The Arno River cuts scenically through the Tuscan capital and its burnt-orange domes. Florence might be an inland city in Northern Italy, but it operates along the waterfront — spread luxuriously across both banks of the most famed river in Tuscany. Named after the Italian verb florere (which translates as “to bloom”), the city is an unexpected eruption of urbanized culture amidst countryside.
Enough about Florence’s beauty, though; you’re already convinced. With clasped boarding tickets and ever-so-slightly-bulging carry-ons, it’s simply a question of how to fill a Florence itinerary. This guide will introduce the top things to do in Florence, Italy.
As the centerpiece of the sought-after region of Tuscany, the city has cut its teeth on Renaissance culture and creations from its nearby culinary cultivations. Taste olives, drink wine, and embrace Gothic architecture; here’s a careful selection of the best things to do in Florence, Italy.
1. Brave 463 Steps Up Brunelleschi’s Dome
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: Tickets starting at €45
Nothing worth having comes easy, a saying that rings particularly true for those clambering up Brunelleschi’s Dome. Atop Florence’s iconic Duomo, this landmark remains the world’s largest masonry vault and a symbol of the city’s Renaissance journey. Construction on the octagonal dome was finalized in 1436. However, the actual concept dates back even further — Brunelleschi had fervently plotted potential designs for a woodless dome since the 14th century. Today, Brunelleschi’s Dome remains a marker of architectural ingenuity.
After successfully climbing 463 stone-cut steps, the views promise an expansive reward. Visitors can admire the rooftops of Florence from 360 degrees; it’s an aesthetic method of appreciating the city and its architectural layout.
To extend the experience, step inside the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral itself, which is accessible from the ground level — no vertigo necessary. Alternatively, climb the adjacent Bell Tower. For a marginally lighter feat of 414 steps, it has summit balconies overlooking the city’s streets. A considerable perk of the Bell Tower is that it facilitates a scenic view of the Duomo’s orange dome; since Brunelleschi’s Dome is on top of this, it’s excluded from that initial viewpoint.
A Word of Warning
Brunelleschi’s Dome is arguably first in the top 10 things to do in Florence, Italy. As such, competition is fierce; in peak times, anyone unprepared risks disappointment. It’s advisable to reserve tickets online, and the best time to visit Florence to avoid these crowds is between March and May (excluding the brief mania of the Easter holidays).
2. Learn The History of the 12 Bridges
Cost: Free
Envision wistful strolls over Gothic bridges; walking these infrastructures is easily one of the most romantic things to do in Florence. The tales are more tragic than might initially meet the eye, though. A handful of these bridges date back to the Middle Ages, and each holds its own tale: some were built to facilitate wooden carts and others to celebrate high-status weddings. Yet the 12 bridges of Florence look very different in the modern day. During WWII, as Germany retreated, it destroyed all but one of the city’s bridges. Ponte Vecchio was the last bridge standing.
Exactly why Ponte Vecchio was spared remains a mystery. Some speculate that Hitler himself had specified that it shouldn’t be destroyed; reports suggest he had personally toured Ponte Vecchio beforehand. Regardless, the bridges are shrouded in more than beauty alone — prioritizing this history is one of the most poignant things to see and do in Florence, Italy.
How To Visit
A walking tour is a popular method of embracing both history and architectural sights. However, it is equally feasible to approach the bridges independently; unlimited data and the ability to quickly Google each landmark’s history go a long way. Ponte Vecchio is particularly beautiful, spectacularly lined with stores built into the bridge’s walls.
3. Take a Cooking Class
Cost: € – €€
Florence is a foodie’s paradise. Tuscan cuisine has special characteristics that those unfamiliar with Italy’s regional cuisines might initially overlook. Geologically, the high soil fertility has resulted in centuries of quality viticulture and agriculture. Socially, the 14th century brought the Renaissance and, with it, an impassioned demand for literature that encouraged the documentation of recipes and culinary arts. While the countryside surrounding Florence is dotted with estates passed down through generations — many still utilize traditional cultivation strategies. There is a distinct dedication to protecting and preserving Tuscan cuisine; no better setting for a cooking class.
To organize an immersive lesson in Tuscan cuisine, it’s easiest to search for activities using third-party platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator. Think gelato making and pizza spinning. There’s even a cooking class that includes unlimited wine while you make your own pasta from scratch. It’s enough to get your stomach grumbling just picturing it.
4. Road Trip To Val D’Orcia
Cost: €€
At the heart of Tuscany, it would be criminal not to stray a little from the city limits. Florence Airport is a prime pick-up spot for a car rental, so why not hit the road? The world is your oyster (or potentially your olive, given that you’ll be entering “oil estate” country). It’s possible to plot fortnight-long trips throughout the region, stopping at Tuscany luxury villas en route.
To keep things short and sweet, though, embark on a road trip to Val D’Orcia — some of Tuscany’s most revered countryside. Approximately 120 km south of Florence, these undulating hills are adorned with picture-perfect cypress trees and lone red-brick estates. It takes just two hours to reach Val D’Orcia from Florence, creating a four-hour return journey feasible as a day trip or overnight adventure.
5. Embrace Science at Museo Galileo
Address: Piazza dei Giudici, 50122, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: Tickets starting at €13.00
The Galileo Museum is a necessary pit-stop for tourists seeking culture within Florence’s perimeters. This museum is an ode to both science and scientist. It contains thousands of 15th and 16th-century artifacts alongside exhibits dedicated to his life. Some of the most poignant in the collection are two telescopes: fascinating pieces of equipment that belonged to Galileo himself.
