50 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy (2026 Guide)

The first time I walked out of a side street and saw the Duomo, I stopped in the middle of the road. Florence still does that to me every single visit.

This 2026 Florence travel guide covers the 50 best things to do in Florence, from the big-name museums to the spots I go back to every time. That includes my favorite Negroni bar, a candlelit Oltrarno dinner, and the best affogato in the city.

You'll also find a simple 3-day itinerary, the 6 hotels I'd actually book, where to eat, and the mistakes first-timers make (so you don't).

If you're planning a trip to Florence, also check out my guides to Pisa and Bologna. Both are easy add-ons by train and perfect for rounding out a Tuscany itinerary.

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This article contains affiliate links which support us at no extra cost to you.

Jump To

• WHAT IS FLORENCE, ITALY KNOWN FOR?
• Is Florence Worth Visiting?
• 50 Things to Do in Florence, Italy
• Florence Food & Drink (My Favorites)
• Is Florence very expensive?
• Budget-Friendly Activities in Florence
• Is Florence, Italy safe?
• 🚆 How to Get to Florence from Rome, Milan, and Venice
• 🗓️ Florence in 2 or 3 Days: Sample Itinerary
• 🏨 Where to Stay in Florence by Neighborhood
• 🚗 Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
• Getting Around Florence
• How many days do you need in Florence?
• Map of Florence, Italy
• How to Get to and Around Florence
• Tours of Florence, Italy
• Does Florence, Italy have a soccer team?
• Does Florence, Italy have beaches?
• Wineries in Florence, Italy
• The Best Hotels in Florence, Italy
• What food is Florence known for?
• HIDDEN GEMS IN FLORENCE
• The Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy
• BEST FLORENCE PHOTO SPOTS
• WEATHER & BEST TIME TO VISIT FLORENCE
• MORE ABOUT FLORENCE
• FAQ: Quick Travel Tips for Florence, Italy

WHAT IS FLORENCE, ITALY KNOWN FOR?

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance. Art, architecture, science, and literature took off here under the Medici family.

It's home to Michelangelo's David, Botticelli's The Birth of Venus, and Brunelleschi's dome, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today it's just as famous for leather, fashion, Chianti wine, and bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Is Florence Worth Visiting?

Yes. If you only see one art city in Italy, I'd make it Florence.

It's compact, walkable, and packed with world-class art. The food and wine are incredible, and you're an easy hop from Siena, Pisa, Lucca, and the Chianti hills.

50 Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Iconic Florence Sights

1.  See the Masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi holds the greatest collection of Renaissance art in the world, including Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Primavera. You'll also see works by Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian.

My tip: Book a timed ticket and go first thing in the morning. It's closed on Mondays.

2. Meet Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia

Photos don't prepare you for how huge David is (over 5 meters tall). The rest of the museum is small, so you can see it in about an hour.

My tip: Book skip-the-line tickets ahead, because the walk-up line can take hours. It's also closed Mondays.

3. Visit Piazza del Duomo

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Baptistery, and Giotto's Bell Tower all sit in one square. Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but the line moves slowly.

My tip: Wear covered shoulders and knees, or you may be turned away.

4. Climb Brunelleschi's Dome

It's 463 steps up narrow medieval passages, right past the frescoes inside the dome. The view from the top is the classic Florence panorama.

My tip: Dome climbs require a reserved time slot through the Duomo pass, so book this before anything else.

5. Climb Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile)

At 414 steps, the Campanile is slightly easier than the dome. It gives you the best view of the dome, which is the photo you actually want.

My tip: If you can only do one climb, I'd pick this one. It's usually less crowded.

6. Stroll Through Piazza della Signoria

This is Florence's open-air sculpture gallery, with a copy of David, the Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Fountain of Neptune. It's free and gorgeous at night.

7. Tour Palazzo Vecchio and the Hall of the Five Hundred

Florence's town hall is still in use, but much of it is a museum. Don't miss the enormous Salone dei Cinquecento, covered in Vasari's frescoes.

