Florence Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Eat & Travel Tips
Welcome to my Florence Italy Travel Guide.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRO
BASIC INFO
GETTING AROUND
THINGS TO DO
RESTAURANTS
Florence, Italy is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and one of the places that means the most to me. Filled with Renaissance art, historic streets, incredible Italian food, and beautiful views around every corner, Florence feels like a real-life storybook.
I studied abroad in Florence during the fall semester of 2015, and I returned in 2022. After spending months living in the city, I have a pretty long list of favorite places, restaurants, and things to do. This Florence travel guide combines my personal recommendations with practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Whether you're visiting Florence for the first time, spending a few days in Tuscany, or adding Florence to a larger Italy itinerary, this guide covers the best things to do in Florence, where to eat, how to get around, when to visit, and the places I personally loved most.
BASIC INFO
Currency
Florence uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, although I always recommend carrying a small amount of cash for markets, smaller shops, and the occasional place that doesn't accept cards.
Language
Italian is the main language spoken in Florence. English is widely understood in tourist areas, restaurants, hotels, and major attractions. I always think it's helpful to know a few basic Italian phrases, but you don't need to be fluent to visit Florence.
Is Florence Safe?
Florence is generally a very walkable and safe city for visitors. As with any major European destination, be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and watch for pickpocketing, especially around busy tourist attractions and transportation hubs.
Florence Weather
Florence experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot, especially in July and August, while winters are cooler and can be rainy. Spring and fall are generally comfortable for walking around the city.
Best Time to Visit Florence
I personally think spring and fall are some of the best times to visit Florence. April through June and September through October typically offer comfortable weather for exploring, although these months can still be busy.
Christmas is another beautiful time to visit Florence if you want to experience the city decorated for the holidays.
How Many Days Do You Need in Florence?
I recommend spending 3-4 days in Florence. That gives you enough time to see the major landmarks, visit a museum or two, enjoy plenty of Italian food, shop, and explore the city without feeling like you're rushing from one attraction to the next.
If you have additional time, Florence also makes a great base for exploring Tuscany and other parts of Italy.
My Florence Summer Tip
If you're visiting Florence during the summer, double-check that your hotel has air conditioning. Some older buildings don't have AC, and I learned this the hard way while studying abroad. My apartment didn't have air conditioning or screens on the windows, and August nights were HOT.
HOW TO GET AROUND FLORENCE
Is Florence Walkable?
Yes! One of my favorite things about Florence is how easy it is to explore on foot. The historic center is compact, and many of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other.
I rarely used taxis or public transportation while living in Florence because walking was usually the easiest way to get around.
Getting From Florence Airport to the City Center
If you're flying into Florence Airport (FLR), the city center is relatively close. You can take a taxi or public transportation into the center.
If you're arriving by train, Santa Maria Novella train station is located right in the heart of Florence and is incredibly convenient for exploring the city.
Getting Around Florence Without a Car
You absolutely do not need a rental car to explore Florence. In fact, I would avoid renting one if you're primarily staying in the city. Walking is the easiest way to see the historic center, and trains make it easy to travel to other Italian destinations.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE
WALK ACROSS PONTE VECCHIO
Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Ponte Vecchio is one of the most famous landmarks in Florence and the oldest bridge crossing the Arno River. The bridge dates back to 1345 and is lined with jewelry shops and small stores.
One of my favorite things to do in Florence is sit on the bridge next to Ponte Vecchio with a bottle of wine and take in the view. It's especially beautiful around sunset.
Me in 2015 during my semester in Florence vs below in 2022!
Piazza Michelangelo
Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Piazza Michelangelo is my favorite part of the city and an absolute must do. The square overlooks all of Florence in a panoramic view FOR FREE! No cost is needed while visiting Piazza Michelangelo. However, it is a hike to get up there- lots of steep stairs. If you want to conserve your energy, take a taxi up there or wear comfortable shoes for the hike up. Anytime of day is going to be a magical experience, but sunset is on a whole different level.
If you're looking for the best panoramic view of Florence, this is one of the first places I would put on your list.
VISIT THE FLORENCE Duomo
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI
The Florence Duomo, officially the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. The enormous dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi dominates the Florence skyline and is impossible to miss while exploring the historic center.
You can visit the cathedral itself for free, while climbing the dome requires a ticket and advance reservation. If you're willing to tackle the hundreds of steps, the views from the top are incredible.
I highly recommend booking your tickets or tour in advance, especially during busy travel seasons.
A tour like this would be great!
TIP: If you ever get turned around in Florence, look for the Duomo. It will almost always help you figure out where you are in the center of the city.
Piazza di Santa Croce
Address: Piazza di Santa Croce 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
In central Florence, Piazza Santa Croce is one of the main squares in Florence and gets its name from the Basilica di Santa Croce, one of the largest Franciscan churches in Italy. This is one of the burial place of well-known artists of the Renaissance people such as Galilei, Foscolo, Michelangelo and Machiavelli. During Christmas time, this Piazza holds the Christmas Markets that are so charming and festive.
Boboli Gardins and Pitti Palace
Address: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
On the other side of the Ponte Vecchio is Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens. This was once the home of the Medicis, that all-powerful Florentine banking families ornate furnishings and Italian art. Directly behind Pitti Palace
I would definitely buy tickets in advance before going to this.
Galleria degli Uffizi
Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
The Uffizi Gallery is home to some of the best works of art from the Renaissance, including The Birth of Venus. Even if you are not the best art lover, a stroll through the museum and to take in the architecture is worth the trip alone.
