday from 8:15 AM to 10:00 PM. Closed Monday.

Tickets: Full-price tickets to the museum are €25 and should be purchased online at least a month or two in advance. All visitors under 18 get into the galleries for free. Check the official Uffizi website for updated hours and ticket prices. The Uffizi is included in the Firenze Card.

3. Accademia Gallery

The Accademia Gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of Michelangelo statues, including his most famous masterpiece—the David. Standing at an impressive 17 feet tall, the David is a symbol of Renaissance art and a must-see.

Beyond Michelangelo’s works, the gallery also features an extensive collection of paintings by Italian masters such as Botticelli and Uccello. Additionally, there’s a fascinating display of musical instruments, including pieces crafted by the Stradivari family, the namesake of the legendary Stradivarius instruments.

Due to its popularity, it’s essential to purchase tickets well in advance. If regular tickets are sold out, skip-the-line tickets are often available and can save you a lot of time. I ended up buying tickets through GetYourGuide during my most recent visit, as all of the regular tickets were sold out.

Tour Tip: To fully appreciate the history and artistry on display, I highly recommend booking a guided tour with an expert.

Tickets: €16 at full price, and any visitors under 18 years old can get in for free. For more ticket info, visit the official website. The Accademia gallery is included in the Firenze Card.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (last entrance at 6:20 PM).

4. Pitti Palace

This splendid Renaissance palace was the main residence of the powerful Medici family. Today, the Pitti Palace is home to five separate museums that display some of the Medici family’s extraordinary private collections.

The museums include the Palatine Gallery, Treasury of the Grand Dukes, Museum of Costume and Fashion, Museum of Russian Icons, and the Gallery of Modern Art. Visitors can also explore the Palatine Chapel and the Imperial and Royal Apartments, which were later renovated by the Habsburg family during their time in Florence.

Tickets: A single ticket to all of the Pitti Palace museums is €10, or €14 if you want to include the Boboli Gardens. You can also get a five-day ticket which combines the Uffizi and Pitti Palace for €18. Buy your tickets online in advance here. This is included in the Firenze Card.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6.30 PM. Closed Mondays. As of November 2024, the Imperial Apartments are closed for renovations. Make sure to check the official website for any closures during your visit and updates on the renovations.

5. Boboli Gardens

Situated behind the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens were designed during the Medici family’s time at the palace. These sprawling gardens are a beautiful escape, filled with fountains, statues, a rose garden, and picturesque cypress-lined pathways. I always enjoy wandering through this lovely green space.

Use this map of the gardens to help plan your visit and explore the various walking routes.

Tickets: You can either purchase a single ticket (€6) or a combined ticket with the Pitti Palace (€14). Purchase ticket online in advance here or in person. Boboli Gardens are included in the Firenze Card.

Opening Hours: The Boboli Gardens are open daily, except the first and last Monday of each month. Open from 8:15 AM with different closing times depending on the year. Double check hours here.

6. Bardini Gardens

The Bardini Gardens might not be as well-known as the Boboli Gardens, but they’re my personal favorite. Tucked away off the beaten path, these gardens are smaller and more peaceful, making it a nice getaway from the crowds of the city.

Best of all, the gardens offer one of the best views of Florence’s charming skyline.

Don’t miss the lovely cafe at the belvedere, where you can gran a drink, relax, and take in the scenery.

Tickets: €6 full price and also includes entrance tothe Boboli Gardens.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed Mondays. For more information, visit the official website.

7. Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

Founded in the 13th century by Dominican monks, the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella has been a key religious and artistic center since the Middle Ages. The interior has many Renaissance masterpieces, including Giotto’s Crucifix, Masaccio’s Holy Trinity, and Ghirlandaio’s frescoes in the Tornabuoni Chapel.

Its striking marble-tiled facade is one of the most beautiful in Florence – making it well worth a stop, even if you don’t go inside.

Tickets: Full price tickets cost €7.50.

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Friday from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Saturday from 9:00AM to 5:00 PM. Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. For up-to-date hours and info, visit the official website.

8. Santa Croce Basilica

Santa Croce Basilica is a magnificent church, not only impressive for its incredible artworks but also for its profound historic significance. Inside, you’ll find Giotto’s frescoes in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels, Donatello’s Annunciation, and Cimabue’s Crucifix.

I found Cimabue’s Crucifix particularly moving – it had been damaged in the devastating 1966 floods and took 10 years to restore, a powerful symbol of Florence’s resilience over the years.

The basilica is also the final resting place of notable figures like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. You can see the tombs during your visit.

I spent a couple of hours here, much longer than expected, completely captivated by the art and history of the church. To learn more, book this 1-hour guided tour of the basilica.

