Top Things to do in Florence- Plus Some Hidden Gems!
Planning a trip to Florence? After thoroughly exploring Firenze, we complied a list of the top things to do and some hidden gems to help you plan your trip. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city rich in history and culture. Nestled in Tuscany, it flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries, giving rise to masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Today, Florence enchants visitors with its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant streets. In this blog post, we'll share the top things to do in Florence, including some hidden gems, to help you plan your perfect trip. Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning traveler, discover the best of what this timeless city has to offer.
Top Things to Do in Florence:
Academia Gallery:
Marvel at Michelangelo's iconic sculpture, David, and explore a vast collection of Renaissance masterpieces at the Academia Gallery. In our opinion, you don’t need a guided tour of the Gallery. You can do it on your own or purchase an audio guide once inside. You can purchase your ticket(s) here through their official website. You will want to book these timed tickets in advance but be advised that even if you have a timed entry ticket, you will be waiting for 20+ minutes. We booked one of the earliest time slots and still had to wait for a bit. From what we’ve heard, the later the ticket you book, the longer you wait to get in so be sure to book the earliest time slot.
Babae Wine Window:
Discover a piece of Florence's history at Babae, where you can enjoy a glass of wine served through traditional wine window. Dating back to the 17th century, the fascinating tradition of wine windows in Florence, emerged as a clever solution during the plague, allowing locals to enjoy their favorite beverage while minimizing direct contact. Today, very few remain but Babae is still serving up glasses of vino for about 8 Euros through a small hole in the wall.
Gusta Pizza:
Satisfy your cravings for authentic Italian pizza at Gusta Pizza, where each pie is lovingly crafted using the finest ingredients and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Whether you prefer classic Margherita or adventurous toppings, you're sure to find a pie that delights your taste buds. There is almost always a line here so if you’re limited on time, be sure to go right when they open as they do not take reservations. This was some of the most delicious pizza we have EVER had.
Cinema Odeon Firenze:
Experience the magic of cinema at Cinema Odeon Firenze, a beautifully restored theater that doubles as a book shop. The ground floor features an extensive bookstore and a cafe (a bit pricey though) with a cinema screen at its heart. The first floor (2nd floor for Americans) features stadium style seats that, by day, can be used to study, read or work. At night you can watch feature films here.
Trattoria Sabatino:
Dine like a local at Trattoria Sabatino, a cozy family run restaurant that serves up hearty Tuscan cuisine made with love and care. From homemade pastas to succulent meats, each dish is a celebration of Italy's culinary heritage. This trattoria doesn’t accept reservations and they are closed Saturdays and Sundays. The only way to get a table is to line up before they open. We got there shortly before open and waited about 30 minutes to get in. They specialize in small plates so you can try many home cooked Italian dishes. You can also order a large bottle of house wine and they onoly charge you for how much you drink. We visited this restaurant with friends and didn’t have our phones out to take pictures, but trust us, this is a MUST DO when visiting Florence.
Ponte Vecchio:
Cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge, and be transported back in time to the days of the Renaissance. During World War II it was the only bridge across the Arno river that the fleeing Germans did not destroy. While it’s a must do, crossing this bridge, also known for it’s famous jewelry shops, will be hectic during the day as it is flooded with tourists. We recommend also visiting at night to admire the view of the Arno River and see the shops all closed up.
Duomo Complex:
No visit to Florence would be complete without a stop at the Duomo Complex, the architectural marvel that dominates the city's skyline. Marvel at the intricate facade of the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi's Dome for panoramic views of the city, and admire the ornate baptistery of San Giovanni. You can purchase your tickets at the official website here.
Leather Shopping:
Shopping for leather in Florence is one of the top things to do. The popularity of Florence's leather goods stems from not just their impeccable quality, but also the city's rich history as a hub for leather production dating back to the Renaissance era. While you will see many street vendors selling leather goods, we chose to shop in a reputable store to ensure the quality and craftsmanship. One thing that surprised us was that we were able to haggle in the store, which we thought was reserved for the street vendors. We ended up paying 80 Euros for 2 purses that were marked much higher than that. Our shopping experience was lovely and we didn’t really feel obligated to make a purchase. If you’re shopping for a purse/bag we recommend Moretti Walter.
Palazzo Vecchio:
Explore the historic heart of Florence at Palazzo Vecchio, the imposing fortress-palace that has stood guard over the city for centuries. Wander through its grand halls, adorned with priceless works of art, and climb the tower for sweeping views of Florence's rooftops. You can purchase your tickets here.
Giacosa1815:
Raise a toast to Florence's vibrant nightlife at Giacosa1815, a historic cafe where the Negroni cocktail was born. Sip on expertly crafted drinks in an elegant setting and soak in the ambiance of this timeless establishment. The energy here really kicks off after 8pm when the music is turned up and spirits are high! They have several variations of the traditional negroni as well as an array of classic cocktails with a twist.
Mercato Centrale:
Indulge your senses at Mercato Centrale, Florence's premier food market, where the sights, sounds, and smells of Italian cuisine come alive. Sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and mouthwatering pastries as you wander through this culinary wonderland. This market is filled with some of Florence’s most delicious food and drinks. Honestly you could spend half a day here and not try everything! We had already eaten lunch when we stumbled across this market so we opted for dessert. This sugar coated donut filled with vanilla custard was exceptional!
Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens:
Venture across the Arno River to the Palazzo Pitti, a magnificent Renaissance palace that once served as the residence of the powerful Medici family. Explore its opulent interiors and stroll through the lush gardens of Boboli, where every corner reveals a new delight.
All'Antico Vinaio:
Treat yourself to a taste of Tuscany at All'Antico Vinaio, a beloved sandwich shop that has been delighting visitors for generations. Choose from an array of fresh ingredients and savor the flavors of Italy between two slices of crusty bread. They actually have a few locations right next to each other but the longest line is for the original shop, where you can actually sit down and eat after you order. We went in the middle of the day and waited about 25 minutes- it was worth it.
Uffizi Gallery:
Step into the world of Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery, home to an unparalleled collection of paintings by masters such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. You can book your tickets through the official website here. Depending on how much you love art, you could easily spend 2+ hours here. There is so much to see here but because it’s so large you often times have the paintings to yourself.
Pino's Sandwiches:
Grab a quick and delicious bite at Pino's Sandwiches, a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike. With a variety of fillings to choose from, you can enjoy a satisfying meal on the go as you explore the streets of Florence. Take your sandwich, and 5 Euro aperol spritz, out to the patio to enjoy and pizza watch. These sandwiches were DELICIOUS and affordable making Pino’s one of the top things to do in Florence.
Florence awaits with a rich tapestry of experiences blending timeless beauty with modern allure. From the awe-inspiring Duomo to savoring Tuscan delights at the Mercato Centrale, each moment in this enchanting city offers a glimpse into its vibrant cultural tapestry. We hope you enjoy not only the must-see attractions but also the hidden gems that make Florence truly unforgettable. So, whether you're strolling through historic piazzas or discovering local artisans, Florence promises a voyage of discovery that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Top Rated Florence Tours:
Where to Stay in Florence:
Florence is fairly compact which makes choosing where to stay a little easier. As long as you’re in the city center, you can walk everywhere. We recommend using Airbnb or Booking.com to find an accommodation in Florence. Be sure to read the most recent reviews and use search filters to cater to your needs.
