Things to Do in Florence – The Ultimate Travel Guide
Are you looking for things to do in Florence? Then you might be disappointed. There are so many options that you may not have time for all of them.
That’s why Florence is the perfect starting point if you’re looking for things to do in Italy.
Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is steeped in beautiful, era-inspired art, architecture, and food. The Uffizi Gallery is a testament to that, being one of the most important museums in the world.
Many refer to Florence as an open-air museum. Every neighborhood, building, and statue is a picturesque piece of history, and each river, garden, and park preserves something rare or cultural.
In addition to spectacular art and architecture, the other fun things to do in Florence, Italy, include delicious and inspired food and drink.
Read on as we unpack all the exciting and awe-inspiring things to see and do in Florence, Italy. Explore must-see attractions and hidden gems, or seamlessly explore the city with Exoticca’s guided tours.
Things to do in Florence: must-see attractions
If you don’t have enough time to visit every church, gallery, and museum, don’t fret. There are plenty of things to do in Florence to help you discover its Renaissance heritage and most notable treasures.
Gaze upon the works of Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci at Venice’s famous galleries or explore architectural masterpieces and stunning gardens.
You can also find some unique things to do in Florence, Italy, by visiting the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio.
Duomo & Brunelleschi’s Dome
Built in the early 15th century, Brunelleschi’s Dome is a masterpiece of architectural ingenuity. It’s also a must-see among the extensive list of things to do in Florence.
Also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or the Duomo, Brunelleschi’s Dome was the largest church of its time. While it no longer holds that title, it remains the largest masonry dome ever built.
The Duomo is certainly worth a visit. However, you may require some time to fully explore it. It’ll take 463 steps just to reach the top to see the exceptional views. Then, there’s the ancient underground church beneath it.
Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. Dating from 1560, the building now houses some of the oldest and most famous art museums of Europe.
No Florence trip or tour of the eternal cities, Milan, and Lake Como is complete without a visit to the Uffizi Gallery. It’s home to some of the most invaluable art collections (it’s a piece of art itself).
Even if you have no interest in stunning pieces like Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, the Uffizi may still seduce you. From stunning statues to over 177,000 prints and drawings, at least one artwork will speak to you.
Uffizi is an architectural wonder, from the Florentine Renaissance-style entrance staircase to the neoclassical Niobe Room.
Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is a symbol of Florence, rebuilt in 1345 after a flood washed its predecessor away.
It’s been a merchant bridge since the 13th century. If you’re looking for beautiful jewelry while finding things to do in Florence, it’s lined with 48 shops dedicated to that.
You can even walk the Vasari Corridor. The order of Cosimo I de’ Medici built it in 1565 to connect their residence, the Palazzo Pitti, to the city’s political heart, the Palazzo Vecchio.
These artisan shops make the Ponte Vecchio sparkle throughout the day and appear like treasure chests at night. It makes for a romantic and insightful excursion over the renowned Arno River.
Palazzo Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria
The Palazzo Vecchio is an excellent start if you’re a history lover exploring things to do in Florence, Italy. This famous building is the City Hall, overlooking Piazza della Signoria and a copy of Michelangelo’s David statue.
Today, most of the Palazzo Vecchio is a stunning museum adorned with frescoes, statues, and artwork. You can view famous pieces like Giorgio Vasari’s Battle of Marciano or Dante’s Death Mask.
For the more adventurous, some tours take you through the palace’s secret passages. If you climb the tower, you can see Savonarola’s prison cells, where he awaited execution.
Accademia Gallery
The Galleria dell’Accademia, or Accademia Gallery, is a famous museum home to Michelangelo’s original David statue. It’s a must-see, a 500-year-old statue carved from a single marble block. Michelangelo brought every detail to the surface, down to David’s arm veins.
The Accademia Gallery is also home to musical instruments, paintings, archives, and sculptures. You can see art by famous artists including Giambologna, the Master of the St Cecilia, Andrea Orcagna, and Bernardo Daddi.
Boboli Gardens
Do you need a plan for things to do with kids in Florence or a calm escape from the chaotic city centre? Then the Boboli Gardens are the answer.
The Medici family designed these gardens as an outdoor museum, populating its green expanse with Renaissance statues, grottoes, and large fountains.
The Boboli Gardens offer a cozy picnic or reading space with spectacular views. Marvel at its ancient fountains or take an introspective stroll through its labyrinth of trees.
It’s an excellent place to let your kids run free, full of nooks and crannies ripe for exploration (for adults, too).
Hidden gems & local favorites
Florence’s tourist attractions are often crowded and busy, but they don’t show you its most authentic side. If you’re interested in unique things to do in Florence, Italy, the locals’ favorite spots may offer more satisfaction.
A self-guided train tour from Rome through to Venice will offer you plenty of time to explore these hidden gems:
- Oltrarno neighborhood: Cross the Ponte Vecchio away from the crowds and into the heart of Oltrarno for an authentic experience of Florentine life. Visit its chic wine bars, cafes, and artisan shops and see expansive gardens, historic sites, and stunning views.
- San Miniato al Monte: This former church lies on the hill where martyr St. Miniatus was buried. Today, it’s a museum holding his relics. One of the free things to do in Florence, Italy, is to explore its fascinating architecture, from marble facades to a pillar-filled crypt.