My tip: Climb Arnolfo's Tower for a view right over the piazza.

8. Walk Across Ponte Vecchio

The most photographed bridge in Florence is lined with jewelers that have been there since the 1500s. It's busy all day.

My tip: For the best photo of it, stand on Ponte Santa Trinita at sunset.

9. Walk Through the Vasari Corridor

The Medici's private elevated passageway runs from Palazzo Vecchio, over Ponte Vecchio, to Palazzo Pitti. After years of restoration, it reopened in December 2024.

10. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce

This is where Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli are buried. It also has Giotto's frescoes and Brunelleschi's Pazzi Chapel.

11. Visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo

The Medici's parish church, with interiors by Brunelleschi and Michelangelo's Laurentian Library next door. It's surrounded by the San Lorenzo leather market.

12. Tour the Medici Chapels

The Medici family is buried here under Michelangelo's sculptures. The marble Chapel of the Princes is jaw-dropping.

13. Admire Santa Maria Novella

The marble facade is right by the train station, so it's perfect for your first or last hour in Florence. Inside, look for Masaccio's Trinity and the Ghirlandaio frescoes.

My tip: Pop into the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella nearby, one of the oldest pharmacies in the world.

14. Check Out Piazza della Repubblica

This is a grand square with historic cafés, street musicians, and a vintage carousel. It's a great meeting point and a lovely spot at night.

Florence Museums & Art

15. Explore the Bargello Museum

I think this is Florence's most underrated museum. It has Donatello's bronze David, Michelangelo's Bacchus, and almost no lines.

16. Visit the Opera del Duomo Museum

This is where the original Baptistery doors (Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise) and Duomo sculptures are kept. Michelangelo's moving Florentine Pietà is here too.

My tip: It's included in the Duomo pass, so don't skip it.

17. Marvel at the Art at Palazzo Pitti

The Medici's former palace houses the Palatine Gallery (packed with Raphaels), royal apartments, and a fashion museum. It's the gateway to the Boboli Gardens.

18. Visit the Museo Galileo

Here you'll find Galileo's telescopes and (yes, really) his preserved finger. It's great for families or a rainy afternoon.

19. Discover the Stibbert Museum

This quirky house museum holds thousands of pieces of armor, including samurai suits. It also has a romantic English-style garden.

My tip: It's a bus or taxi ride north of the center, so it's a fun pick if you want zero crowds.

20. See an Exhibition at Palazzo Strozzi

This Renaissance palace hosts Florence's best contemporary and modern art exhibitions. The courtyard café is free to enter.

21. Explore the Synagogue and Jewish Museum

The Great Synagogue of Florence has a striking green copper dome and Moorish-style interiors. The museum tells the story of Florence's Jewish community.

22. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This museum has Etruscan treasures like the Chimera of Arezzo, plus Egyptian artifacts. It's rarely crowded.

23. Admire the Art at Museo Marino Marini

This modern sculpture museum sits inside a deconsecrated church. Don't miss the hidden Rucellai Chapel by Alberti.

24. Visit Museo Salvatore Ferragamo

This museum covers the shoemaker to the stars, with Marilyn Monroe's heels and rotating fashion exhibitions. It's in the Ferragamo headquarters on Via de' Tornabuoni.

25. Explore the Museum of San Marco

This former convent has a Fra Angelico fresco in nearly every monk's cell. It's one of the most peaceful places in Florence.

26. Visit Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce

This is the basilica's museum, home to Cimabue's Crucifix (damaged in the 1966 flood). Entry is included with your Santa Croce ticket.

27. Tour Santa Maria Maddalena dei Pazzi

This quiet convent hides Perugino's Crucifixion fresco. Check opening hours before you go, since they're limited.

28. Visit the Church of Santa Felicita

This tiny church is right off Ponte Vecchio and holds Pontormo's Deposition. Hardly anyone goes in.

