Florence On a Budget - Firsthand Tips (2025)

Looking to explore Florence on a budget? You’re in the right place.

We just returned from another amazing trip to Florence in 2025, and after visiting the city multiple times over the past few years, we've gathered plenty of practical, budget-saving tips.

From the best cheap eats and affordable accommodations to free activities and hidden gems, we’ve learned how to enjoy everything Florence has to offer—without breaking the bank.

What you'll find in our Florence on a budget guide

• Visit in the low season (November–March)
  Florence is quieter, less touristy, and more affordable during autumn and winter. You’ll often find better deals on accommodations, museum tickets, and guided tours during these quieter months.
• Stay outside the historic center
  Skip the pricey hotels in the city centre and look into budget-friendly neighbhourhoods nearby. They’re full of charm and usually just a short walk or tram ride from Florence’s main sights.
• Eat like a local—on a budget
  You won’t have to sacrifice good food to save money. Florence is packed with affordable spots serving delicious Tuscan dishes—fresh pasta, panini, and classic street food are easy to find without blowing your budget.
• Take advantage of free and discounted attractions
  Many of Florence’s top sights can be enjoyed at a discount—or for free—especially if you plan ahead or time your visit right.

Keep reading for our full list of money-saving tips, favourite budget eats, affordable places to stay, and free or low-cost things to do in Florence.

👍 Great Florence tours on sale!

Visiting Florence in the low season: Why it’s worth it

Visiting Florence in high-season (from March until November) can be pretty expensive, as prices of hotels and apartments are very high.

For saving on accommodation, opt for a visit during a low season, which considers mostly winter months, with the exception of the busy Christmas and New Year's holidays. So consider visiting during the months of November, December, January, February until mid-March.

During this period, prices of hotels and apartments are considerably lower and you can find affordable stay in Florence. Bear in mind that August is the cheapest month to visit in the summer, as it is also considered something as "low season" (this is the month when many Italians go to summer vacation).

Note that during the winter months, there are not so many direct flights to Florence.

For this reason, consider flying into Rome, taking Leonardo Express train to Roma Termini, and from there catching a fast train to Florence (taking 1.5-hours).

Looking for things to do in Florence on a rainy day? Check out our top recommendations!

Stay outside the historic centre

While staying in the historic centre is convenient for easy sightseeing, and getting from one attraction to another is quick, be aware that you'll be paying more for a hotel room or apartment.

Choosing your accommodation outside the city centre means quite a bit of saving.

Renting an apartment can also be a budget-friendly option, especially if you are travelling with a group or a family. This way, you also have use of a kitchen, which makes eating much cheaper.

We can recommend Casa di Chiara, the stylish and cosy apartment, offering a pleasant stay not far from the historic centre (the owners are super friendly and helpful).

Here are areas outside of the center that we would recommend staying, without being too far away from main sights:

• Fortezza da Basso, 
• Piazza Beccaria, 
• Porta al Prato, 
• Oltrarno, 
• Piazza della Libertà, 
• Poggio Imperiale, 
• Piazzale Michelangelo/San Niccolò, 
• Campo di Marte and Via Bolognese.
  
  

Getting around Florence on a budget

One of the best things about Florence is how walkable it is. If you’re staying in or near the historic center, you really won’t need public transport at all.

The city is compact, and all the main sights—from the Duomo to the Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and beyond—are just a short stroll away.

Walking is honestly the best way to take in the charm of the city’s narrow streets and hidden corners.

If you’re staying a bit further out, buses and trams are your next best option. A single ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for 90 minutes of travel. You can also buy a bundle of 10 tickets for €14, which is handy if you’re staying a few days.

Tickets work for both buses and trams and can be purchased at machines at tram stops or in tobacconists (called tabacchi shops). Just a heads-up—most of these places only accept cash, not credit cards.

Want to see the famous panoramic view from Piazzale Michelangelo without the hike? Hop on bus no. 23 from the historic center—it’ll drop you off near the top so you can enjoy the view without breaking a sweat.

A quick note about taxis: they tend to be pretty expensive compared to other European cities, and Florence traffic can be frustratingly slow. Even a short ride could cost you €15–€20, so we only recommend using them when absolutely necessary.

