Florence, Italy is a beautiful city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, this historic town showcases some of the world’s most famous works of art and architecture that you can admire all day. However, Florence is more than just a city of art and architecture – everyone who’s been to the city will agree that Florence is a city of food, fashion, and fun. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or simply soaking up the Italian way of life, Florence is sure to captivate you with its timeless beauty and endless old-charm. Without further ado, let’s check out our top 13 things to do in Florence!
1. Visit the Duomo: The iconic cathedral of Florence, with its stunning Gothic architecture and impressive dome.
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The Duomo is one of the most famous landmarks in Florence and is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Italian Renaissance. It was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio in the 13th century and took almost 150 years to complete. The cathedral features Gothic architecture, with white, pink, and green marble on the exterior, and intricate details and frescoes on the interior.
The most impressive feature of the Duomo is its dome, which was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1436. It was the largest dome in the world at the time of its construction and is still the largest masonry dome in existence today. The interior of the dome is decorated with frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and his assistant, Federico Zuccari.
The Duomo is open to you for a fee, and there are several ticket options that allow you to explore different areas of the cathedral, including the dome, the bell tower, and the baptistery. Climbing to the top of the dome is a popular activity for you, as it offers stunning views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.
2. Admire Michelangelo’s David: The world-famous sculpture that is housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia.
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Visiting the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence to see Michelangelo’s David is high on the top things to do in Florence for many travelers. The statue is considered one of the greatest works of art of all time and has been an icon of Italian Renaissance sculpture for centuries. The level of detail and lifelike qualities of David’s features are remarkable, from the tension in his muscles to the expression on his face.
Beyond the impressive David, the Galleria dell’Accademia also houses a collection of other stunning works of art, including pieces by Sandro Botticelli, Domenico Ghirlandaio, and Pontormo. You can also explore the museum’s extensive collection of musical instruments, including rare and antique violins and cellos.
3. Explore the Uffizi Gallery: Home to a vast collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
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The gallery is housed in a historic palace and showcases an incredible collection of Italian Renaissance art. You can admire masterpieces by famous artists such as Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera,” Leonardo da Vinci’s “Annunciation,” and Michelangelo’s “Doni Tondo.” The gallery’s collection also includes works by other notable artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian.
The Uffizi Gallery is not only a must-see for art lovers, but also for those interested in history and architecture. The building itself was constructed in the 16th century for the Medici family and was one of the first modern museums in Europe. You can also enjoy stunning views of Florence from the gallery’s rooftop terrace.
It’s important to note that the Uffizi Gallery is a popular attraction, so we recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
4. Cross the Ponte Vecchio: The oldest and most famous bridge in Florence, lined with shops and offering beautiful views of the city.
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The famous bridge, which spans over the Arno River, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and has a long history dating back to the 14th century.
Originally, the Ponte Vecchio was lined with butchers’ shops, but today it is home to jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to browse for unique gifts and souvenirs while taking in the stunning views of the river and the cityscape.
In addition to shopping and sightseeing, the Ponte Vecchio is also a popular spot for taking photos especially during sunset. The bridge can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, but it’s still worth the visit for the atmosphere and history alone.
5. Wander through the Boboli Gardens: A sprawling park and botanical garden filled with sculptures, fountains, and breathtaking vistas.
This one is not to be missed in our things to do in Florence, visiting Boboli Gardens. The beautiful garden is located behind the Pitti Palace and was designed for the Medici family in the 16th century. The gardens are a true oasis of peace and greenery in the heart of the city, offering panoramic views of Florence’s skyline, hidden paths, and a variety of plants and trees.
You can explore the various areas of the garden, including the amphitheater, the Fountain of Neptune, the Isolotto, and the Viottolone. The Boboli Gardens also houses a museum of porcelain and a small costume gallery.
Walking through the Boboli Gardens is a perfect way to escape the crowds and noise of the city, relax in a peaceful environment, and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Florence, especially during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
6. Visit the Palazzo Pitti: A grand palace that houses several museums and art collections, including the famous Palatine Gallery.
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This grand palace is located on the south side of the Arno River and is an important museum complex that includes several museums and galleries, such as the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the Museum of Fashion and Costume, and the Museum of Modern Art.
The Palatine Gallery is a highlight of the palace, with an impressive collection of over 500 paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including works by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, and Rubens. The Royal Apartments were once the residence of the ruling families of Tuscany and offer a glimpse into the opulence and luxury of their lifestyle. The Museum of Fashion and Costume showcases a collection of clothing and accessories from the 18th to the 20th centuries, while the Museum of Modern Art houses a collection of works by Italian artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.
