The 25 Best Things to Do in Florence

Picture this: you're standing atop the iconic Duomo, gazing out over Florence's terracotta rooftops. The late afternoon sun bathes the city in a golden glow, glinting off the Arno River as it winds through the heart of Tuscany's capital. Below, the narrow medieval streets buzz with life, leading to grand piazzas where locals and tourists alike gather to sip espresso and watch the world go by. This, my friends, is Florence – a city where every cobblestone tells a story and every corner holds a masterpiece.

Florence isn't just the birthplace of the Renaissance; it's a living, breathing testament to human creativity and innovation. Here, world-changing ideas were born, artistic revolutions were sparked, and some of history's greatest minds left their mark. But don't let all that history fool you – modern Florence pulses with energy, from cutting-edge fashion boutiques to trendy cocktail bars serving up negronis (which, by the way, were invented right here in Florence).

So, whether you're here to gaze at Michelangelo's David, indulge in a perfectly grilled bistecca alla Fiorentina, or simply wander the charming streets of Oltrarno, Florence is ready to steal your heart. Let's dive into the 25 best things to do in this captivating city. Trust me, by the end of this list, you'll be booking your tickets faster than you can say "Ciao, bella!"

Climb to the Top of the Duomo

Start your Florence adventure with a breathtaking climb to the top of Brunelleschi's dome. As you ascend the 463 steps (yes, I counted), you'll get an up-close look at the intricate frescoes adorning the cupola. The real treat, though, is the panoramic view that awaits you at the top. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Just don't forget your camera – and maybe a bottle of water for that climb!

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: 8:15 AM - 7:20 PM (Monday to Friday), 8:15 AM - 5:20 PM (Saturday)
• Admission: €20 (includes access to all Duomo complex monuments)

Why Visit: The Duomo offers the best 360-degree views of Florence and a chance to marvel at Renaissance engineering up close.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets online in advance and arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Welcome to the Holy Grail of Renaissance art. The Uffizi houses works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo, to name just a few. As you wander through the long corridors, you'll come face-to-face with iconic masterpieces like Botticelli's "Birth of Venus." Pro tip: don't try to see everything in one visit. Pick a few must-see works and take your time appreciating them. And when your feet need a break, head to the rooftop café for a espresso with a view.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 AM - 6:50 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €20 (€2 online booking fee)

Why Visit: The Uffizi houses the world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art.

Insider Tip: Book a guided tour to navigate the vast collection efficiently and gain deeper insights into the artworks.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio

Take a stroll across Florence's oldest and most famous bridge. The Ponte Vecchio has spanned the Arno River since 1345, surviving wars and floods. Today, it's lined with glittering jewelry shops where you can window shop (or splurge on a special souvenir). As you cross, look for the secret passageway above the shops – it's the Vasari Corridor, built for the Medici family to cross the river without mixing with commoners. At sunset, join the locals and visitors gathered on the bridge to watch the sky turn pink over the Arno.

Key Information:

• Location: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: The Ponte Vecchio offers a picturesque glimpse into Florence's medieval past and stunning river views.

Insider Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds and capture the best photos.

Marvel at Michelangelo's David

Prepare to be awestruck by one of the world's most famous sculptures. Michelangelo's David stands 17 feet tall, a marble giant that captures the human form in exquisite detail. As you circle the statue, notice how David's expression changes – from determination to uncertainty, depending on your viewpoint. The Galleria dell'Accademia houses other Michelangelo sculptures too, including his unfinished "Prisoners" series, which seem to be struggling to break free from their marble blocks.

Key Information:

• Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM - 6:45 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €12

Why Visit: See one of the world's most recognizable masterpieces up close and personal.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets online and opt for an early morning or late afternoon slot to avoid the biggest crowds.

