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Florence is the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and one of Europe’s most-visited places. Known in Italy as Firenze, which translates to flower or blossom, this beautiful city has something to delight every type of traveler.
Here, you can fill your days with incredible food and wine, fascinating history, breathtaking architecture, and iconic Renaissance art.
Whether this is your first time visiting or you’re a return visitor looking for new attractions, keep reading for our travel guide on the 17 best things to do in Florence, Italy.
1. Climb the Duomo
Photo Credit: il viaggiatore
The gothic-style Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a must-see while in Florence. Also known as the Duomo, Florence Cathedral was the largest church in the world when it was built in the 15th century and is still one of the biggest in Europe. For incredible panoramic views, tackle the 400+ steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome. The bell tower is the city’s highest point and is a truly spectacular vantage point.
2. Shop and Eat in Mercato Centrale
Italy is renowned as a foodie heaven, and Mercato Centrale is one of the best places in the city to refuel and shop for produce. On the ground floor, you’ll find stalls selling meat, cheese, fish, wine, and other delights. The upper-level food court offers a wide range of international and Florentine cuisine, including pizza, fried fish, and of course… gelato.
3. Explore Palazzo Vecchio
Photo Credit: JotaFoto
Head to Piazza Signoria to discover the fascinating Palazzo Vecchio, or ‘Old Palace’. The building got its name when the Palazzo Pitti (‘Pitti Palace’ or ‘New Palace’) was constructed across the river. It’s home to elaborate frescoes and impressive columns engraved with symbolism from the famous Medici family.
Here’s what to do during your time at the Old Palace:
- See Dante’s death mask – this important item was featured in Dan Brown’s acclaimed Inferno novel and is preserved here for visitors to see.
- Climb to the top – it’s worth the effort to see the views from the top. You can also catch a glimpse of the prison cells where the famous Renaissance preacher Savonarola was kept before his execution.
- Take a guided tour – Palazzo Vecchio is home to a maze of secret passages, and an official guided tour is the best way to discover them all.
4. Grab a Scoop of Gelato
Florence claims to be the birthplace of gelato, and the iced dessert can be traced back to the late 1500s. You’ll have no trouble finding a gelateria when a sweet craving hits. Order a scoop (or two) at these popular spots:
- Gelateria de’ Medici – choose from a huge range of flavors that use fresh and seasonal ingredients. Sample their ice cream cakes for an indulgent treat.
- Badiani – no visit is complete without trying a scoop of their trademark Buontalenti flavor, which contains just four ingredients: milk, cream, sugar, and eggs.
- Perchè No – the name of this gelateria translates to “why not,” and locals have pondered that question since the shop opened in the 1930s. Try the unique honey sesame or lavender flavors.
5. See Classic Works of Art
Photo Credit: DFLC Prints
Florence is home to some of the best art galleries in the world and is where you’ll find many of the most famous historical works of art. Don’t miss the following three galleries during your time in the city:
- Uffizi Gallery – this gallery was designed by Italian artist Giorgio Vasari and is a must-see for fans of Renaissance art. See works by Botticelli, including The Birth of Venus, as well as many other masterpieces, such as Adoration of Leonardo by Leonardo da Vinci.
- Galleria dell’Accademia – the Accademia Gallery is home to Michelangelo’s David which was carved from a single block of marble at the beginning of the 16th century. You may have to queue for a glimpse of this famous statue, but it’s well worth the wait.
- Stibbert Museum – this lesser-known gallery is located outside the city center and is home to an astounding collection of artwork, furniture, and armor. The main draw is undoubtedly the cloak that Napoleon wore at his coronation.
6. Discover Florence’s Iconic Wine Windows
These hidden-in-plain-sight windows were originally used by wealthy families to sell wine safely during plague times. There are now thought to be more than 150 windows dotted across the city, and many of them were brought back to life during the COVID-19 pandemic when bar and restaurant owners noticed parallels.
Favorite Florence wine windows include:
- Babae – located on Via Santo Spirito, this was the first wine window in the city to reopen. Order a glass of chianti at aperitif time for a taste of Renaissance life.
- Belle Donne – renowned for its Tuscan cuisine and refined service. Collect a glass of wine from the window to enjoy alongside a delicious meal on the picturesque terrace.
- Il Latini – this is one of the oldest restaurants in Florence and has a popular wine window at its entrance.
7. Paddleboard on the Arno River
Photo Credit: nikonka1
The Arno River is one of the most beautiful in all of Italy, and seeing it by paddleboard will award you with unique views of some of the city’s best sights. A highlight is passing under the Ponte Vecchio — a medieval stone bridge and the only bridge in Florence that wasn’t destroyed during World War II.
