Discover the Main Attractions in Florence: A Guide to Unforgettable Landmarks and Cultural Treasures

Trying to narrow down what to see in Florence to just a few points is truly a titanic task. The Tuscan capital is, in fact, one of the richest cities in the world in terms of artistic and cultural heritage. Even Florentines themselves probably can’t discover all the hidden wonders of their city in a lifetime. But with this list, we are convinced you will have an excellent starting point to fill your eyes and heart with the wonders the world envies us for!

Florence is a city rich in history and charm.

Thanks to its privileged location and efficient connections with the rest of the country, Florence is one of the most popular destinations for Italian and foreign tourists. Whether it’s a romantic weekend, a cultural trip, or an adventure to discover its wonders, it doesn’t matter. What matters is organizing your stay well, so you can visit Florence at the right time and give importance to its attractions. That’s why we have compiled a list of the ten things to see in Florence at least once in a lifetime (and some extras that never hurt!).

What to see in Florence at least once in a lifetime

As mentioned, there are indeed many places of interest in Florence, and each of them deserves a thorough visit. It isn’t easy to decide what to visit in Florence if you have little time! The general advice is to dedicate at least a couple of hours to the museums, as the most famous ones host such a wealth and quality of works that seeing them only in passing would be a real shame. Additionally, consider the climate: while Florence winters are not extremely cold, the same cannot be said for summer.

The Florentine summer tends to be quite intense, with peaks of heat, little breeze, and temperatures that not everyone can bear. Since some of the most beautiful things to do in Florence include walking along the Lungarno towards the Ponte Vecchio, the Boboli Gardens, or simply in front of architectural and artistic masterpieces like the Florence Cathedral, consider when to visit!

DISCOVER THE ART OF FLORENCE WITH AN EXPERT GUIDE

Duration: 2 hours, Private Tour

Uffizi Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Embark on an interactive treasure hunt at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the oldest museums in Europe. This tour is perfect for all ages and allows you to discover Renaissance masterpieces as our expert guide unveils the secrets behind iconic works by Michelangelo, Botticelli

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Duration: 1.5 hours, Private Tour

David & Accademia Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Visit the Accademia Gallery and immerse yourself in the beauty of Renaissance artworks and statues, including the iconic masterpiece of Michelangelo’s David. With the help of an enthusiastic local guide, your experience is sure to be unforgettable.

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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Duomo of Florence

The city’s main church is known worldwide and featured in every image depicting Florence: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Built on the foundations of an ancient paleochristian church, even before its consecration, it has been the scene of historical events that blend into legend. Its characteristic polychrome marbles that recall those of the nearby Baptistery of San Giovanni make it immediately recognizable as you wander through the alleys.

Here, we find some of the world’s most beautiful works of art and architecture: Giotto’s bell tower and Brunelleschi’s Dome—probably the first absolute stop for those deciding to visit Florence – absolutely not to be missed.

Uffizi Gallery, the first place to visit in Florence

It is impossible to start our list of things to see in Florence with the Uffizi Gallery, a symbol, an institution, an integral part of the Italian cultural identity. It needs no introduction. The same building that houses some of the world’s most beautiful works of art is a jewel designed by Giorgio Vasari in the 16th century. In Florence, there are many monuments to visit. Still, here you will find most of the most beautiful works, from the works of Caravaggio, Botticelli, Leonardo, Cimabue, Raphael, Giotto, Titian, Rosso Fiorentino, and many other European artists, ranging from the 14th to the Renaissance.

Plan at least a whole day, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare yourself mentally to admire the most beautiful masterpieces of Italian and foreign art.

Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of the city

Impossible not to recognize it: the Arnolfo Tower towers over the city with its 94 meters in height. At its feet is a copy of Michelangelo’s David. Inside, not only the Municipality of Florence (for a good 700 years) but also a wonderful museum. Here you will find dozens of rooms waiting to be discovered, rich in thrilling frescoes and other works of immeasurable value.

The structure itself is a remarkable example of 14th-century civic architecture. Note the battlements, Guelph and Ghibelline, and the coats of arms of both factions alongside other important emblems representing crucial moments for Florence. A spectacle inside and out, to be explored in every detail.

