Best Things To Do in Florence

See Also

• My Favorite Places of accommodation in Florence
• My preferred places to stay in Florence
• Some favored lodging possibilities for families in Florence.

The Best Tours in Florence

Note: Book well in advance! These tours fill up months ahead of time).
• Premium David & Duomo Tour – Skip long lines and obtain exclusive access to special areas of Florence’s famous cathedral. Includes a guided tour of the cathedral complex, terraces, and baptistry doors. Begins near Michelangelo`s statue of David and concludes with an (optional) climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views over the city of the Renaissance.
• Tuscany Wine Experience – Tour assorted wineries, the Tuscan countryside, and the idyllic town of San Gimignano.
• A full day small group tasting of wine and food – Excellent tour exploring three wineries in Tuscany`s wine region. Includes lunch at a hilltop vineyard estate.

The hotel website for Baglioni Hotel Luna is here. You can also check prices on Booking.com here

• Curious Appetite culinary experiences – Led by food writer Coral Sisk and knowledgeable guides, private and small group tours around the city focus on gourmet encounters from markets to appetizers to gelato crafting. Cooking classes are also available ranging from pasta and gelato making to crafting cocktails.
• Fiesole Bike Touring – Venture outside the city with trips guided by passionate local Giovanni Crescioli. His most popular offering is a sunset tour from Fiesole to Florence, with extra virgin olive oil tasting included along the route. Appropriate for families).
• Florence Boat Tour – See the city from an entirely new perspective by cruising down the river in a traditional Florentine gondola known as a barchetto at sunset, with an chilled glass of wine in hand.
• Tuscany Vespa Tour – Thrilling scooter tour through the picturesque hills and vineyards of Chianti. Includes a visit of a 12th-century castle for a wine and olive oil tasting in the morning and lunch at a family-run hilltop restaurant midday).
• Full day outing from Florence visits Tuscan landmarks, including Siena (Florence’s historic rival city), San Gimignano (known for its 14 medieval towers), and Chianti (romantic wine region – tastings included)).
• Made in Florence Artisan Tour – A 3-hour tour through the traditional workshops in the Santo Spirito neighborhood. The tour varies each time but may include jewelers, mosaic makers, etchers, cobblers, and more.
• Complete Florence in a Day – Full-day excursion of Florence’s must-see places, including the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), David, and the Uffizi Gallery, while wandering the gorgeous plazas and gaining knowledge of the city`s rich history.
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The Best Things to Do in Florence

1. The Duomo

The church known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo in Florence is a widely recognized landmark from the Renaissance period. Construction commenced in 1296 and concluded in 1436, though the façade was added later in the 19th century. The cathedral boasts an intricate red, white, and green façade and is topped by Brunelleschi`s groundbreaking dome, the largest brick dome globally. Climbing to the apex of the dome allows seeing the double-walled design and closer perspectives of the frescoed interior and sweeping views over the city. The Duomo complex also incorporates the Baptistery, renowned for Ghiberti`s golden east doors deemed the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo and the free-standing Bell Tower, designed by Giotto, one of the founders of Renaissance architecture. Then stopping at the amazing Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo (the Duomo Museum) presents seeing Ghiberti`s original Doors of Paradise, Donatello`s haggard Mary Magdalene, and learning about the cathedral`s construction. Each portion of the cathedral complex operates under differing hours. The cathedral and museum are accessible Monday through Saturday from 10:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The Baptistery is accessible daily from 11:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. The Bell Tower is accessible daily from 8:15 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. The Terraces are accessible Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Previously to Covid-19, an affordable single ticket covered the whole cathedral complex. Currently, tickets for each section must be purchased independently. Standard admission to each section comprises: Cathedral: free; Brunelleschi`s Dome: €20; Giotto`s Bell Tower: €15; Duomo Terraces: €25; and the Museum + Baptistery: €10. The skip-the-line Duomo tour is suggested.

