The capital of Tuscany, Florence, has long been a major tourist destination for travel in Italy. Birthplace of the Renaissance, this city is home to some of the world’s most important cultural works. With its iconic architecture, world-class museums, delectable cuisine, and picturesque streets, Florence is a place where every corner seems to hold a piece of history. Join us as we show you all this amazing city has to offer with this Florence travel guide.
What to See and Do in Florence
Florence has a wealth of cultural attractions to choose from. Here you will find Michelangelo’s David, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and the iconic Duomo. With a plethora of incredible museums and architectural attractions to choose from, more than one day is needed to truly appreciate this impressive city.
The Uffizi Gallery and Academia are must see attractions that house some of Italy’s greatest artist’s works. In the Uffizi Gallery you will find incredible works of art such as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Medusa by Caravaggio and Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci. Academia is home to Michelangelo’s David as well as other incredible sculptures and paintings by the likes of Giambologna, Botticelli and Guidi.
In addition to the well known Uffizi Gallery and Accademia, there are also many under the radar museums, often away from the crowds. Bargello is home to many beautiful albeit less well known sculptures from artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo. Pitti Palace, often combined with the immaculate manicured Boboli Gardens, is home to a variety of smaller museums set in an opulent former residence. The Medici Chapels are worth a visit to appreciate Florence’s ruling families final resting places with impressive carvings by none other than Michelangelo. For those interested in learning more about another famous Florence resident, the Galileo Science Museum provides a look into the life of perhaps one of Italy’s most famous scientist with exhibits and artifacts that showcase his work.
No Florence travel guide would be complete without mentioning the beauty of the surrounding Tuscan towns and world class wineries that are only a short distance from Florence. We have complied a list of the 4 best scenic road trips throughout the countryside, be sure to include one of these day trips when in Florence!
Hidden Gems
If you enjoy off the beaten path attractions and experiences, Florence offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library is another marvel for art and architecture aficionados. Michelangelo was famously known for his artistic masterpieces, such as the Sistine Chapel, but perhaps not as well known were his talents as an architect. Here you can gaze in wonder at his intricately designed Laurentian Library, which took almost 50 years to complete.
Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is another must see – home to what is believed to be the world’s oldest apothecary and home to the famous Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Here you can shop for beautifully made Florentine soaps and perfumes, the perfect souvenir to remember your time in Florence.
Scuola del Cuoio is a leather school devoted to preserving the craftsmanship synonymous with Florence’s leather industry. You will enjoy learning about the art of leather making, seeing the artisans work and being about to purchase high quality leather goods.
Arnolfo Tower is the lesser known hot spot in Florence for incredible views of the city, which stands above the famous Palazzo Vecchio. Climb the 233 steps to truly appreciate the beauty of Florence from above.
Where to stay?
Florence offers many beautiful neighborhoods that can be a perfect home base for your trip. Here are a few neighborhoods that are popular with tourists.
Centro Storico
Home to the many popular sights such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, however this area is also the most expensive and crowded.
Oltrarno and Santo Spirito
Another lovely central neighborhood with beautiful streets, cafes and piazzas.
Santa Croce
Very close to the historic center and home to the beautiful Santa Croce Church.
Santa Maria Novella
Well known for its budget accommodation, but located near the train station. What this area lacks in charm it makes up for in cost saving accommodations.
San Nicolo
Close to the historic center with amazing restaurants and gorgeous city views.
Midrange Hotels
Hotel Ariele
Relais Piazza Signoria
Budget Hotels
Hotel David
Hotel Rosary Garden
Where to Eat?
Florence offers immense variety for food, from high end dining to casual family run trattorias, here is a list of great restaurants you will want to add to your trips itinerary.
Fine Dining
Casual
When to Go?
The best times to enjoy Florence, without the stifling heat and crowds are the shoulder seasons, either spring or fall. April – early June or September to November are perfect times to enjoy all the city has to offer.
How to Get There?
By Air:
Florence is Peretola Airport (FLR), also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, offers regional flights from Italy or Europe. The nearest international airport is Pisa International Airport (PSA) also known as Galileo Galilei Airport. The Pisa International Airport is not located in Florence, but can be reached by bus or train which usually takes 1 hour.
By Train:
Florence is easily reached by train from major Italian cities such as Venice, Rome, Milan to name a few. The main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is located near the city centre and is one of Italy’s busiest stations. Here you will find many high speed rail lines that can easily connect you to the rest of Italy and Europe. Just outside the station you will find a major hub for bus lines that can easily take you to your hotel in Florence.
Florence Travel Guide Conclusion
Florence is a wonderful city with a rich cultural history, impressive architectural marvels, amazing local cuisines and an abundance of things to see and do. We hope our Florence Travel Guide inspires you to see all this iconic Italian city has to offer and discover your own hidden gems in this incredible city!
4 Responses