Florence: The Best Things We Love to See, Eat & Explore

Planning a trip to Italy and wondering what are the best things to do in Florence? You’ve come to the right place!

We’ve visited Florence countless times, and on this page, we share our favourite experiences—from admiring unique art, exploring hidden streets dotted with authentic trattorias and cafes, walking green oasis, finding best photo spots, shopping for souvenirs and much more.

We’ve handpicked 14 things we love to do in the city—our top spots and experiences we return to again and again. Plus, we sprinkle in useful sightseeing tips and our favourite places to stay to make your trip even smoother.

Every traveller is different, but we hope this guide sparks ideas and helps you make the most of your next visit to this stunning Tuscan city.

👉 For more tips, check out our guides to visiting Florence on a budget, a day trip from Rome to Florence, and shopping in Florence.

The best way to explore Florence in on foot

Best time to visit Florence (our experience)

We visited Florence in every season, from early spring through summer months to early December. We loved it each time, as Florence has its own charm any time of the year.

Spring offers amazing weather (ideal for exploring the city and the Tuscan countryside), and the warm summer nights are perfect for romantic walks and outdoor dining. Our favourite time in Florence was the end of the year because of the festive atmosphere and shops full of holiday sweet treats.

Autumn and winter bring some rainy days, but you shouldn't worry as there is so much to do in Florence even in the rain.

A couple of useful tips for best Florence experience:

1. Book ahead tickets for major sights/museums and tours

Be sure to book tickets for major sights, museums, and popular tours in advance—many of the most visited attractions sell out days or even weeks ahead.

Pre-booking not only guarantees your spot but also saves valuable time by letting you skip long queues and enjoy a smoother, stress-free experience.

For places like the Bargello Museum, the Medici Chapels, or the Church and Museum of Orsanmichele, however, you can buy tickets on the spot.

2. Explore Florence on foot

Walking is the easiest way to get around the city center. If you are staying outside the historic centre, there are regular buses and trams (tickets cost €1.70 and can be purchased from automatic vending machines, at tabacchi shops - only in cash, or with Autolinee Toscane app). Avoid driving as most of central Florence is a limited traffic zone. If we are in the hurry or it's raining, we love to use a taxi (you'll find stands around the city or you can call the one).

3. Book accommodation well in advance

Try to book your Florence hotel or apartment at least 4-5 months ahead. You'll have more choice and choose the one that best suits you. The good accommodation fill up fast, especially in the high season (April until October).

For example, start searching at the beginning of the year for summer months.
Many Florence hotels/apartments at Booking.com offer free cancellation (booking is really simple).

1. Seeing the Masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery

Visiting the Uffizi is among the best things to do in Florence for both art lovers and everyone else. It holds masterpieces such as Titian’s Venus of Urbino and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, among many others.

As the Uffizi Gallery is huge, don't attempt to see everything. You may find it helpful to buy an audio guide or take a guided tour like the one we took and loved.

If visiting on your own, be sure to book skip-the-line tickets!

It’s a wonderful place to spend a morning or afternoon—soaking up the art and enjoying the views from the café.

👉 See what we loved at the Uffizi—plus our top tips

2. Exploring the wonders of Piazza della Signoria

One of the best things to do in Florence is visiting Piazza della Signoria, the city’s iconic square right in the heart of Florence.

It’s perfect for wandering around, admiring the impressive sculptures of the Loggia dei Lanzi, people-watching, and capturing stunning photos. The square is lively during the day, but in the late evening, when crowds thin out, it feels peaceful and magical.

The piazza is also home to several cafés with outdoor seating. Rivoire is the most famous, known for its decadent hot chocolate, though it’s a bit pricey.

Many visitors enjoy sitting on the steps of the Loggia dei Lanzi, soaking in the historic atmosphere. Just steps away, Via della Condotta is a charming street filled with small shops—ideal for picking up authentic souvenirs.

3. Poping into the Palazzo Vecchio

The Palazzo Vecchio—Florence’s old seat of republican power—is absolutely fascinating. Towering over Piazza della Signoria with its striking Fountain of Neptune, it was once a hotbed of political intrigue in the 14th and 15th centuries, before Cosimo I transformed it into a grand ducal palace in 1540. Inside, you’ll find plenty of highlights, including a room filled with 16th-century maps created just as the wider world was beginning to unfold for Europeans. And if you join a guided tour, you can even wander through the secret passageways hidden behind its walls.

The town hall of Florence, Palazzo Vecchio is an amazing example of Renaissance architecture. Statues by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Giorgio Vasari dot the exterior, and the interior is equally incredible. Inside, you’ll see the private studio of Francesco I de' Medici and the largest room in Florence, the “Salone dei Cinquecento," among other wonders. 

4. Tasting Florence: What Not to Miss

One of the best things to eat in Florence is a freshly made salami schiacciata sandwich

Among the best things to do in Florence, eating your way through the city ranks at the very top. Honestly, from long, leisurely dinners at cosy trattorias to grabbing a schiacciata sandwich on the go, the city is a dream for food lovers.

