Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is a living, breathing museum of the Renaissance and a vibrant city teeming with life, culture, and charm. For the cultural connoisseur, Florence is an unending treasure trove of historical landmarks, architectural masterpieces, and artistic legacies. To the discerning traveler, it’s a city that whispers of culinary delights and a sophisticated appreciation for the finer things in life.
If Florence is on your travel itinerary, or if you simply long for a virtual stroll through its timeless streets, this guide offers a curated selection of experiences that define the essence of this magnificent city. From the esoteric to the exquisite, here are seventeen best things to do in Florence to enrich your visit, whether in person or from afar.
Best Things to do in Florence
1. Visit the Uffizi Gallery
No trip to Florence is complete without a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most renowned art museums in the world. Founded in 1581, the Uffizi houses an array of priceless works, with its collection of Renaissance art being the most eminent.
From masterpieces by Michelangelo and Raphael to stunning pieces by Leonardo da Vinci, the Uffizi is a testament to the unparalleled artistic contributions from the 14th to 18th centuries. The gallery also provides a unique view of Florence from its windows that line the corridors, offering a framed panorama of the city and the Arno River.
Before you set foot in the Uffizi, it’s wise to secure your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Additionally, if art history isn’t your forte, consider hiring a guide to help you traverse these cultural troves and decipher the artistic treasures.
2. Explore the Florence Cathedral
The Florence Cathedral, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is a striking piece of architecture that serves as the heart of Florence both geographically and symbolically. The Cathedral complex, known for its dome designed by the legendary Filippo Brunelleschi, is a pinnacle of Gothic and Renaissance aesthetics.
Climbing the 463 steps to the top of the dome rewards you with unforgettable city views and a closer look at Giorgio Vasari’s colorful frescoes adorn the inner dome.
Within the Cathedral, you’ll find even more art — an elaborate frescoed dome, a Last Judgment fresco by Dante’s Inferno-depicting artist, and priceless statue works in various chapels.
Make sure to dress modestly, as the entrance to the Cathedral requires appropriate attire, and photography inside is not permitted. However, the exterior alone is a photo-op waiting to happen, especially during sunrise or sunset when it’s bathed in golden light.
3. Wander Through Palazzo Vecchio
Dominating the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio is an imposing fortress-palace that has witnessed Florence’s political and social evolution. The “Old Palace,” as its name translates, was once home to the influential Medici family and is now a museum visited for its remarkable art and medieval architecture.
Step inside to marvel at rooms like the Salone dei Cinquecento, fabled for the epic battle scenes painted by Giorgio Vasari. Don’t miss the secret passages and hidden hallways that weave beneath the structure; they are evidence of a past rife with intrigue.
Palazzo Vecchio is an excellent stop for those interested in political history. Also, it offers a sprawling view of the city if you bravely climb up its tower. The piazza outside is also a hub of activity, with various sculptures and an open-air gallery of Roman god and goddess statues.
4. Attend a Performance at Teatro del Sale
Teatro del Sale, or The Salt Theatre, is a unique venue that selectively opens its doors to non-members for food and theater experiences. Founded by the esteemed director, actor, and art critic, the Gasman of Florence, it’s an all-encompassing experience that combines culinary art with theatrical performances.
Members and diners are treated to a fixed-price dinner before being escorted into the theater for a performance. The atmosphere is intimate, the food is authentic, and the performances are memorable. This is a behind-closed-doors taste of the art and community spirit integral to Florence’s heritage.
Teatro del Sale is not just about watching a play; it’s about immersing yourself in an evening that caters to all your senses, one that allows you to taste, feel, and experience. Florence in a way that’s only sometimes available to the casual traveler.
5. Stroll Through Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, is a timeless icon recognized by its medieval structure and vibrant pastel shops. Traditionally, the shops on the bridge catered to butchers and tanners, but today, the quaint storefronts are occupied by goldsmiths and jewelers, a reflection of the bridge’s transformation and resilience over the centuries.