Stroll Through the Boboli Gardens

Escape the bustling city streets and step into a green oasis behind the Pitti Palace. The Boboli Gardens are a prime example of 16th-century Italian garden design, complete with fountains, grottos, and ancient statues. As you wander the manicured paths, you'll discover hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. Don't miss the Grotta del Buontalenti, a fantastical manmade cave decorated with frescoes and sculptures. Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the lawns like a true Florentine.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Vary by season, generally 8:15 AM - 6:30 PM (November to February until 4:30 PM)
• Admission: €10 (€2 online booking fee)

Why Visit: The Boboli Gardens offer a peaceful retreat and stunning views of Florence's skyline.

Insider Tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes – the garden is vast and hilly.

Savor Tuscan Flavors at Mercato Centrale

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure at Florence's bustling indoor market. The ground floor is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and olive oils. Head upstairs to the modern food court, where you can sample everything from traditional Florentine lampredotto (tripe sandwich) to artisanal gelato. Grab a glass of Chianti and people-watch from one of the communal tables, or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell'Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM daily
• Admission: Free (pay for what you eat)

Why Visit: Experience the vibrant local food scene and taste authentic Tuscan specialties.

Insider Tip: Visit around lunchtime to catch the market at its liveliest, but avoid peak hours if you want to snag a seat easily.

Admire Art and History at Palazzo Vecchio

Step into the heart of Florentine civic life at the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. This fortress-palace has been the seat of Florence's government since the 14th century. Inside, you'll find lavishly decorated halls and chambers, including the stunning Salone dei Cinquecento with its 39-foot-high frescoed ceiling. Don't miss the secret passages and hidden rooms – you can even climb the tower for panoramic city views. As night falls, the illuminated palace and the statues in the adjacent Piazza della Signoria create a magical atmosphere.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Various times depending on the season, generally 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Thursday until 2:00 PM)
• Admission: €12.50 for the museum, €12.50 for the tower

Why Visit: Experience the blend of art, history, and politics that shaped Renaissance Florence.

Insider Tip: Join a guided tour to access normally closed areas, like the secret passages used by the Medici family.

Discover Hidden Treasures at Museo Stefano Bardini

Escape the crowds and venture into this often-overlooked gem. Housed in a beautifully restored 13th-century church and palazzo, the Bardini Museum showcases the eclectic collection of its namesake art dealer. From ancient sculptures to Renaissance paintings and ornate furniture, every piece tells a story. The museum's signature blue walls provide a striking backdrop for the artworks. As you explore, keep an eye out for the ornate doorframes and windows that Bardini salvaged from demolished Florentine palaces.

Key Information:

• Location: Via dei Renai, 37, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Friday to Monday, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Tuesday to Thursday)
• Admission: €7

Why Visit: Experience a lesser-known side of Florence's art scene in a uniquely atmospheric setting.

Insider Tip: Check out the small garden behind the museum for a peaceful spot with great views of the Arno.

Shop for Perfumes at Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

Indulge your senses at one of the world's oldest pharmacies, founded by Dominican friars in 1221. Step into the ornate shop and you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. The air is thick with the scent of herbs and flowers used in their traditional remedies and perfumes. Browse the beautifully packaged soaps, lotions, and fragrances – many still made using centuries-old recipes. Even if you don't buy anything, the stunning frescoed ceilings and antique apothecary jars make this a must-visit spot.

Key Information:

• Location: Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM; Sunday, 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a living piece of Florentine history and shop for unique, luxurious souvenirs.

Insider Tip: Visit the small museum in the back to learn about the pharmacy's fascinating history and traditional production methods.

Explore the Oltrarno Neighborhood

Cross the Arno River to discover Florence's trendiest neighborhood. Oltrarno (literally "beyond the Arno") is where locals go to escape the tourist crowds. Wander through narrow streets lined with artisan workshops, vintage shops, and hip cafes. Stop by Piazza Santo Spirito to people-watch at a sidewalk café or browse the morning market. Art lovers shouldn't miss the Brancacci Chapel in Santa Maria del Carmine church, home to stunning frescoes by Masaccio that influenced generations of Renaissance painters.