2. Galleria degli Uffizi

The top treasure-house of Italian Renaissance art in the world. The dizzying collection, arranged in a palazzo by the river, ranges from the ancient Greeks to the 18th-century. The Renaissance highlights include Giotto, Leonardo, and Michelangelo, and an entire room of Botticelli, like his Birth of Venus”. Absolutely unmissable. The Uffizi is accessible Tuesdays through Sundays from 9:00 a.m to 6:30 p.m. Closed Mondays. Standard adult tickets are €20).

3. Galleria dell’Accademia

The constantly bustling art gallery is renowned for housing Michelangelo`s most celebrated work, displayed solo in its own chamber. David is not his only piece; the Accademia also holds his St. Matthew sculpture and unfinished Slaves. Additional works by other eminent Florentine Renaissance artists from 1300-1600 include pieces by Ghirlandaio, Botticelli, and Uccello. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; closed on Mondays. Standard adult admission is €8.

4. Museo Nazionalle del Bargello

Hosting the largest collection of Italian Gothic and Renaissance sculpture, the Bargello is known for its collection of masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, Verrochio, and many more. The main attraction here is Donatello’s David, a bronze statue that was the first nude since antiquity and the inspiration for Michelangelo’s more famous version. The Bargello is open daily from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Standard adult admission is €8).

5. Wine Country

The Tuscan countryside offers an romantic escape from the large groups of sightseers filling Florence’s busy main streets. With a sprinkling of peaceful, medieval villages and rolling landscapes covered in vineyards, a visit to the wine region creates an excellent contrast to the city’s art-filled places of worship and exhibitions. The Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Vernaccia areas are easy to access independently by car or bus, though to understand the ins and outs of Tuscan wines fully, it’s best to book a guided excursion, most of which include wine and olive oil tastes at 2 to 3 wineries. See our article on the Best Wine Tours in Florence for more detailed guidance.

6. Basilica di Santa Croce

The largest Franciscan cathedral in Florence, Italy, the Basilica of Holy Cross (Basilica di Santa Croce) houses sixteen chapels, several decorated by the renowned Italian painter Giotto, as well as notable artworks by artists such as Cimabue, Donatello, Canova, and Maso di Banco. However, it is most renowned as the final resting place of illustrious Renaissance figures including Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. Construction on the cathedral started in the late 13th century to replace an earlier church founded on the same site by St. Francis of Assisi, initiated by the architect Arnolfo di Cambio (though this attribution is disputed). Its completion was in the late 14th century. A striking blue Star of David adorns its façade, added in the mid-19th century by the gifted Italian Jewish architect Nicolò Matas. He had expressed a desire to be buried inside amongst his peers but faced religious discrimination and was instead interred beneath the church`s threshold. Standard entry tickets cost eight Euros. The cathedral is accessible to the public on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 to 17:00 hours and Sundays and holidays from 13:00 to 17:00 hours.

7. San Miniato al Monte

With stunning Romanesque architecture filled with gorgeous mosaics, a zodiac-patterned marble inlay floor, and a sweeping view of the city from its hilltop perch, the thousand-year-old basilica and monastery of San Miniato is a sight to behold. From here one can see the Florence skyline as well as the ancient Roman wall dating back to the 2nd century. San Miniato’s stately cemetery is the final resting place of numerous notable Florentines, like Collodi, the author of Pinnochio. The church is freely open to enter nightly until 7:00 p.m. Visit an hour before sunset, then walk 5-minutes downhill to enjoy the view from Piazzale Michelangelo).

8. Mercato Centrale

Situated in the heart of Florence, the San Lorenzo Market offers a veritable feast for food aficionados seeking high-quality Tuscan fare. Spanning two floors, the complex contains stalls stocked with fresh produce, artisanal cheese and meats, handicrafted spices and other essential pantry items on the ground level. Meanwhile, the upper floor hosts a bustling bistro serving regional Italian delicacies such as Neapolitan-style pizza, Chianti wine and Florentine gelato. Those in the mood for souvenir shopping will find an assortment of leather goods, ceramics and apparel lining the surrounding outdoor market. Visitors can source ingredients for meals, enjoy dining on premises or pick up memorabilia daily between 8:00 a.m. and midnight, though some evening closures may apply.

