Best Things to Do in Florence
The birthplace of the Renaissance and the capital of Italy’s famed Tuscany region, Florence is known as much for its historic art and monuments as it is for its renowned culinary delights. Florence is the ideal place to step back, slow down and take it all in.
The timeless beauty of Florence will take your breath away. Spend an afternoon in one of its bustling piazzas or go for a romantic stroll along the Arno River. Better yet, see the city by Vespa. Delight in the region’s robust red wine and fresh, hearty dishes. One trip won’t be enough to fully immerse yourself in the Florentine lifestyle. But heck, we may just be making excuses for a return trip.
Eat
Sant’Ambrogio Market
For a true local experience try a lampredotto sandwich, a classic Florentine dish made of slow-cooked tripe.
Ditta Artiginale
Suggested by Flytographer Sonya, for legit Italian coffee.
Mercato Centrale
Visit this authentic local market eatery is a sensory experience.
Badiani
Serving gelato since the 1930s and they know what they’re doing. Trust us.
Reale Firenze
The spot for Florentine comfort food and tapas.
Berbere
Grab a slice with a craft brew and settle in for the night.
Mezzo Litro
For an after-dinner Negroni night cap.
Drogheria Bar & Grill
For late-night Italian goodies.
Il Teatro del Sale
If you like a little theatre with your food, buy a membership to the classic Il Teatro del Sale. The ever-changing menu is laid out buffet style with new dishes continually arriving out of the kitchen at the announcement of the restaurant’s boisterous chef.
La Ménagère
Trendy concept store – come for the gourmet food, eclectic shop, designer flowers, or an artisan cocktail; it’s all so good.
Gesto
Tasty small bites and eco-sustainability are the hallmarks of this creative modern trattoria.
My Sugar Gelato Artigianale
Handmade gelato and frozen yogurt using high-quality local and seasonal ingredients. One visit is not enough!
See
Duomo
The breathtaking main church in Florence.
Giotto’s Bell Tower
Climb the tower for the best views of the city.
San Miniato al Monte
One of the highest points in the city.
Parco delle Cascine
Pack up a picnic and explore Florence’s largest green space lining the Arno river.
Uffizi Gallery
No visit to Florence is complete without experiencing the vast and important works collected in the Uffizi, one the Medici’s ongoing legacies.
Giardino delle Rose
For sweeping views of the city and a respite from the hustle of the street, bring a bottle of wine to this urban rose garden.
Piazza della Signoria
Surround yourself with architecture, statues, and the theatre of life in the Piazza della Signoria. Bring your daily gelato here and people-watch to your heart’s content.
Basilica di Santa Croce
The largest Franciscan church in the world stuffed full of important artworks, Santa Croce is also the final resting place of many famous Florentines.
Do
Experience classic Florence
Walk from Piazzale Michelangelo, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, to the Arno River and the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge perfect for a romantic evening stroll.
Enjoy a glass of red wine
Just behind the Duomo lies a cozy nook perfect for enjoying a glass of Italian red. Il Vinaino is just a five-minute walk from Florence’s main train station, so it’s the perfect place for a welcome drink and bite to eat upon arrival to Florence.
Uffizi Gallery
See classic works of Italian Renaissance art and buy your tickets in advance online to avoid waiting in line.
Boboli Garden
On a nice day, enjoy a picnic inside the park.
Craft Cocktail & Aperitivo Tour
Join a local guide for an exclusive tour of some Florence’s most stylish bars and enjoy food and cocktail pairings that delight the senses.
Spot the Hacked Street Sign
Play a fun game of spotting guerilla street artist Clet Abraham’s altered road signs sprinkled throughout the city.
Rent a Bike
Florence has many bike-only paths that help you discover the many pockets of its lively neighbourhoods.