admin Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city that dazzles visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class art. Whether you’re strolling down cobblestone streets, marveling at Michelangelo’s David, or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, the city offers an unforgettable blend of culture and beauty. With so many incredible things to do in Florence, Italy, it can be hard to know where to start. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo to hidden gems in quieter neighborhoods, this guide will help you discover the best of what Florence has to offer, ensuring your trip is filled with unique and memorable experiences.
Things to Do in Florence Italy
- Visit the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous art museums in the world. It houses a vast collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Art lovers can spend hours wandering through the gallery, admiring iconic pieces such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Leonardo’s Annunciation.
Aside from the art, the building itself is a marvel of Renaissance architecture. Built in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari, the gallery offers stunning views over the Arno River and the city’s skyline. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy tourist season. The gallery also offers guided tours to help you dive deeper into the stories behind these great works of art.
- Climb to the Top of Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
No visit to Florence is complete without seeing the Duomo. Florence Cathedral, with its massive dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is one of the most recognizable structures in Italy. The climb to the top of the dome is an adventure in itself, consisting of over 400 steps. But the reward is well worth it—once you reach the summit, you’re greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and intricate stained glass windows. Be sure to spend some time admiring the famous frescoes of The Last Judgment by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, which cover the interior of the dome. You can also visit the crypt beneath the cathedral, where you’ll discover ancient ruins and learn about the history of the site.
- Explore the Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is not only Florence’s most famous bridge but also one of the city’s oldest landmarks. Spanning the Arno River, this medieval stone bridge is lined with small shops and boutiques, many of which have sold jewelry and gold since the 13th century. Walking across the Ponte Vecchio is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets and charming shops.
The bridge is especially magical at sunset when the golden light reflects off the water. Don’t miss the Vasari Corridor, a secret elevated walkway that runs above the shops, offering a unique view of the bridge and river below. This corridor was used by the powerful Medici family to travel between their palace and the Uffizi without having to mix with the common folk.
- Stroll Through the Boboli Gardens
Escape the bustling streets of Florence by taking a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens. This sprawling green space, located behind the Pitti Palace, is one of the finest examples of Italian garden design. The gardens are dotted with sculptures, fountains, and grottos, making them a perfect blend of nature and art.
As you wander through the gardens, you’ll encounter stunning views of the Florence skyline, peaceful shaded pathways, and beautifully manicured lawns. Highlights include the Fountain of Neptune and the Grotta del Buontalenti, a surreal cave-like structure adorned with statues and frescoes. The Boboli Gardens are ideal for a relaxing afternoon or a scenic picnic amidst Renaissance beauty.
- Discover Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
Michelangelo’s David is one of the most iconic sculptures in the world, and seeing it in person is a must while in Florence. Housed in the Accademia Gallery, this masterpiece of Renaissance art stands over 5 meters tall and captures the beauty and strength of the human form like no other sculpture.
The Accademia Gallery also features other notable works by Michelangelo, including his unfinished Prisoners, which offer a glimpse into his artistic process. Along with these, the museum also houses a collection of Renaissance paintings, musical instruments, and plaster models. While David is the star attraction, the Accademia provides a broader understanding of Michelangelo’s genius and the artistic achievements of the Renaissance.
- Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce
The Basilica of Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan church in the world and an architectural marvel. It’s also known as the “Temple of Italian Glories” because it serves as the final resting place of some of Italy’s most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
The interior of the basilica is breathtaking, with its high vaulted ceilings, stunning stained glass windows, and beautiful frescoes by renowned artist Giotto. As you walk through, take time to admire the tombs and monuments dedicated to Italy’s cultural giants. The peaceful cloisters attached to the basilica are also worth visiting, offering a quiet retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Take a Walk Around Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s most famous square and has been the political heart of the city since the Middle Ages. It is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall, and is surrounded by historic buildings and impressive statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
The square is also home to the open-air sculpture gallery, Loggia dei Lanzi, where you can see beautiful statues like Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa and Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women. The atmosphere in Piazza della Signoria is vibrant, with street performers, cafes, and people soaking in the city’s rich history. It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and watch the world go by.
