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Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Florence, often regarded as the cradle of the Renaissance, offers visitors a rich blend of art, culture, history, and stunning architecture. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper dive into its treasures, Florence offers something for everyone. Here's a detailed list of the top 20 things to do in Florence, mixing both iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Last updated: 17.06.2025

Popular Sights and Activities for First-Timers

Visit the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)

Florence’s Duomo is a masterpiece of architectural genius, with its iconic red dome designed by Brunelleschi. It’s the city’s most recognizable landmark, and the views from the top are absolutely worth the climb. Not only will you be rewarded with a panoramic vista of Florence, but you’ll also get an up-close look at the intricate frescoes inside. The Duomo’s façade is equally stunning, with vibrant colors and detailed carvings depicting scenes from the Bible.
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Florence’s Duomo
Accademia Gallery
Admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery

Michelangelo’s David is undoubtedly one of the greatest masterpieces of art. Standing at 17 feet tall, this marble statue captures the moment just before David faces Goliath. The level of detail, from the veins in David’s hands to the muscular tension in his stance, is truly awe-inspiring. The Accademia Gallery is home to this work and several other pieces by Michelangelo, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Stroll Across Ponte Vecchio
Explore the Uffizi Gallery
The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence, built in the 14th century. Its unique charm lies in the small shops that line its walkway, mostly selling jewelry, art, and souvenirs. Walking across this picturesque bridge, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Arno River and the city’s medieval buildings. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic stroll, particularly at sunset when the sky turns a beautiful shade of pink.
Home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance art, the Uffizi Gallery is an essential stop for anyone visiting Florence. Here, you can marvel at Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, da Vinci’s Annunciation, and countless other masterpieces. The gallery is housed in a beautiful Renaissance building and offers a fascinating journey through the development of Western art. Allow yourself several hours to explore its many halls, as there’s so much to see.
Visit the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens

Once home to the powerful Medici family, the Pitti Palace now houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery, which displays an extensive collection of Renaissance art. Behind the palace, you’ll find the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling green space that’s a true gem. With its fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured lawns, the gardens provide a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets and offer magnificent views over Florence.

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Pitti Palace
Marvel at the Basilica of Santa Croce

Santa Croce is not just a beautiful church, but it’s also the final resting place of some of Florence’s greatest figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Inside, the church is adorned with frescoes by Giotto and other famous artists. Santa Croce’s atmosphere is serene, making it a great place to reflect on Florence’s artistic and intellectual heritage. Don’t forget to visit the leather school nearby to pick up a beautiful handcrafted leather item as a souvenir.
Basilica of Santa Croce
Climb the Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto)
Wander Through Piazza della Signoria
Giotto’s Bell Tower is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Florence. The 414 steps to the top may be tiring, but the reward is worth it. The tower stands next to the Duomo, offering incredible close-up views of the cathedral’s intricate details, as well as sweeping views of the city and the Tuscan hills. It’s a great spot for photos, particularly if you want to capture the Duomo from above.
This lively square is at the heart of Florence's historic center and is home to some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Palazzo Vecchio. The square also houses an open-air sculpture gallery, where you can admire copies of some of Michelangelo’s most famous works, including the statue of David. Don’t miss the Fountain of Neptune and the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air gallery with statues from the Renaissance period.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Relax at Piazzale Michelangelo

For one of the best views of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic terrace located just outside the historic center. Here, you can sit and admire the sweeping vista of the entire city, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the rolling Tuscan hills. It's a peaceful spot to relax, take in the breathtaking views, and watch the sunset over the city, far from the crowds of the busy center.

Sip an Espresso at Caffè Gilli

Caffè Gilli, founded in 1733, is one of the oldest and most famous cafes in Florence. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy an authentic Italian espresso while admiring the historic interior. The café is located in the heart of the city, making it a perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The elegant setting, with its beautiful chandeliers and marble countertops, adds to the charm of this iconic establishment.
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Off-the-Beaten-Path Things for Non-First-Timers

Visit the Bargello Museum

The Bargello Museum is one of Florence’s lesser-known treasures. Housed in a former medieval prison, this museum holds an exceptional collection of Renaissance sculptures, including works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and others. Its smaller size means it’s less crowded than the larger galleries, offering a more intimate and contemplative experience. Don’t miss the Bargello David by Donatello, which is considered one of his finest works.

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Bargello Museum
Mercato Centrale
Explore the San Lorenzo Market

While many tourists flock to the larger markets in Florence, the San Lorenzo Market remains an authentic and vibrant spot. The indoor section features fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, while the outdoor market is known for its leather goods and clothing. It’s an excellent place to pick up some local Tuscan specialties like olive oil, truffle products, or handmade leather bags.

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Discover the San Miniato al Monte
Discover the Giardino delle Rose
For an off-the-beaten-path experience with breathtaking views of Florence, take a trip to San Miniato al Monte, a stunning Romanesque church perched high above the city. The walk up is a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it. The church itself is one of Florence’s most beautiful, with intricate frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility while still being close to the city center.
Located just below Piazzale Michelangelo, the Rose Garden is a peaceful and tranquil spot with magnificent views of Florence. It’s a perfect place to relax, away from the usual tourist crowds. The garden is home to hundreds of different rose varieties, making it especially beautiful in the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
tuscany market
Visit the Museum of San Salvi

A hidden gem for contemporary art lovers, the Museum of San Salvi is housed in a former psychiatric hospital. Its unique setting adds a layer of intrigue to its fascinating collection of 20th-century works. It’s not as crowded as other museums in Florence, providing a more peaceful and introspective art experience.

Explore the Florence Underground (Scavi di Firenze)

Dive beneath the streets of Florence to explore its underground secrets. The Florence Underground offers tours that take you through ancient Roman ruins, medieval structures, and hidden archaeological sites. It’s a fascinating way to see a different side of the city’s history that many visitors miss.

Take a Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence

Florence offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into the heart of Tuscan cuisine. Join a local cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Florentine dishes like ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and handmade pappardelle pasta. Many classes include a visit to a local market to pick out fresh ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking session in a charming Florentine kitchen. Not only will you master local recipes, but you’ll also gain insights into the rich culinary history of Florence and Tuscany.
Admire the Frescoes at the Cenacolo di San Salvi

This off-the-beaten-path church features stunning frescoes, including The Last Supper by Andrea del Sarto. The church’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the more crowded sights in Florence.

Wander Through the Boboli Gardens in the Evening

While Boboli Gardens is a popular tourist spot during the day, it’s also a magical place to visit in the late afternoon or evening when the crowds have thinned out. The gardens look even more enchanting at sunset, and the peaceful atmosphere offers a lovely escape from the busy city center.

Relax at the Cascine Park

Florence’s largest public park, Cascine Park, is a favorite among locals. Located along the Arno River, it’s perfect for a relaxing walk, bike ride, or picnic. The park offers a serene escape from the busy streets of the city and is a great place to enjoy some time outdoors while still being close to the heart of Florence.

Boboli Gardens
Florence is a city of contrasts—where the grandeur of the Renaissance coexists with charming hidden corners. Whether you're experiencing Florence for the first time or you're a seasoned visitor looking for something new, there’s always something exciting to discover. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery to lesser-known gems like the Oltrarno district and the Florence Underground, you’ll never run out of things to do in Florence. So, whether you're looking for the classic what to do in Florence or something a bit more unique, this list has something for everyone.

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