Florence is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture located in central Italy. This city is the home to iconic figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo Galilei.
Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence boasts stunning architecture, world-famous masterpieces that captivates visitors. The streets of Florence are filled with historical landmarks, museums, and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
If you love Italian cuisine, this city will steal your heart. Check out the top attractions and unique experiences with our guide to the best things to do in Florence.
Ponte Vecchio Bridge
The Ponte Vecchio bridge is Florence’s oldest and most famous bridge, known for its picturesque medieval design.
It is famous for its goldsmith and jewelry shops, a tradition dating back to the Medici era. Cosimo I de Medici’s concern for his safety led to the construction of a kilometer-long corridor (Vasari Corridor) connecting his private palace (Pitti Palace) and the government headquarters (Palazzo Vecchio).
Walking across Ponte Vecchio is a must for its romantic views. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Florence.
Hours: 9 AM to 7:30 PM
Duration: 2 hours
Location: 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy. Get Directions
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Duomo) is Florence’s most iconic landmark, originally designed by Arnolfo Di Cambio in the late 13th century. But the dome’s construction remained unresolved after his death.
More than a century later, in the 15th century, Filippo Brunelleschi, a self-taught architect, won the commission to design the Duomo’s dome with an innovative solution inspired by an egg. The Cathedral is also known for its intricate marble facade and stunning stained-glass windows.
The site also includes must-visit attractions like Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery of St. John.
Hours: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Brunelleschi’s Dome
The Brunelleschi dome is the crowning glory of Florence’s Cathedral (Duomo) and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in Florence.
Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, this self-supporting Dome was an engineering marvel of its time. It remains the largest masonry dome ever built. The frescoes inside the Dome, depicting The Last Judgment, add to its grandeur.
Visitors can climb the 463 steps to the top for one of the best panoramic views of Florence.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:45 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Florence Duomo Complex
The Florence Duomo Complex is a group of stunning architectural and artistic landmarks in the heart of Florence, centered around the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
The Florence Duomo complex is home to five iconic monuments: the St John Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower (Campanile), the Cathedral Museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo), Brunelleschi’s Dome (Cupola) and the Santa Reparata Crypt.
A visit to the Duomo Complex offers a 360-degree experience of Florence. It’s a must for everyone visiting Florence.
Hours: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Via della Canonica, 1, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Piazzale Michelangelo
The Piazzale Michelangelo is a 19th-century square providing a panoramic overlook of the whole city of Florence.
The square offers breathtaking vistas of the city’s skyline, especially at sunset. It’s the perfect location for those who are interested in photography.
Hours: Always open for visitors.
Duration: 4 hours
Location: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous art museums in the world. The Uffizi Gallery was established in 1584 by Francesco I de’ Medici to showcase the extraordinary collection of art gathered by the Medici family over centuries.
It houses works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera” are among its most celebrated pieces.
It’s one of Florence’s top attractions and a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM
Duration: 1 day
Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Accademia Gallery Florence
The Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, was originally established in 1784 as the “Gallery of the Academy of Design”. The Accademia Gallery is one of Florence’s most famous museums, primarily known for its impressive collection of Renaissance art.
It houses Michelangelo’s “David”, one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world. The gallery also features other works by Michelangelo, including his unfinished “Prisoners” and “Saint Matthew,” along with a rich collection of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance paintings.
Look through the exclusive range of artworks that shaped Western art history and make your visit unforgettable.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM
Duration: 1 day
Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Art Galleries in Florence
Art Galleries in Florence showcase a wealth of masterpieces from the 14th to the 17th centuries. These galleries preserve Florence’s reputation as the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Some of the notable art galleries such as the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, and Bargello Museum of Florence house paintings and sculptures by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Visit these art galleries and immerse in the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM
Duration: 1 day
Location: Get Directions
Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It is located in Piazza dei Miracoli or the ‘Square Of Miracles’, just about an hour from Florence.
The tilted structure resulted from unstable foundation soil, but careful engineering has preserved it. The Romanesque-style tower is part of the Pisa Cathedral complex and is known for its dramatic lean. Tourists can climb the 294 steps to the top for a unique view of Pisa.
Get your iconic “holding up the tower” photos by visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site of Florence.
Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy. Get Directions
Duomo Museum
The Duomo Museum houses Florence’s religious art and artifacts, housing masterpieces originally created for the Florence Cathedral complex.
It features Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà, Ghiberti’s original “Gates of Paradise” from the Baptistery, and Donatello’s striking sculptures. The museum tells the story of Brunelleschi’s Dome, showcasing wooden models and construction techniques used to build the architectural wonder.
Florence’s premier museum early in the morning and wander freely while uncovering fascinating facts about the city’s artistry.
Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM (Wednesdays Closed)
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum
The Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum in Florence is a hands-on museum dedicated to the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci. It features working models of Leonardo’s inventions, inspired by his famous codices.