29. See the Last Supper of Andrea del Sarto

This free museum is in the San Salvi area, east of the center. You'll often have the fresco to yourself.

Florence Views & Gardens

30. Wander the Boboli Gardens

These are the Medici's sprawling gardens behind Palazzo Pitti, full of grottoes, fountains, and statues. Bring comfy shoes, because it's hilly.

31. Explore the Bardini Gardens and Villa Bardini

This is my pick over Boboli for views. In April and early May, the wisteria tunnel is the prettiest spot in Florence.

32. Stroll Through the Rose Garden (Giardino delle Rose)

This free garden sits just below Piazzale Michelangelo, with city views and Japanese-style corners. It's best in May when the roses bloom.

33. Explore Forte di Belvedere

This hilltop fortress hosts open-air art shows in summer and has sweeping views. Check opening dates, since it's seasonal.

34. Watch the Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo with a Spritz

This is my top tip for ending a day in Florence. Head up at golden hour with an Aperol Spritz and watch the sky glow behind the Duomo.

My tip: Walk five more minutes uphill to San Miniato al Monte for the same view with fewer people.

35. Walk Along the Arno River

The stretch between Ponte alle Grazie and Ponte Santa Trinita is magic at sunset. On summer evenings, pop-up riverside bars open along the banks.

36. Have Coffee at the Oblate Library Terrace

This free public library café has one of the best (and cheapest) Duomo views in the city. Locals study here, so keep your voice down.

Florence Food & Drink (My Favorites)

37. Go Wine Tasting in Chianti with Tuscany Tour Time

If you do one thing outside the city, make it a Chianti wine tasting. I loved going with Tuscany Tour Time: you're picked up in Florence and driven through vineyards and hill towns, so nobody has to worry about driving after tastings.

You'll taste Chianti Classico where it's made and learn how it's produced, with Tuscan bites alongside. It was one of the highlights of my whole trip.

👉 Book here: Tuscany Tour Time

38. Eat Your Way Through Mercato Centrale

The ground floor is a real working market for produce, meats, and cheese. Upstairs is a buzzy food hall with pasta, pizza, truffles, and wine.

My tip: Grab a lampredotto sandwich from a stall nearby if you're feeling brave.

39. Have Dinner at Il Santo Bevitore

This is my favorite dinner spot in the Oltrarno. It's candlelit and cozy, with seasonal Tuscan dishes done beautifully and a great wine list.

My tip: Reserve ahead, because it fills up every night. Ask what's in season, since the menu changes often.

40. Grab Drinks at Il Santino

This is Il Santo Bevitore's tiny sister wine bar, a few doors down on Via Santo Spirito. It has just a few stools, great natural and Tuscan wines, and little plates of cheese and cured meats.

My tip: Come here for a pre-dinner glass, then walk over to Il Santo Bevitore for your reservation.

41. Have Dinner at Trattoria Garga

This is a colorful, fun trattoria near Santa Maria Novella, with hand-painted walls and lots of personality. It's lively, a little quirky, and so Florentine.

What to order: The famous Tagliatelle del Magnifico, made with orange and lemon zest, mint, and cream. It's unlike any pasta you've had.

42. Drink a Negroni at Giacosa 1815

The Negroni was invented in Florence in 1919, when Count Camillo Negroni asked for gin instead of soda water in his Americano. That happened at the original Caffè Casoni, which later became Caffè Giacosa.

Sipping one at Giacosa 1815 is a must for any cocktail lover. It's classic, strong, and very Florence.

43. Have a Glass of Wine at Arte Bar

Arte Bar is one of my favorite fun wine bars in Florence. You can sit inside or do what the locals do: grab your glass and stand outside on the street with everyone else.

It's casual, social, and perfect for an aperitivo before dinner.

44. Try the Affogato at Vivoli

Vivoli is one of Florence's oldest gelaterias, tucked on a side street near Santa Croce. Their affogato is gelato "drowned" in hot espresso, and it's my favorite afternoon pick-me-up in Florence.

