25+ Amazing Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Florence is not just a destination. It’s an experience. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this Renaissance gem offers a perfect blend of world-class art, mouthwatering cuisine, rich history, and soul-stirring scenery. Whether it’s your first time in Italy or you’re a returning traveler, Florence (or Firenze, as the locals call it) has a way of stealing your heart.

I still remember the first time I walked across the Arno River at sunset, gelato in hand, watching the golden light spill across centuries-old buildings. There’s a palpable magic in Florence and in this guide, I’m going to walk you through 25+ unforgettable things to do, whether you’re an art lover, foodie, history buff, or just looking to soak in the Tuscan charm.

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Must-See Attractions in Florence

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)

The beating heart of Florence is its Duomo, officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Brunelleschi’s dome is a marvel of engineering, and climbing to the top (463 steps!) rewards you with sweeping views of the city. Inside, marvel at Giorgio Vasari’s Last Judgment frescoes.

Book a Florence Duomo guided tour with dome access to skip the lines and get historical insight from a local expert.

Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio

This iconic square is like stepping into a Renaissance painting. Street musicians, sculptures (including a replica of David), and the Palazzo Vecchio make it a must-visit. The Palazzo itself is a museum. Go inside to explore secret passages and Medici chambers.

Uffizi Gallery

Art lovers, brace yourselves. The Uffizi is home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Da Vinci. The Birth of Venus alone is worth the visit. Plan for at least 2-3 hours.

Reserve skip-the-line tickets to the Uffizi or better yet, take a small-group tour to get more context and avoid the crowd confusion.

Galleria dell’Accademia (David by Michelangelo)

You haven’t truly been to Florence until you’ve stood face-to-face with Michelangelo’s David. It’s larger than life, emotionally stirring, and meticulously sculpted.

Get priority access to the Accademia Gallery and avoid the long lines with a reserved entry or guided tour. The Accademia also houses other stunning sculptures and religious art.

Ponte Vecchio

The only bridge in Florence to survive WWII bombings, Ponte Vecchio is a charming sight with its hanging shops of gold and jewelry. Come in the morning for quiet, or visit at sunset for romance.

Boboli Gardens & Pitti Palace

Across the Arno River lies Boboli Gardens, Florence’s answer to Versailles. Stroll through manicured greenery, sculptures, and fountains.

Explore Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace with a combo ticket or guided tour to dive deeper into Medici grandeur.

Next door, the Pitti Palace reveals the grandeur of Medici life with royal apartments and art galleries.

Basilica of Santa Croce

This often-overlooked Gothic masterpiece is the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The Basilica of Santa Croce is also an art-filled gem with Giotto frescoes and a tranquil cloister.

For a deeper experience, check out this Santa Croce guided tour.

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Best Viewpoints in Florence

Piazzale Michelangelo

Hands-down the best panoramic view of Florence. Hike up or take a bus, and enjoy a breathtaking vista especially during sunset. Bonus: there’s a bronze replica of David up here too.

Join a sunset tour that ends at Piazzale Michelangelo for the perfect photo op.

Giotto’s Bell Tower

Want an incredible view without climbing the Duomo? Try Giotto’s Campanile. The 414 steps are steep, but the views are unmatched, and you’ll get fantastic close-ups of the Duomo itself.

Rooftop Bars

Sip an Aperol Spritz or Negroni with a view at La Terrazza at Hotel Continentale or SE·STO on Arno. Book a stylish Florence hotel with a rooftop terrace for sunset drinks just steps from your room.

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Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Oltrarno District

Florence’s Oltrarno (literally “other side of the Arno”) is a bohemian escape. Wander artisan workshops, vintage boutiques, and quiet piazzas. The vibe here is local, laid-back, and deliciously authentic.

Rose Garden (Giardino delle Rose)

Just below Piazzale Michelangelo, the Rose Garden is a peaceful retreat with sculptures by Jean-Michel Folon and fragrant blooms in spring and early summer.

Museo Stibbert

A quirky and underrated museum filled with armor, costumes, and curiosities from around the world. Museo Stibbert feels like a time capsule and is perfect for history buffs and families.

Artisan Workshops

Florence is still home to generations of leatherworkers, bookbinders, and jewelers. Book an artisan walking tour or pop into shops like Scuola del Cuoio (leather school) or Giuliano Ricchi for a look at handmade tradition.

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Florence for Art & History Lovers

Artisanal Tours & Medici Walks

Discover Florence through the eyes of the powerful Medici family. Walking tours often include the Medici Chapels, Palazzo Medici Riccardi, and hidden family secrets that shaped Europe’s Renaissance.

