Florence delivers on every level—world-class art, breathtaking architecture, incredible food, and easy access to the rolling hills of Tuscany just beyond the city limits. Whether you have one day or a week, the city rewards every minute you give it.
Chris and I spent a rainy day in Florence during our first visit together and it didn’t dampen our spirits or our enthusiasm one bit. In this guide you’ll find the best things to do in Florence, practical tips for making the most of your time, and day trip inspiration that stretches well beyond the city, including the classic Cinque Terre day trip from Florence.
30 Things to Do In Florence, Italy
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I would travel back to Florence again and again. I know that there is always something new to discover in Italy: delicious food, a multitude of day trips to dreamy small towns near Florence, beautiful architecture, intriguing history, cooking classes, walking tours, and an endless number of places to explore in the Tuscany countryside. Plus, there are some of the best Instagram spots in Florence for you shutterbugs. Before you dive into Florence, check out my tips for planning a trip to Italy to make sure you are set up for success.
If Florence is part of a larger European adventure, my Europe trip planning guide will help you map out the bigger picture before you get to the good stuff below.
Must-See Landmarks & Museums
Florence is ground zero for Renaissance art and architecture—and the landmarks here aren’t just famous, they’re genuinely jaw-dropping in person. These are the must-see stops that belong on every Florence itinerary, whether you have one day or a week.
1. Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo sits at the heart of Florence and is almost always packed with visitors—for good reason. The square is home to five of the city’s most iconic landmarks, all within steps of each other:
- Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo)
- Brunelleschi’s Dome
- Giotto’s Bell Tower
- Baptistery of St. John
- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
2. The Duomo: Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
Formally known as Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Duomo is the landmark that defines the Florence skyline—and it’s even more impressive up close. Download the free Rick Steves Audio Europe app and queue up the Florence Duomo tour before you arrive; you’ll get ten times more out of the experience than simply wandering around the square.
A few things worth knowing before you go:
- Entrance to the cathedral is free.
- The exterior is covered in pink, white, and green marble.
- The dome took 16 years to complete—the full cathedral over 140 years.
- Brunelleschi had zero architectural training before building the dome.
- The Gates of Paradise on the Baptistry depict Bible scenes in famous bronze relief.
- At completion, it was the largest dome in the world—inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.
- Santa Maria del Fiore is the third largest cathedral in the world.
3. Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome
Brunelleschi’s Dome dominates the Florence skyline and stands today as the largest masonry vault in the world—built without wooden reinforcements, which was unheard of at the time. Climbing the 463 steps to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the city from the balcony and a close-up look at the stunning frescoes inside the dome.
Note that there is no elevator, and your time slot cannot be changed once booked. Purchase an OPA Combination ticket and reserve your entrance time in advance.
4. Palazzo Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria
The Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall, anchors the Piazza della Signoria with its imposing medieval tower. Just outside the entrance you’ll find a replica of Michelangelo’s David, and the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi is an open-air sculpture gallery that’s completely free to browse.
The Piazza della Signoria itself has been the center of Florentine political life for centuries—this is where the Bonfire of the Vanities took place, and a marble circle in the pavement marks the exact spot where Savonarola was burned at the stake in 1498.
5. Uffizi Museum
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the greatest art museums in the world and an absolute must on any Florence itinerary. Chris booked tickets for a mid-afternoon entrance—smart move, since it got us out of the heat and into air conditioning during the hottest part of the day.
I recommend the audio tour; it adds so much context to what you’re seeing. Pro tip: book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
6. Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia
The Galleria dell’Accademia is home to Michelangelo’s original David—and no matter how many times you’ve seen photos, nothing prepares you for the real thing. The statue stands 17 feet tall and the detail is breathtaking from every angle.
Book tickets in advance; the line without them can be brutal, especially in peak season.
7. Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is one of the most photographed bridges in the world—and once you see it spanning the Arno River, you’ll understand why. Wander across and explore the jewelry shops that have lined the bridge since the 13th century, a tradition dating back to the Medici family who used it as a private corridor between their palaces.
For the best photos, head to the riverbank early morning before the crowds arrive.
Views, Vistas & Hidden Gems
Florence rewards those who look up, look around, and occasionally climb a lot of stairs. These viewpoints and hidden gems deliver the kind of panoramic payoff that makes every step worth it.
8. Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo is the best viewpoint in Florence—full stop. The climb is steep (lots of stairs if you’re on foot), but the panoramic view of the city, the Arno River, and the Duomo rising above the rooftops makes every step worth it.
Go at sunset. It will be crowded with tourists, artists sketching the skyline, and locals enjoying the evening air—and it will still be one of the best moments of your trip.
9. Fort Belvedere
Fort Belvedere sits at the highest point on the Boboli hill, offering stunning views over Florence and the surrounding countryside. The outdoor spaces and gardens are free to explore; tickets are required only for exhibitions inside the fort.
10. San Miniato al Monte
San Miniato al Monte is one of Florence’s best kept secrets—a stunning Romanesque church perched on a hilltop just above Piazzale Michelangelo with panoramic views that rival any in the city. Most tourists stop at the piazza below and never make it up here, which means you’ll have a far more peaceful experience.
The church dates back to the 11th century and the interior is breathtaking—intricate marble floors, gilded ceilings, and an atmosphere that feels untouched by time. Entrance is free.
11. Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens sprawl behind the Palazzo Pitti and are one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance garden design in existence. Shaded pathways, fountains, sculptures, and sweeping views of the Florence countryside make this a welcome escape from the busy city streets.
Tickets are required for entry—and worth it, especially on a hot afternoon.
Shopping & Markets
Florence is a serious shopping destination—Italian leather, local food products, artisan goods, and open-air markets that have been running for centuries. Chris and I had a blast exploring the leather shops and came home with wallets, belts, and purses. Trust me, you cannot go to Florence without planning to buy something leather.
12. Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is Florence’s premier food market—a two-story covered market in the San Lorenzo neighborhood with a ground floor packed with fresh local produce, meat, and cheese, and an upstairs food hall perfect for lunch or a mid-morning snack.
13. San Lorenzo Outdoor Market
The San Lorenzo Outdoor Market surrounds Mercato Centrale and is the place to go for Italian leather goods. Wallets, belts, bags, jackets—it’s all here, and haggling is part of the experience. Chris bought two leather belts that were measured to his waist and finished on the spot. You won’t find that kind of craftsmanship at the mall.
14. Mercato Nuovo
Mercato Nuovo is best known for Il Porcellino—a bronze statue of a wild boar whose snout has been rubbed shiny by centuries of visitors making wishes. Give the snout a rub for good luck, then browse the covered market stalls for souvenirs, leather goods, and local crafts.
15. Mercato Sant’Ambrosio
Mercato Sant’Ambrogio is the locals’ market—less touristy than San Lorenzo and all the better for it. The covered indoor section sells fresh produce, meat, and cheese, while the outdoor stalls spill over into the surrounding streets. This is the perfect spot to pick up picnic supplies or simply watch Florentine daily life in action.
Food, Gelato & the Florence Table
Florence doesn’t just feed you—it ruins you for food everywhere else. From hand-rolled pasta and wood-fired pizza to gelato so good it should be illegal, eating your way through this city is a legitimate itinerary strategy.
16. Enjoy Italian Food
No trip to Florence is complete without sitting down to a proper Tuscan meal. Look for a small trattoria off the main tourist drag—that’s where the best food hides. A few favorites worth seeking out:
Il Bastioni di San Niccolo — A charming patio trattoria tucked next to the walls of Fort Belvedere. Perfect for a relaxed evening meal with pizza, sandwiches, and salads. Via Bastioni, 9R, 50125 Firenze
Pensavo Peggio — Rustic, homestyle Tuscan cooking with a staff that makes you feel like a regular. Reservations recommended. Via del Moro, 51r, 50123 Firenze
Trattoria Marione — Classic Florentine and Tuscan dishes in a cozy, old-school setting. Via della Spada, 27/Rosso, 50123 Firenze
>> Related Post: 7 Easy Steps: How to Make Gnocchi Like an Italian Nonna!
17. Eat Gelato
Gelato in Florence is in a completely different league from anything you’ll find at home. Look for shops where the gelato is stored in covered metal containers rather than piled high in colorful mounds—that’s your sign it’s made fresh with real ingredients. Order two scoops at least once a day. You’re on vacation.
18. Best Pizza in Florence
Florence takes its pizza seriously, and you’ll find incredible options tucked into narrow streets all over the city. Skip the tourist-facing restaurants on the main piazzas and follow the locals—if there’s a line of Italians waiting, you’re in the right place.
