Best things to do in Florence

Florence is a beautiful city. Thanks to the fact that monuments and interesting places are spread over a relatively small area, it is possible to walk through Florence and see it all in 1 day. I recommend starting your visit early in the morning. Probably already at 7:00 or 8:00. Otherwise, there are countless tourists, primarily at the cathedral and very hot (in case you visit Florence in summer).

I don't know if I would recommend visiting Florence in the summer. I was personally here in July. If you want to avoid the large number of tourists and the heat, I would rather recommend visiting from August-September to May.

If you are traveling by car and looking for a place to park, I wrote the article Where to park in Florence.

Florence Cathedral - the Gothic landmark of Florence with Brunelleschi's dome

Florence Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of Italy's most important architectural gems. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic cathedral is famous for its stunning dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

The cathedral is decorated with marble facades in green, white and pink, and its interior captivates visitors with its stained glass windows and works of art. At the top of the cathedral there is a viewing platform that offers a unique view of the whole of Florence and the surrounding countryside. The Florence Cathedral is not only the spiritual center of the city, but also one of the main tourist destinations that visitors must not miss during their stay in Florence.

I recommend buying tickets in advance, for the given time and online. Otherwise, you will have to wait in line, which forms very early in the morning, is almost around the entire cathedral, and you will be waiting here for a very long time.

Tickets to enter the cathedral can be purchased here: https://tickets.duomo.firenze.it/en/store

Baptisterium San Giovanni

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is a historic baptismal church in Florence, built in the 11th century and dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Located next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, it is famous for its octagonal structure and the beautiful mosaic on the dome that depicts biblical scenes. Its marble facade in green, white and pink tones is an example of Florentine Romanesque architecture. The Baptistery is the place of baptisms and one of the most important religious monuments in Florence.

Giotto's Campanile - view from the Renaissance bell tower of Florence

Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto) is a beautiful Gothic bell tower located next to Florence Cathedral. It was designed by the famous painter and architect Giotto di Bondone and completed in 1359. The bell tower, 82 meters high, is famous for its beautiful marble facade in green, pink and white shades and rich sculptural details. Visitors can climb the 414 steps to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence and its surroundings, including the dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Giotto's bell tower is not only an architectural gem, but also one of the most important attractions for tourists who want to explore the beauty of Florence from above.

Palazzo Vecchio - Florence's historic town hall and art museum with a rich history

Palazzo Vecchio is an impressive Renaissance palace located in the Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Built in the 13th century, this historic palace served as the residence of the Florentine rulers and is now the city's town hall. Visitors can explore the palace's magnificent interiors, including the magnificent Salone dei Cinquecento, home to frescoes by artists such as Giorgio Vasari.

Palazzo Vecchio is also home to several important works of art and offers a unique view of the city from the Torre di Arnolfo. This palace is an integral part of Florentine cultural heritage and one of the main tourist destinations in the city.

Loggia dei Lanzi - History, Architecture and Artistic Treasures in Florence

The Loggia dei Lanzi is an open Renaissance gallery in the Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Built in the 14th century, it serves as an open-air museum displaying important sculptural works, including the famous Perseus statue by Benvenuto Cellini. The Loggia is a beautiful example of Florentine architecture and was originally intended as a space for public events and gatherings. Today it is a popular place for tourists who can see not only the sculptures, but also the architectural details of this historic building.

Ponte Vecchio - iconic medieval bridge with shops and views

Ponte Vecchio is one of the most famous bridges in the world and a symbol of Florence. This medieval stone bridge, which connects the two parts of the city over the Arno river, is famous for its picturesque shops, especially the goldsmiths and jewelry workshops located along the bridge. It originally served as a place for artisans and merchants, but today it is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Florence. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the Arno River and the historic city center. Ponte Vecchio is ideal for romantic strolls and is an essential part of any visit to Florence.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the most famous and most visited squares in Florence, offering a wonderful panoramic view of the entire city. Located on the hill of San Miniato, on the south bank of the river Arno, it is an ideal place to take photos and admire the sights of Florence, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti. The square was opened in 1869 and is named after the famous artist Michelangelo, whose bronze statue of David was placed here. Piazzale Michelangelo is a popular spot for tourists and locals who come here to enjoy the beautiful sunsets and relax in a peaceful setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

San Miniato al Monte - a church with a breathtaking view of Florence

San Miniato al Monte is one of the most beautiful churches in Florence, Italy, located on top of a hill above the city with an amazing panoramic view of the entire center. This Romanesque church, which was built in the 11th century, is known for its beautiful mosaics, geometric patterns on the marble facade and richly decorated interior.

Visitors can appreciate the atmosphere of the historical site and the monastery garden. San Miniato al Monte is also a popular destination for lovers of leisurely walks that lead from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

The Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is an impressive Gothic church in Florence, located near the main train station. It was built in the 13th century and is known for its beautiful facade designed by the architect Leon Battista Alberti. The interior of the church houses many artistic treasures, including the fresco "Trinità" by Masaccio, which is considered one of the most important works of the early Renaissance. In addition, there are important altars and sculptures by leading Florentine artists. The church is also home to the Chapel of the Cross (Cappella degli Spagnoli), which contains frescoes telling biblical stories. Santa Maria Novella is not only the spiritual center of the city, but also one of the most important examples of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance.

