Florence

Things to Know Before You Go

Florence uses the euro, and card payments are widely accepted, though smaller cafés and local markets may prefer cash. Italian is the official language, but English is common in tourist areas, museums, hotels, and restaurants. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up a bill or leaving a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated.

Florence is incredibly walkable, but the historic center can get crowded, especially around major attractions. It’s helpful to book popular experiences—like the Uffizi, Accademia, or climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome—weeks in advance. Religious sites, including the Duomo and Basilicas, require modest attire: covered shoulders and knees.

Scams are minimal but stay aware of pickpocketing in packed areas like Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the train station. Taxis are reliable, but always use official stands or licensed cars to avoid inflated fares.

When to Visit Florence

Spring and fall are the best seasons to explore Florence comfortably. From April to June and September to early November, the weather is mild, and the city’s colors are striking. These months offer the ideal balance of comfortable temperatures and manageable crowds.

Summer brings the highest tourist traffic. Temperatures can climb significantly, and popular sites often have long queues. If you plan to visit in July or August, book everything early and take advantage of early-morning or late-evening sight-seeing.

Winter is the quietest season. December brings festive charm with holiday markets, while January and February offer lower prices and fewer crowds. It’s a great time for travelers who prefer museums and cozy cafés over warm-weather activities.

Getting to Florence

Most travelers fly into Florence Airport (FLR), located just outside the city center. It’s small, efficient, and connected by tram and taxi directly to Santa Maria Novella Station. Pisa Airport (PSA) is another popular option, often offering cheaper international flights. From Pisa, trains run frequently to Florence and take about an hour.

High-speed trains make Florence easy to access from other major Italian cities. Rome, Venice, Milan, and Bologna all connect via fast, comfortable routes. Santa Maria Novella is the main station and conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Getting Around Florence

Florence is exceptionally walkable. Most major attractions—Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Accademia—are within minutes of each other. The historic center is compact and mostly flat, making it easy to explore without transportation.

Public buses and trams are useful when traveling between neighborhoods or reaching areas slightly outside the center. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or through mobile apps. Taxis are available at official stands or by phone and are reliable, though pricier. Rideshare apps are limited, and services like Uber typically provide licensed taxi rides instead of private hires.

For day trips into Tuscany or nearby towns, trains and regional buses offer straightforward access. Renting a car is ideal for visiting the countryside, but not recommended within Florence due to restricted driving zones (ZTLs) and high parking fees.

Where to Stay

The Centro Storico (Historic Center) is the most convenient place to stay, allowing easy access to major sights, cafés, and shops. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want everything within walking distance. Just be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.

Santa Croce blends culture with energetic nightlife, offering stylish hotels and apartments near museums and artisan workshops. It’s lively but still central. Oltrarno, across the river, provides a more local feel. This district is filled with artisans, small boutiques, and intimate cafés, making it perfect for travelers who want quieter evenings and authentic experiences.

San Lorenzo is close to the main train station and home to the famous Mercato Centrale. It’s convenient for arrivals and departures and offers plenty of affordable accommodation options. Its central position makes it an excellent base for exploring the city without splurging.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Firenze & Brunelleschi’s Dome

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo, dominates Florence’s skyline. Its striking façade, enormous dome, and rich history make it a must-see for every visitor. Climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome rewards you with sweeping views of the city and a close look at its incredible frescoes. Reservations are required for the climb, so book early.

Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi is one of the world’s most important art museums, housing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio. Its long corridors and intricate galleries guide visitors through centuries of art history. It’s an unforgettable experience but can be crowded, so timed-entry tickets are essential.

Galleria dell’Accademia (David)

Home to Michelangelo’s iconic David, the Accademia is smaller than the Uffizi but equally meaningful. Beyond David, the museum features unfinished sculptures that reveal Michelangelo’s artistic process. Because of its size and popularity, it’s best visited early in the day or with advance reservations.

Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest bridge, lined with glittering jewelry shops and romantic river views. It’s one of the city’s most photographed locations and best experienced at sunrise or in the golden hour when the Arno River glows softly.

Palazzo Vecchio

This historic palace, once the seat of political power, overlooks Piazza della Signoria. Inside, lavish rooms, secret passages, and grand frescoes showcase Florence’s political and artistic roots. Visitors can climb the tower for one of the best panoramic views of the city.

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

Across the Arno, the Pitti Palace offers an expansive collection of art, royal quarters, and costume exhibits. Behind it, the Boboli Gardens form a sprawling outdoor museum filled with fountains, sculptures, and sweeping views of Florence. Together, they create a full-day experience.

Basilica of Santa Croce

Known as the Temple of the Italian Glories, Santa Croce is the burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Its quiet courtyard and intricate chapels make it a peaceful retreat from the city’s busier streets.

Piazzale Michelangelo

For the best viewpoint in Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. Overlooking the entire city, it’s the ideal spot for sunset photography. Visitors often bring gelato or wine to enjoy while watching the evening colors stretch across the skyline.

Mercato Centrale

Part market, part food hall, Mercato Centrale offers everything from fresh produce to handmade pasta and gourmet food stalls. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy affordable meals or sample local specialties in a lively environment.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

This Gothic-Renaissance basilica features geometric marble patterns, peaceful cloisters, and some of Florence’s most striking frescoes. It's conveniently located near the train station, making it an easy first or last stop in the city.

