Florence had been on my bucket list for years, mostly because of the art, but also because of the pasta (let’s be real). The moment I stepped into the city, it felt like walking through a museum that just happened to have gelato on every corner.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, there’s something magical (and manageable) about Florence. I spent three packed days exploring, eating, and soaking in the history and here’s what I’d recommend.
Florence Travel Tips at a Glance
- Currency: Euro (€); cards accepted nearly everywhere
- Language: Italian (but most people in tourism speak English)
- Getting Around: Florence is walkable; you likely won’t need taxis or transit
- Best for: Art lovers, first-time Italy travelers, foodies, and romantic getaways
- Good to Know: Most museums are closed on Mondays
When to Visit Florence
Timing your trip can make all the difference. Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:
- Spring (April–June): Perfect weather, blooming gardens, fewer crowds
- Summer (July–August): Hot, busy, but vibrant early starts help beat crowds
- Fall (September–October): Wine season, golden light, pleasant days
- Winter (November–February): Quiet, moody, cozy museums, fewer tourists
Best Things to Do in Florence
1. Climb to the Top of the Duomo
I’ll be honest: the 463 steps up to the Brunelleschi’s Dome are no joke. The staircase is narrow, steep, and often winding through tight stone corridors but once you reach the top, the payoff is unforgettable. The 360° view over Florence’s red rooftops, with the hills of Tuscany rolling in the distance, is pure magic. I went just before sunset, and the golden hour light over the Arno River gave the whole city a cinematic glow.
The dome itself is a feat of engineering, built in the 1400s without scaffolding a marvel even today. Along the way, you’ll pass up-close frescoes of The Last Judgment, which add a slightly eerie, dramatic touch to the climb.
Pro Tips:
- Book online at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season.
- The Brunelleschi Pass also includes access to the Baptistery, Bell Tower, and Museum well worth it.
- Wear good shoes and bring water; the climb gets warm, even in cooler months.
- Not recommended if you’re claustrophobic or have trouble with stairs there’s no elevator.
2. Visit the Uffizi Gallery (But Do It Right)
The Uffizi is one of the world’s greatest art museums and also one of the most overwhelming. I spent nearly three hours here and still barely scratched the surface. The trick, I found, is to focus on a curated list of highlights instead of trying to see every single painting.
Standouts for me included:
- The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Botticelli (room 10–14)
- Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci
- Medusa by Caravaggio
- Ancient Roman busts and Renaissance portraits that made Florence’s history feel personal
The museum’s layout follows a horseshoe-shaped corridor with stunning views over the Arno and Ponte Vecchio don’t skip looking out the windows between art sections.
How to Do It Right:
- Visit early morning or mid-afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
- If you’re short on time, download a self-guided audio tour or join a small group tour for context.
- The upper-level cafe has one of the best terrace views in the city perfect for a coffee break.
3. Watch Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo
I’ve watched sunsets in a lot of cities, but Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo might just top the list. Perched on a hill across the Arno, it offers a postcard-perfect view of the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and rolling Tuscan hills in the distance.
Locals and travelers start gathering about an hour before sunset. I brought pizza from Gusta Pizza and a little bottle of Chianti, spread out on the steps, and joined the soft chatter and live acoustic music drifting through the square. When the sky turned peach and pink, the whole crowd clapped it really felt like we were sharing something special.
Optional Add-On: Before or after sunset, walk a bit further uphill to San Miniato al Monte, a serene Romanesque church with fewer crowds and a similar view.
What to Bring:
- Picnic supplies or grab a takeaway meal from Oltrarno
- A lightweight blanket or sweater (it gets breezy in the evening)
- Your camera this is one of the most Instagrammed spots in Florence for a reason
4. Explore the Streets of Oltrarno
Crossing the Ponte Vecchio into the Oltrarno district felt like entering a quieter, more soulful version of Florence. The crowds thinned, the architecture turned more lived-in, and every few steps brought a surprise: an artisan’s studio, a vintage bookstore, or a tucked-away wine bar.
I spent most of an afternoon just wandering. I watched a leatherworker emboss initials into belts by hand, peeked into a marbled paper shop, and stumbled on a mosaicist recreating scenes from Renaissance frescoes. You won’t find big brand stores here just craftsmanship and character.