Key Information:

• Location: South of the Arno River
• Hours: Varies by establishment
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Experience authentic Florentine life away from the main tourist areas.

Insider Tip: Join a guided walking tour to discover the neighborhood's hidden gems and learn about its artistic heritage.

Visit the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana

Book lovers and architecture enthusiasts, this one's for you. Designed by Michelangelo, this historic library houses one of the world's most important collections of manuscripts. The real showstopper is the Reading Room, with its long rows of wooden benches (plutei) and unique staircase. As you enter, take a moment to admire the vestibule with its unusual undulating staircase – a prime example of Mannerist architecture. The library still functions as a research institution, giving you a glimpse into the world of Renaissance scholars.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza San Lorenzo, 9, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM (closed weekends and holidays)
• Admission: €3

Why Visit: Marvel at Michelangelo's architectural genius and see one of the world's great historic libraries.

Insider Tip: Look for the reading desks with their original chains – a Renaissance-era security system for precious manuscripts!

Uncover Scientific History at Museo Galileo

Calling all science geeks and history buffs! The Galileo Museum houses an incredible collection of scientific instruments dating from the Renaissance to the 19th century. You'll see everything from ornate astrolabes and globes to Galileo's original telescope. Don't miss the museum's prized possession: Galileo's middle finger, preserved in a glass egg (yes, really). Interactive exhibits let you explore the principles behind many of the instruments, making this a great stop for curious minds of all ages.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza dei Giudici, 1, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Every day, 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays during winter)
• Admission: €10

Why Visit: Gain insight into the scientific revolution that took place in Renaissance Florence.

Insider Tip: Download the free museum app for additional information and interactive features.

Relax in the Giardino delle Rose

Take a break from sightseeing and stop to smell the roses – literally. This charming garden on the slopes of San Miniato al Monte offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views over Florence. With over 350 varieties of roses, the garden bursts into bloom in May and June, but it's beautiful year-round. Pack a picnic and find a spot on the grass, or wander the paths to discover sculptures by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon. It's the perfect place to recharge before tackling your next Florentine adventure.

Key Information:

• Location: Viale Giuseppe Poggi, 2, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM until sunset
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy panoramic views of Florence in a tranquil garden setting.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Piazzale Michelangelo for the ultimate Florence photo op.

Experience Renaissance Living at Palazzo Davanzati

Step back in time and experience life in a wealthy 14th-century Florentine home. Palazzo Davanzati, known as the "Museum of the Ancient Florentine House," offers a unique glimpse into Renaissance daily life. As you wander through the rooms, you'll see period furniture, frescoes, and even ancient kitchen utensils. Don't miss the bedroom with its ornate four-poster bed and the study with its intricate wood inlay work. The palazzo's well-preserved structure, complete with its original stone staircase, makes it easy to imagine the bustle of a Renaissance household.

Key Information:

• Location: Via Porta Rossa, 13, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:15 AM - 1:50 PM (closed Saturday and Sunday)
• Admission: €6

Why Visit: Get an authentic feel for how wealthy Florentines lived during the Renaissance.

Insider Tip: Look for the "donkey door" on the ground floor – a smaller door within the main door used for nighttime entries.

Taste Florentine Cuisine on a Food Tour

Embark on a culinary journey through Florence's flavors and traditions. Join a guided food tour to sample local specialties like ribollita (hearty vegetable soup), crostini (toasted bread with toppings), and of course, Florentine gelato. You'll visit local markets, traditional trattorias, and artisanal food shops, learning about the history and culture behind each dish. Don't be surprised if you find yourself craving fettunta (Tuscan garlic bread) long after your tour ends!

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations throughout Florence
• Hours: Tours typically last 3-4 hours, with morning and evening options available
• Admission: Prices vary, typically €70-€100 per person

Why Visit: Discover Florence's culinary heritage and find the best local eateries.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and pace yourself – there's a lot of food to try!