Tickets: Full price tickets cost €8 and can be purchased at the ticket office or online.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Sunday from 12:30 PM to 5:45 PM.

9. Mercato Centrale

Mercato Centrale is a bustling food hall and market located in the heart of Florence. On the ground floor, you’ll find a variety of stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and other local specialties.

Head upstairs to the gourmet food hall, where an array of restaurant stalls offers everything from crostini (open-faced sandwiches) to pizza, freshly made pasta, and more. I’ve eaten here a few times, and it’s a great spot for a quick lunch.

Just outside the building is the San Lorenzo Market, where vendors sell mostly leather goods along with pottery, stationery, and other souvenirs. It’s a fantastic place to shop for affordable leather purses, wallets, belts, or a unique keepsake to take home.

• Mercato Centrale Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to midnight.
• San Lorenzo Market Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday.

10. Mercato di San Ambrogio

A true neighborhood market, Mercato di San Ambrogio is where the locals go to shop. This indoor market mostly sells meat, produce, and dairy, but you can also find other goods like fresh pasta, olives, and some pre-made foods.

Stop by for a walk around to take in the quieter, more authentic side of Florence. It’s also a great spot to pick up ingredients for a picnic lunch or for a homemade pasta dinner at your Airbnb.

Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

11. Santo Spirito Basilica

Located in Oltrarno, Florence’s trendy neighborhood across the Arno river, Santo Spirito is a prime example of Renaissance architecture. The church was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the same visionary architect behind the dome of Florence’s cathedral.

Entry to the church is free, but if you’d like to see the cloisters and a young Michelangelo’s wooden crucifix – sculpted when he was just 18 years old – you’ll need to pay a small €2 fee.

Opening Hours: Daily (except Wednesdays) from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

12. Brancacci Chapel

The Brancacci Chapel, located within the Basilica del Carmine, is renowned for its breathtaking fresco cycle by Masaccio, Masolino, and later Filippino Lippi. Painted during the 15th century, these frescoes depict the life of St. Peter, with standout scenes like Adam and Eve in the Earthly Paradise and The Expulsion from the Garden of Eden.

If you’re looking to admire another Renaissance masterpiece while venturing off the usual tourist trail, I highly recommend a visit.

Tickets: €10 full price. Reservations are mandatory. You can reserve online here.

Opening Hours: Daily (except Tuesday) from 10 AM to 5:00 PM. Sunday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

13. Palazzo Vecchio & Arnolfo Tower

The Palazzo Vecchio serves as Florence’s City Hall, but it also doubles as a fascinating museum.

Inside, you’ll find stunning frescoes, grand halls filled with Renaissance artwork, and even ancient Roman ruins. To elevate your visit, I highly recommend booking tickets to climb the Arnolfo Tower, which soars above the Piazza della Signoria.

The climb involves 223 steps, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. From here, you’ll enjoy one of the best views of the Duomo.

Opening Hours: The Palazzo Vecchio is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM everyday except Thursdays. Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The Arnolfo Tower is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM everyday except Thursday. Thursday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Tickets: Palazzo Vecchio Museum costs €17.50 and Arnolfo Tower costs €12.50. Reserve tickets online in advance at the official website.

14. Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is one of Florence’s main squares and has long been the political heart of the city. At its center is the Palazzo Vecchio, the historic city hall and center for local events.

In front of the palazzo stands a replica of Michelangelo’s David and nearby is the Neptune Fountain, commissioned by the Medici family in the 16th century and created by Bartolomeo Ammannati.

Don’t miss the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air gallery showcasing impressive Renaissance sculptures, which is free to visit.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning (around 8:00 AM) to enjoy the piazza and Loggia dei Lanzi without the usual crowds.

15. Piazzale Michelangelo

Located across the Arno River, about a 30-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo has one of the best views overlooking all of Florence. It’s a popular spot at sunset, so expect it to get really busy around that time.

The sunset view is absolutely incredible, but I recommend arriving at least an hour before to enjoy the scenery before the crowds fill the square. If you want a quieter experience, head down the stairs to the road below the terrace – it’s a much more peaceful spot. You can also visit in the morning or mid-day for a less crowded experience.

In the evening, you’ll often find bands playing music for people sitting on the steps. There are also a couple of cafés nearby where you can grab a drink and take it all in.

16. Ponte Vecchio

Built in 1345, the Ponte Vecchio (which translates to “Old Bridge”) is one of Florence’s top things to do. As you walk across the bridge, you’ll notice that every shop sells gold or silver goods – a tradition dating back to the 1500s when jewelers first set up shop here.