My tip: There's nowhere to sit, so eat it standing at the counter like an Italian.

45. Order From the Wine Window

Florence's buchette del vino (wine windows) date back to the 1600s. Babae in the Oltrarno still pours wine through its original little window onto the street.

It's such a fun photo, and a glass of Chianti is a great way to start the night.

46. Have Bistecca alla Fiorentina at Il Latini

Il Latini is old-school and loud, with communal tables, house wine, and huge Florentine T-bone steaks served rare. Come hungry and bring friends.

47. Grab a Drink at Angel Roofbar & Dining

This is one of Florence's chicest rooftop bars, with cocktails and views over the domes and rooftops. It's perfect for a sunset toast.

48. Eat at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura

The old Gucci Garden museum has closed. Fashion lovers can still eat at Gucci Osteria by three-Michelin-star chef Massimo Bottura in Palazzo della Mercanzia, on Piazza della Signoria. [VERIFY: still open + current Michelin status]

Read more about Gucci's Florence roots.

Unique Florence Experiences

49. Take Photos in the Vintage Photobooths (Fotoautomatica)

These are one of the most fun things I did in Florence. Old-school analog photobooths are dotted around the city, and you get a real black-and-white film strip in a few minutes.

My tip: Bring cash or coins. The strips make the best (and cheapest) souvenir.

50. Shop for a Leather Jacket in Florence

Florence is world-famous for leather. The San Lorenzo market stalls are fun for browsing, but for real quality, head to the artisan workshops in the Oltrarno or the Scuola del Cuoio at Santa Croce.

My tip: Look for soft, full-grain leather and check the stitching. Polite bargaining is normal at market stalls, not in shops.

Is Florence very expensive?

Florence is pretty pricey compared to other Italian cities. Hotels in the center cost a lot, especially during peak seasons. Expect to pay between $50 to over $300 a night. Hostel beds go for around $20-$50 per night.

Eating out can also add up. A meal at a cheap restaurant costs about $18, while a mid-range dinner is $15-$20. Despite the costs, you can still find budget-friendly options. Street food and affordable attractions make it possible to visit Florence without spending a ton.

Budget-Friendly Activities in Florence

Florence has some awesome budget-friendly activities. Check out these top picks:

Free Walking Tours

Join a free walking tour. Locals guide you around and share cool stories. Remember to tip them!

Picnic in Parks and Squares

Grab snacks from a supermarket and picnic in places like Piazzale Michelangelo or the Rose Garden. It's cheap and chill.

Affordable Dining Options

Street food and local markets like Mercato Centrale have tasty and cheap meals. Many spots also have aperitivo deals, so you get drinks and appetizers for a good price.

Free Museums and Churches

On the first Sunday each month, state museums like Uffizi and Accademia are free. Churches like Santo Spirito and San Miniato al Monte are also free and beautiful.

Exploring Piazzas and Historic Sites

Piazzas like Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria are free to explore. They have amazing sculptures and buildings. Just walking around gives you a feel of the city's charm.

Is Florence, Italy safe?

Florence, Italy, is pretty safe for tourists and locals. Violent crime is rare, but watch out for pickpockets and scams in tourist spots like the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo.

Keep your stuff secure and stay alert. Walking at night is generally safe, but avoid dark, empty places. Female and solo travelers will find Florence safe, just stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services are quick and efficient, so you're in good hands.

🚆 How to Get to Florence from Rome, Milan, and Venice

Florence is super accessible by high-speed train from major cities:

• From Rome: Take Italo or Trenitalia's Frecciarossa - it takes about 1.5 hours.
• From Milan: Around 1 hour 40 minutes by train.
• From Venice: Just over 2 hours via high-speed trains. All trains arrive at Santa Maria Novella (SMN), Florence's main station located right in the city center.

🗓️ Florence in 2 or 3 Days: Sample Itinerary

Only have one day? Read my Florence in one day guide. Otherwise, here's exactly how I'd spend 3 days in Florence.