9. Piazzale Michelangelo

Florence’s most renowned viewpoint provides stunning views of Florence’s skyline, including the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Tempio Maggiore, and Santa Croce Church. Further downhill from San Miniato, the perspective is not as expansive but location is closer to the city allowing clearer, panoramic views of its monuments. Dedicated to Michelangelo, the square features a bronze replication of David in its center. Popular for sunsets, this small square can become crowded, especially with tour buses. From here it is a brief, pleasant walk downhill to the San Niccolò neighborhood for dinner and drinks. Open 24 hours per day).

10. Basilica di San Lorenzo

Consecrated in the fourth century, the Basilica of Saint Lawrence is among one of the largest churches constructed in Florence during its time (though some other religious buildings also lay claim to this recognition). During the fifteenth century, this served as the house of worship for the influential Medici family and consequently contains numerous works from Donatello, a close associate and benefactor of the household. The artist also rests in the undergroundcrypt near Cosimo de` Medici, who is interred within a vast pillar. Rebuilt in the Romanesque architectural style during the eleventh century before another reconstruction in the fifteenth century, this prominent ecclesiastical structure showcases art and designfrom many of Florence`s great talents such as Brunelleschi and Michelangelo. Adjacent to the basilica sits the Medici Chapels as part of the larger complex, thoughaccess to the chapels requiresseparate admission than the principal church. Standardentry to the basilica is €6 or €8.50 to tourthe entirelocation(basilica, cloister, museum, and Laurenziana Library).

11. Cappelle Medicee

The Medici Chapels connect to San Lorenzo Basilica, though constructed much later. The New Sacristy was designed by Michelangelo and built in the 16th century, while the larger domed Chapel of the Princes was designed by Matteo Nigetti in the 17th century. In the New Sacristy resides two immense tombs and several sculptures by Michelangelo (among them Night, considered his finest work). The Chapel of the Princes houses six tombs and elaborate Baroque style with immense marble walls featuring contrasting-colored marble and semi-precious stones. The chapel is topped with a richly frescoed dome. Below the chapels lies a crypt where dozens of lesser known members of the Medici family rest. Open daily from 8:15 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. Closed on the second and fourth Sundays and first, third, and fifth Mondays of each month. Standard tickets are €16.75).

12. Palazzo Vecchio

Imposing 14th-century complex constructed for municipal governance. It now showcases the Quartiere di Leo X (the quarters of the Medici pope), Donatello’s Judith and Holofernes, and the Salone dei Cinquecento created for the ruling board of 500 and painted by Vasari. There is a spectacular panorama accessible via climbing the spiky Torre d’Arnolfo. Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (last entry at 7:00 p.m.) Standard tickets are €12.50).

13. Palazzo Pitti and Giardino di Boboli

Only in Florence would the profound wealth of a banker allow for the construction of lavish residential quarters akin to royalty. Within Pitti Palace, explore the opulent apartments and treasury belonging to the Medici family, housing arguably the largest collection of Raphael`s works globally. Afterwards, amble through the serene greenery of the expansive Boboli Gardens, discovering places like the idyllic Grotto of Buontalenti and museum of ceramics, alongside panoramic perspectives. Pitti Palace is accessible Tuesday through Sunday while the Gardens are open weekly, with some modifications in the colder months. Individual entry fees apply. Standard costs to the Palace are €16 and €10 to the Gardens.