In short, pack comfy shoes and get ready to explore Florence mostly on foot—it’s truly the best way to experience the city’s magic.

Read also: How Many Days to Spend in Florence

Sightseeing Florence for less (or completely free)

Florence offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing without paying.

The Duomo, which is Florence's cathedral can be visited for free. Just be prepare to wait as the lines are constant there. To climb the Dome, you need to buy a ticket as well as to visit the Bell Tower and Opera Duomo Museum.

Piazza della Signoria is known as open-air museum, with numerous sculptures around the square. Here you can admire and take some of the best photos in the whole Florence.

While there, enter the Palazzo Vecchio and admire beautiful courtyard, decorated with colonnades and frescoes.

Right in front of the Palazzo Vecchio is the Loggia dei Lanzi, where you can admire the sinuous Giambologna’s “Ratto delle Sabine” and the gruesome “Perseus” by Cellini amongst others. Great art, right there in the open-air.

The copy of the statue of David stands nearby. The original sits in the Accademia Gallery which costs to enter.

You can freely visit some churches in Florence. Among them are Santa Trinita Church, where you can admire a beautiful fresco by Ghirlandaio and Santo Spirito Church in the Oltrarno area. A few steps up from panoramic terrace of Piazzale Michelangelo, visit the Romanesque masterpiece of San Miniato al Monte.

Visit the lesser-known Church of Ognissanti, located in the square of the same name, where you’ll find the fresco “Saint Augustine in his study”. Botticelli painted this in 1480, a couple of years before his “Allegory of Spring”.

In addition to the places that never charge an admission fee, all state museums are free on certain number of days every year as well as many city museums.

Many major museums offer low-season rates which are made even more attractive by the absence of crowds. Access to the Uffizi, for instance, costs €12 instead of €25. Tickets for Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens cost €10 and €6 respectively, instead of €16 and €10.

Check out the many group activities organized by MUS.E, the association handling the tours of Florence’s civic museums. With €5 you can book a visit to Palazzo Vecchio’s secret passages, which will take you to Francesco I’s Studiolo – a Renaissance wonder room – through the hidden staircases of Florence’s city hall.

The Uffizi, the Accademia, the Bargello Museum, the Medici Chapels, the Palazzo Vecchio, the Santa Maria Novella, Brancacci Chapel, the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens are all free on the first Sunday of every month. But be aware that lines can be long and crowds huge on these days.

11 Cheap (or Free!) Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Here’s a list of cheap (or free!) things to do in Florence, Italy—perfect for travellers on a budget who still want to soak in the beauty, culture, and history of the city:

1. Admire the Duomo – For free!

You can’t visit Florence without stopping by the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. While climbing the dome and bell tower costs extra, entering the cathedral itself is completely free—and absolutely breathtaking. The lines here are constant, but they move quickly.

2. Explore every corner of Piazza della Signoria

Every time we find ourselves in Florence’s historic center, we can’t resist stopping by the stunning Piazza della Signoria. It’s one of those places that feels timeless—surrounded by history, art, and the quiet buzz of daily life.

We could easily spend hours here, just taking it all in. The square is like an open-air museum, with incredible sculptures scattered throughout, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the dramatic Perseus with the Head of Medusa. One of our favorite things to do? Grab a seat on the cool marble benches beneath the Loggia dei Lanzi, where you can watch the world go by under centuries-old arches.

And for a little sweet indulgence, we usually pick up a fresh pastry from a nearby café—there are plenty tucked into the surrounding streets—and stroll through the piazza with flaky, sugar-dusted goodness in hand. It's simple, it’s beautiful, and it’s one of those perfect Florence moments we look forward to every time.

3. Don’t Miss the Courtyard at Palazzo Vecchio

As you walk through Piazza della Signoria, you’ll probably see people heading through the gate of Palazzo Vecchio. They’re going in to see the first courtyard—and it’s definitely worth a quick stop.

The space is open, peaceful, and a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. We love the elegant arches, decorated columns, and all the little stone carvings that give it so much character.

Right in the middle, there’s the Putto with Dolphin fountain, a small bronze statue that’s fun and a little unexpected in such a grand setting. It’s also a great spot to take a few selfies or just relax for a minute.