Some of my favorite stops:
- Via Maggio – lined with antique dealers and design studios
- Piazza Santo Spirito – buzzy square with local cafes and a nightly aperitivo crowd
- Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella – one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, tucked behind unassuming doors
Why I Loved It: This was where Florence felt real to me not just a Renaissance exhibit, but a living city full of artisans, students, and evening chatter echoing through the piazzas.
5. Step Inside the Accademia to See David
Even with all the hype, nothing prepared me for seeing Michelangelo’s David in person. He’s not just a statue he’s a presence. Towering at over 17 feet tall, carved from a single block of Carrara marble, and glowing under the natural light of the rotunda, David radiates strength, serenity, and detail that photos just can’t capture.
What surprised me most? The sheer tension in his muscles, the veins in his arms, the intense calm before the battle with Goliath. I stood there for 15 minutes, circling around him, picking up new details each time.
But there’s more to the Accademia than just David. Don’t miss:
- The Hall of the Prisoners – unfinished Michelangelo sculptures that feel like they’re emerging from stone
- Gipsoteca Bartolini – plaster casts and 19th-century sculptures that explore how artists trained
- Musical instrument gallery – includes a 1690 Stradivarius violin
Quick Tips:
- Book a skip-the-line ticket you don’t want to wait under the sun for an hour
- Early mornings or lunchtime visits tend to be less busy
- It’s a small museum you’ll need about 1–1.5 hours to see it properly
6. Discover the Vasari Corridor
This one was on my “maybe” list… until I actually stepped inside and it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of my Florence trip.
The Vasari Corridor is a secret passageway built in 1565 for the powerful Medici family. It connects Palazzo Vecchio (Florence’s political heart) to Palazzo Pitti (their home), snaking above the Uffizi and across the Ponte Vecchio. From the outside, you barely notice it. But inside? It’s a hidden gallery of self-portraits, with narrow windows peeking down onto the streets and river.
Why it’s special:
- You literally walk in the footsteps of Renaissance royalty
- It’s quiet, uncrowded, and full of insider art
- The view down onto Ponte Vecchio from above is surreal
Good to Know:
- You must join a guided tour to access it there’s no casual walk-in
- Tickets are limited, so book early (weeks ahead in peak season)
- It’s a great rainy-day option too
7. Museo Galileo’s Weird & Wonderful Finds
Florence isn’t just art it’s science, too. The Museo Galileo blew me away with its collection of historical tools and the weirdest object I saw all trip: Galileo’s preserved finger in a glass dome (yep, you read that right).
This museum sits quietly just next to the Uffizi, and most visitors skip it but that’s a mistake. It’s a goldmine for science lovers and curious travelers. From 15th-century globes and compasses to ancient surgical tools, I found myself totally absorbed.
Don’t Miss:
- Galileo’s original telescopes
- Interactive exhibits explaining timekeeping, astronomy, and navigation
- Rooms filled with quirky, ornate gadgets from centuries past
Great For:
- Families with kids
- Travelers burned out on art museums
- Rainy afternoons when you need an indoor break
8. Stroll Boboli Gardens
After hours indoors admiring frescoes, I craved green space and Boboli Gardens was the perfect retreat. Spread out behind Palazzo Pitti, these gardens are like an outdoor sculpture park, filled with shady cypress-lined paths, dramatic fountains, and panoramic views.
I wandered past ancient Roman statues, got lost in hedge mazes, and sat by the Fountain of Neptune, watching birds dive into the water. There’s even a grotto designed by Buontalenti, filled with surreal stone textures and stalactites.
Pro Tips:
- Bring snacks and water the gardens are large and can get warm
- Combine with a visit to the Palatine Gallery inside Palazzo Pitti
- Wear walking shoes; there are lots of stairs, gravel, and inclines
Optional Add-On: Visit the Bardini Garden just next door it’s quieter and has the best staircase view of Florence.
9. Visit the Rose Garden Below Piazzale Michelangelo
Right below the famous overlook, this hidden Rose Garden is one of Florence’s best-kept secrets. I found it by accident while heading to Piazzale Michelangelo, and I ended up spending an hour there under the shade of lemon trees and rose trellises.
What makes it so lovely:
- It’s free to enter and never crowded
- Offers mini views of the city without the full hike
- Home to sculptures by Jean-Michel Folon, adding a whimsical touch
I visited in May, and the blooms were incredible. But even off-season, it’s a peaceful spot to relax after a day of walking.
Zee Tip: Bring a book or journal and just sit. I watched locals picnic and artists sketching in the shade it felt like real, quiet Florence.
