Florence is a cultural mecca, packed with history, beautiful architecture and sites of significant interest. The capital and heart of Tuscany, its beauty lies in its size. Easy to navigate, it has a more intimate atmosphere than Rome and as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement its worldwide importance cannot be understated.
Famous residents of Florence include no less than Michelangelo, Dante, Machiavelli, Lorenzo the Magnificent, Donatello, Raphael and Galileo. And with so many artists among the famous names, it’s no surprise art in all its forms is such an integral part of the city.
Florence’s gastronomy is also worth mentioning. All regions have their own specialities, but there’s something about Florentine food that is worth exploring.
Best things to do in Florence
1. Florence Duomo
Consecrated in 1436, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the colourful façade of the duomo was finished. Recent cleaning has revealed once again its incredible red, pink and green polychrome designs.
Capping it is Brunelleschi’s dome, the symbol of the city. Built between 1420 and 1436, it is still the largest masonry vault in the world. One Florence experience not to be missed is a morning climb to the top of the dome as Florence awakens from its slumber.
2. Uffizi Galleries
For a plethora of artwork from the Masters, then you need to visit the Uffizi Galleries. The Uffizi is the top attraction in Florence in terms of visitor numbers. It houses great works such as The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli, Caravaggio’s Medusa, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation.
It is recommended to use a guide, otherwise you could be wandering the galleries and possibly missing key works or the reason behind them.
Tip: Entrance to the Uffizi Galleries also provides access to the Archaeological Museum.
3. Ponte Vecchio
Crossing the river Arno is Florence’s oldest bridge – Ponte Vecchio. The only Florentine bridge to survive WWII, the present day bridge dates from 1345; floods destroyed the previous bridge. Each side of the bridge is lined with gold jewellery shops.
At the mid-point, there is a break in the buildings, and you can enjoy a fantastic view along the river. The Vasari Corridor (see below) runs along the top of the bridge towards the Pitti Palace.
4. Piazza della Signoria
The main square in Florence, the Piazza della Signoria has been, and still is, the centre of political life in Florence. The Palazzo Vecchio dominates, with two incredible sculptures at the doorway – a replica of Michelangelo’s David and Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus.
To the right of the Palazzo is the Loggia dei Lanzi, designed by Orcagna in 1376. Among its many sculptures is Cellini’s Perseus holding Medusa’s head. The whole square, in fact, functions as an open-air sculpture gallery.
The square was the scene of triumphs, such as the return of the Medici in 1530, as well as the Bonfire of the Vanities. Savonarola, who instigated the Bonfire was himself burned at the stake here in 1498.
5. Walking Tour of Florence
With a qualified guide, a walking tour of Florence will unveil the city’s top attractions, some of its secrets and allow you to get your bearings. Take in top Florence attractions such as the Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, duomo and other top churches and sites.
You can book a private tour with a qualified guide by sending a direct message to FloeasywithSarah on Instagram.
6. Galleria dell’ Accademia
Close to the Piazza del Duomo, the Accademia is home to the original Michelangelo statue of David. The museum also houses 6 other unfinished Michelangelo sculptures.
The Accademia is oozing with historical art, and history, related to 14th and 15th century Florence. Music lovers will appreciate the music museum within its walls, which houses unique and precious instruments including a Stradivarius viola, the only one of its kind preserved in its original state.
7. Bargello Museum
Situated in the impressive Palazzo Bargello, the museum hosts a range of Renaissance sculpture and art. The palace itself is worthy of note, having once served as a prison and living quarters for the Captain of Justice.
A large collection of important sculptures include: David by Donatello, St George by Donatello, and Bacchus by Michelangelo. If sculpture is your preferred art form, this is a museum you should not miss.
8. Medici Chapels
The final resting place of the Medici family, the Medici Chapels form part of the monumental complex of San Lorenzo. The church of San Lorenzo became the parish church of the Medici from their period as private residents in their palace in Via Larga (now via Cavour).
The Chapel of the Princes was under construction from 1604-1640 to the designs of Don Giovanni de’ Medici. It is a rare example in Florence of the Baroque style.