- Shop at Mercato Centrale
For a taste of authentic Florentine life, visit Mercato Centrale, the city’s bustling food market. Here, you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, and handmade pasta. It’s a paradise for food lovers and a great place to sample traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Upstairs, the market has a modern food court offering a wide variety of dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and artisanal gelato. The market is also an excellent spot to pick up edible souvenirs or simply enjoy a meal in a lively, vibrant setting. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a casual bite, Mercato Centrale is a must-visit.
- Cross the Arno to Oltrarno Neighborhood
For a more authentic and local experience, take a stroll across the Arno River to the Oltrarno neighborhood. Known for its artisan workshops, this area is home to some of Florence’s best craftspeople, from leatherworkers to jewelers and painters. The vibe here is much more laid-back and less touristy, offering a glimpse into everyday Florentine life.
Oltrarno is also home to some of Florence’s most beautiful and lesser-known sites, including the Palazzo Pitti and the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Don’t miss the chance to explore the area’s charming streets, grab a coffee in a quiet piazza, and perhaps pick up a unique, handcrafted souvenir to take home.
- Visit the Bargello Museum
The Bargello Museum is often overshadowed by Florence’s more famous galleries, but it is a hidden gem for lovers of Renaissance sculpture. Housed in a medieval palace, this museum boasts an impressive collection of sculptures, including masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Verrocchio. One of the most notable pieces is Donatello’s David, the first nude statue of the Renaissance.
The museum’s architecture is also fascinating, with its grand courtyard and impressive halls. Inside, you’ll also find medieval armor, intricate tapestries, and decorative arts from the Renaissance period. For a more intimate experience of Florence’s artistic heritage, the Bargello is a must-visit.
- Take a Cooking Class
Florence is a paradise for food lovers, and one of the best ways to dive into the local cuisine is by taking a cooking class. Many local chefs and culinary schools offer hands-on classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and fresh pasta.
These classes typically take place in a cozy kitchen or a countryside villa, providing an authentic experience. You’ll get to visit local markets to pick fresh ingredients and then create a delicious meal from scratch. At the end of the class, you can enjoy your homemade feast, accompanied by local wines. It’s a fun and rewarding way to bring a piece of Florence’s culinary tradition home with you.
- Take a Day Trip to Fiesole
Just a short bus ride from Florence, the charming hilltop town of Fiesole offers stunning views over Florence and the Tuscan countryside. Fiesole has a rich history dating back to the Etruscan and Roman times, and visitors can explore well-preserved ruins, including a Roman amphitheater, baths, and temples.
In addition to its historical sites, Fiesole is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the busy city. Take a leisurely walk through its quiet streets, visit the town’s lovely cathedral, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the monastery of San Francesco, perched on top of the hill. Fiesole also boasts excellent restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the Tuscan atmosphere.
- Explore the Santo Spirito Basilica
While the Basilica di Santo Spirito is located in the lively Oltrarno neighborhood, it often gets overlooked by tourists. This church is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, designed by the famous architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Its serene and elegant interior features a stunning nave and beautiful side chapels.
One of the highlights is Michelangelo’s Crucifix, a wooden sculpture created by the artist when he was just 18 years old. The church is also home to impressive frescoes, altarpieces, and Renaissance artwork. After your visit, take a stroll around Piazza Santo Spirito, which is surrounded by artisan shops and local cafes, offering a more relaxed and authentic Florentine vibe.
- Attend an Opera Performance at Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
Florence has a rich musical tradition, and attending an opera performance is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture. The Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is the city’s leading opera house and hosts performances year-round, featuring world-class productions of classic operas like Verdi’s La Traviata or Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.
The theater itself is a modern architectural masterpiece, and its performances attract both locals and visitors. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a first-time attendee, experiencing a live performance in Florence’s cultural setting is a memorable way to spend an evening.
- Discover the Stibbert Museum
The Stibbert Museum is a hidden gem in Florence, perfect for those with a love of history, armor, and decorative arts. Located slightly off the beaten path, this museum houses a vast collection of over 36,000 objects, ranging from European, Islamic, and Japanese armor to fine furniture, textiles, and paintings.
The museum’s founder, Frederick Stibbert, amassed this eclectic collection during his lifetime, and walking through the museum feels like stepping into a 19th-century treasure trove. Highlights include the impressive hall of armor, where mannequins are dressed in suits of armor as if ready for battle, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the villa.