8. Take a Day Trip to Rome
Rome is less than 1.5 hours from Florence by train and makes the perfect day trip. Although Rome is a huge city, it’s possible to see many of the main highlights in a single day.
Here’s the best way to plan your day in The Eternal City:
- Colosseum – start your day with a visit to the largest ancient amphitheater ever built. This incredible Roman architectural feat dates back to 72 AD and is the largest standing structure of its kind to this day.
- Fontana di Trevi – throwing coins into the 18th century is said to bring good luck, so be sure to bring a few coins along when you visit.
- Spanish Steps – snap a selfie at the spectacular Spanish Steps. Piazza di Spagna sits at the base, and the impressive Trinità dei Monti church is the reward that awaits those who climb to the top.
9. People Watch in Florence’s Piazzas
Photo Credit: Alberto Zamorano
Florence is famous for its picturesque piazzas, and no visit is complete without wandering and people-watching in one or two. Here are three of the very best piazzas that you won’t want to miss:
- Piazza della Signoria – a central point in the history of the Florentine Republic and a political focus point to this day. This piazza is also home to the outdoor sculpture gallery of Loggia dei Lanzi.
- Piazzale Michelangelo – this pretty square is located in the Oltrarno district and is where locals and visitors gather to enjoy panoramic sunset views of Florence.
- Piazza del Duomo – this is one of the most-visited places in Europe and is home to Florence Cathedral, the Campanile di Giotto bell tower, and the Baptistery of St. John.
10. Shop at the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
Renaissance Florence was known for its herbalists, and many locals still prefer to take this natural route for minor ailments instead of visiting a doctor. Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is a 16th-century pharmacy that was founded by Dominican friars and still operates today. Head here to appreciate the historic frescoes while shopping for natural remedies, beauty products, and fragrances.
11. Take a Wine Tour
Photo Credit: wjarek
Visiting Tuscany to enjoy the Chianti region is easily done on a guided wine tour from Florence. Tours take guests into the Tuscan countryside to learn about the region’s iconic food and wine, and you’ll, of course, have an opportunity to sample it for yourself. Your visit will also include time in the pretty towns of San Gimignano and Siena, where you can snap photos and shop for your favorite bottles of wine.
12. Pick up a Leather Souvenir
Florence is famed for its leatherwork, and a locally-made item is the perfect souvenir or gift for friends and family back home. You’ll find leather for sale everywhere — from high-end stores to San Lorenzo street stalls. The leather school behind Santa Croce church is the best option for a belt or gloves, and La Pelletteria can’t be beaten for handbags.
13. Soak up the Sun in Florence’s Green Spaces
Photo Credit: Zakrevskyy Andrew
Most visitors flock to Florence to soak up the spectacular architecture, but its green spaces are equally attractive. These are our top picks for moments of tranquility when you need a break from busy days exploring the city:
- Boboli Gardens – this space was originally designed for the Medici family and opened to the public in the mid-18th century.
- Giardino Bardini – for true peace and quiet, skip the crowds at Boboli and head to Giardino instead. The purple wisteria blooming in April is an annual highlight.
14. Have a Beach Day at Cinque Terre
Photo Credit: S.Yee
Take a day trip to the coastal national park of Cinque Terre to enjoy a taste of life on the Mediterranean coast. Cinque Terre means “five lands,” and the area encompasses five small towns.
The beach in one of those small towns, named Monterosso al Mare, is the best option for relaxing by the sea and snacking on tasty bites from the charming cafes that line the beach.
15. Listen to Opera at St Mark’s English Church
St Mark’s Engish Church is home to a packed calendar of events that cater to Florence’s English-speaking community, and opera is one of the most popular shows. The church itself is located in an old Medici palace which is a breathtaking setting for the rousing operatics.
Tip: If there isn’t an event scheduled during your stay, head over for Anglican Mass on Sunday instead to hear the choir sing.
16. Take a Walking Tour in Lucca
Photo Credit: Giannis Papanikos
Lucca is a picturesque city on the pretty Serchio River that makes a relaxing day trip from Florence. Stroll the cobblestone streets and take in the Renaissance walls that surround the city’s center. Consider taking a walking tour to soak up Lucca’s rich history and learn about local culture.
17. Museo Galileo
Delve into the fascinating life of the world-famous scientist from Pisa when you visit Museo Galileo. The extensive instruments collection gives a unique insight into the scientific research that birthed our modern understanding of astronomy.
A Journey Back in Time in Historic Florence
Firenze is a true Renaissance city that foodies, history buffs, and art fans alike are certain to fall in love with. Which of these 17 best things to do will you add to the itinerary for your next trip to Florence, Italy?