Above the bridge is the Vasari Corridor, a private passageway built by the Medici family to connect the Palazzo Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti. It allowed them to cross the river discreetly without being seen.

For the best view of the Ponte Vecchio, head upriver to the Ponte Santa Trinita. From there, you’ll have a beautiful perspective of the bridge that’s perfect for photos.

17. San Miniato al Monte

Just an 8-minute walk up the hill from Piazzale Michelangelo, San Miniato al Monte offers equally stunning views of Florence with far fewer crowds. The church is a beautiful example of Tuscan Romanesque architecture, featuring an elegant green and white marble facade.

Step inside to admire the intricate mosaic and the stunning marbled floors. The church is open from Monday through Saturday 9:30AM – 1:00PM; 3:00PM – 7:00PM and Sunday from 8:15AM – 1:00PM; 3:00PM – 7:00PM.

18. Bargello Museum

Built in the 13th century, the Bargello Museum is one of Florence’s oldest public buildings and originally served as a barracks and prison.

Today, it’s one of the city’s best art museums, showcasing an incredible collection of Italian Renaissance sculptures. You’ll find masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, Giambologna, and other renowned artists.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that the museum is only open in the mornings, closing daily at 1:50 PM (closed on Tuesdays).

Opening Hours: The museum is open Wednesday to Monday from 8:15 AM – 1:50 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

Tickets: €10 full price. You can purchase tickets in person. There is also free entry for everyone visiting on the first Sunday of each month. Check the museum’s official website for more info.

19. San Marco Museum

The San Marco Museum, housed within the 15th-century Convent of San Marco, is one of my favorite museums in Florence. Just a short walk from the Accademia Gallery, it’s often overlooked, which makes it all the more special.

The convent itself is lovely to explore, with its long hallways and peaceful cloisters. But the real highlight is the series of frescoes painted by Fra Angelico in the mid-15th century.

These stunning frescoes decorate the cells on the convent’s first floor. Step into each room to admire one of his magnificent scenes up close, paying attention to the intricate details, like the delicate wings of his figures. It’s truly worth a visit.

Tickets: The museum costs €8 and tickets can be purchased in person.

Opening Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM. Closed Mondays. To confirm the schedule during your visit, check the museum’s official website.

20. Palazzo Strozzi

Originally built to rival the Medici family, the Strozzi Palace is now a museum which hosts a rotation of exhibitions. To know what will be on display during your visit, check the official website here.

I’ve attended a couple of exhibitions here, and they’ve all been fantastic. The most recent one I saw was a showcase of Helen Frankenthaler, the brilliant American painter known for her vibrant abstract work.

Tickets: Full price tickets are €15. It’s strongly recommended that you buy tickets in advance, which can be done online. There are several reductions, including for families or kids. 

Opening Hours: The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM with extended hours until 11:00 PM on Thursdays.

21. San Lorenzo Basilica & Medici Chapels

San Lorenzo Basilica is, according to its website, the oldest church in Florence and served as the official church of the Medici family. It’s home to the Laurentian Library and the Medici Chapels.

The basilica, designed by Brunelleschi, has a unique unfinished facade with exposed brick. Despite its plain exterior, it’s well worth visiting the sights inside of the church.

The basilica is open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed Sundays. Tickets for the basilica cost €9 and do not include access to the Laurentian Library or Medici Chapels. More information on the official website.

Laurentian Library: This was designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century to house the Medici family’s precious manuscript collection. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (last admission at 1:00 PM). Tickets cost €5. More information on the official website.

Medici Chapels: Also designed by Michelangelo, these serve as the burial site for members of the Medici family. Highlights include the Chapel of Princes and Michelangelo’s New Sacristy. Opening hours are Wednesday to Monday from 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM. Closed Tuesdays. Purchase tickets online or in person.

22. Other Small Art Museums

While Florence is famous for its renowned Renaissance museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, the city is also home to some fantastic smaller museums that are well worth a visit.

I’ve already mentioned a couple—Bargello Museum and San Marco Museum—but here are a few more gems to explore if you have extra time:

• Palazzo Medici Riccardi: A Renaissance palace, once owned by the powerful Medici family, boasts grand rooms and fascinating art exhibitions.
• Galileo Museum: A must-visit for science enthusiasts, this museum is dedicated to Galileo’s groundbreaking achievements. It features thousands of historical scientific instruments.
• Stefano Bardini Museum: This museum showcases the eclectic collection of Stefano Bardini, including tapestries, sculptures, paintings, furniture, and musical instruments.
• Opificio delle Pietre Dure Museum: This unique museum is dedicated to the art of mosaics and stone inlays. It also provides insight into the meticulous process of creating these intricate works of art.