10. Climb the Tower of San Niccolò
If you’re looking for a less touristy alternative to the Duomo climb, head to Torre di San Niccolò, tucked into the Oltrarno side of Florence. It’s one of the few remaining parts of the city’s medieval walls, and climbing it gives you sweeping views without the crowds.
I timed my visit for just before sunset and was rewarded with golden views of the Arno River and cathedral dome, all framed by crumbling stone battlements.
What to Expect:
- A short but steep climb (160 steps)
- No elevators, but fewer people = more space at the top
- Guides are stationed there to explain the tower’s defensive history
Open seasonally: Usually from June to September, and only in the afternoons/evenings.
11. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce
If you’re looking for something quieter than the Duomo but just as meaningful head to Santa Croce. This Gothic basilica sits a bit off the main tourist trail, and yet it holds something extraordinary: the final resting places of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and even a memorial to Dante.
The moment I stepped inside, it felt reverent. The light filtering through the stained glass was soft and golden, and the silence was a relief after the buzz of Florence’s busy piazzas.
Why I Loved It:
- Seeing Michelangelo’s tomb was surprisingly emotional especially after admiring David
- The frescoes by Giotto are stunning and beautifully preserved
- There’s also a peaceful cloister garden outside that most tourists miss
Insider Tips:
- Entry is included with the Firenze Card, or you can buy a combo ticket online
- Check the calendar classical music concerts are occasionally held here in the evenings
12. Enjoy a Tuscan Wine Flight at an Enoteca
Florence knows how to do wine and not just in fancy restaurants. My favorite way to enjoy it? Sitting at a cozy enoteca with a small plate of cheese and local prosciutto, working my way through a Chianti tasting flight.
Most wine bars (especially in Oltrarno or Santa Croce) are welcoming and unpretentious. One evening, I stopped by Le Volpi e L’Uva, tucked behind the Ponte Vecchio, and the owner helped me choose three small-production reds I’d never heard of. By the end of the night, I’d made friends with the couple sitting next to me and picked up a bottle to take home.
Great Enotecas to Try:
- Le Volpi e L’Uva – cozy, tucked away, extensive wine list
- Il Santino – hip vibe, charcuterie-focused
- Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina – perfect view of Palazzo Pitti
What to Order: Try a Super Tuscan, a bold Brunello di Montalcino, or something regional like Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Staff are usually happy to explain without the snobbery.
13. Browse Artisan Workshops in Hidden Alleys
Florence’s soul lives in its craft traditions. While the museums show you masterpieces from centuries past, the real magic happens in the workshops that are still running today.
I spent hours wandering the alleys of Oltrarno, peeking into open doors and chatting with artists. I met a goldsmith shaping tiny Florentine filigree, a bookbinder making leather journals, and a mosaic artist restoring a broken piece from a local church.
What I loved most? These weren’t touristy “made in China” shops. They were working studios where you could see the tools, the hands, and the pride behind every item.
Where to Go:
- Via dei Serragli and Via Romana in Oltrarno
- Scuola del Cuoio – Florence’s famous leather school, inside Santa Croce
- Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella – centuries-old perfumery still creating products by hand
Zee Tip: If you’re looking for unique gifts, skip the Ponte Vecchio and come here instead.
14. Indulge in Daily Gelato (It’s a Rule)
Florence has an unofficial rule: one gelato per day. (Okay, two.) But not all gelato is created equal. The real deal is made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and stored in covered steel containers not piled high like a neon mountain.
Here are my favorite gelaterias in Florence:
- La Carraia – rich, creamy, and reasonably priced. The dark chocolate is addictive.
- Gelateria dei Neri – tucked away, full of locals. Try the pistachio or fig & ricotta.
- Vivoli – one of the oldest in Florence, still family-run. Their custard flavors are incredible.
- Sbrino – trendy, experimental, with vegan options too
Zee’s Tip: Don’t rush it. Sit on a bench, people-watch in a piazza, and savor every bite. For a dreamy combo, grab gelato and stroll along the Arno at dusk.
15. Attend the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
I stumbled into this by accident while looking for something to do one night and it ended up being one of the most elegant experiences of my trip.
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is an annual classical music and opera festival that runs from late April to June. It’s been held since 1933 and features world-class performances in some of Florence’s most iconic venues including the Teatro del Maggio and sometimes even inside historic churches.