If you love meat, you’re in for a treat. Bistecca alla fiorentina is a must-try: a massive local steak, grilled rare and simply finished with salt and olive oil. Another classic is il peposo, a rich, slow-cooked beef stew packed with flavor.

Vegetarians won’t feel left out either. Florence is famous for comforting soups like ribollita and pappa al pomodoro, as well as zuppa di farro, a thick and hearty spelt soup. Pasta lovers should definitely order pappardelle with wild boar ragù, a true Tuscan staple. 👌 Consider taking a pasta class in Florence - so much fun!

When it comes to street food, nothing beats a schiacciata sandwich. We loved the ones from I’ Girone de’ Ghiotti—crispy, generous, and absolutely addictive. For a small snack, try coccoli, fluffy fried dough balls that pair perfectly with prosciutto and stracchino. (Forno Canapa, near Mercato Centrale, makes some of the best.)

Florence has plenty to offer when it comes to sweets, too. From buttery breakfast pastries to panpepato, a dense, spiced treat made with honey and nuts, there’s plenty to satisfy your sweet tooth.

And of course, there’s gelato—our favourite spot in the city is Gelateria La Carraia. We also love popping into Leonardo Firenze on Via Porta Rossa to pick up cantucci, brutti ma buoni cookies, or even panettone during the holidays.

If you really want to uncover Florence’s best food spots, we highly recommend joining a food tour. It’s a fun way to eat well, learn a lot, and meet fellow travellers.

👌 A morning food tour in Santa Croce (with a market visit) or a sunset food walk through Oltrarno are both fantastic options for an authentic experience.

More great places to eat in Florence:

• Osteria Cacio e Vino all'Antico Borgo - Borgo Santi Apostoli, 29/R
• Trattoria Sergio Gozzi - Piazza di San Lorenzo, 8R
• Buca Lapi -  Via del Trebbio, 1R
  
  

5. Go on a walking tour

The challenge of making a hit-list of Florence’s highlights is that you can miss how it all connects.

To truly appreciate the city, take a story-driven guided tour that stays outdoors, walking the streets and sharing its history, rather than heading straight into museums. Two-hour group tours are popular, but private guides can tailor the experience—just make sure they’re licensed with Firenze Turismo.

6. Climbing the Florence's Cathedral Dome

We suggest picking just a few attractions from the Duomo Complex rather than trying to see it all. Pop into the Cathedral for a quick look, then ascend to the Dome for breathtaking views of Florence (be sure to grab those skip-the-line tickets!).

As you climb the 463 steps, marvel at the expansive arched structure above and, once inside, admire the spectacular Last Judgment frescoes. Keep in mind that the staircase can be quite steep and narrow at times - not ideal for those with claustrophobia or a fear of heights.

To maximize your time, consider joining a guided tour that covers the Cathedral, Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, and the Dome in just 2.5 hours.

7. Taking a stroll along the Arno River

Be sure to take a peaceful stroll along the Arno River. Begin near the famous Ponte Vecchio and make your way to Ponte Santa Trinita. Then, turn onto Via de' Tornabuoni and continue until you reach Piazza Santa Trinita. From this point, every street leads to something of interest in this captivating city.

8. Shopping around Florence

9. Browsing stalls at Mercato Centrale

Visiting Mercato Centrale is one of our favorite things to do in Florence. We love wandering the bustling stalls, sampling fresh local produce, and picking up salami, bread, vegetables, and handmade pasta. It’s also a fantastic spot for edible souvenirs for loved ones, from cheeses and prosciutto to olive oil, spices, and artisan treats. Don’t miss the lively atmosphere, where locals and visitors mingle, making it a true taste of Florence.

10. Take a drive around the city and beyond in a vintage Fiat Cinquecento

What better way to explore Florence than from behind the wheel of the most iconic Italian car—a vintage Fiat 500?

This charming 6-hour tour from Florence let you pick your favourite little car from a rainbow of retro colours before setting off in a cheerful, follow-the-leader convoy. You’ll wind through Florence’s hidden backstreets and climb into the rolling hills just beyond the city. Along the way, there are plenty of stops at scenic viewpoints, and the experience even includes a relaxed picnic lunch. It’s a wonderfully nostalgic way to see the city from a whole new angle.

11. Snapping amazing photos of Florence

Florence is so picturesque that you’ll find amazing photo spots everywhere you turn.

From the elegant courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio and tourists strolling along the Arno riverbanks to the cantucci cookies stacked in bakery windows, the possibilities are endless. Just walk, capture photos and enjoy. For stunning shots of Florence from above, make your way up to Piazzale Michelangelo—always worth the climb.

Some of our most beautiful photos were taken just after the rain, when the city glows. Taking photos is truly one of our favourite things to do in Florence.

12. Making your own perfume

If you want a special souvenir you can use and appreciate long after you've left Italy, register for a session at AquaFlor Firenze. This perfume-making class takes place in a historic Renaissance palace and runs for about an hour to 90 minutes. After learning how to create your own signature scent, you can take it home in a (carry-on friendly) 100-milliliter bottle.

