Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region of Italy, is an epicenter of history and culture. Deemed as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, it is one of the world’s artistic treasure troves. You can hardly explore its streets without stumbling into famous works (or their replicas) by revered residents such as Machiavelli, Dante, Michelangelo, Donatello, Galileo, and Raphael.
However, the city is more than outstanding works of art, and the 13 million travelers that visit the city yearly can attest to that. The atmospheric city is positively brimming with activity. It is filled with amazing gastronomic delights and interesting shops. Embrace the romantic air and the Fiorentino culture as you explore the things to do in Florence.
See our list for the best things to do in Florence, Italy.
1. Take in the stunning Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)
The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower) in Florence, Italy | Romas_Photo, Shutterstock
When you arrive in Florence, the Duomo is easily the first thing you recognize. The distinctive red dome pokes its head above the medieval landscape of the city. One of the greatest triumphs of Renaissance architecture, it is the jewel of the city. The exterior and front facade of the cathedral is a worthy definition of grandeur. It is covered in white marble and speckled with red, pink, and green polychrome details.
Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)
Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
Ph: +39 055 230 2885
Get directions
Best place to eat near Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) according to locals and visitors:
• Buca Poldo (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Coquinarius (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Birreria Centrale (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore).
The best hotel to stay near Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Portrait Firenze (9.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
2. Gaze at the artistic masterpiece, David, at Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze
Tourists look at David by Michelangelo in Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence | lornet, Shutterstock
Located near the Piazza del Duomo, the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze is one of the most iconic museums in the world. It hosts some of the most influential masterpieces in history. Perhaps the most famous resident of this gallery is David, the 17-foot marble statue created by Michelangelo. The gallery also hosts other Michelangelo works, a musical instrument gallery, and 19th-century workshop with a collection of sculpted busts.
Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze
60, Via Ricasoli, 58, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Adults: 12€ (US$12.9); 18 to 25: 2€ (US$2.2); Under 18s and over 65s: Free
Ph: +39 055 294883
Get directions
Best place to eat near Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze according to locals and visitors:
• Sicily Food Da Chiara Firenze (4.7/5 stars, Pizza, $$$)
• Acquacotta Trattoria Toscana (4.6/5 stars, Tuscan, $$)
• Sushiland Florence – Sushi Poke Burrito (4.7/5 stars, Sushi, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze.
The best hotel to stay near Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hotel Orto De’ Medici (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
3. People watch at Piazza Della Signoria
Panoramic view of famous Piazza della Signoria with Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Tuscany, Italy | canadastock, Shutterstock
The beating heart of Florence can be found in the L-shaped square in front of Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza Della Signoria. The busy square has been the historical center of the city. It has played host to various events and festivities and is in close proximity to several of the city’s seasoned attractions and copies of famed sculptures. Stop by and take a snapshot of the iconic centerpiece, Fontana del Nettuno, a marble and bronze fountain in tribute to Neptune.
Piazza Della Signoria
Piazza Della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: 4 euros
Ph: +39 055 2657509
Get directions
Best place to eat near Piazza Della Signoria according to locals and visitors:
• Buca Lapi (4.5/5 stars, Tuscan, $$$)
• Braceria dei tre amici (4.5/5 stars, Tuscan, $$)
• Trattoria San Pierino (4.6/5 stars, Italian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Piazza Della Signoria.
The best hotel to stay near Piazza Della Signoria based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hotel Atlantic Palace (8.5/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
4. Admire Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio seen from Arno bank in Florence, Italy | Gabriele Maltinti, Shutterstock
Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest and most photographed bridge. This medieval, picturesque bridge features three arches and two arcades. The arcades are home to fascinating shops and cozy restaurants and cafes. Appreciate the bridge, an ancient fixture of the city, and explore the nearby curiosities. This spot is so authentically Firenze that it attracts a lot of people.
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
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Best place to eat near Ponte Vecchio according to locals and visitors:
• Ristorante Il Ricettario (4.7/5 stars, Tuscan, $$$)
• Ristorante Boutique Vetreria La Vetreria (4.6/5 stars, Italian, $$)
• I’Tuscani 2 (4.6/5 stars, Steak house, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Ponte Vecchio.