Climb Giotto's Campanile

For breathtaking views and a bit of a workout, ascend the 414 steps of Giotto's Bell Tower. This stunning example of Gothic architecture stands adjacent to the Duomo and offers panoramic views of Florence and the cathedral's dome. As you climb, pause at the various levels to admire the tower's intricate marble work and statues. The view from the top is well worth the effort – you'll feel like you're floating above Florence's terracotta rooftops.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: 8:15 AM - 7:20 PM (Monday to Friday), 8:15 AM - 5:20 PM (Saturday)
• Admission: €15 (included in the Duomo complex ticket)

Why Visit: Enjoy stunning views of Florence and the Duomo from a different perspective.

Insider Tip: If you're not up for the climb, the nearby Palazzo Vecchio tower offers an elevator option with similar views.

Explore the San Lorenzo Market

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Florence's largest outdoor market. The San Lorenzo Market spreads out around the Basilica of San Lorenzo, offering everything from leather goods and clothing to souvenirs and local crafts. Sharpen your bargaining skills as you navigate the stalls – haggling is expected and part of the fun. When you need a break, duck into the nearby Mercato Centrale for a quick bite or a glass of wine.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM (closed Sundays)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience local Florentine life and shop for unique souvenirs.

Insider Tip: Visit early for the best selection, or come later for potential bargains as vendors start to pack up.

Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce

Known as the "Temple of Italian Glories," Santa Croce is the final resting place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The church's stunning Gothic architecture and Giotto frescoes are worth the visit alone. Take time to explore the cloisters and the Pazzi Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. As you wander, imagine the centuries of history and the great minds that have passed through these hallowed halls.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM; Sunday, 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM
• Admission: €8

Why Visit: Pay homage to Italy's greatest minds and admire stunning Gothic and Renaissance art.

Insider Tip: Look for the flood marker on the façade, showing the devastating height of the 1966 flood.

Discover Modern Art at Museo Novecento

Take a break from Renaissance masterpieces and dive into the world of 20th-century Italian art. The Museo Novecento, housed in a former hospital, showcases works by Italian artists from the 1900s to the present day. From Futurism to Arte Povera, you'll trace the evolution of modern Italian art through paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. Don't miss the rooftop terrace for yet another stunning view of Florence.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 10, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Admission: €9.50

Why Visit: Gain a fresh perspective on Italian art beyond the Renaissance.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events, which often feature contemporary artists.

Take a Day Trip to Fiesole

Escape the city bustle with a quick trip to the hilltop town of Fiesole. Just a 20-minute bus ride from Florence, Fiesole offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding Tuscan countryside. Explore the Roman amphitheater, visit the Etruscan-Roman archaeological site, or simply relax in the main square with a gelato. The Monastery of San Francesco, perched at the town's highest point, offers breathtaking vistas and a moment of tranquility.

Key Information:

• Location: Fiesole, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
• Hours: Varies by attraction
• Admission: €7 for the archaeological site, other attractions vary

Why Visit: Experience Tuscan hill town charm and enjoy spectacular views of Florence.

Insider Tip: Take bus number 7 from Piazza San Marco in Florence for an easy and scenic ride to Fiesole.

Enjoy Aperitivo in Santo Spirito

Experience the beloved Florentine tradition of aperitivo in the lively Piazza Santo Spirito. As the workday ends, locals flock to the square's many bars and cafes for pre-dinner drinks and snacks. Order a Spritz or a Negroni and watch as your drink arrives with a spread of finger foods – all for the price of the drink! Join the locals on the church steps or find a table at one of the outdoor terraces. It's the perfect way to unwind and people-watch after a day of sightseeing.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza Santo Spirito, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Most bars serve aperitivo from around 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Admission: Price of a drink (usually €8-€12)

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy great drinks and snacks.

Insider Tip: Try Volume or PopCafe for great aperitivo spreads and lively atmospheres.