For my full list, check out the 19 best museums in Florence here.

23. Officina Profumo – Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

This historic perfume shop is an experience in itself. Located on Via della Scala 16, near the train station, it was founded in 1221. Originally established as a pharmacy by monks, it was used to create medicinal products like balms and medications. Over time, it evolved into a perfumery and still produces some of its ancient recipes today.

One of their scents was originally created in the 1500s by a member of the Medici family as a wedding gift for her husband. Another fragrance pays tribute to the people of Florence after the devastating floods of 1966.

Even if you’re not planning to purchase anything, the building itself is absolutely stunning and well worth a visit.

24. Visit Artisan Shops

One of my favorite things to do anywhere I travel is to seek out the best artisan and design shops. Florence’s incredible history of craftsmanship, from fabric makers to ceramicists and leather goods makers, means there is a fantastic selection of shops to visit.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• AquaFlor: A lovely perfume shop.
• Ginori 1735: Gorgeous porcelain and other wares.
• Eredi Paperone Bottega d’Arte: Beautiful, handmade stationary.
• Il Papiro: Another favorite stationary shop.
• Il Busetto: Handmade leather goods. Bought a handcrafted leather coin purse from here.

25. Check out the city’s coolest cafes

Florence has a some pretty cool cafes. Some are tucked away in monasteries or convents, while others are hidden in the back of bookshops or libraries.

Here’s are a few worth checking out:

• Todo Modo: A local bookshop with a cafe in the back.
• Il Conventino: A quiet cafe set inside of a former convent.
• S.forno: A cozy bakery and cafe also selling local goods.
• Le Murate: An artsy cafe and bar located inside of a former prison.
• Brac: A hip bar, cafe, and bookstore.
• Loggia Roof Bar: While technically not a cafe, this is one of my favorite bars in Florence located on Palazzo Guadagni’s idyllic rooftop terrace.

26. Join a food tour or cooking class

Florence is a foodie city, home to Tuscan cuisine and beloved dishes like Florentine steak, Ribollita soup, and handmade pasta such as tortelli.

If you’re short on time, joining a food tour is the best way to sample a bit of everything while exploring local markets and eateries. For those who want a more hands-on experience, a cooking class is a great way to learn how to make these delicious specialties yourself.

Food tour recommendations:

• Florence Sunset Food & Wine Tour
• Walking Food Tour of Florence
• Small Group Florence Food Tour

Cooking class recommendations:

• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence
• Florence Pizza or Pasta Class with Gelato Making at a Tuscan Farm
• Small-Group Pasta Class with Seasonal Ingredients

27. Take a Day Trip

As the capital and center of Tuscany, Florence makes a perfect base for exploring nearby destinations. Taking a day trip or two is a must to experience the charming towns and countryside of the region.

• Siena: A picturesque medieval town south of Florence, known for its charming city center and the famous Palio horse race. Read my Florence to Siena day trip guide.
• Lucca: Surrounded by the Apuan Alps and Tuscan hills, the setting of this rustic, medieval town is exactly what you imagine Tuscany to look and feel like. Read my Florence to Lucca day trip guide.
• Pisa: Famous for its Leaning Tower, but also home to beautiful piazzas and beautiful churches. Read my Florence to Pisa day trip guide.
• Cinque Terre: A stunning collection of five coastal villages set along the Ligurian coastline, perfect for hiking and enjoying gorgeous sea views. Read my Florence to Cinque Terre day trip guide.
• Bologna: The culinary capital of Italy, renowned for its incredible food scene, medieval architecture, and historic porticoes. Read my Florence to Bologna day trip guide.
• Chianti Hills: A dream for wine lovers—take a guided tour from Florence to enjoy wine tastings and scenic vineyard views.
• Tuscan Towns: Explore smaller gems like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, or Volterra, each offering its own slice of Tuscan magic. Book this tour to explore a few towns from Florence in a day.

Top 10 Things to do for First-Timers

If you’re a first-timer and only have a couple of days in Florence, here’s a list of the top 10 things you can’t miss:

1. Visit the Duomo Complex
2. Explore the Uffizi Gallery
3. See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademica Gallery
4. Cross the Ponte Vecchio
5. Visit the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens
6. Shop at San Lorenzo Market & Mercato Centrale
7. Visit Santa Croce Church
8. Enjoy the views from Piazzale Michelangelo
9. Wander around the Oltranto neighborhood
10. Check out the Piazza della Signoria and Loggia dei Lanzi

Firenze Card 

Getting the Firenze Card is a great choice if you plan to be in Florence for at least a couple of days. The card costs €85 per person and grants access to 65 individual museums across the city, along with a handful of exhibitions.