The best hotel to stay near Ponte Vecchio based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo (8.8/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
5. Catch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo
Sunset over Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo | Jiuguang Wang, Flickr
Florence’s renaissance rooftop skyline is one of the city’s most charming, not to mention photo-worthy features. Head up the stairs just above San Niccolo and up to the 19th-century viewing terrace perched high above the streets of Florence for sweeping views of the city. Climb to the top of Piazzale Michelangelo and let Florence unfold all around you. Stay for the sunset as the sky drapes with warm, tangerine hues of the sunset and watch the city come alive in the night.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
Ph: 39 055 210030
Get directions
Best place to eat near Piazzale Michelangelo according to locals and visitors:
• Crepapelle (4.6/5 stars, Tuscan, $$$)
• Relais Le Jardin Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• SandwiChic (4.8/5 stars, Sandwich shop, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Piazzale Michelangelo.
The best hotel to stay near Piazzale Michelangelo based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Continentale (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
6. Be engaged by Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo
Room with panels and statues in Museo dell Opera del Duomo (Museum of Works of Cathedral) | vvoe, Shutterstock
Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo is dedicated to showcasing Medieval and Renaissance statues of great artists. The museum has the largest collection of Florentine monuments and sculptures in the world. It is home to 750 works of art covering over 720 years of history. The museum also has a life-size reconstruction of the old facade of the Duomo.
Peruse the museum and its collection and learn about the interesting history and culture of the city. There is history written in the museum’s three floors. The most fascinating thing about the museum is perhaps the replicas of masterpieces that were created to welcome the human touch.
Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
Ph: +39 055 230 2885
Get directions
Best place to eat near Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo according to locals and visitors:
• La Cucina del Ghianda (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Antica Pizzeria Reginè Firenze (4.6/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
• Trattoria Dall’Oste SMN (4.6/5 stars, Steak house, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo.
The best hotel to stay near Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Portrait Firenze (9.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
7. See masterpieces at Uffizi Gallery (Galleria Degli Uffizi)
People taking photos of famous botticelli venus at ufizzi gallery at florence city, Italy | DFLC Prints, Shutterstock
The Uffizi Galleries in Florence is one of the most famous museums in the world. It is home to the masterpieces of Italian Renaissance masters as well as other European artists. The gallery highlights the works of esteemed and influential artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Michelangelo. The most recognizable masterpieces in the display are that of Sandro Botticelli, who crafted the Birth of Venus.
If it’s open to the public, make use of the Vasari Corridor. It’s especially convenient if you’re visiting the nearby Pitti Palace or Palazzo Vecchio.
Uffizi Gallery
Piazzale Degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: €2–20
Ph: +39 055 294883
Get directions
Best place to eat near Uffizi Gallery according to locals and visitors:
• Trattoria Mario (4.5/5 stars, Down home cooking, $$$)
• Alimentari Uffizi (4.8/5 stars, Gourmet grocery store, $$)
• Melaleuca bakery + bistrot (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Uffizi Gallery.
The best hotel to stay near Uffizi Gallery based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Art Hotel Villa Agape (9.3/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
8. Walk around the Boboli Gardens
Boboli gardens in Florence | Alexey Medvednikov, Shutterstock
Boboli Gardens is something in the middle of Central Park in New York and Versailles in France. Scattered around the garden are traces of 17th-century influences. The 11-acre gardens may even be considered an open-air museum owing to the quaint buildings/museums, fountains, sculptures, and other treasures within its premises. Take a couple of hours to walk along the glorious Florentine scenery and relax in its many quiet corners. It is truly an oasis in the heart of the city. As with most gardens, this one is most fragrant and romantic right after the rain.
Boboli Gardens
Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Regular price 10€; children under 18 years are free
Ph: +39 055 229 8732
Get directions
Best place to eat near Boboli Gardens according to locals and visitors:
• Osteria dell’Enoteca (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Mangius – L’Italia di qualità Firenze (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• IL LOCA Pizza a Taglio (4.5/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Boboli Gardens.
The best hotel to stay near Boboli Gardens based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• RELAIS VILLA IL SASSO (8.8/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
9. Eat out in Mercato Centrale Firenze
People having breakfast at popular food court inside Mercato Centrale city market | Radiokafka, Shutterstock
Mercato Centrale is Florence’s oldest and largest food market. A treasure trove for foodies, the market is jam-packed! There is a wealth of local produce, such as specialty cheeses, meat, and fresh vegetables. It also has a special cookery school and food stalls serving artisan burgers, panini, and other culinary delights. Surprise yourself with any of the cuisines for your choice on the first floor and you may end up with one of your best meals in Florence.
Mercato Centrale Firenze
Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
Ph: +39 055 239 9798
Get directions
Best place to eat near Mercato Centrale Firenze according to locals and visitors:
• Borderline (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina (4.7/5 stars, Wine bar, $$)
• Trattoria “Gigi” Firenze (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Mercato Centrale Firenze.