Piazza della Signoria, at the heart of Florence

Once you arrive at Piazza della Signoria, the things to see in Florence don’t end with Palazzo Vecchio! The square itself deserves a thorough visit: aside from the copy of Michelangelo’s David (you can find the original at the Accademia Gallery – Galleria dell’Accademia), there is much more to explore. Few know that this area was active during the Neolithic period and even during the Roman Empire, with thermal baths and a basilica. After the 14th century, it became the main square of Florence, where the most important public events took place.

Today, it is a lively and bustling square, always crowded with tourists taking photos of various statues, monuments, fountains, historic buildings, and other beauties in this area. The best way to discover it (in addition to reading our dedicated guide) is to join one of the many tours about the city’s history!

Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence’s must-see beauties

Just a stone’s throw away from Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery, you will find another unmissable postcard attraction of Florence: the Ponte Vecchio. Undoubtedly one of the most photographed places in the city, a romantic and scenic spot that encapsulates the entire history of Florence in a single glance.

Since Vasari built the connecting corridor with Palazzo Pitti in 1565, Ponte Vecchio has been the new meeting point for the best goldsmith workshops in the area, making it one of the most sophisticated and famous spots. It was a beautiful bridge that even Hitler decided to spare during the bombings!

Moreover, countless tours and guided visits start from here to discover all the secrets of Florence.

DISCOVER THE ART OF FLORENCE WITH AN EXPERT GUIDE

Duration: 2 hours, Private Tour

Uffizi Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Embark on an interactive treasure hunt at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the oldest museums in Europe. This tour is perfect for all ages and allows you to discover Renaissance masterpieces as our expert guide unveils the secrets behind iconic works by Michelangelo, Botticelli

BOOK NOW

Duration: 1.5 hours, Private Tour

David & Accademia Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Visit the Accademia Gallery and immerse yourself in the beauty of Renaissance artworks and statues, including the iconic masterpiece of Michelangelo’s David. With the help of an enthusiastic local guide, your experience is sure to be unforgettable.

BOOK NOW

Brunelleschi’s Dome, where you can admire the whole city

Inside the Florence Cathedral, you will find an element that characterizes the entire skyline of Florence: Brunelleschi’s Dome. It is the largest masonry dome in the world! The architectural design and execution are mind-blowing, and the artistic work will leave you breathless. Brunelleschi faced countless problems while constructing the immense Dome, which he solved only through his genius and knowledge of Roman architecture, drawing inspiration from structures like the Pantheon.

Inside, you’ll find the incredible fresco depicting the Last Judgment, mainly made by Giorgio Vasari. The frescoes on Brunelleschi’s Dome may seem small and distant, but their grandeur can make you realize the majesty of the entire structure: for example, the figure of Lucifer is an impressive 8 meters tall!

Basilica of Santa Croce, the Church symbol of Florence

It is one of the most famous churches in Florence, which has been the backdrop for historical and literary events (even mentioned by Foscolo). Alongside the remains of some of the most brilliant personalities that have ever existed (to name a few, Foscolo himself, Michelangelo, Vittorio Alfieri, Niccolò Machiavelli…), we find one of Florence’s main attractions. We are talking about Brunelleschi’s Pazzi Chapel, an artistic masterpiece that can boast few comparisons, especially considering the beauty and artistic richness of its housed structure.

Baptistery of Florence dedicated to the patron saint of Florence

In the area of the Florence Cathedral, the wonders seem endless. In front of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, you will find the Baptistery of Florence, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, St. John the Baptist. The foundations of this structure date back to the 4th century! At first, sight, what strikes you is the play of colors and geometries given by the use of white and green marble, but inside, there are mosaic works to behold.

Giotto’s Campanile, the bell tower

Giotto’s bell tower is a must-see among the places to visit in Florence. Although initially designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, due to numerous unexpected events, Giotto carried on the work until 1337, his death. It took several years and two new master builders to complete Giotto’s Tower. Still, we can admire today a structure with a strong visual and chromatic impact, 85 meters high, where a more linear style at the base gradually gives way to the Gothic style at the top. You must climb more than 400 steps to reach the top, but what an incredible view awaits you up there! You have to discover it!