Day 1: The Icons

• Morning: Accademia to see David (book the first slot)
• Late morning: Piazza del Duomo, then climb Giotto's Bell Tower
• Lunch: Mercato Centrale
• Afternoon: Uffizi Gallery
• Evening: Negroni at Giacosa 1815, then dinner at Trattoria Garga

Day 2: Oltrarno & Sunset

• Morning: Ponte Vecchio, then Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli or Bardini Gardens
• Afternoon: Affogato at Vivoli, then Santa Croce
• Sunset: Piazzale Michelangelo and San Miniato al Monte
• Evening: Wine window at Babae, drinks at Il Santino, then dinner at Il Santo Bevitore

Day 3: Chianti Wine Tasting

• Day: Wine tasting in Chianti with Tuscany Tour Time
• Evening: A glass of wine standing outside Arte Bar, then rooftop drinks at Angel Roofbar
• Before bed: Snap a strip at a Fotoautomatica photobooth

Short on time? For 2 days, do Days 1 and 2 and save Chianti for your next trip.

🏨 Where to Stay in Florence by Neighborhood

Each Florence area offers a unique vibe. Here's where to stay based on your style:

• Centro Storico (City Center): Best for first-timers, with everything walkable.
• Oltrarno: My favorite, local and artsy with the best food.
• Santa Maria Novella: Budget-friendly and right by the train station, ideal for day trips.

🚗 Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy

• Chianti: Vineyards, castles, and tastings. It's my #1 pick, and best done with a driver like Tuscany Tour Time.
• Siena: Piazza del Campo and a jaw-dropping cathedral, about an hour away by bus or car.
• San Gimignano: Medieval towers and award-winning gelato. It's easiest by car or tour.
• Pisa: The Leaning Tower, about an hour by regional train.
• Lucca: A walled city you can bike around the top of, just over an hour by train.
• Fiesole: A quick bus ride up the hill for a Roman theater and sunset views.
• Arezzo: Piazza Grande and antiques, about an hour by train.
• Montepulciano: Vino Nobile wine country, best by car.
• Cinque Terre: A long day, but doable on a tour.

Longer trips: Elba Island (beaches and Napoleon history, via the ferry from Piombino) and Bagni San Filippo (free natural hot springs in southern Tuscany) are better as overnights.

Getting Around Florence

Driving in Florence stinks. Streets are tiny, and parking is a pain. Walk or take public transport. The city has strict driving rules downtown. Fines are huge if you mess up. Parking is rare. Use paid lots outside the center. Buses and trams are super easy to use.

Go with the flow in Italy. "Piano piano" means slow and steady. Italians love long meals and chilling. Don't rush. Learn some basic Italian like "buongiorno" (good morning) and "grazie" (thanks). It makes a difference with the locals.

Buy museum tickets early. Skip the lines. Explore beyond the city center. Check out nearby towns like Lucca. Keep your schedule flexible. Wander and find hidden spots in Florence. Enjoy the adventure.

How many days do you need in Florence?

For a great trip to Florence, plan to stay three to four days. You'll hit the main spots like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo's David. Don't miss the Ponte Vecchio and the historic streets.

Add a day or two to chill in the Oltrarno neighborhood, visit the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, or take a day trip to Pisa or the Tuscan countryside. Got more time? Five days let you dive deeper and soak in local vibes and hidden gems.

Is Florence Safe?

Yes. Florence is very safe, including for solo and female travelers.

The main issue is pickpockets around the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, the train station, and on crowded buses. Keep your bag zipped and in front, and you'll be fine.

Map of Florence, Italy

How to Get to and Around Florence

Walk. Florence is compact, and the Duomo to Ponte Vecchio is about 10 minutes on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, since the cobblestones are rough on feet.