Piazza della Repubblica
One of Florence’s cities square, Piazza Della Repubblica is a middle point between Pointe Vecchio and the Piazza del Duomo. Here in this Piazza is the 15th-century Column of Abundance, which is where the Roman forum once was, shops, restaurants and a carousel. Some famous restaurants in the area- Caffé Gilli, Caffé Paskowski and Caffé delle Giubbe Rosse which were meeting points for many of the city's artists and writers in the past. If you stay on Via Roma you will find Piazza Della Repubblica.
Galleria dell’ Accademia
Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy
Another one of Florence’s museums is the Galleria Dell’ Accademia where the famous David by Michelangelo is homed. Smaller than Galleria degli Uffizi but still worth a visit even if you only want to see the David. I would try to order tickets in advance for this or go right before they close to avoid long lines.
San Lorenzo Leather Market
Address: Via dell'Ariento, 28, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
The San Lorenzo market was located close to my apartment and I would walk through here quiet a lot. Bring cash and work on your negotiation skills to get some authentic leather items. Inside the label is a stamp to prove its authentic leather so always check that before you buy. The men who work the stands are pushy and want the sales desperately, but remember you are in power here.
Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria
Address: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Located in Piazza Della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio was built in the thirteenth century by the same architect who designed the Duomo. It was built to host city hall public meetings and ceremonies. This is the main historical square of the city with various statues lined up in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, including a copy of Michelangelo's David. Also the Uffizi museum as it’s adjacent to it.
If you want to see a top view of the city and for some reason the Duomo is booked or the line is too long- head to Palazzo Vecchio. I actually think this view is better because the Duomo is in your view. If you don’t want to do a full tour of the Palazzo you can enter into the courtyard for a sneak peak.
Sip Wine From An Ancient Wine Door
Address: Via Santo Spirito, 21R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy and multiple locations around the city
During the Bubonic plague in the 17th century, shops installed little windows of a way to distributing food and drink to avoid coming into contact with their customers and getting infected. Known in Italian as Buchette del vino -exact translation little wine doors. There are 14 still left in Florence. Babae in Piazza Santo Spirito is one of the more popular places.
gucci MUSEUM
Address: Piazza della Signoria, 10, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
The Gucci Garden is in Piazza della Signoria and traces the evolution of Gucci. Each room is decorated on past Gucci collections and is a fun experience if you love all things fashion.
RESTAURANTS
For a travel guide for a city like Florence, when it comes to food, the options are overwhelming. I could very much be missing out on some astonishing places, so below are places I have personally been to and drool about years later. Unfortunately I don’t have the chance to hit every restaurant in Florence but feel free to comment any of your favorite places!
A tip- like most cities, there are plenty of tourist trap restaurants in Florence. Although it is Italy and there is a big chance the food will end up being okay, still do do your research beforehand to avoid paying for a meal you didn’t like.
Zaza’s
Address: Piazza Mercato Centrale 26R, 50123, Florence, Italy
Our taxi driver who picked us up from the airport, he said that we needed to go to Zaza’s. I always kept it in the back of my mind and it wasn’t until later on in the semester we decided to check it out. It was right in our neighborhood and couldn’t believe it was right near us this whole time. They have an ENTIRE menu dedicated to just truffle items. The truffle ravioli’s…. I daydream about.
Osteria Santo Spirito
Address: Via De' Michelozzi 13/r | Santo Spirito, 50125, Florence, Italy
This is a place where you would need a reservation and couldn’t just walk into since it is a smaller restaurant. Highly suggest the gnocchi- best around in my opinion.
Gusta Pizza
Address: Via Maggio, 46/red, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Gusta Pizza is one of the top famous pizza places in Florence. Some may say it’s a tourist trap- but I loved it!
La Giostra
Address: Borgo Pinti, 10/18R, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy
Great authentic Tuscan food.
All’Antico Vinaio
Address: Via dei Neri 74R 50122 Florence Italy
One of the top rated sandwich places ever!
Nobile Bistrò
Address: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 13, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
One of my other favorite panini places.
Osteria del Gatto e la Volpe
Address: Via Ghibellina, 147/r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Everything at this place is so delicious and not expensive and the staff is family oriented and super friendly. They would always give us shots post dinner and was a fan favorite among the other girls
La Ménagère
Address: Via de' Ginori, 8/R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
trattoria 13 gobbi
Address: Via del Porcellana, 9R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
La Milkeria
Address: Borgo degli Albizi, 85r/87r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Go for the crepes!
Gelato: Gelateria dei Neri
Address: Via Dei Neri 9/11R, 50122, Florence, Italy
My FAVORITE GELATO SHOP OF ALL TIME. My roommate and I probably went here minimum four times a week. I always got salted caramel and nutella. I have tried a few other gelato places around Florence but nothing will compete with this. I have no other suggestions lol.
Cannolis: Arà è Sicilia
Address: Via degli Alfani, 127R, 50122 Firenze, Italy
Secret Bakery
Address: Pasticceria Vinci & Bongini Santa Croce-Walk down Via dei Benci towards the river, making a right onto Pizza Peluzzi, then the first right onto Via del Canto Rivalto.
From 2-6am bakers are up starting to prep for their day and during the wee hours of the night you can get a fresh pastry for 1 euro. You will know you are starting to get close when you can smell all of the goods baking.
RULES FOR SECRET BAKERY-
Cash only.
Be quiet and respectful of the people who live in the area.
Knock softly.
Know what to get. I always would order cornetto con nutella (nutella croissant)
Drinks
Rasputin
Bitter Bar
Gosh
Art Bar
Ebby’s
Freddy’s
The Lion’s Fountain
Space
L’imprtstore
My street I lived on when I studied abroad!
Thanks for checking my blog post about my favorite place!
xoxo Jenna