What to See on Florence, Italy Tours

One of the brightest gems of the Tuscany region, Florence, is the treasure trove, birthplace and cradle of the Renaissance. The city encompasses the most incredible pieces of art of the era including Michelangelo's "David".

Florence was once a central hub of medieval European trade and finance and one of the wealthiest cities of its time. The city is often even referred to as "the Athens of the Middle Ages" and has managed to preserve the ancient architecture and 13th-century palaces such as the Palazzo Vecchio and the old bridge Ponte Vecchio.

What is more, Florence is a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site that attracts millions of tourists each year. The key landmark of the city is the medieval Florence Cathedral with its tiled dome. The building was designed by Brunelleschi and the terra-cotta bell tower was created by Giotto.

Noted for its breathtaking architecture, Florence boasts striking places like the white-marble Baptistery, Bargello palace, San Miniato al Monte basilica, and the Medici Chapel.

When traveling to Florence, viewing the original "David" by Michelangelo is an unmissable experience. The sculpture is housed in the Gallery of the Academy of Florence (Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze). The Accademia also displays his other giant marble sculptures including the "Prisoners" and unfinished "Slaves", as well as other marvelous works like Botticelli's "Madonna of the Sea". Another place that gives tribute to the great talent is the library of San Lorenzo - a magnificent exhibition of Michelangelo's architectural genius.

Other Renaissance landmarks worth of notice are the Baboli Gardens with incredible sculptures and of course the Uffizi Gallery, which is home to Botticelli's "Primavera" and "Birth of Venus", Filippo Lippi's "Madonna and Child with Two Angels", Titian's "Venus of Urbino" and other works by Giotto and Renaissance pioneers like Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Topping it all, there are many opportunities to spice up your Florence itinerary such as going on of the many available Tuscany wine tours from Florence, by visiting iconic cities near Florence like Pisa and Lucca, or even by setting off on an inspiring Cinque Terre tour from Florence.

"Musts" During Tours of Florence, Italy

See the main symbol of Florence, the Duomo Cathedral on Piazza del Duomo
Visit the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's statue "David"
Sip a glass of Tuscan wine in a cafe by Piazza della Repubblica
Enjoy the old part of Florence and its Ponte Vecchio

Top Attractions in Florence

Florence Duomo, Florence

The Florence Duomo is an exceptional landmark and a must-see during any Italian tour. The remarkable Renaissance cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is currently one of the most popular stops on any Florence itinerary.