• Trams: Florence has no subway. The T2 tram links the airport to the center near Santa Maria Novella in about 20-25 minutes.
• Buses: Useful for Fiesole, San Miniato, and the Stibbert Museum.
• Taxis: You can't usually hail one on the street. Use a taxi rank, call, or use apps like itTaxi or Free Now. Uber is limited to pricier Uber Black.
• Cars: Skip them in the city because of the ZTL. Rent one only for countryside days. I recommend comparing prices on DiscoverCars.com.

Tours of Florence, Italy

Here are some of the best tours in Florence, Italy:

Florence: Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entry Ticket

Skip the lines at the Uffizi Gallery. See masterpieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli. Explore at your own pace.

Florence: Brunelleschi's Dome Climb Entry Ticket & Duomo

Skip the line and climb Brunelleschi's Dome. This ticket covers the Cathedral, Baptistery, Museum, and Bell Tower. Enjoy stunning views of Florence.

Florence: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine

Make pasta and tiramisu in a fun cooking class. Enjoy your creations with unlimited wine.

Florence: Michelangelo's David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery. Explore Renaissance art all day.

Florence: Reserved Entry Ticket to the Boboli Gardens

Stroll through the Boboli Gardens. See Renaissance statues, grottoes, and fountains. Enjoy the serene escape and stunning views.

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Guided Discovery Tour

Take a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery. Get fast track entry and an audio guide. Discover art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

Florence: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: 24, 48 or 72-Hour Ticket

Explore Florence on an open-top double-decker bus. Hop on and off as you like. Enjoy a multilingual audio commentary.

From Florence: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide

Tour the Tuscan countryside with a guide. Enjoy wine tastings and a traditional lunch. Visit local wineries and sample regional foods.

From Florence: Small Group Wine Tasting Tour to Tuscany

Join a small group for a wine tasting in Tuscany. Visit two wineries, take a guided tour, and taste local wines and produce.

From Florence: Pisa and Cinque Terre Full-Day Tour

Take a full-day tour from Florence to Pisa and Cinque Terre. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and enjoy a scenic train ride along the coast.

Does Florence, Italy have a soccer team?

Yes, Florence has a pro soccer team called Fiorentina. They started in 1926 and play in Serie A. Their home games are at Stadio Artemio Franchi, which holds over 43,000 people. The team rocks purple and has won two Italian league titles and a bunch of cups. They've also done well in European competitions.

The Rich Tradition of Calcio Storico Fiorentino

Florence has more than just the Fiorentina soccer team. It's also got Calcio Storico Fiorentino, an old and wild sport. This game mixes soccer, rugby, and wrestling and goes way back to the 16th century.

Calcio Storico kicks off in June. The final match happens on June 24th, St. John the Baptist's feast day. Four teams from Florence's districts compete. The Blues, Whites, Reds, and Greens fight it out in Piazza Santa Croce.

The sport's roots go back to ancient Roman ball games. Players wear Renaissance outfits and anything goes. It's 27 players on each side, playing for 50 minutes. The goal? Score "cacce" however they can.

Does Florence, Italy have beaches?

Florence doesn't have beaches in the city since it's landlocked. But don't worry, you can find beaches nearby. Just hop in a car or on a train. The closest spots are in Versilia, like Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, and Marina di Pisa.

They're only one to two hours away. These beaches have sandy shores and all the touristy stuff you need. Want something quieter and more natural? Check out Cala Violina and Castiglione della Pescaia. They're a bit farther but totally worth it for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Wineries in Florence, Italy

You don't have to go far to taste great wine. The Chianti Classico region starts about 30-40 minutes south of the city.

• Tuscany Tour Time: My pick for a fun, easy wine tasting day from Florence.
• Angela Personal Tuscan Tour: A private tour of three Chianti wineries.
• Castello del Trebbio: A 12th-century castle winery with biodynamic wines.
• Villa Medicea di Lilliano: Organic Chianti and food experiences.
• Poggio La Noce (Fiesole): A small, passionate family winery right above Florence.
• Fattoria di Bagnolo: A historic estate making Sangiovese and Cabernet.
• Out of the Box Florence: E-bike tours through Chianti with private tastings.