- Gustarium Firenze
- New Bridge Pizza
- Pizzeria Insieme
- Mister Pizza – Via Pietrapiana Firenze
- Ristorante Pizzeria – L ‘Angolo Del Gusto
- Pizzeria Livio
- Pizzium – Firenze
- 3dddì Pizzeria
- Pizzeria I Camaldoli
Only in Florence Experiences
Florence has no shortage of iconic sights, but some of the best experiences here are the ones you didn’t plan for—a carousel in the middle of a piazza, a treasure hunt through medieval streets, a lazy cruise down the Arno. These are the moments that make Florence feel like more than just a museum city.
19. Cruise the Arno River
Enjoy a different perspective of Florence aboard a traditional Florentine gondola or “barchetto” as you cruise under the Ponte Vecchio. Learn the colorful ups and downs of Florence’s history with local anecdotes, uncovered secrets, and lore.
20. Ride the Carousel
The carousel in Piazza della Repubblica is one of those delightfully unexpected Florence moments—a beautifully ornate vintage merry-go-round sitting in the middle of one of the city’s grandest squares. Ride it. You’re never too old and it makes for a great photo.
21. Treasure Hunt
A Florence treasure hunt is a surprisingly fun way to explore the city—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want a more interactive experience than the standard walking tour. Teams follow clues through historic streets, piazzas, and landmarks, learning the city’s history along the way without it feeling like a history lesson.
- Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour
- Uffizi Tour for Kids
- Florence Self-Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
- Discover your own tours of Florence with Viator Tours
22. Leonardo da Vinci Museum
The Leonardo da Vinci Museum brings the genius of Florence’s most famous Renaissance man to life through interactive exhibits and working models of his most ingenious inventions. It’s hands-on, fascinating, and a great option for a rainy afternoon, a day in Florence with kids, or a welcome break from art overload.
23. Hop On Hop Off Bus
The hop on hop off bus is a great way to get your bearings in Florence, especially on your first day. Sit on the open top deck, take in the landmarks at a relaxed pace, and jump off wherever something catches your eye. A solid option if you’re short on time and want to cover a lot of ground without wearing out your feet.
24. Walking Tour
A walking tour is one of the best investments you can make in Florence—a good guide unlocks layers of history, art, and local knowledge that you’d never find on your own. Look for small group tours for a more personal experience, and book in advance during peak season.
Tours in Florence & the Tuscany Countryside
Florence has no shortage of ways to go deeper—whether that means following Dan Brown through Renaissance corridors, rolling pasta dough with a local chef, or sipping Chianti in the Tuscany countryside as the sun sets over the vineyards. These tours are worth every euro.
25. Dan Brown’s “Inferno” Walk
If you’ve read Dan Brown’s The DaVinci Code, walking in Robert Langdon’s footsteps through Florence is a thrill. The tour winds through the Palazzo Vecchio, the Baptistery, and other iconic landmarks featured in the novel, bringing the story to life in a way that makes you feel like you’re solving the mystery yourself. Even if you haven’t read the book or seen the movie, it’s a fascinating way to experience Florence’s history.
26. Foodie Tour
A foodie tour is one of the best ways to eat your way through Florence without having to make a single decision. Let a local guide lead you through the markets, trattorias, and hole-in-the-wall spots that most tourists walk right past—expect tastings of cured meats, cheeses, fresh pasta, local wines, and of course, gelato.
27. Cooking Class
A cooking class in Florence is the souvenir that keeps on giving. Learn to make fresh pasta, gnocchi, or classic Tuscan dishes from a local chef—then eat everything you made. Most classes include a market visit to source fresh ingredients and pair the meal with local wine. Absolutely worth carving out a half day for.
28. Wine Tour in the Tuscany Countryside
A wine tour through the Tuscany countryside is the definition of a perfect afternoon. Wind through the Chianti region, stop at family-owned vineyards, and taste some of the best wines in Italy with the rolling hills as your backdrop. Most tours depart directly from Florence and include transportation, tastings, and often a meal.
29. Perfume Masterclass
Florence has a centuries-old perfume tradition, and a perfume masterclass lets you tap into it by creating your own custom scent from scratch. A master perfumer walks you through the process of blending notes and building a fragrance that’s entirely your own. A unique and memorable experience—and a one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring home.
30. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Floating over the Tuscany countryside in a hot air balloon at sunrise is as magical as it sounds—and is definitely on my bucket list. The patchwork of vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and medieval hilltop towns stretching out below is something you won’t forget. Tours typically depart from the Chianti or Val d’Orcia region and include a post-flight Prosecco toast. Book well in advance—these fill up fast.
Day Trips from Florence
Florence makes an ideal base for exploring Central Italy—and some of the best experiences in the region are just an hour or two away. From medieval hilltop towns to ancient ruins to the rugged coastline of Cinque Terre, these day trips and weekend escapes are worth building into your itinerary.
You may wish to drive, take the bus, or hop on the train—check the Florence Train Schedule.
Drive the Tuscany Countryside
Renting a car and driving through the Tuscany countryside is one of those experiences that belongs on every Italy itinerary. Wind through the Chianti wine region, stop at roadside vineyards, and discover hilltop villages at your own pace. No tour bus schedule, no rushing—just you, the open road, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Day Trip to Siena
Siena is one of the most beautifully preserved medieval cities in Italy and an easy day trip from Florence at just over an hour by bus or train. The fan-shaped Piazza del Campo is one of the most stunning public squares in Europe, and the black-and-white striped Siena Cathedral is worth the trip on its own. Plan to spend a full day—there’s more here than a quick stop can cover.
If I were to return to Italy, I would definitely plan to spend a night or two in Siena, but if you only have time for a day trip, I highly recommend it.
Day Trip to Pompeii
A day trip to Pompeii is a long one—about three hours each way from Florence—but for history lovers it’s absolutely worth it. Walking through the excavated streets of a city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD is an experience unlike anything else in Italy. Book a guided tour to get the most out of your visit and consider combining it with a stop in Naples.
PS If you go on the first Sunday of the month, the museum entrance is FREE.
Day Trip to Orvieto
Orvieto is one of Central Italy’s most underrated stops—a dramatic hilltop town in Umbria perched on a plateau of volcanic rock about two hours from Florence by train. The cathedral facade alone is worth the trip, covered in intricate mosaics and Gothic carvings that took centuries to complete. Wander the medieval streets, take an underground tour, and take the funicular up from the train station.
Day Trip to Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a Renaissance hilltop town in the heart of Tuscany wine country, about 90 minutes from Florence, and the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your return ticket. It’s best known for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano—one of Italy’s finest red wines—and the views from the town walls over the Val d’Orcia are extraordinary.
Day Trip to San Gimignano
San Gimignano is known as the Town of Fine Towers—a perfectly preserved medieval hilltop town about 90 minutes from Florence whose distinctive skyline of 14 surviving towers makes it instantly recognizable. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and compact enough to explore on foot in a few hours.
Weekend Breaks in Italy to Bologna
Bologna is just 35 minutes from Florence by high-speed train, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding weekend escapes in Italy. Known as La Grassa—”the fat one”—for its legendary food culture, this is the city that gave the world ragù, mortadella, and fresh egg pasta. Beyond the food, the medieval arcades, porticos, leaning towers, and lively university atmosphere make it a destination worth an overnight stay.
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence
A Cinque Terre day trip from Florence is doable—but honestly, I don’t recommend it. The journey takes about two hours each way, which leaves you rushed and exhausted by the time you actually arrive. The five colorful coastal villages of Cinque Terre deserve more than a few frantic hours. If you can swing it, spend at least one night—ideally two—so you have time to hike between the villages, swim, and actually soak it all in. If a day trip is your only option, go—but manage your expectations and pick just one or two villages rather than trying to see all five.
One Day In Florence Itinerary
If you only have one day in Florence, don’t panic—you can cover a lot of ground with a smart plan. The key is staying focused, booking tickets in advance, and accepting that you won’t see everything. That’s just Florence’s way of making sure you come back.
Morning
- Start at the Piazza del Duomo—arrive early to beat the crowds
- Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for the view (pre-booked ticket required)
- Walk to Piazza della Signoria and browse the Loggia dei Lanzi
Midday
- Grab lunch at Mercato Centrale
- Head to the Uffizi Gallery for a mid-afternoon entrance—book in advance
- Stop at the Piazza della Repubblica carousel on your way through
Afternoon
- Cross Ponte Vecchio and wander the Oltrarno neighborhood
- Visit the Boboli Gardens or climb to San Miniato al Monte
Evening
- Watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo
- Dinner at a trattoria in the Oltrarno—away from the tourist crowds
- Gelato. Obviously.