Visitors can engage with Leonardo’s genius through touch and play by testing over 50 interactive machines and mechanisms, exploring detailed sketches, and understanding the science behind his groundbreaking ideas, including his famous flying machines, war machines, and engineering devices.
This museum is perfect for families and science lovers.
Hours: 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Via dei Servi, 66/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Chianti Wineries
Chianti is home to Chianti Classico wine, a red wine made primarily from Sangiovese grapes. This wine-producing region in Tuscany encompasses over 170,000 acres of vineyards and 5,000 wineries.
You can sample award-winning wines, learn about traditional winemaking in wine estates, and enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine paired with local wines.
Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM
Duration: 5.5 hours
Location: Piazza della Repubblica, 2, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a UNESCO-listed coastal region with five colorful seaside villages on the edge of dramatic cliffs along Florence’s Italian Riviera.
Each of the five villages, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, is known for its colorful houses, scenic hiking trails, fresh seafood, and stunning sea views.
Visitors can hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which connects to the villages and experience traditional Italian coastal life.
Hours: 8 AM to 7:30 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Province of La Spezia, Italy. Get Directions
Florence Galileo Galilei Science Tour
The Florence Galileo Galilei Science Tour is a fascinating journey through Galileo Galilei’s life, findings, and scientific contributions.
It includes the Museo Galileo, home to some of the original telescopes and scientific instruments of this renowned astronomer and physicist, and the Basilica of Santa Croce, where Galileo is buried. The tour also visits locations connected to the Medici family, Galileo’s patrons.
The tour is an engaging way to explore Florence’s scientific and intellectual legacy beyond its art and architecture.
Hours: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Duration: 1:30 hours
Location: Piazza dei Giudici, 1, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Florence Gondola Tour
In the Florence Gondola tour, traditional “barchetti” (small wooden boats) are used to tour along the Arno River of Florence instead of gondolas. The tour passes under the Ponte Vecchio, offering incredible views of Florence’s historic skyline.
A peaceful boat ride on the Arno at sunset is a romantic and relaxing way to escape the bustling streets and explore Florence. With a local guide sharing stories about the city’s past, it’s a great alternative to walking tours.
Hours: Always open for visitors.
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Lungarno Generale Diaz, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Florence Hot Air Balloon Rides
Florence hot air balloon rides over Florence and Tuscany provide an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of rolling vineyards, historic landmarks, and medieval villages.
The hot air balloon rides are perfect for couples, adventure seekers, and photographers. Floating above Florence and its countryside is one of the most spectacular experiences one shouldn’t miss on their trip.
Hours: 8 AM to 8 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Meeting point. Get Directions
Florence Inferno Tour
Inspired by Dan Brown’s novel “Inferno”, the Florence Inferno tour takes visitors to the real-life locations mentioned in the book, offering a mix of history, mystery, and art.
It explores Palazzo Vecchio, the Dante Alighieri Museum, the Boboli Gardens, and the Baptistery of St. John, where key scenes from “Inferno” take place.
For fans of the book and movie, the tour brings Dan Brown’s thrilling story to life. It’s a fun and interactive way to see the city from a literary perspective.
Hours: 9:15 AM to 10 PM
Duration: 4 hours
Location: Get Directions
Giotto’s Bell Tower
Giotto’s Bell Tower is a stunning Italian Gothic-style campanile beside the Florence Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo.
Designed by Giotto di Bondone, this 14th-century bell tower is admired for its elegant marble facade, intricate reliefs, and detailed sculptures.
At 84.7 meters (277.9 feet) in height, the bell tower offers some of the best views of Florence. Visitors can climb 414 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the Duomo.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 43°46’22″N 11°15’20″E, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Italian Opera in Santa Monaca Church
The Santa Monaca Church is a historic 17th-century church in Florence, transformed into an intimate venue for classical Italian opera performances.
Italian Opera in Santa Monaca Church hosts live opera concerts featuring arias from famous Italian composers like Verdi, Puccini, and Rossini. Some renowned performances are ‘The Marriage of Figaro,’ ‘Tosca,’ ‘The Barber of Seville,’ ‘Madame Butterfly,’ ‘La Bohème,’ and ‘La Traviata.’
The acoustics and ambiance make for an unforgettable musical experience. The evening performances especially add a touch of romance and elegance to any Florence itinerary.
Hours: 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Via Santa Monaca, 6, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Bargello Museum
The Bargello Museum of Florence is a national sculpture museum housed in a 13th-century fortress-like palace. It contains one of the largest collections of Renaissance sculptures, including works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Cellini.
Donatello’s “David”, a more delicate and earlier version compared to Michelangelo’s, is one of the highlights of this museum. It also has an impressive collection of ceramics, textiles, tapestries, ivory, silver, armor, and coins.