Admire the Frescoes at Brancacci Chapel

Art enthusiasts, don't miss this hidden gem in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine. The Brancacci Chapel houses a stunning cycle of frescoes by Masaccio, Masolino, and Filippino Lippi, considered a cornerstone of Renaissance art. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. Peter and showcase revolutionary techniques in perspective and realism. As you study the vivid scenes, you'll understand why artists like Michelangelo came here to learn and be inspired.

Key Information:

• Location: Piazza del Carmine, 14, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Sundays)
• Admission: €8

Why Visit: See some of the most influential frescoes of the early Renaissance.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets in advance – only 30 people are allowed in the chapel at a time.

Shop for Artisanal Goods in San Frediano

Discover Florence's thriving artisan scene in the bohemian neighborhood of San Frediano. This area across the Arno is home to countless workshops where skilled craftspeople continue centuries-old traditions. Watch goldsmiths at work, visit leather workshops, or browse unique ceramics and textiles. Don't miss the chance to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs that truly capture the spirit of Florence.

Key Information:

• Location: San Frediano neighborhood, Oltrarno area
• Hours: Vary by shop, typically 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Support local artisans and find unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

Insider Tip: Many workshops offer demonstrations or short courses – ask about hands-on experiences to try your hand at traditional crafts.

Relax at a Tuscan Wine Bar

No visit to Florence is complete without sampling the renowned wines of Tuscany. Cozy up in a traditional enoteca (wine bar) to taste local varieties like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Many wine bars offer tasting flights paired with local cheeses and cured meats. For a truly local experience, try Le Volpi e l'Uva, a charming wine bar tucked away near the Ponte Vecchio, known for its carefully curated selection of small-producer wines.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations throughout Florence
• Hours: Typically open from late afternoon until midnight
• Admission: Varies by establishment, wine tastings usually start around €15

Why Visit: Sample Tuscany's famous wines in a cozy, authentic setting.

Insider Tip: Ask the sommelier for recommendations based on your preferences – they're usually happy to share their knowledge and help you discover new favorites.

Structuring Your Florence Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored Florence's top attractions, let's put it all together into a manageable 3-day itinerary. This plan will help you see the city's highlights while still leaving room for spontaneous discoveries and leisurely moments. Remember, Florence is a city best savored slowly, so don't try to pack too much into each day.

Day 1: Historic Center and Renaissance Art

• Morning: Start early with a visit to the Duomo complex. Climb Brunelleschi's dome for panoramic views, then explore the cathedral interior and Baptistery.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Mercato Centrale, sampling local specialties.
• Afternoon: Dive into Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery. Focus on key works like Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" and da Vinci's "Annunciation."
• Evening: End your day with a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio and an aperitivo in lively Santo Spirito.

Day 2: David and the Oltrarno

• Morning: Beat the crowds to see Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery.
• Late Morning/Lunch: Explore the San Lorenzo Market and enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria.
• Afternoon: Cross the Arno to discover the Oltrarno neighborhood. Visit the Pitti Palace and relax in the Boboli Gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Oltrarno's charming restaurants, followed by a gelato stroll.

Day 3: Hidden Gems and Panoramic Views

• Morning: Start with the fascinating Museo Galileo, then visit the Basilica of Santa Croce.
• Lunch: Take a food tour or cooking class to delve deeper into Florentine cuisine.
• Afternoon: Explore off-the-beaten-path sites like Palazzo Davanzati or Museo Stefano Bardini.
• Evening: End your trip with a sunset visit to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views over Florence, followed by a farewell dinner.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests, energy levels, and any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit. Don't forget to leave some time for wandering – some of Florence's best experiences come from stumbling upon a hidden piazza or a quaint cafe.

Florence is a city that reveals itself slowly, rewarding those who take the time to look beyond the major sights. Whether you're marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, savoring Tuscan cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of centuries-old streets, Florence is sure to capture your heart. So grab a gelato, wander down a cobblestone alley, and let the magic of the Renaissance city unfold around you. Buon viaggio!