Stroll across Ponte Vecchio and take in the charm of its arches, the glitter of jewels in the shop windows, and the musicians who often serenade passersby. The bridge also offers a beautiful view of the Arno River, and it’s incredibly romantic at sunset.
If you’re in the mood to splurge, the bridge is a great place to shop for a unique piece of jewelry to remember your trip. For a historical touch, visit the Vasari Corridor, a private passageway for the Medici family that runs above the shops. It offers a bird’s-eye view of the bridge and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Florentine royalty.
6. Discover the Secrets of Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens, attached to the Palazzo Pitti, are a sprawling expanse of greenery that form one of the first examples of the Italian garden. Designed in the 16th century, the Boboli Gardens boast a collection of sculptures and fountains scattered throughout the estate.
The gardens provide a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, with their tranquility and beauty celebrated by locals and tourists alike. Paths lead to quiet corners, terraces offering panoramic vantage points, and even an amphitheater carvedinto the hillside.
The Boboli Gardens are also home to the Porcelain Museum, which houses the Medici’s extensive porcelain collection, and the Bardini Gardens, which can be accessed from a gate within the Boboli grounds for an encompassing garden experience.
7.Indulge in Gelato at Vivoli
Florence takes her gelato seriously, and there’s no better place to understand why than at Vivoli. This unassuming gelateria is not just a shop; it’s a piece of Florence’s culinary folklore. Founded in 1930, Vivoli’s artisanal approach to gelato has garnered a fan base, including local Florentines and international celebrities.
Upon entering Vivoli, the air is redolent with the scents of just-churned gelato, fresh waffle cones, and a hint of nostalgia. The flavor menu reads like a tribute to the season’s bounty, with highlights that exalt ingredients at their prime. Once you’ve Choose your flavors, head to the nearby Piazza della Signoria, and watch artists, buskers, and the ebb and flow of Florentine life.
8. Taste Traditional Tuscan Cuisine at Trattoria Mario
A stone’s throw from the bustling Mercato Centrale, Trattoria Mario is simplicity. This no-frills, family-run restaurant has served hearty, traditional Tuscan fare for generations. The interior is a flurry of activity, with waiters balancing several plates at once and locals squeezing in at the table with tourists.
The house rule is simple: no reservations, no menu—trust the day’s offerings and revel in the culinary tradition. Savor ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, or the silky pappa al pomodoro, and wash it all down with a pitcher of Tuscan wine. The experience at Trattoria Mario marries delectable dishes with communal dining in a convivial atmosphere, emblematic of Italian culture at its most authentic.
9. Visit the Brancacci Chapel
Hidden within the grandeur of the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, the Brancacci Chapel is a treasure trove of early Renaissance art. Step inside and feel the breath of Masaccio and Masolino, two visionary painters whose frescoes here, depict biblical scenes with such raw emotiveness that they revolutionized the depiction of the human form.
The story of Adam and Eve is particularly compelling. Masaccio created an evocative interplay of light and shadow, perspective and drama, setting a new standard for narrative and psychological depth in art. The Brancacci Chapel is not just history on the wall; it’s a testament to artistic innovation that still holds the power to awe and inspire.
10. Walk Along the Arno River
The Arno River is Florence’s silent witness, a serene blue thread that stitches the city’s two halves. Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge and once the haunt of butchers and bakers, now home to jewelers and artisans.
The golden light that filters through the arches at sunset casts a spell, bestowing warmth and a sense of timelessness. Round the corner to the Uffizi Gallery, the world’s oldest museum, and witness the bustle of artists, peddlers, and lovers who have long come to the river’s edge for inspiration or to watch the water go by.
11. Hike to Piazzale Michelangelo for Panoramic Views
If Florence is an open-air museum, Piazzale Michelangelo is its grand vista. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this square pays homage to Michelangelo with replicas of his most famous sculptures, including a commanding David that surveys Florence with an unflinching gaze.
