So you’re planning a trip to Florence – the heart of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to the powerful Medici family known for their banking and political dynasty! If it’s your first time in this magical city, prepare to step into a living museum where every corner is full of art, history, culture and lots of good food. Florence is a city that’s as vibrant today as it was centuries ago.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-do things in Florence as a first-timer. Even if you’re just taking a day trip or staying in Florence for a couple of days or longer, you’ll find plenty of unique and beaten path places on this list to have the best time.
1. Visit the Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) and the Piazza Del Duomo
Cost: Free admission. Entrance to the cathedral itself is free, and visitors can admire its grand interiors, which include beautiful stained-glass windows, marble floors, and various artworks. The dome climb requires a ticket (€15). To avoid the queues and secure your entrance, make sure to pre-book your tickets.
Opening hours: 10.15 am – 3.45 pm Monday-Saturday. Closed Sundays
Time to spend: 1-2 hours
When in Florence, you just cannot miss a visit to the iconic Duomo—formally known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. The Duomo is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical and cultural significance. I still can’t get over the size and scope of the cathedral! It’s an architectural masterpiece, famous for its Renaissance dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.
You can also climb all the way to the top of the Duomo. Climbing the 463 steps you’ll get to see the intricate frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari along the way. And trust me, the journey is worth it. And at the top, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Florence’s iconic red rooftops, the winding Arno River, and the Tuscan hills stretching out into the distance. It’s one of the best panoramas the city has to offer.
But make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the steep climb, and aim to get your tickets early in the morning. Not only will you beat the heat, but you’ll also dodge the larger crowds, making your experience even more enjoyable.
2. Marvel at world-class art in Gallerie Degli Uffizi
Cost: €25 during the high season and €12 during the low season. It’s best to book your tickets online to skip long lines, especially in peak season.
Opening hours: 8:15 am-9:30 pm on Tuesdays, 8:15 am-6:30 pm Wednesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays
Time to spend: 2-3+ hours
If you’re planning a trip to Florence, make sure the Uffizi Gallery is at the top of your list! Designed by the famous architect Giorgio Vasari, this gallery houses one of the most extensive collections of Italian Renaissance art in the world, including famous paintings from legends like Botticelli, Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Raphael. But even without the art pieces, it’s a gorgeous gallery just on its own. However, there will always be loads of people but for a good reason.
Don’t miss out on seeing Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera, Michelangelo’s Doni Tondo, da Vinci’s Annunciation, and Titian’s Venus of Urbino. These iconic works are the quintessential examples of 14th-century Renaissance art. Trust me, the Uffizi Gallery is a place you’ll remember long after your trip ends!
3. Check out the sculptures at Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria
Cost: Free
Opening hours: 24/7
Time to spend: 30 minutes
The Loggia dei Lanzi, located in Florence’s Piazza della Signoria, is a free, open-air museum that showcases stunning Renaissance sculptures, famous for their dynamic poses, making it one of the most accessible ways to experience world-class works of art. The loggia itself dates back to the 14th century and was initially used for public ceremonies.
You don’t need a ticket, just wander in and admire the pieces at your own pace. Don’t miss the famous works, like the replica of Michelangelo’s David, Perseus with the Head of Medusa by Benvenuto Cellini and The Rape of the Sabine Women by Giambologna.
4. Go back in history in the Palazzo Pitti
Cost: €16 during the high season and €10 during the low season. To skip the queues, reserve your tickets here.
Opening hours: 8:15 am-6:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays
Time to spend: 2-3 hours
Once the opulent home to the Medici family, the Pitti palace now houses various museums, including the Gallery of Modern Art, Museum of Costume and Fashion, Palatine Gallery (Galleria Palatina) with works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens, and the Royal Apartments, which offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Florence’s aristocracy. My favourites were by far the extravagant White Room, Green Room and the Jupiter Room.
Each art piece displayed in Palazzo Pitti gives you an insight into the Medici family’s taste and influence. Key pieces to see include Raphael’s Madonna of the Chair, Titian’s Portrait of a Lady, Rubens’ Four Philosophers, and Caravaggio’s Sleeping Cupid.
5. Take a relaxing stroll in the Boboli Gardens
Cost: €10 during the high season and €6 during the low season. Pre-book your ticket here.