- Rose Garden & Piazzale Michelangelo: The Rose Garden is perfect if you’re after romantic sunsets adorned by hundreds of roses. It’s below the Piazzale Michelangelo and has been enriched with bronze sculptures and a Japanese Shorai oasis.
- Lesser-known museums: The Bargello holds unique panel pieces, glazed terracotta, and wooden sculptures. The Museo Galileo is home to scientific instruments. The Stibbert Museum exhibits Stibbert’s collections dating from the 15th to the 19th century.
- Markets: Florence is full of little markets frequented by the locals. The Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio is a fine example. They buy their groceries, clothes, and even furniture here. You can even find food stalls, cafes, delis, butcheries, and wine shops.
Food & wine experiences you can’t miss
Eating and drinking are some of the best things to do in Florence. It takes the cake as a destination for Italian food and wine.
Tuscan dishes
If you’re a foodie looking to indulge in cuisine with centuries of tradition behind it, Tuscan dishes are an excellent starting point. Some notable dishes include bistecca alla fiorentina, ribollita and schiacciata.
Best local trattorias & osterie
If you’re after an authentic Italian eating experience, osterie and trattorias are your next stops.
Osterie are typically casual and affordable restaurants or wine bars. They emphasize simple, specialty dishes and local wines, and are well known for rustic charm and communal dining.
Trattorias are family-run restaurants that serve home-style cuisine. Mothers prepare the food and establishment for regional travelers, crafting unforgettable indulgences.
Florentine street food
Tasting Florence’s street food is among the top things to do in Florence, Italy. It’s rooted in the city’s culture and history and delivers unique, authentic, and delightful flavors.
Some of the most notable mentions are the lampredotto sandwiches and gelati. Each combines centuries of Florentine stories, flavors, and traditions.
Wine tastings & day trips
If you want a true taste of Florence, try its wines.
One of the best things to do in Florence is to take a wine tour. If you want an unforgettable experience, explore the wine bars’ wine tastings or take one of many day trips to the Chianti region vineyards.
Things to do in Florence for art & history lovers
If you love art and history, Italy cultural tours are an excellent way to see some places rich in those characteristics. Here are our top picks:
- Vasari corridor: This passageway, built to accommodate the Grand Duke, connects the Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti. It snakes through the Uffizi and Lungarno degli Archibusieri, stretching over the Ponte Vecchio and some of Oltrarno’s houses.
- Santa Croce & Santa Maria Novella: These breathtaking churches are rich in artistic and historical heritage. They house many funerary monuments, art treasures, and famous Gothic and Renaissance frescoes.
- Medici Chapels: These chapels, designed by Michelangelo, are an extension of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the official church of the Medici family. They celebrate the family and house their tombs, treasures, and history.
Day trips from Florence
Tuscan hills covered with vines for winemaking in the Chianti region of Italy. Focus on the foreground vines, Tenuta Perano dei Frescobaldi.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Florence, Italy, and you’ve exhausted all the highlights, consider some of its neighboring gems.
Florence day trips and tours can take you to several areas rich in history, art, architecture, and food:
- Fiesole: This hilltop town presides over the Arno River and Florence, offering scenic views. Climb atop San Franceso’s monastery for the best sights. Discover its long history of housing famous artists and inventors, or join its leading cultural events.
- Chianti wine region: The Chianti region is renowned for Tuscan wines. There are day trips that’ll take you to its most prestigious estates, from Verrazzano and Brolio to Antinori.
- Pisa & Lucca: Travel to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and ogle the exquisite architecture of the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Visit Lucca along the way to explore the picturesque piazzas, narrow streets, and stunning churches within its ancient walls.
- San Gimignano: Travel to the medieval Town of Five Towers. Explore its preserved Gothic and Romanesque architecture or historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste its famous, saffron-infused dishes and Vernaccia white wines.
Practical travel tips for Florence
With so many things to do in Florence, from visiting world-class museums and galleries to tasting delicious Tuscan cuisine, street food, and wine, planning is essential.
Here’s what you need to know before traveling to Florence:
- Best times to visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Florence. You can expect milder weather and fewer crowds. You’ll also be able to enjoy bustling events like the Calcio Storico tournament.
- Transportation: Getting around Florence is easiest done on foot, especially since the main attractions are typically within walking distance. Trams and buses are your next best (and most affordable) pick if you want to go on day trips or find hidden gems fast.
- Museum reservations: We recommend booking museum trips a month or two in advance. You’ll need to act fast if you want tickets to the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia Gallery. There are also passes that make accessing various museums easier.
- Safety tips: Be wary of pickpockets at tourist attractions and avoid dimly lit roads and alleyways at night, especially the Santa Maria Novella train station and the Piagge neighborhood. Live by the buddy system and ensure someone knows where you are.
Discover Florence with Exoticca
There’s an endless list of exciting things to do in Florence. It’s a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and foodies. Quite frankly, there’s something to enjoy for everyone.
Delight in Florence’s delicious street food and wine tastings, visit famous museums and galleries, or rub shoulders with the locals in their favorite spots.
If you want a guided tour through the best spots in Florence, Exoticca has you covered. We simplify the experience, helping you make the most of your time.
Explore our Italy vacation packages to learn more about our offerings and unbeatable prices.