Some of the museums included in the card are: Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Bargello Museum, San Marco Museum, Brancacci Chapel, and the Medici Chapels.

For more details, including the full list of included museums, visit the official website.

Best Time to visit Florence

Having visited Florence in every season, I’ve found that the best months to go are April, May, October, and November. During these times, the weather is mild, and the city is far less crowded than during the peak summer months.

For a full seasonal breakdown, check out my guide to the best time to go to Florence, which includes weather info and more.

How to Get Around Florence

Florence is a compact city, and you can easily walk to most of the main sights. While there is a tram system, it primarily serves the suburbs. If you’re arriving by plane, you can take the tram from the airport directly to the Santa Maria Novella train station.

Beyond walking, the best way to get around is by public bus. You can purchase bus tickets at a Tabacchi shop – look for a storefront with a large “T” on the outside, or search for one on Google Maps. Make sure to validate your ticket as soon as you get on the bus; I’ve heard horror stories of tourists getting hit with hefty fines for forgetting to do this.

Finally, if you need a taxi, you can use the city’s taxi app to call one. I’ve used it a few times, and it works well and is straightforward to navigate.

How Many Days in Florence

I recommend spending a minimum of 2 days in Florence, but I believe the city deserves 4 days or more. There’s so much to see here, from the main sights to smaller museums, artisan shops, amazing restaurants, and simply wandering through the city’s streets. Plus, there are plenty of day trips to keep you busy if you have extra time.

That said, I understand time can be limited. If you only have 2 days, you can still see the main sights I listed in my top 10. Just be sure to plan ahead and book tickets in advance to avoid long lines—it’ll make all the difference!

Where to Eat in Florence

I have spent hours researching the best places to eat in Florence, and of course, trying them out myself. Here’s a list of solid favorites that I highly recommend:

• Trattoria Sostanza: For butter chicken and bistecca alla Fiorentina
• Dalla Lola: For a modern take on Tuscan cuisine.
• Trattoria Cibreo: For delicious pastas and meat dishes
• Gusta Pizza: One of the best pizzas in the city.
• Pino’s Sandwiches: Delicious paninis freshly made by Pino himself.
• La Gelatiera: My #1 gelato shop in Florence.

Tip: Call at least 2 weeks in advance to make reservations. These restaurants book up quickly.

Where to Stay in Florence

Over the years, I’ve stayed all over Florence during my many visits to the city. My personal favorite neighborhood is Oltrarno – the restaurant scene and vibe here is fantastic, and it’s much quieter than across the Arno. That said, staying near the Duomo can be a great choice too. While it’s touristy, I loved the convenience of being so close to most of the main sights.

On my last visit, I stayed a few nights at Il Salviatino, a stunning 5-star hotel located in the Fiesole hills with gorgeous views of Florence in the distance. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, I highly recommend it.

• 5-Star Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
• Luxury Hotel: Il Salviatino
• Boutique Hotel: Casa G Firenze
• Mid-Range: Oro Nero Florence
• Budget Hotel: Residenza Mondragone
• B&B: Secret Garden Firenze B&B

More Florence hotel articles:

• Hotels in Florence with a Pool
• Boutique Hotels in Florence
• 5-Star Hotels in Florence

How to Get to Florence

By Train

If you’re already in Italy, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Florence is by train. The main station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is centrally located and within walking distance of the city center.

• Book your tickets on Trenitalia.com, the official train site.
• High-speed trains (like Frecciarossa or Italo) should be booked at least three weeks in advance for the best prices.
• Local trains are more flexible and can typically be purchased on the day of travel for the same price.

Popular Routes:

• Venice to Florence: ~2 hours on a high-speed train.
• Milan to Florence: ~1 hour and 45 minutes on a high-speed train.
• Bologna to Florence: ~35 minutes on a high-speed train.
• Rome to Florence: ~1 hour and 30 minutes on a high-speed train.

By Plane

If you’re flying from elsewhere in Europe, Florence has a small airport (FLR), which is about 20 minutes from the city center by tram.

However, if flights aren’t available or are too expensive, look at flying into Pisa (PSA) or Bologna (BLQ) airports. Both are larger and within 1-1.5 hours of Florence by train.

By Car

I don’t recommend driving in Florence—the roads are narrow, and I’ve seen far too many cars with scrapes along the sides. If you must drive, ask your hotel or accommodation for recommendations on where to park, as parking can be challenging in the city center. This article also has some helpful parking tips.

More info for your trip to Italy

• Things to do in Bologna
• Best time to visit Florence
• Things to do in Venice