Pairing tip: Chianti loves red meat and bistecca. Try Vernaccia di San Gimignano with lighter dishes and seafood.

The Best Hotels in Florence, Italy

For a first trip, I recommend staying in the Centro Storico, near the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio, so you can walk everywhere. For a quieter, more local feel, the Oltrarno is my favorite area, with artisan shops and the best dinner spots.

Hotel Lungarno; 5 star, located right on the Arno beside Ponte Vecchio. Owned by the Ferragamo family, with river-view rooms, original art, and a Michelin-starred restaurant (Borgo San Jacopo).

👉 Book here

IL Tornabuoni, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt; 5 star, located on Via de' Tornabuoni, Florence's luxury shopping street. Elegant rooms in a historic palazzo, plus a rooftop bar with Duomo views.

👉 Book here

Hotel Calimala; 4 star, located between Piazza della Repubblica and Ponte Vecchio. A stylish boutique stay with a rooftop terrace, giving you a touch of luxury at a mid-range price.

👉 Book here

Hotel Pendini; 3 star, located right on Piazza della Repubblica. Spacious, old-world rooms (some with square views) and a great pick for families.

👉 Book here

Palazzo Ridolfi - Residenza d'Epoca; historic residence, located in the Oltrarno near Santo Spirito. Big, charming rooms in a period palazzo, steps from Il Santo Bevitore and the best local bars, at a budget-friendly price.

👉 Book here

The Market Urban Hotel; budget-friendly, located near Santa Maria Novella train station. Modern, comfy, and perfect if you're planning day trips by train.

👉 Book here

More options: The Westin Excelsior · The St. Regis Florence · Arte' Boutique Hotel · Solo Experience Hotel · Hotel Rapallo · Hotel Ferretti

For my full breakdown, see the best hotels in Florence, Italy.

What food is Florence known for?

Here are some of the quintessential dishes that define Florentine cuisine:

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick T-bone, traditionally from Chianina cattle, grilled over high heat and served rare.
• Ribollita: A hearty bread-and-bean soup with kale and vegetables.
• Pappa al Pomodoro: Tomato, stale bread, garlic, and basil, cooked down until thick and comforting.
• Lampredotto & Trippa: Florence's famous offal street food, usually in a sandwich.
• Schiacciata all'Olio: Crispy, salty, olive-oil flatbread, and the best sandwich bread there is.
• Crostini Neri: Toast topped with chicken-liver pâté.
• Pappardelle al Cinghiale: Wide ribbons with slow-cooked wild boar ragù.
• Crespelle alla Fiorentina: Crêpes filled with ricotta and spinach, baked in béchamel.
• Finocchiona: Fennel-seed salami.
• Gelato: Legend says Florence's Bernardo Buontalenti invented it for the Medici court.

HIDDEN GEMS IN FLORENCE

• San Miniato al Monte: A Romanesque church above Piazzale Michelangelo. If you time it right, you might hear the monks' Gregorian chant at vespers.
• The Oltrarno artisan workshops: Watch bookbinders, goldsmiths, and leatherworkers along Via Maggio and around Santo Spirito.
• Piazza Santo Spirito at night: Florence's most local square for an evening drink.
• The wine windows: Count how many buchette del vino you can spot as you walk around.
• A food tour: A guided tasting walk is the easiest way to find the hole-in-the-wall spots.

The Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy

These are my go-to places to eat in Florence, with what to order at each.

• Il Santo Bevitore (Oltrarno): Candlelit, seasonal Tuscan cooking. Order whatever pasta is in season, and book ahead.
• Trattoria Garga (Santa Maria Novella): Colorful and quirky. Order the Tagliatelle del Magnifico.
• Il Latini (Centro): Communal tables, house wine, and the bistecca alla Fiorentina.
• Bambi Trippa e Lampredotto (San Lorenzo): Street food done right. Order the lampredotto panino with green sauce.
• Trattoria il Bargello (Centro): Classic Tuscan comfort food. Order the ribollita in cooler months.
• Oltrarno Ristorante Toscano (Oltrarno): Authentic Tuscan dishes in a charming room. Order pappardelle al cinghiale.
• La Buchetta Food & Wine (Santa Croce): A family-friendly steakhouse. Order the bistecca and a truffle pasta.