- Take a Sunset Walk at Piazzale Michelangelo
For one of the best panoramic views of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. Situated on a hill overlooking the city, this square offers breathtaking vistas of the city’s skyline, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio all in view. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and see the city bathed in golden light.
Many visitors enjoy bringing a picnic or a bottle of wine to enjoy the scenery. If you’re up for a bit more exploration, you can continue to the nearby San Miniato al Monte, a beautiful Romanesque church with equally stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Check Out the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
One of the oldest pharmacies in the world, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella has been producing herbal remedies, perfumes, and skincare products since the 13th century. Located in a beautifully preserved building, visiting this pharmacy is like stepping back in time.
The interior is filled with ancient wooden shelves, frescoes, and glass cabinets displaying exquisite bottles of perfumes and creams. Visitors can browse the products, many of which are still made using traditional methods, and even tour the museum to learn about the pharmacy’s history. It’s a unique spot to pick up a luxurious souvenir or simply marvel at its historical charm.
- Take a Bike Tour of Florence
For a fun and active way to see Florence, consider taking a bike tour. There are several guided bike tours available that take you through the city’s narrow streets, past historic landmarks, and along the picturesque Arno River. A bike tour offers a different perspective of Florence and allows you to cover more ground than walking.
Many tours also venture outside the city, giving you the chance to cycle through the Tuscan countryside, past olive groves, vineyards, and charming villages. Some tours even include wine tastings or stops at local farms where you can sample fresh produce.
- Visit the Church of San Lorenzo and Medici Chapels
The Church of San Lorenzo is one of Florence’s oldest churches, and it was the parish church of the powerful Medici family. While the exterior may look modest, the interior is a Renaissance masterpiece. Designed by Brunelleschi, the church features a stunning dome and intricate marble decorations.
Attached to the church are the Medici Chapels, where members of the Medici family are buried in grandiose tombs. The Chapel of the Princes is particularly impressive, with its massive dome and walls inlaid with semi-precious stones. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, contains his sculptures of Dawn, Dusk, Day, and Night, which are considered some of his finest works.
- Visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum
The Leonardo da Vinci Museum offers visitors an interactive experience focused on one of history’s greatest minds. This small yet fascinating museum is dedicated to Leonardo’s inventions, showcasing detailed models based on his designs. Visitors can explore replicas of Leonardo’s machines, such as flying devices, military equipment, and hydraulic machines, many of which are interactive, allowing you to touch and operate them.
The museum provides a deeper understanding of Leonardo’s genius beyond his famous artworks. Informative panels explain the science and engineering behind his sketches, making it an excellent stop for both adults and children. It’s an inspiring way to connect with Leonardo’s legacy of creativity and innovation.
- Explore the Florence Street Art Scene
Florence is known for its Renaissance art, but in recent years, the city has also become a hub for contemporary street art. The Oltrarno and San Niccolò neighborhoods, in particular, feature vibrant murals and graffiti by local and international artists. Keep an eye out for Clet Abraham’s street signs, where he humorously transforms everyday traffic signs into playful works of art.
Street art walking tours are also available for those who want to explore Florence’s urban art scene in more depth. These tours highlight how modern artists are leaving their creative mark on the city’s ancient walls, offering a fresh and dynamic perspective of Florence.
- Visit the Villa Bardini Gardens
While Boboli Gardens might steal the spotlight, the Villa Bardini Gardens offer a more intimate and lesser-known green space in Florence. Perched on a hill just above the Arno River, these gardens provide stunning panoramic views of Florence and are a peaceful escape from the city crowds.
The terraced gardens are home to beautiful sculptures, fountains, and an enchanting wisteria pergola that blooms in spring. The villa itself often hosts art exhibitions, adding a cultural element to your visit. Whether you’re wandering the quiet paths or enjoying a picnic with a view, the Villa Bardini Gardens provide a serene retreat with breathtaking scenery.
- Learn Traditional Florentine Crafts at an Artisan Workshop
Florence has a rich history of craftsmanship, and visitors can still witness traditional artisans at work today. The city is home to many family-run workshops where skilled artisans continue to create leather goods, paper, ceramics, and gold jewelry using age-old techniques.