Opening hours: 8:15 am-6:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays
Time to spend: 1 hour
Surrounding the Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens was originally designed for the Medici family. The luscious green spaces are filled with historic sculptures, fountains, grottos, and manicured landscapes. It’s a great place to unwind, walk around, and take in the panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan hills.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended for a quieter experience, as midday can be busier, especially during peak tourist season
6. Walk along the Arno River to Ponte Vecchio
Cost: Free
Time to spend: 15 minutes to 1 hour
A stroll along the Arno River to cross Ponte Vecchio bridge is a quintessential Florence experience. The walk will offer plenty of amazing views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s most iconic bridge. Built in 1345, it’s the oldest bridge in Florence and uniquely survived World War II, standing as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage. Nowadays, the historic bridge is well-known for its many local artisans’ jewellery shops and is worth visiting to shop for expensive but stunning souvenirs. Also, don’t miss the nearby Vasari Corridor.
7. Eat Florence’s famous panino (€5-8)
Cost: €5-8
Florence’s famous panino, especially the lampredotto panino, is a cultural symbol that you must try at least once. The sandwich is made with tenderly cooked tripe (specifically the fourth stomach of a cow) and seasoned with a special green sauce. It’s very budget-friendly and has been enjoyed by Florentines for centuries.
Beyond lampredotto, Florence offers a variety of panini filled with ingredients like schiacciata, a type of Tuscan flatbread, and freshly sourced Italian meats and cheeses.
Head to All’Antico Vinaio or other popular spots for a delicious panino that’s both affordable and filling.
8. Play and learn in Museo Leonardo da Vinci
Cost: €8-12. You can book a ticket here.
Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm from April to October. Open every day 10 am – 7 pm from November to March
Time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
This interactive museum lets you explore the genius of Leonardo da Vinci and play around with his inventions. Unlike traditional art museums, this museum focuses on the mechanical and engineering inventions of da Vinci, making it an engaging and educational stop. The exhibition gives a unique insight into the Renaissance polymath’s creative genius and his impact on fields ranging from engineering to anatomy.
9. Go perfume shopping in Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
Cost: Free to visit
Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm from April to October. Open every day 10 am – 7 pm from November to March
Time to spend: Half hour to 1 hour
The stunning Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella in Florence is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world and arguably one of the most photogenic ones. Dating back to 1221, it was established by Dominican monks and is the perfect place to learn about herbal medicine and luxury perfumes The shop still sells products based on ancient recipes, including perfumes, soaps, and lotions, crafted with the same methods used for centuries. The stunning interior, adorned with frescoes, wooden cabinets, plants and flowers, and marble counters, makes it feel more like a museum than a store. It’s definitely a unique experience for a perfume lover.
10. Get an Aperol Spritz from a Wine Window
Cost: €5-10 depending on the drink and location
The wine windows in Florence, known locally as buchette del vino, were originally created in the 17th century by local wine merchants. During times of plague, they allowed vendors to safely sell wine to customers while maintaining physical distance—an unexpected precursor to social distancing. The tradition was revived in recent years as a nostalgic and safe way to serve a glass of wine, especially during the pandemic. Wine windows are scattered throughout Florence, attached to cafes and enotecas.
11. Visit the Piazza della Repubblica
Cost: Free
Opening hours: 24/7
Time to spend: 1 hour
Piazza della Repubblica is one of Florence’s most lively squares and the perfect spot for people-watching in the city centre. Originally the site of the city’s Roman Forum, this square has transformed over centuries, now surrounded by cafes, shops, and cultural landmarks. It’s famous for its antique carousel, cafes, and street musicians. Don’t miss the arch at the center of the square, symbolizing Florence’s modernization during the 19th century.
To experience a quieter atmosphere, visit early in the morning when the square is less crowded, especially if you want cool Instagram photos on the carousel.
12. Watch the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Cost: Free
Opening hours: 24/7
Time to spend: 30 minutes
Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the top viewpoints in Florence, for panoramic views over the city’s skyline, including the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Arno River. This terrace is located on a hill and is the ultimate sunset spot in Florence, so make sure you arrive slightly earlier to secure a good spot. If you’re up for a some late night drinks and little late party, head down to Flo Lounge just around the corner.
13. Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze
Cost: €16 for adults. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month, but it’s often the most crowded time to visit. Secure your tickets in advance here.
Opening hours: 8:15 am to 6:50 pm Tuesday-Sunday. Closed on Mondays
Time to spend: 1-2 hours
Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence is the home to the renowned statue of David by Michelangelo, one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world. You’ll also get to see the unfinished works by Michelangelo, such as the Prisoners, which provides interesting insights into his sculpting process.
14. Try local street food at Mercato Centrale
Cost: €10-20
Opening hours: The food court is open daily from 10 am to midnight, and the market from Monday to Saturday 7 am – 2 pm
Time to spend: 1 hour
This is the central market of Florence where they have tons of food stands. Opened in 1874, the market was initially created to showcase Florence’s agricultural heritage during the International Exposition of Agriculture. Its stunning design, featuring iron and glass architecture typical of the 19th century, reflects the era when Florence briefly served as Italy’s capital.
Today, Mercato Centrale serves as a modern food court. The first floor is a traditional marketplace where locals and visitors alike can find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialities. The second floor features a vibrant food court where top chefs and artisans serve dishes from across Italy, including pizza, pasta, seafood, and desserts
15. Take a photo of the Fountain of Neptune
Cost: Free
Opening hours: 24/7.
Time to spend: 10 minutes.
The Fountain of Neptune in Florence, located in the Piazza della Signoria, is a masterpiece that stands as a symbol of the city’s wealth and is a popular photo spot. Created by Bartolomeo Ammannati in 1575, this Renaissance fountain was commissioned to celebrate Florence’s historical aspirations to dominate the seas. It depicts the Roman god Neptune with surrounded by sea creatures and mythical figures carved in marble.
16. Get an affogato from Vivoli Gelateria
Cost: €6-8
Opening hours: 8 am – 9 pm from Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am – 8 pm on Sundays. Closed on Mondays.
Time to spend: Half an hour
This legendary gelateria serves up one of the best affogatos in town—espresso poured over creamy gelato. Founded in 1929, Vivoli initially produced and sold milk and cheese, but after WWII, it transformed into one of Florence’s most beloved gelaterias, known for its high-quality, handmade gelato.
The affogato, meaning “drowned” in Italian, is a quintessential Italian dessert that combines a scoop of rich, creamy gelato with a shot of hot espresso, creating a perfect blend of hot and cold, bitter and sweet flavors. Vivoli’s version has become an attraction in its own right, crafted with their signature gelato, often served in a pre-chilled cup to enhance the experience. You have the option to pick between a classic or a pistachio affogato.
17. Basilica of Santa Croce
Cost: €9 for adults. Get your entrance ticket here.
Opening hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm from Monday – Saturday, 12:30 pm – 5:45 pm on Sundays.
Time to spend: 1-2 hours
Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” or less formally “the cemetery of geniuses”, this 13th-century basilica is the final resting place of Italy’s most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The basilica has played a significant role in Italian cultural history and is a symbol of Florence’s artistic and intellectual legacy. Look out for the Pazzi Chapel, designed by Brunelleschi, who is the mastermind behind the iconic Duomo.
18. Palazzo Vecchio
Cost: €10
Opening hours: 9 am – 7 pm from Friday – Wednesday, 9 am – 2 pm on Thursdays.
Time to spend: 1-2 hours
The historic town hall of Florence was built in 1299, this fortress-like palace has been a symbol of civic power for centuries, housing Florence’s government during the turbulent Middle Ages. This palace has a dark and gruesome history, with many executions and violent fights over power having taken place there.
The palace was the primary residence to the Medici family before moving into the Pitti Palace and showcases stunning frescoes and decorative rooms commissioned by the family.
You can also climb to the Arnolfo Tower at Palazzo Vecchio to get a glimpse of some of the most panoramic views of Florence’s skyline, but be prepared for a steep ascent. Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited in most areas.
19. Visit the antique shops
Discover one-of-a-kind items, including old lamps, antique furniture, and vintage art pieces at the many antique shops around Florence. Florence’s antique shops are a renowned destination for collectors and admirers of antique craftsmanship alike. The tradition of antique dealing in Florence is steeped in history, with a deep appreciation for Renaissance art, and many pieces have been preserved or restored to reveal the city’s legacy.
Best places for antique shopping:
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