San Miniato al Monte

One of the most peaceful places in Florence, this lesser-known church is older than the Duomo and offers spectacular views. Try to visit around 5:30 p.m. to hear Gregorian chants by the monks.

Florence’s Role in the Renaissance

Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance. Every street corner breathes creativity and innovation. Consider visiting Museo Galileo or Bargello Museum for deeper historical context.

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Best Food Experiences in Florence

Must-Try Foods

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina – A thick, T-bone steak grilled rare and meant to share.
• Lampredotto – A humble but flavorful tripe sandwich, a Florentine street food staple.
• Ribollita – A hearty bread and vegetable soup perfect in colder months.

Best Trattorias & Osterias

• Trattoria Mario – Loud, local, legendary. No reservations, but worth the wait.
• Osteria Santo Spirito – Ideal for couples, with creamy gnocchi that dreams are made of.
• Da Nerbone (in Mercato Centrale) – Classic, no-frills, delicious.

Local Markets

• Mercato Centrale – Upstairs is foodie heaven: wine bars, artisan pizza, and fresh pasta.
• Sant’Ambrogio – Less touristy, more local. Grab produce, cheeses, and real Florentine vibes.

Food Tours & Cooking Classes

From truffle hunting in Tuscany to making homemade pasta with a nonna, Florence offers dozens of food experiences. Try a gelato-making class or a wine-and-cheese tasting tour in Chianti.

Book a Florence food tour or Tuscan cooking class for an unforgettable taste of local tradition.

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Day Trips from Florence

Chianti Wine Region

Rolling hills, medieval towns, and Chianti Classico wines. Rent a car or Join a full-day Chianti wine tasting tour with transport, tastings, and vineyard visits included.

San Gimignano

The “Medieval Manhattan” with its towering skyline and delicious Vernaccia white wine.

Take a day trip to San Gimignano and Siena. Perfect for medieval charm and wine lovers alike.

Pisa

Yes, you should see the Leaning Tower. But don’t miss the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli, the cathedral, and baptistery.

Lucca

A charming walled city perfect for biking and café-hopping. Relaxed, picturesque, and full of surprises.

Siena

Famous for the Palio horse race, Siena is rich in Gothic architecture and warm, Tuscan hospitality.

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Florence for Families, Couples & Solo Travelers

Couples

• Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
• Rooftop cocktails
• Candlelit dinner in a hidden osteria

Families

• Museo Leonardo da Vinci (interactive!)
• Gelato stops galore
• Boboli Gardens for running and exploring

Solo Travelers

• Take a walking tour to meet people
• Enjoy quiet reflection in churches or cafés
• Stay in safe neighborhoods like Santa Croce or Santo Spirito

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Florence Travel Tips

When to Visit

• Best months: April–June, September–October
• Avoid: Peak crowds in July–August (also HOT!)

Skip the Lines

• Get the Firenze Card or book skip-the-line tickets in advance
• Combo passes save money and time

Getting Around

Florence is walkable. Taxis are available but expensive. Avoid renting a car inside the city. It’s a ZTL (limited traffic zone).

Where to Stay

• Centro Storico: Central, walkable, tourist-friendly
• Oltrarno: Artsy, local, quiet at night
• Santa Croce: Great mix of local and lively

Check out Florence hotels by neighborhood on Expedia for charming stays that match your vibe and budget.

Common Tourist Mistakes

• Not booking major attractions in advance
• Expecting American-style service (embrace the slower pace!)
• Dining in tourist traps. Look for menus without photos

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Sample Itineraries

1-Day in Florence

• Morning: Duomo + Bell Tower
• Lunch: Trattoria Mario
• Afternoon: Uffizi Gallery
• Evening: Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, dinner in Oltrarno

3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Historic Center + Accademia
• Day 2: Uffizi + Palazzo Vecchio + Boboli Gardens
• Day 3: Day trip to Pisa or Chianti wine region

Find and book curated 3-day tour packages in Florence that include guided activities and transportation.

5-Day Itinerary with Day Trips

• Days 1–3: Explore Florence in depth
• Day 4: Chianti wine tour or San Gimignano
• Day 5: Lucca or Siena, return for a romantic dinner in Florence

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Final Thoughts

Florence isn’t just a city. It’s a feeling. The kind that lingers long after your trip ends. Whether you come for the art, the food, or the sheer joy of wandering its sun-drenched alleys, Florence will captivate you.

So go beyond the big sights. Chat with a leather artisan, sip Chianti in a hidden courtyard, or simply watch the Arno flow from the Ponte Santa Trinita. Florence rewards curiosity.

Have you been to Florence? What did you love the most? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments!

Looking for more Italy inspiration? Check out our:

• Rome Travel Guide
• Best of Tuscany
• Top Things to Do in Venice