Whew! That’s a full day. No doubt it will convince you that you need to return and spend more time discovering more things to do in Florence.
Tips for Taking Photos in Florence
- Camera gear matters less than you think. A modern smartphone will capture stunning images. Bring what you’re comfortable with and focus on the moment.
- Arrive early. Tourist destinations are dramatically less crowded at first light—and the soft morning light is better for photos anyway.
- Be patient. At busy sites, a few minutes of waiting can clear your shot entirely. Or embrace the crowds and make them part of the story.
- Look up—and down. Ceilings, floors, and doorways are as photogenic as the landmarks themselves.
- Wander the side streets. Some of the best shots in Florence have nothing to do with the famous sites—iron balconies, colorful doors, a Vespa parked against a crumbling wall.
- Golden hour is magic. The warm light on Florence’s honey-colored buildings in the late afternoon is unlike anywhere else.
Tips for Planning Things to Do In Florence
Florence is an incredibly walkable city, but a little planning goes a long way. A few things worth knowing before you go:
Getting Around
- Florence’s historic center is best explored on foot—most major landmarks are within walking distance of each other
- Buy transit tickets before boarding buses; inspectors do check and fines are steep
- Taxis are metered; rideshare apps like FREE NOW work well in the city
Booking & Timing
- Book the Duomo, Uffizi, and Accademia tickets in advance—lines without reservations can be brutal
- Arrive at popular viewpoints like Piazzale Michelangelo early evening for sunset
- Check the local holiday calendar before you go; some attractions close without warning
Traveling as a Couple
- Florence is one of the most romantic cities in Italy—evening walks along the Arno, aperitivo at Fort Belvedere, sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
- A cooking class or wine tour makes for an unforgettable date night
Traveling with Kids
- The Leonardo da Vinci Museum and treasure hunt are great for families
- The carousel at Piazza della Repubblica is a hit with younger kids
- Gelato solves most problems
Italy Quick Facts
- Official Language: Italian
- Capital City: Rome
- Population: 58.9 million
- Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)
- Power Outlet: Type L (3 round prongs) is standard and Type C (2 round pins)
- Emergency Number: 112
- Drive on the: Right side of the Road
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Florence worth seeing?
Absolutely. Florence is one of the greatest cities in the world—Renaissance art, stunning architecture, incredible food, and easy access to the Tuscany countryside. It belongs on every Italy itinerary.
How many days do you need in Florence?
At least three days gives you enough time to hit the major landmarks, wander without rushing, and squeeze in a day trip or two into the Tuscany countryside. One day in Florence is doable but you’ll leave wanting more.
What is the number one attraction in Florence?
The Duomo. Nothing else comes close for sheer visual impact—and that’s before you climb to the top.
Do you need to book Florence attractions in advance?
Yes. Especially for the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia. Lines without reservations can eat up hours of your day. Book before you leave home.
What is Florence best known for?
Renaissance art and architecture, world-class museums, incredible Tuscan food, and the Ponte Vecchio. It’s also one of the best bases in Italy for day trips into the surrounding countryside.
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Discover the Charm of Florence for Yourself
While purchasing gelato one evening (which you should really do at least once a day in Italy!), Chris chatted with the young girl dishing up our treats. She spoke in her broken English and Chris in his broken Italian. She asked where we were from. Chris then mentioned how beautiful Florence was. The girl kind of shrugged her shoulders. Meh.
Meh? I marveled. Florence is magical! I guess it all depends on your perspective. Reminds me of point #10 in Benefits of Traveling: 21 Essential Skills and Life Lessons with Eduardo in Venice who wondered how we had ever heard of his city.
If you have never been to Florence before, your perspective will be one of awe and amazement. It happens to be one of my favorite European cities—and with 30 things to do plus epic day trips into the Tuscany countryside, there is always a reason to come back. Grab my free Italy Travel Planning Bundle before you go and start making it happen.
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I absolutely loved Florence! it’s such a magical city full of charm and good wine ? great article
Thanks. So many people love the beauty of Florence.
We had one crazy busy day in Florence. We loved what we saw but have always planned to return. And to use it as a base for some of those great day trips. I love the Marriott option you suggested and will check that out for sure. But I won’t be ordering oatmeal! Can’t wait to get Italy back on our planning board.
Right. Just to travel anywhere.
That’s so great to know about the Marriott in Florence! I’ll definitely save my points!
It was a beautiful place to stay!