The best hotel to stay near Mercato Centrale Firenze based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Ville Sull’Arno (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
10. Mingle with artisans at the Piazza Santo Spirito
Piazza Santo Spirito was founded in the second half of the 1200’s | Archphotos, Shutterstock
Piazza Santo Spirito is a quaint little Florentine character. The piazza is saturated with little local markets, antique fairs, and specialty festivals. A visit would fill you with inspiration and offer you an easy reprieve from the other overwhelming attractions.
Explore the stalls selling fascinating and interesting handicrafts. Or if markets are absent, take shelter in one of the small cafes or grab a bite at one of the cozy restaurants in the area. The piazza offers a peaceful atmosphere to wind down. Stop by the Basilica of Santo Spirito, one of Florence’s important churches and the last masterpiece of Brunelleschi.
Piazza Santo Spirito
Piazza Santo Spirito, 30/16, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: Free
Ph: +39 055 238 2383
Get directions
Best place to eat near Piazza Santo Spirito according to locals and visitors:
• Gunè San Frediano (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Relais Le Jardin Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Gelateria La Sorbettiera (4.8/5 stars, Ice cream shop, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Piazza Santo Spirito.
The best hotel to stay near Piazza Santo Spirito based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Palazzo Alfieri Residenza d’Epoca – Alfieri Collezione (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
11. Grab some gelato at Vestri Cioccolato D’Autore
Cutting Edge – Chocolate Dress | lolivito, Vimeo
Florence is famously hailed as the birthplace of gelato. It’s hard to go wrong with gelaterias in Florence, as everyone is trying to one-up the competition. A crowd favorite is Vestri Cioccolato D’Autore, a chocolate shop doubling as a gelateria. They offer fresh, authentic Italian gelato with a wide selection of flavors, varying per season. Also available are decadent, hand-crafted artisan chocolates of different kinds and shapes.
Vestri Cioccolato
Borgo Degli Albizi, 11r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Ph: +39 0575 907315
Get directions
Best place to eat near Vestri Cioccolato according to locals and visitors:
• Starbene Senza Glutine (4.6/5 stars, Cake shop, $$$)
• Braceria dei tre amici (4.5/5 stars, Tuscan, $$)
• Coquinarius (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Vestri Cioccolato.
The best hotel to stay near Vestri Cioccolato based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hotel Orto De’ Medici (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
12. Visit Palazzo Strozzi
Palazzo Strozzi in Florence a sunny day of summer | JJFarq, Shutterstock
Florence has no shortage of palaces. While Palazzo Strozzi may seem like one of the many other palaces you’ve seen, it offers so much more. The biggest draw is its basement, which is home to the Center for Contemporary Culture Strozzina. It serves as Florence’s center for international and contemporary art.
Remember the 21st century and find engaging exhibits of fine modern art. The Center is a breath of fresh air in Florence’s heavy focus on its history and 15th-century aesthetics. The programs and exhibits change periodically; visit the website for details.
Palazzo Strozzi
Piazza Degli Strozzi, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Ph: +39 055 264 5155
Get directions
Best place to eat near Palazzo Strozzi according to locals and visitors:
• Trattoria San Pierino (4.6/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Antica Pizzeria Reginè Firenze (4.6/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
• Melaleuca bakery + bistrot (4.8/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Palazzo Strozzi.
The best hotel to stay near Palazzo Strozzi based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Strozzi Palace Hotel (8.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
13. Spy some shoes at Museo Salvatore Ferragamo
Museo Salvatore Ferragamo | Sailko, Wikimedia Commons
Salvatore Ferragamo is a legend in the fashion industry. The famous Florence-based shoe designer crafted footwear for celebrities and high-class elite. Arguably, he was instrumental in bringing Florence and Italian craftsmanship to the world’s attention. His legacy is archived in Museo Salvatore Ferragamo. The museum highlights the designer’s journey, his notable clients, and his timeless artisan designs.
Museo Salvatore Ferragamo
Piazza di Santa Trinita, 5R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Admission: US$12.06
Ph: +39 055 356 2846
Get directions
Best place to eat near Museo Salvatore Ferragamo according to locals and visitors:
• Buca Poldo (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Buca Lapi (4.5/5 stars, Tuscan, $$)
• Trattoria San Pierino (4.6/5 stars, Italian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Museo Salvatore Ferragamo.
The best hotel to stay near Museo Salvatore Ferragamo based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Continentale (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
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