Palazzo Pitti - Renaissance palace with museums and beautiful gardens

Palazzo Pitti is a Renaissance palace in Florence that originally served as the seat of the powerful Medici family. Today it houses several important museums, including the Galleria Palatina with its unique collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, and the Museum of Modern Art. Visitors can explore the richly decorated halls where works by masters such as Raphael, Titian and Rubens are exhibited. The complex also includes entrance to the beautiful Boboli Gardens, making Palazzo Pitti the ideal place to spend a day exploring the history, art and natural beauty of Florence.

Tower of San Niccolò - view of Florence from the historic defensive tower

The Tower of San Niccolò (Torre di San Niccolò) is a historic defensive tower in Florence, built in the 14th century as part of the city walls. Located in the Oltrarno district near the Arno River, it is the only tower in the city that has been preserved at its original height. Visitors who choose to climb the stairs to the top are rewarded with spectacular views of the historic center of Florence including the iconic Ponte Vecchio and the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore. The tower is only accessible during the summer months, making it a popular seasonal attraction for tourists and locals alike.

Piazza della Signoria - the center of Florence's urban life and history

Piazza della Signoria is one of the most important and lively squares in Florence, which is the historical and political center of the city. The square is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of Florence's town hall, and is also home to Michelangelo's famous replica of David. Piazza della Signoria is actually an open-air museum full of sculptures – for example, the Fountain of Neptune and the equestrian statue of Cosimo I De Medici. Visitors can also admire the works of art in the Loggia dei Lanzi, where dramatic sculptures such as “The Abduction of the Sabine Women” are displayed. The square is the perfect place to start a tour of downtown Florence and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the city.

Basilica di San Lorenzo - Renaissance church with Medici chapels

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the oldest churches in Florence and an important center of Renaissance art and architecture. Designed by the famous architect Filippo Brunelleschi, this church was a favorite of the Medici family, who used it as a family tomb. Inside, visitors can admire masterpieces such as the Medici Chapels, Michelangelo's sculptures and the elegant marble interior. Adjacent to the basilica is also the famous Laurenziana Library with manuscripts and books from the Medici collection. The Basilica di San Lorenzo offers a fascinating insight into Florence's history and is a must-stop for art and architecture lovers.

Santa Croce - a church with tombs of famous personalities and works of art

The Basilica di Santa Croce is an impressive Gothic church in Florence, known as the "Pantheon of Florence" because it is the resting place of many notable figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. This church, built in the 13th century, is one of the most important religious and cultural monuments of the city. Inside you will find beautiful frescoes created by famous artists such as Giotto and his students. Santa Croce is also home to several museums, including the San Salvi Museum. The surrounding piazza is a popular spot for strolling and local markets, making this church a must-stop for any visitor to Florence.

Piazza di Santa Croce

Piazza di Santa Croce is an important square in Florence, located in front of the Basilica of Santa Croce. In addition to its historical and architectural value, it is known for being the final resting place of important personalities such as Michelangelo or Galileo. The square is also used for cultural events and the traditional Florentine game "Calcio Storico".

Belvedere - Renaissance palace and gardens with a wonderful view of Florence

The Belvedere is a beautiful Renaissance palace and gardens, located on a hill above Florence, near the Palazzo Pitti. This palace was built at the request of Cardinal Leopoldo de' Medici in the 16th century and today offers visitors a peaceful environment and a breathtaking view of the city.

The Belvedere Gardens are carefully landscaped with terraces, fountains and sculptures, making this an ideal place to relax and stroll. The Belvedere has also been used for representational purposes and is a popular destination for lovers of history, art and nature. Here, visitors can enjoy not only the beauty of the palace and gardens, but also panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.

Corridoio Vasariano - the historic corridor connecting the palaces and the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence

The Corridoio Vasariano is a unique historical corridor in Florence that connects the Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti, crossing the Ponte Vecchio. This architectural gem was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1565 for the Medici family to move safely and comfortably between their residences. The corridor is over 1 km long and was originally used for private purposes. Today it is open to the public and offers a fascinating insight into art and history. Inside, works by prominent artists are displayed, including portraits and paintings from the Renaissance period. Corridoio Vasariano is the ideal place for those who want to experience a piece of Florence's history and explore art and architecture from a unique perspective.

Gelateria dei Neri

Gelateria dei Neri is a popular ice cream shop in Florence, known for its delicious homemade ice cream and traditional recipes. It is located in the historic center of the city, not far from Santa Croce square. Gelateria dei Neri offers a wide selection of flavors, including classics like chocolate and vanilla, but also unique, seasonal flavors that are prepared from fresh ingredients. This ice cream parlor is a favorite place not only for locals, but also for tourists who come here to taste real Italian gelato.

There is shade and seating at the confectionery. I recommend taking a "break" here.

Boboli Gardens - Renaissance oasis full of art and history in Florence

The Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli) are one of the most important Renaissance gardens in Italy, located behind the famous Pitti palatial residence in the center of Florence. These extensive gardens offer visitors a tranquil oasis filled with fountains, sculptures, elegant cypress avenues and hidden nooks with panoramic views of the city. The Boboli Gardens were created in the 16th century and are an example of Italian garden architecture with thoughtful symmetry and rich vegetation. This vast park is the perfect place to relax, stroll among ancient statues or have a picnic with a view of picturesque Florence.

Galleria degli Uffizi

The Galleria degli Uffizi is one of the most famous museums in the world, located in Florence. It was founded in the 16th century by the Medici family and is home to an extensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque works of art. Among the most important exhibits are paintings by masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael. The museum is housed in an architectural complex designed by Giorgio Vasari that originally served as office space for the Florentine government. Today, the Uffizi attracts visitors from all over the world, who admire not only the artistic treasures, but also the magnificent view of the Arno River and the historic center of Florence.