7. Take a stroll through Piazza della Signoria: One of Florence’s most important public squares, home to numerous sculptures and historical buildings.
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Next in our top things to do in Florence is exploring Piazza della Signoria. Here are some reasons why:
- The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo Vecchio, which served as the city’s town hall for centuries.
- Piazza della Signoria is home to several notable sculptures, including a copy of Michelangelo’s David and the famous Fountain of Neptune.
- The Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air gallery featuring several Renaissance sculptures, is also located in the square.
- The square has been a hub of political activity throughout Florence’s history and continues to be an important gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
- Piazza della Signoria is also a great spot for people-watching and enjoying a coffee or gelato at one of the many cafes in the area.
8. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce: A beautiful church that is the final resting place of many famous Italians, including Michelangelo and Galileo.
In addition to being the final resting place of many famous Italians, it is also a beautiful example of Italian Gothic architecture. The church‘s façade is adorned with intricately carved statues and bas-reliefs, while the interior houses numerous chapels, frescoes, and sculptures. Some of the notable works of art in the church include Giotto’s frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis, Donatello’s sculpture of Saint Louis of Toulouse, and a crucifix by Cimabue. The basilica also houses a museum that displays important works of art and historical artifacts, including a collection of reliquaries and a painting by Taddeo Gaddi.
9. Climb the Campanile di Giotto: A bell tower next to the Duomo that offers incredible views of Florence.
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The tower is adjacent to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo), and it offers stunning panoramic views of the city from the top. The tower was designed by the famous artist and architect Giotto di Bondone in the 14th century, and it stands over 80 meters tall.
The climb to the top can be strenuous, with 414 steps (you’ve been warned!), but it is definitely worth it for the breathtaking views of Florence and its surroundings. You can see the red rooftops of the city, the Arno River, and the Tuscan hills in the distance. It is also a great way to get a closer look at the intricate details of the Duomo and its famous dome.
10. Walk through the Mercato Centrale: A bustling indoor market filled with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other goods.
If you’re a foodie, this is high on everyone’s top things to do in Florence! The Mercato Centrale in Florence is a must-visit for foodies and anyone interested in local culture. It’s a vibrant indoor market filled with vendors selling all kinds of fresh food, including fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, bread, and pastries.You can wander through the stalls and sample some of the delicious food on offer, or purchase ingredients to cook your own meal.
The market also has a second level with a variety of restaurants and bars serving traditional Tuscan cuisine, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner. The Mercato Centrale is a lively hub of activity and a great place to immerse yourself in the local food culture of Florence.
11. Visit the San Lorenzo Market: An outdoor market where you can find all sorts of souvenirs, leather goods, and handmade items.
Another popular market you must visit is San Lorenzo, it is one of the must-visit attractions in Florence. It is a bustling outdoor market located in the heart of the city near the Basilica di San Lorenzo. The market offers a wide range of items, from leather goods and handcrafted souvenirs to clothing and accessories.
You can stroll through the market and browse the various stalls, haggling with vendors to get the best prices. The market is also a great place to sample local food specialties, such as fresh pasta, cheeses, and cured meats.
The market is divided into two main sections: the Central Market, which is an indoor food hall selling fresh produce, meats, and other goods, and the outdoor market, which is filled with stalls selling clothing, souvenirs, and other items.
12. Explore the Oltrarno neighborhood: A quieter, less touristy part of Florence that is home to many artisans and small shops.
Exploring the Oltrarno neighborhood in Florence is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. Located on the south side of the Arno River, Oltrarno is known for its bohemian atmosphere, artisan workshops, and charming streets. Explore Santo Spirito, the large church is a great example of Renaissance architecture and has a beautiful piazza in front of it where locals gather.
Check out the artisan workshops, Oltrarno is known for its many skilled artisans who make everything from leather goods to jewelry to paper products. Enjoy a drink or meal at a local trattoria, there are many great restaurants and bars in Oltrarno that offer delicious food and drinks.
13. Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes and sample delicious Italian wine.
Ending our top things to do in Florence is not complete without joining Italian cooking class! Tuscan cuisine is known for its simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and delicious flavors. Some cooking classes are held in a professional kitchen, while others take place in a local’s home, providing an intimate and authentic experience.
During a cooking class, you will learn how to prepare classic Tuscan dishes such as pasta with meat sauce, ribollita (a Tuscan soup made with bread and vegetables), and tiramisu (a popular Italian dessert). You will also learn about the history and culture of Tuscan cuisine, as well as the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Many cooking classes also include a visit to a local market or food shop, where you can learn how to select the best ingredients and get a glimpse of daily life in Florence. Some classes may also include a wine tasting, allowing you to sample some of the delicious wines produced in the Tuscan region.
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