This museum is open all year long. Plan to visit here first thing in the morning for a quieter but equally enriching experience.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Via del Proconsolo, 4, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Basilica di Santa Croce
The Basilica di Santa Croce is one of Italy’s most important Franciscan churches and a burial site for many legendary figures.
It’s known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories” because it houses the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, and Rossini. The church’s stunning frescoes were painted by Giotto, who was one of the pioneers of the Renaissance.
This basilica is not just a place of worship, it’s a testament to Italy’s cultural and artistic history, which makes it a must-visit.
Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Medici Chapel
The Medici Chapel in Florence is a magnificent burial site of the powerful Medici family in the Basilica of San Lorenzo. Lorenzo de’ Medici wanted to build a mausoleum befitting his distinguished family, one of the most influential in history.
The lavish domed mausoleum features precious stones and marble decorations. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, contains sculptures of Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici.
Visitors can admire intricate Renaissance tombs and learn about the Medici dynasty’s influence on Florence.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Museo di San Marco
The Museo di San Marco is an art museum inside the monumental section of the medieval Dominican convent of San Marco. Built by the fifteenth-century architect Michelozzo, the museum is a masterpiece in its own right and holds great historical importance for the city.
It is a former monastery turned museum, home to Fra Angelico’s frescoes, painted in the monastic cells of Dominican friars. The museum also contains the world’s oldest public library, established by Cosimo de’ Medici.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Piazza San Marco, 3, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
National Archaeological Museum Florence
The National Archaeological Museum Florence, housed in the Palazzo della Crocetta has an impressive collection of ancient artifacts showcasing Etruscan, Roman, Egyptian, and Greek antiquities.
The museum features Etruscan sarcophagi, the famous Chimera of Arezzo (a bronze Etruscan sculpture), and one of Italy’s largest collections of Egyptian artifacts.
It is a must-visit for those interested in Florence’s pre-Renaissance history and ancient civilizations.
Hours: 8:30 AM to 7 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: P.za della SS. Annunziata, 9b, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Palatina Gallery
The Palatina Gallery is a luxurious art museum inside Pitti Palace, once the private residence of the Medici family. It was established during the late 18th and early 19th centuries by the Habsburg-Lorraine family.
It houses a stunning collection of about 500 Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, including works by Raphael, Titian, Rubens, and Caravaggio. Unlike traditional galleries, its paintings are displayed in lavishly decorated rooms.
Visit early mornings to silently immerse in the world-famous paintings of the Medici’s royal palace.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Palazzo Vecchio
The Palazzo Vecchio was constructed between 1299 and 1314 and was initially conceived as Florence’s governmental hub, envisioned by Arnolfo di Cambio. This historic town hall is an iconic fortress-like palace overlooking Piazza della Signoria.
It was the political center of the Republic of Florence and later became the Medici family’s residence. At the attraction, visitors can see the magnificent Salone dei Cinquecento, frescoes by Vasari, and secret passages.
Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM
Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Pitti Palace Florence
Pitti Palace in Florence is one of the city’s most popular attractions for locals and tourists.
Built in 1458, this building initially stood as the personal abode of banker Luca Pitti. It later transitioned into the possession of the Medici family, transforming into their principal residence and the primary dwelling for the ruling lineages of Tuscany.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM
Duration: 1 day
Location: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Santa Maria Novella
The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella was founded by Dominican monks in the 13th century and is widely regarded as the first great Basilica in the city. It is the principal Dominican church near Florence’s main train station.
It features an intricate marble facade, stunning frescoes by Masaccio and Ghirlandaio, and one of the most important cloisters in Florence.
Hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Duration: 2 hours
Location: P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Vespa Tour Florence
A Vespa tour of Florence is a fun and adventurous way to explore Florence on an iconic Italian scooter.
These tours take you through scenic rolling hills of Tuscan countryside, charming villages, and famous vineyards, offering breathtaking views and an authentic Italian experience.
It’s perfect for those who want an off-the-beaten-path adventure with Italian flair.
Hours: Starts at 8:30 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Via Ghibellina, 54, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Boboli Gardens
Located adjacent to the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens are expansive historic parks offering a green retreat in the city.
The gardens showcase Renaissance landscaping, sculptures, fountains, and grottoes.
It’s an ideal spot to relax, enjoy nature, and gain panoramic views of Florence.
Hours: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM
Duration: 1 day
Location: 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy. Get Directions
Mercato Centrale
The Mercato Centrale is Florence’s central market, a bustling hub for food lovers.
The market is a bustling hub for food lovers that offers a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses and a food hall with diverse culinary delights.
It’s an excellent place to experience authentic Tuscan cuisine and local specialties.
Hours: 8 AM to 3 PM
Duration: 5 hours
Location: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Museo Novecento
The Museo Novecento in Florence is dedicated to Italian art of the 20th century.
It showcases works by prominent Italian artists, offering insight into modern and contemporary art movements.
Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM (Thursdays Closed)
Duration: 5 hours
Location: P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 10, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
