Things To Do
in Florence
Florence, Italy is a beautiful city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is home to famous landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, the Uffizi Gallery housing masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge spanning the Arno River. Visitors can explore charming streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and gelato shops, or relax in the city's peaceful gardens like the Boboli Gardens.
Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early at the iconic Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city to appreciate its stunning architecture.
Visit the Baptistery and Giotto's Campanile adjacent to the cathedral. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby trattoria, sampling local Tuscan cuisine.
Wander through the vibrant streets of the historic center as the sun sets. Dine al fresco at a restaurant with a view of the Duomo, soaking in the evening atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces from the Renaissance. Spend time marveling at works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
After the gallery, stroll through the picturesque Piazza della Signoria. Grab lunch at a nearby cafĂŠ and take in the statues and fountains that adorn the square.
As the evening approaches, head to the Ponte Vecchio. Enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river, followed by a leisurely walk on the bridge.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, with numerous museums and historical sites
- Stunning architecture, including the Florence Cathedral and Ponte Vecchio
- Delicious cuisine, famous for pasta, wine, and local specialties
- Vibrant arts scene, home to many renowned artists and their works
- Beautiful landscapes, located in the picturesque Tuscan region
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming, especially during peak seasons
- High cost of living, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some visitors
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Italian speakers
Best Activities in Florence
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens of Florence, such as the Boboli Gardens and Bardini Gardens, for a peaceful outdoor experience.
Enjoy a scenic hike in the hills of Fiesole, just a short distance from Florence, and take in stunning views of the city and countryside.
Rent a bike and cycle along the picturesque Arno River, taking in the iconic bridges and riverside views of Florence.
Tours
Uncover the best of Florence with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Florence
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Florence and is a popular spot for capturing scenic photographs.
The iconic cathedral offers stunning views of the city from its dome and bell tower.
Beautiful gardens with terraces and paths that provide great photo opportunities of the city and surrounding hills.
Food in Florence
Florence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, juicy T-bone steak, seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled to perfection. This iconic Florentine dish is best enjoyed at traditional trattorias like Trattoria Sostanza or Buca Lapi.
Must-Try!
A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, cannellini beans, and vegetables, simmered to create a deliciously rich and comforting dish. For an authentic taste, head to Il Magazzino or Il Latini.
Indulge in Florence's famous gelato, crafted with fresh, natural ingredients. Savour the best gelato at Gelateria dei Neri, Carapina, or La Carraia.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Florence better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic food market offering an array of culinary delights, from fresh produce and local cheeses to gourmet panini and traditional Tuscan street food. Don't miss the Lampredotto stand for a taste of Florence's beloved street food specialty.
A bustling market where locals gather to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and meats. Sample authentic street food such as panini, porchetta, and fritto misto at the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Florence, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. Men may also greet women with a kiss on the cheek, usually twice.
While visiting churches and other religious sites, it is important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. In other public places, Italians generally dress stylishly and neatly.
When dining in Florence, it is considered polite to wait for the host to indicate where you should sit. It is also customary to keep your hands above the table, and to never ask for extra cheese to sprinkle on seafood pasta dishes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Florence with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Florence
Ensure a smooth experience
In Florence, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants and cafes, especially if the service was excellent. Tipping for other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, is not mandatory but can be done as a gesture of appreciation.
In Florence, cash is widely used for small transactions, especially at local markets and smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are generally accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. It is advisable to check with the establishment beforehand if they accept card payments, especially for smaller purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Florence.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Florence with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various cultural events such as the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino festival.
Peak tourist season with hot weather, crowded attractions, and lively outdoor events and festivals.
Mild weather, fewer tourists, and the city's art and cultural scene in full swing with exhibitions and concerts.
Quiet atmosphere, occasional cold spells, but the festive season brings Christmas markets and traditional holiday celebrations.
Florence at Night
Hiking in Florence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hilltop town near Florence offering scenic views and various hiking trails through the hills and olive groves.
The highest peak near Florence, providing a variety of hiking paths with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
A national park offering numerous hiking trails through forests and historical landmarks, located a bit further from Florence.
A scenic trail that starts from the hills around Florence and leads to beautiful landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.
A less-known hiking area that offers peaceful walking paths and a chance to escape the crowded tourist spots in Florence.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Florence through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Florence by plane.
The main airport serving Florence, Italy, located approximately 4 km from the city center.
An international airport located about 100 km northeast of Florence, serving as a major hub for flights to various destinations.
Located approximately 80 km west of Florence, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a common alternative for travelers.
The busiest airport in Italy, situated about 270 km south of Florence, offering extensive international connections.
Located about 300 km northwest of Florence, it is one of the largest international airports in Italy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Florence, primarily composed of native Florentines and other Italians from various regions.
Residents from various countries, including significant communities from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
A large population of domestic and international students studying at universities and art schools in Florence.
A transient demographic consisting of visitors from around the world, especially during peak seasons.
An increasing demographic of older adults who are residents, including both locals and expatriates.
The Soul of Florence
Discover the essence of Florence through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Florence, with ACF Fiorentina being the city's professional team. The passion for the sport is deeply entrenched in the local culture.
Basketball has gained popularity in Florence, with local clubs competing in national leagues. The city has produced notable players and teams, contributing to the sport's growth.
Cycling is a favored leisure activity in Florence, with its scenic landscapes and historic routes attracting both locals and tourists. The city also hosts cycling events and races.
Rugby has a solid following in Florence, with clubs participating in regional and national competitions. The sport is promoted through youth programs and local events.
Tennis is popular among Florentines, with numerous clubs and courts available for both recreational and competitive play. The sport attracts a variety of ages and skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Florence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Florence caters well to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many eateries offering plant-based menus. Sample delectable vegetarian dishes at restaurants like Brac or Le Vespe Cafe.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dining options in Florence. Look out for specialized menus at restaurants such as Quinoa and Ciro & Sons.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Florence with these cultural adventures.