BEST FLORENCE PHOTO SPOTS

• Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset, for the classic skyline
• Ponte Santa Trinita, looking at Ponte Vecchio
• Via dei Servi, with a perfect framed view of the Duomo
• Top of Giotto's Bell Tower, the best dome close-up
• Bardini Gardens wisteria tunnel (April-May)
• Babae's wine window, for a fun, unique shot
• A Fotoautomatica photobooth strip, the vintage souvenir photo
• Oblate Library terrace, a Duomo view with coffee in hand

WEATHER & BEST TIME TO VISIT FLORENCE

• Spring (March-May): My favorite time, with temperatures from the upper 50s to low 70s°F, blooming gardens, and wisteria in April.
• Summer (June-August): Hot (upper 80s-90s°F), busy, and dry. Some local shops close in mid-August.
• Fall (September-November): Gorgeous, with harvest season in Chianti, mild days, and more rain in November.
• Winter (December-February): Cool and damp (upper 30s-50s°F), with the fewest crowds and the lowest hotel prices. Snow is rare and light.

Best time to visit Florence: Late April to early June and September to October.

Events to know: Calcio Storico (June, ending June 24), the Rificolona lantern festival (September 7), and the grape harvest (September-October).

MORE ABOUT FLORENCE

Does Florence Have a Soccer Team?

Yes, ACF Fiorentina, founded in 1926. The team plays in purple (viola) in Serie A at Stadio Artemio Franchi, which is undergoing a major renovation, so check ticket availability before you go. They've won two Italian league titles.

Calcio Storico Fiorentino

This wild 16th-century game mixes soccer, rugby, and wrestling. Four neighborhood teams (Blues, Whites, Reds, and Greens) battle it out in costume in Piazza Santa Croce each June, with the final on June 24 for the feast of St. John the Baptist.

Does Florence Have Beaches?

No, Florence is inland. The closest beaches are in Versilia (Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi) and at Marina di Pisa, about 1-1.5 hours away.

For quieter, wilder sand, head to Cala Violina or Castiglione della Pescaia in the Maremma.

Outdoor Activities Near Florence

• Fiesole hike: About 5 km uphill from Le Cure, with big views over the city.
• Settignano trails: Olive groves, Villa Gamberaia, and Vincigliata castle.
• Parco del Mensola: Flat gravel paths and a cypress alley.
• The Arno riverside path: Easy and flat, great for running or biking.

A Quick History of Florence

Florence was traditionally founded in 59 BC as the Roman colony Florentia, on the banks of the Arno. From the 1300s to the 1500s it became Europe's center of banking, art, and ideas, powered by the gold florin and the Medici family.

That's when Dante, Brunelleschi, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Botticelli all called it home. It's why Florence is known today as the cradle of the Renaissance.

FAQ: Quick Travel Tips for Florence, Italy

What are the top 3 things to do in Florence? Climb the Duomo or Giotto's Bell Tower, see David at the Accademia, and watch sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. If you have a fourth slot, add a Chianti wine tasting.

How many days do you need in Florence? Three days is ideal for first-timers. Two days covers the highlights, and four or five lets you add day trips.

Do I need to book the Duomo in advance? Yes. Entry to the cathedral is free, but the dome and bell tower climbs need a pass and a reserved time slot.

Where should I stay in Florence for the first time? The Centro Storico, near the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio. Choose the Oltrarno if you want a quieter, more local feel.

Where was the Negroni invented? In Florence, in 1919, at the café that later became Caffè Giacosa. You can still order one at Giacosa 1815.

Do you need to speak Italian in Florence? No. English is widely spoken in the center, but a "buongiorno" and "grazie" go a long way.