9. Palazzo Vecchio
In 1299, the Florentines decided to build a palace to house the republic’s government organisations. It was originally named Palazzo dei Priori, then Palazzo della Signoria (Palace of the Lords). It took its current name, meaning Old Palace, when Cosimo I took power and transferred the Medici home to the Pitti Palace.
The Vasari Corridor originated in the Palazzo Vecchio, travelling to the Uffizi – which was then a governmental building – across the Ponte Vecchio to the Pitti Palace.
The Palazzo Vecchio was the symbol of political power for over seven centuries, which is why we recommennd an expert guide to uncover all the history.
10. Vasari Corridor
The section of the Vasari Corridor which can be accessed by the public runs from the Uffizi Gallery to the Boboli Gardens of the Pitti Palace via the Ponte Vecchio.
The entrance to the corridor is behind an unmarked door on the top floor of the Uffizi Gallery. It unveils an art gallery of significant cultural value.
Note: The corridor is currently closed for renovations.
11. Enjoy a Food Tour
There are numerous guided food tours which will take you off the beaten track for a taste of Florence. Depending on the time of day, you can sample breakfast treats, cakes, local pasta dishes, a cheese board, breads, antipasti all washed down by espresso, cappuccino, wine or an aperitivo.
Knowledgeable guides will give you the history of the food, you’ll drop by local markets and into bakeries and a trattoria for traditional fare.
12. The Bardini Garden
Often overlooked in favour of its more famous cousin the Boboli Gardens, the Bardini Garden offers incredible panoramic views across Florence. comprised of three styles of gardens representing different eras: The Italianate Garden, with the magnificent baroque staircase; The English Garden a rare example of an Anglo-Chinese landscaping; The Agricultural Park where you’ll find an orchard and the iconic wisteria pergola. The best time to visit is April and May when the wisteria is in full bloom.
If you are a fan of gardens, then we would certainly not discourage you from a trip to the Boboli Gardens as well.
13. Santissima Annunziata Church
From humble beginnings one of, if not the most beautiful churches in Florence grew. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, there are various cloisters, chapels and a portico all highly decorated by leading artists, and including a gold ceiling.
14. Museo San Marco
The museum is housed in a former Dominican convent which was restored and enlarged to its present size for Cosimo the Elder de’ Medici by his favourite architect Michelozzo. It is an example of a perfectly preserved 15th century convent also housing the museum of Fra’ Angelico’s works in the form of frescoed interiors and the panels displayed in the large alms-house.
Don’t miss the Last Supper fresco by Domenico Ghirlandaio and the library with its illuminated manuscripts. You can also visit the cell where the religious fanatic and heretic, Savonarola meditated.
15. Santa Croce Church
We may have placed the basilica at number 15, but that is because we saved the best ‘til last. The vast fresco cycles painted by Giotto and his pupils in the 14th century painting are a site to behold. The monumental tombs of some of Italy’s greatest figures – Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Alfieri, Rossini and Foscolo – provide an important historical memory. Brunelleschi’s Pazzi Chapel and Donatello’s sculptures are prime examples of Renaissance art. Truly a reverential building.
At the moment, the Giotto frescoes are under restoration.
These are just a few of the many top attractions in Florence. If you are limited for time, we would suggest picking from our list of the best things to do in Florence. The chances are you’ll want to return, complete the list and add a few more.
For bookings with your personal tour guide, contact Sarah at Floeasywithsarah on Instagram.
FAQs
Is 2 days enough for Florence?
Not really, but if you’re a fan of slow travel and will return then you can take bite-sized chunks from the list of best things to do in Florence and really savour your time in the city. Without rushing, and if you have two full days, you could do three, possibly four of the top Florence attractions in two days.
What is Florence Italy best known for?
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance. Its rich history has provided the city with incredible architecture, world-class art museums, and iconic monuments and landmarks. A visit to Italy would not be complete without experiencing Florence.
How can I spend 3 days in Florence Italy?
A three-day itinerary for Florence could include:
- An early morning visit to the duomo
- A walking tour of the city – taking in key landmarks
- Lunch at a trattoria
- A trip to the Galleria dell’ Accademia
- Explore the Piazza della Signoria
- Guided tour of the Palazzo Vecchio
- A leisurely lunch
- Bardini Garden for incredible city views
- Morning food tour
- Uffizi Gallery
- Aperitivo and antipasti
- Santa Croce Church