Galileo needs no formal introduction; the renowned astronomer is credited with telescope designs and countless observations, including discovering the moon’s craters. The latter was a particularly bold challenge of the status quo — previously believed to be smooth. Galileo wasn’t afraid to break those molds. His pursuit of the stars and planets was tenacious, something Museo Galileo hopes to convey today.
6. Admire Ornate Artwork at Palazzo Vecchio
Address: Plaza della Signoria, 50122, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: Tickets starting at €21.00
In the city of Renaissance, there’s no better way to embrace art culture than within the elegant walls of Palazzo Vecchio. The fortified palace is nothing short of lavish. Wander underneath gold-gilded ceilings and ponder the details of vast paintings spanning entire lengths of airy halls. Vasari’s frescoes and statues by Michelangelo are highlights of the museum, but art enthusiasts should consider the optional guided tours to achieve the most educational experience.
The palace itself dates back to the 13th century. It was created to house the governing body of Florence, and in a sweet twist of fate, it still upholds that duty today. Its historic features include former chambers and pillared courtyards (with such distinctive aesthetics that they could have sprung from Game of Thrones). After getting your fix of artwork, it’s worth wandering Palazzo Vecchio’s corridors to appreciate the building in its own right. Its Torre d’Arnolfo offers profound views over the city, too — especially for those seeking a scenic view of Florence and its Duomo.
7. Chase Waterfalls in Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi
Address: Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy
Cost: € – €€
The National Park of the Casentino Forests is a stark reminder of the sheer beauty of Florence’s surroundings. Just 60 km northeast of Florence, it is simple to organize a rental car and self-drive the 1.5 hours to the park. A scenic and rejuvenating day trip, visitors have miles upon miles of forest trails at their fingertips — with waterfalls dotted across the park’s 36,000 hectares. Lace up the dusty hiking boots, and escape the city for a day of chasing waterfalls.
Major attractions include Cascata Urlante a Premilcuore, nicknamed “Screaming Cave” due to its bizarre natural wailing sound. Cascata dell’Acquacheta is another beauty; previous visitors report swimming holes available near the main falls, so it’s worth bringing swimwear for a refreshing plunge.
Wild swimming and calmcations are increasingly trending amongst vacationers. A trip to Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi is non-negotiable for nature seekers. A day spent chasing waterfalls and treading forest trails is a restorative addition to a standard Florence itinerary.
8. Visit The Tombs of the Medici Family
Address: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6, 50123, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: Tickets starting at €12 (+ €4 booking fee online)
Cappelle Medicee is, without doubt, amongst the top things to do in Florence, Italy. The domed landmark appears simplistic from its exterior. Yet beneath the orange-roofing, there lies the most important resting sites in Florence: the tombs of the Medici.
The Medici family are the late and greats of Tuscan history. This aristocratic family ruled the city of Florence and eventually took control of the entirety of Tuscany. Excluding two brief toppings from power, the Medici held this position for three centuries — spanning from 1434 to 1737. Members of this lineage were at the highest level of bourgeoise, marrying European royalty and even becoming popes. The family is widely credited for spurring the Renaissance in Florence; their notorious passion for arts, culture, and finance undoubtedly shaped the city’s future.
Stepping inside Cappelle Medicee, the grandeur is an immediate stun. In sharp contrast to its exterior, the walls are adorned with ornate marble and a gold-gilded ceiling fresco. Don’t miss the New Sacristy sculptures by Michelangelo. The main members of the Medici family are laid to rest in an adjoining stone crypt, with plaques to differentiate between tombs. To understand Florence’s political history, this beautiful building is the best place to start.
9. Watch Sunset From Piazzale Michelangelo
Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: Free
By now, it’s evident how influential Michelangelo is across Florence — both past and present. The Piazzale Michelangelo was opened in 1869 by a local architect, Poggi. A scenic ode to Michelangelo and his memory, the piazza features a replica of the artist’s famed statue, David, and sweeping views over Florence. Plot the dreamiest possible experience; this piazza is the best place to be at sunset.
Piazza Michelangelo is set on the outskirts of the city. Located on the south bank of the Arno River, it’s a scenic 30-minute stroll, which might naturally combine with a walk across the Ponte Vecchio. The piazza is free to enjoy, so pack picnic-style snacks and warm layers. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and unwind.
A Word of Warning
Piazzale Michelangelo is by far one of the most popular things to see and do in Florence. That popularity comes with a price; crowds become intense, and street sellers vigorous in their attitudes. The scenery is best enjoyed at low-season times. Winter is surprisingly a prime time to experience it in its best light.
10. Haggle Souvenirs at San Lorenzo and Mercato Centrale
Address: Piazze del Mercato Centrale, Via dell’Ariento, 50123, Firenze, FL, Italy
Cost: € (or €€€ for shopaholics)
We dare you to disprove the theory that every city’s soul lies in its markets. There is an undeniable tug that these vendor-filled spaces have on travelers’ heartstrings. And the pulse at the center of Florence? Il Mercato Centrale Firenze and San Lorenzo. These adjoining markets straddle indoor and outdoor sections — Mercato Centrale is a multi-floor indoor market, while San Lorenzo is a streetside affair that spills out across pavements in Northern Florence.
Haggling is the name of the game. Prepare your best negotiation skills and remain stubborn about your purchase prices. Across the two markets, the stock variety is eclectically jarring. The mixture of permanent and pop-up stalls alternate between leather jackets and cheeses or olive oil and handbags. Allocate a healthy proportion of your budget to sampling street food (these venues are renowned for their down-to-earth takes on hearty Italian cuisine). But hopefully, you’ve left sufficient space in your suitcase — it’s the ideal venue for haggling on precious souvenirs. Free to visit, yet potentially expensive to leave, San Lorenzo and Mercato Centrale are a non-negotiable addition to a Florence itinerary.