The square is also the perfect vantage point for sunset when the sky turns a palette of pastels and the lights on the Ponte Vecchio twinkle in the twilight. Hike up the hill from the Oltrarno district or take the bus and allow the expanse of Florence to unfold before you, a testament to human achievement and the artistic legacy that defines this city.
12. Explore the Vasari Corridor
The Vasari Corridor is an exclusive passageway that connects the Palazzo Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti, winding its way through the heart of Florence over the Ponte Vecchio. Commissioned by Cosimo I de’ Medici in 1565 and designed by Giorgio Vasari, this corridor was initially built for the Medicis to travel safely and unobtrusively between their residences and government offices.
Today, it houses one of the most important collections of self-portraits in the world, featuring works by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, and Velázquez.
13. Visit the Stibbert Museum
The Stibbert Museum is a lesser-known gem located on a hill in the town of Montughi, which is now part of Florence. This museum was once the private collection of Frederick Stibbert, an Anglo-Italian collector, and the museum is his former estate.
The collection is vast and varied, including armor, textiles, and many artworks, showcasing Stibbert’s worldly travels and eclectic tastes. The museum itself is an impressive neoclassical structure, and a visit offers a bit of respite from the crowds of the city center, as well as a fascinating historical and cultural experience.
14. Discover the Beauty of Giardino Bardini
For a blend of history, art, and nature, Giardino Bardini provides an authentic Florentine experience. This stunning garden is perched on a hillside overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the Florentine skyline. Winding paths lead you through terraced landscapes, vibrant flower beds, and architectural elements that echo the grandeur of the Renaissance.
The garden also features the Bardini family’s 17th-century villa, which has been meticulously preserved. It now houses a museum dedicated to the life of them.
15. Visit the Central Market
The Central Market, or Mercato Centrale, is a food lover’s paradise. This bustling two-story market is filled with local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and much more. The ground floor is a traditional market, while the second floor is a modern food hall.
Here, you can sample a vast array of Tuscan specialties, from lampredotto to Florentine steak, accompanied by a glass of Chianti. It’s a sensory adventure that will give you a profound appreciation for the region’s culinary heritage.
16. Enjoy an Aperitivo
An Aperitivo is like the Italian version of happy hour but with a sophisticated twist. The concept is simple: sip a pre-dinner cocktail and enjoy light snacks. The idea is to open your palate and stimulate your appetite before dinner.
In Florence, the Aperitivo is a social affair, and the city offers many trendy bars and quaint cafes where you can partake in this beloved tradition. Some popular spots include Le Volpi e L’Uva, La Ménagère, and the rooftop bar of the Hotel Continental, which provides a breathtaking view of the Arno River.
17. Explore the Oltrarno District
While many visitors to Florence flock to the historic city center, a stroll through the Oltrarno district reveals a different, more local, side of the city. Oltrarno is home to artisans’ workshops, authentic trattorias, and a laid-back ambiance perfect for leisurely exploration.
Take a guided tour to learn about the area’s craft traditions, or wander the labyrinthine alleyways, stopping to admire the street art or to gaze at the grandeur of the Palazzo Pitti. This is where you’ll find the true spirit of Florentine life, away from the tourist crowds.
Conclusion
Florence is a multifaceted jewel that melds art, history, and culture into every aspect of its being. Each of these activities offers a unique way to engage with the city, whether you’re drawn to the paintings of the past, the political machinations of the Medicis, or the culinary and theatrical experiences that unite people in the present.
Plan your trip carefully, with these must-do activities in mind, and consider the best time of year to visit. Florence sees large crowds during peak seasons, so aim for the shoulder months if you prefer a quieter exploration. No matter when you choose to go, Florence promises to inspire and captivate, ensuring you’ll carry a piece of its soul long after you leave.
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