Many workshops offer visitors the chance to participate in hands-on experiences, from bookbinding to leather crafting. In the Oltrarno district, you can visit these workshops and learn about Florence’s artisanal heritage. Taking home a handmade item from one of these workshops makes for a truly unique and meaningful souvenir.
- Walk Along the Medieval City Walls
Few tourists know that sections of Florence’s medieval city walls still remain, and exploring these ancient fortifications offers a unique way to experience the city. You can walk along the walls at various points, particularly around the Oltrarno area. One of the best-preserved sections is near Porta Romana, one of the old city gates.
The walls were originally built to defend the city, and today they provide an interesting contrast to Florence’s Renaissance architecture. Some parts of the walls even offer elevated views of the city and the surrounding hills, making it a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Explore the Secret Passages of Palazzo Vecchio
While Palazzo Vecchio is one of Florence’s most famous buildings, many visitors don’t realize that it hides a network of secret passages. A special guided tour, known as the “Secret Passages” tour, allows you to explore areas of the palace that are normally closed to the public.
These hidden passages were once used by the powerful Medici family to move discreetly through the palace. You’ll get to see hidden staircases, tiny rooms, and even secret doorways built into the walls. The tour provides a unique glimpse into the intrigue and power dynamics of Renaissance Florence.
- Take a River Cruise on the Arno
For a different perspective of Florence, hop aboard a traditional renaioli boat for a river cruise along the Arno. These small wooden boats have been used for centuries to transport sand and materials along the river, and today they offer tourists a peaceful way to see the city from the water.
The boat trip takes you under the Ponte Vecchio and past some of Florence’s most famous landmarks, all while offering a relaxing experience away from the bustling streets. Some cruises even offer wine and snacks, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Visit the Museo Galileo
The Museo Galileo is dedicated to the scientific achievements of Galileo Galilei and the broader history of science during the Renaissance. This museum houses an extensive collection of scientific instruments, including telescopes, globes, and thermometers that were used by Galileo and his contemporaries.
The exhibits provide insight into how scientific knowledge developed during the Renaissance and how it changed the way people understood the world. The museum is highly interactive, making it engaging for visitors of all ages. It’s a fantastic way to explore Florence’s contribution to science alongside its renowned artistic heritage.
- Taste Wine in the Tuscan Countryside
Florence is surrounded by some of Italy’s most famous wine regions, including Chianti, known for its rolling hills and world-class vineyards. A day trip to the Tuscan countryside to taste wine is an unforgettable experience. Many local wineries offer guided tours where you can learn about the wine-making process, explore the vineyards, and sample a variety of Tuscan wines.
Some tours even include traditional Tuscan meals paired with local wines. You’ll get the chance to taste Chianti Classico and other regional varieties like Brunello di Montalcino or Vernaccia di San Gimignano while soaking in the scenic countryside.
- Visit the Museo degli Innocenti
The Museo degli Innocenti is a lesser-known yet fascinating museum located in the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. This museum tells the story of the Ospedale degli Innocenti, one of the first orphanages in Europe, which was founded in the 15th century. The building itself, designed by Brunelleschi, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
The museum’s exhibitions provide insight into the history of the orphanage, including heartwarming stories of the children who were taken in and raised here. The museum also features beautiful works of art, including pieces by Ghirlandaio and other Renaissance artists, as well as a touching collection of tokens left by mothers with their children.
- Take a Gelato Tasting Tour
Florence is famous for its gelato, and what better way to indulge than by taking a gelato tasting tour? Many guided tours take you to some of the best gelaterias in the city, where you can sample a variety of flavors made with fresh, local ingredients. You’ll learn about the history of gelato and the differences between artisanal gelato and mass-produced varieties.
During the tour, you can try classic flavors like pistachio, chocolate, and stracciatella, as well as more unusual options like lavender or honey. It’s a fun and delicious way to explore Florence’s food culture, perfect for families or anyone with a sweet tooth.
Conclusion
Florence is a city that captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and unparalleled cultural heritage. Whether you’re admiring Renaissance masterpieces, tasting traditional Tuscan flavors, or exploring the city’s lesser-known treasures, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Florence, Italy. By stepping off the beaten path and embracing the city’s rich history, art, and local experiences, you’ll gain a deeper connection to this magical place. No matter how you choose to spend your time, Florence will leave a lasting impression, and you’ll find yourself dreaming of returning to its enchanting streets.