14. Tempio Maggiore

Also known as the Grand Synagogue of Florence, the Tempio Maggiore is one of the largest and most prominent synagogues in Southern Europe. The Jewish population inhabiting the Grand Duchy of Tuscany gained emancipation in 1848, and after Italy was established as a kingdom in 1861, all Italian Jews were declared free citizens with equal rights. Construction of the Tempio Maggiore commenced in 1874, fusing Italian Romanesque and Moorish Revival architectural styles with Sephardic art and design traditions. Since its development, the Tempio Maggiore has served as a prototype for numerous later synagogues worldwide due to its influential design. Housed within the synagogue complex is a two-level museum, with the ground floor dedicated to chronicling the history of Florentine Jews and their interactions with the city through examinations of their public lives. Meanwhile, the upper floor focuses on exploring the origins of Florence`s Jewish community, particularly analyzing aspects of domestic life and personal spirituality. Both the Grand Synagogue and the Jewish Museum are accessible to visitors throughout the entire year, with specified seasonal hours of operation that neatly wrap up the history and significance of this culturally important site for the Jewish community.

15. Truffle Hunting

For centuries, distinctive black and white truffle varieties flourishing in Florence`s countryside have been treasured in local cuisine. Accompany expert truffle hunter Giulio Benuzzi and his canine companions Maga and Edda into the forest trails to learn the art of foraging, harvesting techniques, and associated culinary practices through an engaging demonstration. The excursion includes a light truffle-accented picnic and regional red wine in an intimate setting away from the crowds.

16. Day Trips to Tuscan Villages

Florence enjoys a privileged location in the heart of Tuscany and is well-connected by bus and train to a handful of picturesque cities and villages. Of course, Pisa is the most famous for its Tower that Leans (Pisa Cathedral’s bell tower, seen above behind the cathedral), though Fiesole is the nearest and simplest town to access from Florence, with ancient Etruscan and Roman ruins. Siena, the traditional competitor of Florence, boasts a stunning cathedral (duomo), immense Santa Maria della Scala museum complex, and the Piazza del Campo, widely considered the prettiest square in Europe. San Gimignano is a small village famous for its 14 medieval towers. Arezzo is not on most travelers’ maps, making it a quiet escape for exploring its monumental Medici Fortress (Fortezza Medicea), medieval and Renaissance churches, and Roman amphitheater. Lucca is another Tuscan gem; its well-preserved medieval walls have been converted to a pedestrian pathway encircling the ancient city, which is filled with medieval towers, cathedrals, and a botanical garden. Each of these historic villages and cities can be readily and affordably accessed from Florence by bus or train within 45 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes).

17. Ponte Vecchio

An icon of the city, the only bridge to survive the German occupation. A pretty cluster of jewelry shops still occupies it, and above them rise the arches of the Corridoio Vasariano. This private passage built for the Medici is due to reopen in 2021

18. Gelato

On St. Thomas, you`ll find the most options for accommodation and activities, such as this watersports tour at Cas Cay, where you can go hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling among the tropical fish, sting rays, and sea turtles. If your time is limited but you want to experience a bit of everything, this sightseeing tour is your best option.

19. Basilica di Santo Spirito

The ecclesiastical traditions of Santo Spirito date back to the mid-thirteenth century when an Augustinian church and monastery were founded. However, the current basilica was constructed during the mid-fifteenth century based on a design by Filippo Brunelleschi. His plan featured a Latin cross layout along with a symmetrical façade and understated but splendid Renaissance interior. Most artworks within are by lesser known Florentine artists, save for a notable exception – Michelangelo`s crucifix. The young Michelangelo took up residence at the monastery`s dormitory at age seventeen where he was permitted to study human anatomy using corpses from their infirmary. The following year, he carved the basilica`s wooden crucifix drawing from his anatomical examinations; it stands as one of his earliest surviving works. Santo Spirito and its facilities are situated in Florence`s Oltrarno neighborhood on Piazza di Santo Spirito. While the basilica may be entered at no cost daily, the religious complex – including the sacristy where Michelangelo`s crucifix is exhibited – charges a two Euro admission fee from Monday to Saturday between 10AM to 1PM and 3PM to 5PM, excepting Wednesdays. On Sundays and holidays, visiting hours are 11:30AM to 1:30PM and 3PM to 5PM. 😊.