Even if you’re not visiting the museum, the courtyard is free to enter, and it only takes a few minutes to enjoy. It’s a lovely hidden corner of Florence we always come back to.

2. Catch a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo

Want the best view in town? Head up to Piazzale Michelangelo at golden hour. It’s a bit of a climb, but your reward is a sweeping view of Florence’s skyline, with the Duomo, Arno River, and Ponte Vecchio all glowing in the Tuscan light.

3. Visit major museums for free (once a month)

On the first Sunday of every month, state museums like the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell'Accademia open their doors to everyone—for free! Arrive early to avoid the lines.

4. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio

One of Florence’s most famous landmarks, the Ponte Vecchio is lined with glittering jewelry shops. You don’t have to buy anything—just enjoy the charm, street musicians, and views over the Arno River.

5. Wander through the Rose Garden

Just below Piazzale Michelangelo is the Giardino delle Rose, a peaceful garden with sculptures by Jean-Michel Folon and hundreds of blooming roses. It’s the perfect place for a quiet break.

6. Discover street art in the Oltrarno

Cross the river into the Oltrarno district and you’ll find artisan shops, cozy cafés, and some of Florence’s most vibrant street art. It’s Florence with a local, lived-in feel—and totally free to explore.

7. Visit San Miniato al Monte

Skip the crowds and visit San Miniato al Monte, a stunning Romanesque church perched above the city. It’s even higher than Piazzale Michelangelo and offers a more peaceful atmosphere—and equally impressive views.

8. Browse Mercato Centrale

Whether you’re hungry or just browsing, Mercato Centrale is a feast for the senses. Downstairs is full of traditional market stalls, while upstairs is a buzzing food court with cheap, tasty meals.

9. Indulge in a creamy gelato

Florence is the birthplace of gelato—so yes, you must try it. Look for spots with covered metal tins (a good sign it’s authentic). A small cone costs around €2–3, and the experience? Priceless.

10. Enjoy free performances in Piazza della Signoria

This historic square is essentially an open-air museum, complete with statues by Renaissance greats—and often lively with street musicians, mimes, and artists performing throughout the day.

11. Join a free walking tour

Florence is layered in history, and tip-based walking tours are a fantastic way to learn about it. You'll find plenty of daily options—just book online or show up at meeting spots in major piazzas.

Florence proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to immerse yourself in art, history, and romance. With a pair of comfy shoes and a curious spirit, the city opens up in the most magical ways—no splurge required.

Buy Firenze Card for discounted access to museum

See Botticelli's "La Primavera" while visiting the Uffizi Gallery

In Florence you'll find so many museums to choose from. If you decide to squeeze in as many cultural sights and museums as you can, it's worth checking out the Firenze Card. 

Costing €85 and valid for 72 hours (with an extension option available), this card includes access to over 70 museums, galleries, churches and monuments.

Just remember that aside from the major museums (the Uffizi Gallery, the Cathedral Complex and Accademia Gallery), most museums in Florence will cost you less than €10 for a visit. So if you think you’ll only see two museums a day over three days, the card won’t be worthwhile.

⏳ Discover Florence’s top sights in just 5 hours with the Best of Florence Guided Tour — including the Uffizi, Accademia Gallery, and more. Save time and money!

How to save on food in Florence

Eating in Florence doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little know-how, you can enjoy authentic Tuscan meals without breaking the bank. Here’s how to do it:

1. Embrace Street Food & Markets
   Florence’s street food scene is full of affordable, delicious options. Grab a lampredotto sandwich (a Florentine specialty made with beef stomach) or a simple panino at one of the many food stalls. The Mercato Centrale is a great place to sample affordable, freshly made sandwiches, pizza, and pastries.
2. Go for a “Pranzo al Volo” (Lunch on the Go)
   For a quick and cheap lunch, hit up a local café or bakery for a focaccia or pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). It’s a fast, satisfying meal that won’t cost you more than €5–€7.
3. Skip the Tourist Traps
   Avoid dining in restaurants right on the main piazzas or near big tourist attractions. Prices tend to be higher, and the food quality can be lower. Instead, wander down side streets or head to less touristy neighborhoods like San Frediano or Santa Croce where you’ll find more affordable, authentic spots.
4. Take Advantage of “Aperitivo” Hour
   In Florence, many bars offer an aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink that comes with a buffet of snacks. For the price of a cocktail (around €8–€10), you can fill up on appetizers, pasta, and even small plates of meat or cheese. It's a great way to enjoy a light meal without spending much.
5. Dine Like a Local: “Menu del Giorno”
   Many trattorias and cafés offer a menu del giorno (menu of the day) for lunch, often at a fixed price. These meals are typically homemade and include a starter, main course, and sometimes a drink or dessert. Prices usually range from €10–€15, making it one of the best value meals you can get in the city.