Why Go:
- Tickets range from affordable balcony seats to luxurious orchestra stalls
- It’s a chance to dress up, sip wine at intermission, and feel like a Medici for the night
- Even if you’re not an opera fan, the atmosphere and acoustics are worth it
Zee Tip: Check the festival schedule online and book early especially for opening nights or international performances.
Itineraries
Florence in One Day (Quick but Worth It)
If you’re just stopping by on a whirlwind Italy trip, here’s how I’d spend a perfect day:
Morning:
- Climb the Duomo right after opening for cooler temps and thinner crowds
- Walk to Accademia Gallery to see David
- Grab a quick panini from I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti or espresso from Ditta Artigianale
Afternoon:
- Visit the Uffizi Gallery (pick a few must-see pieces)
- Stroll through Ponte Vecchio and grab gelato from Gelateria dei Neri
Evening:
- Head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset
- Finish with dinner and wine in Oltrarno I loved Trattoria La Casalinga
Art Lover’s Florence (2 Days Minimum)
For those obsessed with Renaissance art and sculpture:
Day 1:
- Uffizi Gallery (go early and take your time)
- Visit Santa Croce for tombs of legends
- Lunch near Piazza della Signoria
- Visit the Palazzo Vecchio or Museum of the Opera del Duomo
- Sunset from the Duomo dome
Day 2:
- Accademia Gallery (for David)
- Museo San Marco and its quiet frescoes
- Explore lesser-known spots like Bargello Museum
- Evening concert at Santa Monaca Church or an opera via Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
Slow & Soulful Florence (3–4 Days)
For travelers who love to wander, taste, and soak in the vibe:
Day 1:
- Casual breakfast at a corner café
- Explore Oltrarno’s artisan shops and visit Palazzo Pitti
- Stroll through Boboli Gardens or Bardini Garden
- Wine tasting at Enoteca Pitti Gola
Day 2:
- Visit Mercato Centrale and snack your way through it
- Wander aimlessly Via dei Tornabuoni to Piazza Santa Trinita
- Book a pasta-making class in the evening
Day 3:
- Gelato tasting tour (yes, it’s a thing just ask your sweet tooth)
- Relax at Rose Garden, then catch golden hour at San Niccolò Tower
- Dinner with locals in Santo Spirito
Where to Stay in Florence (Neighborhood Guide)
Here’s how I’d describe Florence’s key neighborhoods based on vibe and traveler type:
| Neighborhood | Why I’d Stay There | Best For |
| Duomo / Historic Center | Everything is walkable and at your doorstep. Wake up to a view of Brunelleschi’s Dome. Expect crowds. | First-timers, short stays, couples |
| Santa Croce | Less touristy than the center but still close to everything. Great restaurants and nightlife. | Foodies, solo travelers |
| Oltrarno | Artisan studios, aperitivo spots, and a real local vibe. Close to views and gardens. | Creative travelers, couples, return visitors |
| San Lorenzo / Mercato Centrale | Near budget-friendly stays and the food market. Can be a bit busy. | Backpackers, short stays |
| Campo di Marte | Quieter and more residential. You’ll need to walk or bus into the center. | Families, long-term travelers |
Zee’s Pick: I stayed in Oltrarno and absolutely loved it close to everything, but peaceful after sunset.
What to Pack for Florence
Packing for Florence depends a lot on the season and your travel style, but here’s what I’d bring regardless:
Year-Round Essentials:
- Comfy walking shoes – cobblestones are no joke
- Crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack – especially for markets and museums
- Scarf or shawl – useful for churches or light layers
- Reusable water bottle – public fountains are clean and free
- Sunglasses + sunscreen – even in spring
Spring/Fall Extras:
- Light jacket or trench coat
- Travel umbrella (afternoon showers happen)
Summer Must-Haves:
- Breathable clothes (linen or cotton)
- Portable fan or cooling towel
- Hat or sun visor
Winter Add-Ons:
- Layered clothing (Florence gets chilly)
- Warm coat + gloves
- Closed shoes or boots
Pro Tip: Don’t overpack Florence is a shopper’s paradise for leather bags, handmade shoes, and stylish finds.
What I’d Skip Next Time
Honestly? I’d skip spending too much time shopping on Ponte Vecchio. It’s iconic, yes, but the shops were overpriced and crowded. I found better souvenirs and gifts in the artisan workshops around Oltrarno.