Piazza della Signoria

Florence’s political heart is filled with statues, fountains, and historic buildings. The square hosts replicas of famous artworks, including Michelangelo’s David, and offers a dynamic atmosphere throughout the day and night.

San Miniato al Monte

Perched on a hill above the city, this Romanesque church provides a tranquil place to reflect and admire Florence from above. It’s quieter than Piazzale Michelangelo and offers a more peaceful experience with equally stunning views.

Best Things to Do

Florence shines when explored slowly. Walk along the Arno River at sunset, enjoying the colors reflecting off the water. Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower for an alternative view of the Duomo and the city below. Take a cooking class led by local chefs to learn how to make fresh pasta, Tuscan sauces, and traditional desserts.

Many travelers enjoy day trips into the Chianti countryside for wine tastings and vineyard visits. Oltrarno’s artisan workshops reveal the craftsmanship behind paper goods, leatherwork, and goldsmithing. A gelato tasting tour is another fun way to discover local flavors, especially at historic or family-run shops. For an evening experience, attend an intimate opera performance in Santa Monaca Church or St. Mark’s Anglican Church.

Food & Dining Guide

Florence’s food scene is rich, rustic, and proudly rooted in Tuscan tradition. Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a local specialty known for its size and flavor, usually served rare. Ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread stew, showcases simple ingredients with deep warmth. Travelers seeking adventurous eats can try lampredotto, a classic Florentine street food.

Pappardelle al cinghiale, made with wide pasta ribbons and slow-cooked wild boar, is another must-try dish. Tuscan bread, olive oil, and red wines like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino elevate even the simplest meals.

Gelato is an essential part of the Florence experience. The city offers several historic gelaterias known for their creativity and quality. Dining customs lean toward slow meals, especially at dinner. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends and during peak travel months.

Aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink with small bites—is a beloved local ritual. Bars throughout the city offer aperitivo menus ideal for light evening meals or social gatherings.

Shopping in Florence

Florence is famous for its leather goods. From jackets and bags to belts and journals, leather workshops and boutiques offer exceptional craftsmanship. San Lorenzo Market is popular, but quality can vary, so it’s worth exploring artisan shops to find genuine handmade pieces.

Jewelry shops along the Ponte Vecchio shine with gold and fine Italian designs. Florence is also known for ceramics, stationery, and Florentine marbled paper—thoughtful and artistic souvenirs that represent the city’s creative spirit. Luxury shoppers gravitate toward Via Tornabuoni, home to high-end labels and flagship stores.

Day Trips from Florence

Florence is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany. Pisa is an easy trip for those wanting to see the Leaning Tower and enjoy riverside walks. Siena offers a medieval atmosphere with its dramatic square, Piazza del Campo, and stunning cathedral. San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and scenic streets, feels like stepping back in time.

The Chianti wine region is ideal for tastings and countryside views. Lucca’s charming walls and bike-friendly streets make for a peaceful escape, while Arezzo presents Renaissance art, antique markets, and quieter local life.

Sample Itineraries

One Day in Florence

Spend your morning at the Duomo, climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome or Giotto’s Bell Tower. Explore Piazza della Signoria and the Palazzo Vecchio area before heading to the Uffizi in the afternoon. End your day with a sunset walk to Ponte Vecchio and dinner in Oltrarno.

Two Days in Florence

On day one, visit the Duomo complex and Uffizi. Day two begins at the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David, followed by a relaxed afternoon in the Boboli Gardens. Explore artisan shops in Oltrarno, then climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for unforgettable views.

Three Days in Florence

Dedicate extra time to slower experiences. Visit Pitti Palace, wander the markets near San Lorenzo, and enjoy a Tuscan cooking class or wine tasting. Add Santa Croce or Santa Maria Novella to your schedule for deeper cultural exploration.

Five Days: Florence & Tuscany

Combine the best of the city with day trips. Spend three days enjoying Florence’s museums, churches, and food scene. Use the remaining two days to visit Siena, Pisa, Chianti, or San Gimignano depending on your interests.

Safety Tips for Tourists

Florence is generally safe, but busy areas attract pickpockets. Keep bags zipped and avoid placing phones in back pockets. At night, the historic center remains lively and safe, though quieter streets around the train station can feel less comfortable.

Be cautious around taxi scams by only using official stands. Museum ticket sellers offering skip-the-line deals often charge inflated prices. When crossing streets, be mindful of scooters and bikes that navigate tight spaces quickly.

Budgeting & Costs

Florence ranges from affordable to premium depending on your travel style. Museum tickets can add up, especially if you visit multiple major galleries. Food prices vary widely; travelers can find delicious meals at markets and trattorias without overspending.

Public transportation is inexpensive, and many attractions are walkable, helping keep costs manageable. The Firenze Card may be worth considering for travelers planning to visit several museums within a short timeframe.

Practical Tips

Reserve museum tickets days or weeks ahead to avoid long wait times. Pack comfortable walking shoes, as Florence’s streets are best experienced on foot. Power adapters are needed for European outlets, and eSIM cards or local data plans help with navigation.

Photography rules vary by museum, so check signage before taking photos. Florence is working to improve accessibility, but some historic areas have uneven pavements or stairs, so plan accordingly.

Florence is a city that rewards curiosity and slow exploration. Its art, food, and architecture tell the story of a place that shaped the world’s cultural history, while its intimate streets and warm atmosphere create unforgettable moments for travelers. Whether you're climbing iconic landmarks, savoring traditional dishes, or wandering hidden alleys, Florence offers something meaningful at every turn.

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