With a little effort, you can enjoy all the delicious food Florence has to offer without overspending. Eating well on a budget is totally possible when you know where to go—and what to avoid.

Eating in Florence can be as luxurious and expensive as you want. If you are on a budget you can still have great meals like a typical fixed price lunch or dinner, which comes with two courses and wine for between €10 and €15, depending on the restaurant.

Italian breakfast is relatively cheap - just go to a bar and have an espresso or cappuccino and warm sweet pastry (usually filled with cream, fruit jam, chocolate or pistachio spread). This will cost you around €3-5.

For lunch or dinner there are numerous options of eateries offering panini or schiacciata sandwiches stuffed with various fillings.

We love I' Girone De' Ghiotti (Via dei Cimatori 23 - second street from Piazza della Signoria), offering freshly made sandwiches, with prices starting from €6. Choose from various combos among different salami, mortadella, prosciutto, ham, cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, zucchini...

For bakery products, head to Forno Canapa tucked behind the stalls of San Lorenzo Market (Via dell'Ariento 21R) to stock up on plain or stuffed coccoli (fried dough balls). Both plain and those with prosciutto and cheese are addictive. Very fair prices and friendly owners!

For something more filling, go to a eateries offering variety of dishes, such as porchetta, meat balls with tomato sauce, pasta...

We love Il Cernacchio (Via della Condotta 38R), a small place offering affordable local meals, such as lampredotto panini, meat lasagna, pappa al pomodoro, meatballs in tomato sauce...

At Mercato Centrale, you'll find a variety of quality food at reasonable prices. On the ground floor there are salumerie that prepare delicious sandwiches on the spot.

On the first floor, there are many eateries offering typical Tuscan food (we find this slightly chaotic and prefer the ground floor). If you are staying at the apartment, you can buy something and prepare your meal on your own.

👍 See this affordable Florence Street Food Tour!

Breakfast in Florence: Cheap, Delicious, and Very Italian

One of the best surprises about visiting Italy? Finding out that a delicious croissant costs just €1.10–€1.50—and tastes at least 10 times better than you might expect.

Pair that with authentic Italian coffee—an espresso for around €1–€1.10 or a cappuccino for €1.30–€1.80—and you’ve got the perfect, affordable local breakfast.

But here’s a tip: where you drink your coffee matters. If you stand at the bar (like locals do), you pay the lower price. Sit down at a table with service, and that same coffee can cost you €4–€5.

Our advice? Do as the Italians do: order at the counter, enjoy your coffee standing, and savor a fresh pastry on the go. It’s not just budget-friendly—it’s a true taste of everyday Italian life.

Is Florence expensive to visit?

Planning a trip to Florence and wondering if it’s going to drain your wallet? The short answer: it can be expensive—but it doesn’t have to be.

Like many popular European cities, Florence has its share of high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and pricey museums. But if you know where to look (and when to go), it's absolutely possible to enjoy this beautiful city on a budget.

Accommodation can get pricey in the historic center, especially during the summer. But staying just outside the main tourist areas—like in San Frediano or near Campo di Marte—can cut your costs significantly, while still keeping you close to everything.

Food-wise, you don’t need to spend a lot to eat well. Florence is full of affordable trattorias, bakeries, and street food stalls where you can grab a delicious panino or a plate of fresh pasta for under €10.

Attractions? Many of the city’s highlights—like wandering through piazzas, admiring architecture, or exploring markets—are completely free. Even major sights like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia offer free entry on select days if you plan ahead.

So, is Florence expensive? It depends on how you travel—but with a few smart choices, it can definitely be done on a budget.

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