13. Taking a pasta class in Tuscan countryside

Taking a cooking class in Florence is a great opportunity to learn how to make fresh fettuccine or ravioli from scratch (as well as sauces). The best part is enjoying wonderful food you made! Kids will love these classes!

One of the most popular cooking classes is this one (includes cake and limoncello in the end) and these small-group classes held in cooking school on the other side of Arno River. Don't worry if you are vegan or vegetarian, or even gluten-free intolerant - there are classes also for you.

Not your first time in Florence? Consider visiting:

• Basilica di San Lorenzo designed by Brunelleschi, filled with Renaissance art from Donatello and Michelangelo, and the Medici Chapels which were added onto the basilica.
  
  
• Santo Spirito in Oltrarno, just across the Arno River, whose plain exterior gives no hint of the beautiful interior.
  
  
• The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, close to the Accademia Gallery, has a fascinating history which pairs well with the intricate Baroque decorations.
  
  
• The Orsanmichele Church and Museum, beautiful church you'll notice by the outside niches, decorated with sculptures of Saint's.
  
  
• Santa Trinita Church, that stands on Piazza Santa Trinita (you'll recognize by the Column of Justice (a massive granite column, coming all the way from the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla in Rome). Visit the church for free!

Check this out: Rome to Florence Day Trip

Where to stay in Florence

Wherever you stay in Florence you won't be too far from the sights, restaurants and shops. We recommend staying not far from historic centre, so you can make the most of your time.

You may decide to stay right next to the Cathedral or choose your place in the less bustling Oltrarno, across the Arno River. Staying close to the train station could also be also great idea, so you can easily hop to another cities, such as Pisa, Lucca or Bologna.

Or perhaps stay at the hills, which is ideal during the hot summer months. The choice is really huge.

Casa di Chiara is a stylish and comfortable apartment, only a short walk from historic centre

Places that we recommend for staying in Florence:

Casa di Chiara

This stylish and cosy apartment just a 20-minute stroll from the historic center. Extremely comfortable and fully equipped with everything you might need. Host are the best! This wonderful apartment serves as an excellent base for exploring Florence. It's our favourite place to stay when in Florence!

Globus Urban Hotel

This centrally located 4-star hotel, a short walk from SMN train station and the Duomo. The incredibly friendly and helpful staff really sets this Florence hotel apart. The hotel boasts modern, spacious rooms and a delicious breakfast spread (including options for vegans, vegetarians, and those who are gluten-free).

Alba Palace Hotel

Situated just steps away from Santa Maria Novella train station, this hotel is on the doorstep of historic centre. The rooms are very comfortable and clean, ensuring a pleasant stay. The breakfast buffet offers a wide choices, and the staff is very friendly and accommodating. An ideal base for exploring Florence!

N7 Rooms

This place is literally steps away from Santa Maria Novella train station. Rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable, with everything you need for a pleasant stay. Spacious showers, comfy beds and pillows! This is small place with several rooms, so it offers cosy stay. Basilica di Santa Maria Novella and Basilica di San Lorenzo are so close to this place.

More great places to stay in Florence:

• Corte Calzaiuoli Elegant Suites
• Tornabuoni Suites Collection Residenza D'Epoca
• Residenza Della Signoria
• Donati Luxury Tower Suites
• Casa Botticelli
• Oro Nero Florence
• Hotel Calimala Florence

What Tuscan cities is easy to visit from Florence

Other Tuscan cities are easy to reach from Florence, either by train or by car.

Some of the most interesting are: San Gimignano (a picturesque hilltop town), Siena (renowned for its culinary delights, art scene, museums, medieval cityscape, and the thrilling Palio horse race), Pisa (home to the iconic Leaning Tower), or Lucca (famed for its multitude of towers). These destinations are reachable by train or through organised day tours.

Another great option is Bologna, a city boasting captivating architecture and mouthwatering cuisine (famous for its tagliatelle and tortellini pasta, mortadella, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar). If you consider yourself a food enthusiast, this city should definitely be on your radar!

Best ways to get to Florence

We usually reach Florence by train from Rome (having previously landed at Fiumicino Airport and taken the Leonardo Express train) and it's always a pleasant journey.

Our favourite trains are Trenitalia Frecciarossa trains, which are fast and comfortable and take only 1h 30 minutes to get from the Italian capital to Florence's Santa Maria Novella train station.

When booking 2-3 months in advance, we typically secure Rome to Florence train tickets at budget-friendly prices (beginning at €30). Booking through Trainline is easy - they provide a digital ticket (simply present it to train staff upon request). During one trip, our train was cancelled at Termini Station, but modifying our ticket for a later departure was hassle-free at the Trenitalia office (these trains run frequently).

The journey to Florence takes under 2 hours from both Milan and Venice, while from Bologna, you'll arrive in less than an hour.

👉 The Most Popular Florence Tours

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