20. Museo degli Innocenti

Housed within the historic Intsituto degli Innocenti facility, established over six centuries ago to promote children`s welfare, is the poignant Museum of the Innocents exhibition in Florence. The basement level depicts the institute`s origins as the city`s first orphanage and pediatric hospital during the early 15th century, when unwanted infants could be anonymously left using an outdoor receiving wheel with no questions asked. This continued until late 19th century when such drop-offs were banned. Artifacts on display include identifying charms frequently placed with children by parting parents, in addition to artistic works, biographical accounts of individual youths, and multimedia displays. The ground floor highlights the original architectural design as a medical center by Brunelleschi. Meanwhile, the upper floor features pieces from the collection, including items by Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Della Robbia. A stunning rooftop café called Verone Caffè provides panoramas of the Cathedral and Synagogue with accompanying wine, beverages, and light fare. Open during summer Thursday to Monday from 4:00pm to 8:00pm and winter Thursday to Monday from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, excluding Tuesday and Wednesday.

21. Museo di San Marco

Constructed in the mid-fifteenth century, the Dominican complex of San Marco was built upon the foundation of a prior medieval monastery under the design of renowned architect Michelozzo, who was a trusted colleague of Cosimo de’ Medici, the primary financial backer of the project. De` Medici maintained living quarters at the site for private worship and contemplation. Over the centuries, the religious and administrative oversight of San Marco changed on multiple occasions until being acquired by the newly formed Kingdom of Italy in the mid-nineteenth century. At this juncture, it was transformed into a museum in 1869 housing the preeminent holdings of visual works by Fra Angelico, who resided at the friary for nearly a decade. Additionally preserved are significant pieces from Fra Bartolomeo, a strong influence on Raphael, as well as productions of Domenico Ghirlandaio and Girolamo Savonarola. San Marco welcomes public visitation daily except Mondays, opening its doors from 8:15 a.m. until 1:50 p.m., with ticket sales ceasing half an hour prior. It is also closed the first and third Sundays of each month but open on the second and fourth. Entrance fees are €9 per person.

22. Tuscany Ballooning

Enjoy breathtaking scenery from new heights during a leisurely airborne excursion in a hot air balloon. Departures near Florence float above famous vineyards, olive groves, medieval structures, and rolling landscapes before a smooth landing allows travelers to sip Prosecco alongside local cheeses, fruits, and bread spread with olive oil. Private tours as well as small group options are available. While the primary launching site is in Chianti, flights can also be arranged from Siena, Lucca, or Colle Val d`Elsa. Pricing starts at approximately €250 per adult and €200 for children under 12 years old.

23. Cappella Branacci

This humble chapel located within the otherwise unadorned (due primarily to fire damage) Church of Santa Maria del Carmine holds importance for its frescoes by Masaccio, deemed the earliest great painter of the Renaissance. Originally, the frescoes were started by Masolino di Panicale, the master artist under whom Masaccio studied. The two painters labored side by side until Masolino departed to paint for the King of Hungary, leaving Masaccio to take over the project. It was here that Masaccio developed his own mastery of vivid color, use of light and shadow, realistic perspective, and lifelike depictions, before being summoned to Rome where he passed at 27. Many of his unfinished frescoes were completed decades later by another towering Renaissance master, Filippino Lippi. Generations of artists studied Masaccio`s works within this chapel, most famously the teenaged Michelangelo, who received a broken nose here after being punched in an altercation with a rival pupil. The Branacci Chapel remains open for much of the year from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays (closed on Tuesdays) and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Advance reservations are strongly advised; the small chapel can accommodate a maximum of 30 visitors at a time for 30 minutes at a time.

