Explore Florence's iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. Immerse yourself in Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia. Enjoy a cooking class, savor delicious Tuscan cuisine, and discover hidden gems through guided tours. For the best travel itinerary, consider climbing Giotto's Campanile and indulging in local shopping for leather goods. Create unforgettable memories with these top Florence activities.
Must-See Landmarks & Experiences
Florence's most famous attractions are famous for a reason. They offer a glimpse into the city's rich past and artistic achievements. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Activity |
Description |
Why it's a Must-Do |
|---|
Climb the Duomo |
Ascend to the top of Brunelleschi's Dome at the Florence Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) for panoramic city views. You'll need to climb 463 steps. |
Unforgettable views of Florence. An architectural marvel. |
Visit the Uffizi Gallery |
Explore masterpieces by Renaissance giants like Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. |
Home to some of the world's most iconic Renaissance paintings. |
Cross the Ponte Vecchio |
Walk across Florence's oldest bridge, lined with shops (originally butchers, now mostly jewelers). Admire the unique architecture. |
A picturesque landmark and a symbol of Florence. |
See Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery |
Marvel at the imposing statue of David, Michelangelo's masterpiece, and explore other Florentine paintings and sculptures. |
Witness one of the greatest sculptures ever created. |
Explore the Boboli Gardens |
Wander through the sprawling Boboli Gardens, an Italian garden behind the Pitti Palace, filled with sculptures, fountains, and grottos. |
A peaceful escape with stunning views and artistic surprises. |
Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences
Venture beyond the main tourist trail to discover Florence's hidden treasures and authentic experiences.
Activity |
Description |
Why it's a Must-Do |
|---|
Climb Giotto's Campanile |
Climb Giotto's bell tower for alternative, stunning views of the Duomo and the city. Slightly less crowded than the Duomo climb. |
Different perspective on the Duomo and Florence. A good workout! |
Visit the Bardini Garden |
Enjoy panoramic views of Florence from the Bardini Garden, another beautiful garden with fewer crowds than Boboli. |
Excellent photo opportunities and a tranquil atmosphere. |
Explore the Oltrarno district |
Wander through the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops, leather goods, and authentic Florentine atmosphere. |
Discover local crafts and experience a more genuine side of Florence. |
Visit the Brancacci Chapel |
Admire the frescoes by Masaccio and Masolino in the Brancacci Chapel, considered a pivotal work of the Early Renaissance. |
Experience groundbreaking Renaissance art. |
Take a cooking class |
Learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes in a hands-on cooking class. |
Immerse yourself in Florentine cuisine. |
Food & Drink Experiences
Florence is a food lover's paradise. Indulge in delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample local wines.
Activity |
Description |
Why it's a Must-Do |
|---|
Enjoy a Bistecca alla Fiorentina |
Savor a traditional Florentine steak, a thick-cut T-bone grilled to perfection. |
A classic Florentine culinary experience. |
Try Lampredotto |
Sample Lampredotto, a Florentine street food specialty made from the fourth stomach of a cow. |
An authentic and affordable local delicacy. |
Visit the Mercato Centrale |
Explore the Mercato Centrale, a vibrant food market with stalls selling local produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods. |
A foodie's paradise with endless options. |
Take a wine tour in the Tuscan countryside |
Escape the city for a day and visit vineyards in the Chianti region, sampling local wines and enjoying the beautiful Tuscan landscape. |
Experience the beauty of Tuscany and taste world-renowned wines. |
Enjoy Gelato |
Florence is full of amazing gelato shops. Be sure to try different flavors! |
The perfect way to cool off on a hot day. |
Art, Culture & History
Delve deeper into Florence's artistic and historical heritage by visiting museums and historical sites.
Activity |
Description |
Why it's a Must-Do |
|---|
Visit the Pitti Palace |
Explore the Pitti Palace, one of Florence’s largest architectural monuments; it is divided into five museums, including the Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. |
An insight to the lives of the Medici family. |
Explore the Palazzo Vecchio |
Explore the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, and admire its impressive architecture and art. |
Witness the seat of Florentine power. |
Visit the Museo di San Marco |
Admire the frescoes by Fra Angelico in the Museo di San Marco, a former monastery. |
Experience serene and beautiful religious art. |
See the Baptistery of San Giovanni |
Admire the bronze doors of the Baptistery of San Giovanni, including the famous "Gates of Paradise" by Ghiberti. |
Witness a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. |
Visit the Gucci Garden |
Explore the Gucci Garden which isn't a garden at all, but a museum celebrating the iconic Italian fashion brand Gucci's history and evolution. |
A unique museum dedicated to Italian fashion. |
Relaxation & Recreation
Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some relaxation and recreation in Florence.
Activity |
Description |
Why it's a Must-Do |
|---|
Enjoy a stroll along the Arno River |
Take a leisurely walk along the Arno River and enjoy the views of the Ponte Vecchio and other landmarks. |
A relaxing way to experience the city. |
Take a bike tour |
Explore Florence on a bike tour, covering more ground than walking and enjoying the fresh air. |
A fun and active way to see the city. |
Shop for leather goods |
Florence is known for its high-quality leather goods. Explore the shops in the San Lorenzo Market or Oltrarno district. |
Find a unique and lasting souvenir. |
Attend an Opera |
Check for performances at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino for an unforgettable cultural experience. |
Immerse yourself in Italian culture. |
With its endless array of attractions and activities, Florence offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. By exploring both the iconic landmarks and the hidden gems, you can create lasting memories of this beautiful Renaissance city. Don't forget to book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during the peak season.