I love Florence!! Such a lovely city. You should add seeing the David on your list though, you can’t go to Florence without doing that!
Maybe the next time I go back!
This brings back such wonderful memories as I love Florence! One of my favorite cities in Italy. From the Duomo, the museums, plazas and food you can’t help but have a fabulous time! Great tips too!
Agreed. And once you have explored Florence, there is so much to see outside the city as well.
Great post on Florence! It is one of the few larger cities in Italy I haven’t been to yet. I appreciate the helpful trip details, and the restaurant list!
It is always a great city to visit.
Sounds like you had a wonderful time in Florence! So much to do and see. Italy is on my radar for next year– not sure Nick knows that yet. Hehe.
Perhaps you could surprise Nick with a trip.
This took me back to so many great memories of Florence! But, you’ve reminded me that I should consider a return trip. The markets look lovely and definitely something I missed when I was there!
I love to visit markets all over the world.
I have been about 40 times to Italy but never to Florence! But yes, a public holiday in Italy can be a disaster!
It is about time to visit Florence then!
I do love visiting markets in foreign cities. We were in Florence on a group tour many, many years ago and didn’t have enough free time to do much exploring — but next time I’ll definitely save time to visit Mercato Nuovo!
We had so much fun wandering through the markets. Bought lots of leather stuff.
Florence is one of the top Italian cities on my list… we were always going to stay out of the city, but maybe now we stay in….
Very cool! Ah, someday I hope to get to that part of the world!
It is a great place for sure. Definitely worth a visit.
Florence is a beautiful place in Italy with it’s marvelous architecture, the Piazzas, the Ponte Veccio, the museum and the spreading markets with authentic Italian leather items and gourmet foods. The Duomo is am amazing architectural gem reaching the Florentine skyline.
We had a lot of fun searching through the markets for treasures.
Florence has always been put on the back burner when we’ve been to Italy. I’m regretting that so much now! We need to get there!
Also – great tip on checking the national holidays. It throws quite a wrench in your plans when it happens.
Agreed. We tried to make the best of a crazy day though.
Thanks for sharing all the best things to do in Italy! I haven’t been there and it is high on my bucket list 😀
It is always on my bucket list.
Oh, my! What adventures you’ve had! These are all great things to do in Florence. And good tips. I love your personal stories interspersed throughout.
Thanks so much.
Hubby and I loved Florence. It is definitely somewhere I would love to take the kids to someday. Just strolling the streets, sampling some of the delicious food, and window shopping were a lot of fun (aside from visiting the sites).
Florence just had a great vibe to it.
Florence is such a gorgeous place to visit, and this guide is super useful! I’ve bookmarked it for my next visit!
Florence is a favorite city. I don’t think there is any city in Italy that I wouldn’t love!
Florence is such a fab city. We had only a day and saw a lot viia our walking tour. But I would love to go back and explore a bit more, and do things mentioned in your blog.
Great stories mixed in with these fun recommendations. Thanks for showing us that travel isn’t always perfect. Also, love the “meh” response from the local. The grass is always greener I guess. And I wish I had gelato right now.
Having spent time in Southern Italy, I can appreciate that Florence and the wider region of Tuscany would be equally charming, with amazing history and much of what you’ve shared. Love the tip to have a gelato at least once a day. All those amazing flavours.
My husband and I always love finding the best view of any city, so we would love Piazzale Michelangelo. But a gondola ride also sounds amazing!
These are such amazing things to do. I have never been to Italy, but the country (especially Florence and Corsica) is high on my bucket list.
We only had 1 day in Florence too but were equally blown away with the fabulous architecture. Great summary of things to see and do. Will have to stay for 3 days next time!
Brilliant! Florence is one of the European cities I have not yet visited but really want to. Thanks for this great list.
Thanks so much for putting together such a comprehensive guide about Florence. This will come in handy when we’re going over in 2024. Thank you!
What a fantastic place. looks like a great walkable city with so much history and architecture.
I was able to spend 2 weeks in Florence on a study abroad program with Johns Hopkins University. I absolutely loved visiting during July as we were able to do so many evening activities after classes were over. My favorite was the cooking class.
Florence looks glorious! This city and Italy in general is on my slow travel bucket list so I am pinning this one for later!
We finally made it to Florence this year before exploring Umbria. We loved the city and the views were amazing from some areas! The steak and rest of the food made the trip compete!