24. Piazza della Repubblica

Previously situated at the intersection of Florence`s primary roadways dating back to Roman civilization, the Cardo and Decumanus, this prominent plaza served as the heart of the urban center throughout fluctuations in leadership over time. During medieval rule, it housed the core commercial marketplace. Later in the Renaissance era, Jewish inhabitants were compelled to inhabit an officially designated portion under Cosimo I de` Medici`s direction, giving rise to a culturally vibrant yet restricted Jewish quarter comprising two synagogues, educational facilities, and various tradesmen. Upon the unification of Italy as a kingdom in 1861, Florentine Jews obtained citizenship while the segregated living space was dismantled. Extensive reconstruction from 1885 to 1895 radically transformed the entire vicinity, leaving only the remaining Column of Abundance as a remnant linking to earlier civilizations. No original architectural features persist from ancient Roman, medieval, Jewish, or Renaissance periods today. Despite receiving less acclaim, the location maintained significance as a gathering place for Florentine artists and writers during the early 20th century Futurist intellectual movement, within cafes situated there. Street artists, musicians, scheduled festivals, a traditional carousel, and weekend pop-up markets now imbue this central plaza with abundant lively energy, especially in warmer months from May through November.

25. La Specola

Formally designated the Museum of Zoology and Natural Science, La Specola stands as Europe`s earliest publicly accessible museum (opening in 1775) most renowned for its anatomically precise wax models spanning the 16th-18th centuries, many arranged in Renaissance fashions, with the most notable illustrating Clemente Susinis “Spellato” (the Skinned Person) and Gaetano Zumbo’s precision-crafted human skull meticulously mimicking an actual cranium. Beyond the lifelike waxes, the institution safeguards over 3 million scientifically preserved animal specimens with approximately 5000 on exhibition, such as those of now-extinct varieties like the Tasmanian tiger. Its Skeletal Hall exhibits 3000 modern animal skeletons incorporating three whales, a giraffes, and an elephant. The Tribune of Galileo within the museum honors Galileo and experimental scientific inquiry, while the tower-based Il Torrino at the highest level functions as an astronomical observatory furnished with a sizable telescope, a sun-synchronized timepiece, and sweeping metropolitan views.

26. Opera at St. Mark’s

An evening at St. Mark`s Opera promises pure delight. Situated in a 15th century palace that once belonged to the Medici and Machiavelli families, renovated in the Pre-Raphaelite style and opened as an Anglican church in 1881, St. Mark`s English Church provides an intimate setting housing the audience just meters from the performers – top local vocalists accompanied by a lone pianist. A brief overview of the opera is given in English at the start; programs are offered in English, Italian, German and French; and refreshments are available during intermission. Operas commence nightly at 20:30 and can consist of full-length productions or a series of romantic duets. Standard adult tickets range from €25 to €35. Advance bookings are advisable due to limited seating for this popular event.

27. Fontana del Porcellino

Known also by its nickname “Il Porcellino” meaning “little pig” in Italian, this sculptural fountain dates back to the early seventeenth century Baroque period. The bronze figure was skillfully crafted by artist Pietro Tacca and modeled after an earlier second century BC Hellenistic marble boar that once belonged to the powerful Medici family, who currently have their own version on display at the renowned Uffizi Gallery. Originally intended for the magnificent Boboli Gardens, Il Porcellino was eventually positioned on the south side of the Mercato Nuovo market to provide a water source for the hardworking local merchants. However, as far back as the early eighteenth century, Il Porcellino had gained renown not only for its artistic merit but also for its reportedly auspicious properties. Visitors traditionally rubbed the bronze boar`s nose with the goal of ensuring their return to the beautiful city, before placing a coin between its jaws and making a wish while tossing it into the drainage grate below with hopes that it would land securely, bringing good fortune. Repeated theft and pilfering of the fountain`s accumulated wishing coins over the centuries led authorities to relocate the fragile original sculpture for safekeeping at the Bardini Museum. A duplicate now stands in its stead, continuing to attract crowds of hopeful visitors engaging in the enduring tradition.