Accademia Gallery – Galleria dell’Accademia – Where to admire the David

Originally founded as an academy for young and talented fine artists, it initially housed works from which to draw inspiration, copy, and reproduce to refine their technique. Over time, it became a real art gallery, collecting works ranging from the Renaissance to Mannerism, from Jacopo di Cione to Botticelli and Filippo Lippi. The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the most beautiful statue in the world, preserved here: Michelangelo’s David, protected from the weather and smog and placed in a room that does it justice.

DISCOVER THE ART OF FLORENCE WITH AN EXPERT GUIDE

Duration: 2 hours, Private Tour

Uffizi Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Embark on an interactive treasure hunt at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the oldest museums in Europe. This tour is perfect for all ages and allows you to discover Renaissance masterpieces as our expert guide unveils the secrets behind iconic works by Michelangelo, Botticelli

BOOK NOW

Duration: 1.5 hours, Private Tour

David & Accademia Gallery Florence Private Tour with Local Guide

Visit the Accademia Gallery and immerse yourself in the beauty of Renaissance artworks and statues, including the iconic masterpiece of Michelangelo’s David. With the help of an enthusiastic local guide, your experience is sure to be unforgettable.

BOOK NOW

Main Attractions in Florence: Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)

Although it might not strike you like the Florence Cathedral or the Church of Santa Maria Novella, its interior is equally worthy of a more than thorough visit. Once a noble residence (home to the Medici, Habsburg-Lorraine, and finally Savoy families), today, in addition to the Royal Apartments, it houses six museums from the Palatine Gallery, with some of the most beautiful artworks in the world, to the Modern Art Gallery, the Fashion and Costume Museum, and the Porcelain, Silver, and Carriages Museums. Take a whole day to explore it because one of Palazzo Pitti‘s exits leads directly to the enchanting Boboli Gardens.

Boboli Gardens, for a stroll in the green of Florence

Just behind Palazzo Pitti, one of the most beautiful green areas of the city opens up. The Boboli Gardens, one of the places to visit in Florence, especially if you love nature, was born with the palace and enriched by each family that owned it. Today, it is still an enchanting example of an Italian garden, rich in strong esoteric and mystical symbolism found in its numerous sculptures, fountains, and caves. Visit it in spring or autumn to fully appreciate its 45 thousand square meters of greenery. Take advantage of the Kaffeehaus, Limonaia, and the peculiar Buontalenti Grotto.

Discover the Main Attractions in Florence: other unmissable attractions

Regarding Florence, what to visit includes a long list of unmissable attractions. We have selected some that can truly satisfy all tastes for an unforgettable vacation in Florence!

The Bargello Museum

Staying in the realm of museums filled with breathtaking artworks, the Bargello Museum deserves mention. There are several reasons why it’s worth a visit: first of all, it’s located practically halfway between Piazza della Signoria and the Florence Cathedral. Secondly, this palace was the residence of the podestà (and therefore also the prisons) of Florence for decades, making it a historically important building. Finally, you will find the main masterpieces of Donatello, Luca della Robbia, Verrocchio, Michelangelo, and many others. Truly unmissable.

Florentine Museum of Prehistory

History and prehistory enthusiasts must attend the Florentine Museum of Prehistory, where exhibits and studies cover the period from the Stone Age to the Metal Age. It’s also a discovery place suitable for families, thanks to dedicated workshops.

Dante’s House Museum

It is thanks to him that the Italian language exists, anyone visiting Florence must attend Dante Alighieri‘s birthplace! The house museum is located in the historic center of Florence, just a stone’s throw away from the National Bargello Museum and Piazza della Signoria.

Although only in the 1960s did municipal spaces make way for this interesting museum, it quickly captured the attention of tourists and enthusiasts of Dante Alighieri’s work, thanks in part to the use of technology, including augmented reality headsets.

Florence Markets

One of the most popular and typical free things in Florence is strolling through the various markets. Some of them are true institutions and tourist attractions. The main one, and also one of the most famous, is the San Lorenzo Market, which stretches from the square of the same name to the Basilica of San Lorenzo. From Tuesday to Saturday, you can find a wide selection of handmade leather and leather goods in addition to classic souvenirs. Take advantage of the Central Market of Florence too, where you can buy and taste typical Florentine products.

On the other hand, the Sant’Ambrogio Market is a good compromise between a market and a restaurant. At the same time, after visiting the Cascine Market, you are already in the ideal position to explore the beautiful adjacent park. Florence markets are many and diverse in offerings and styles: from a market for rare books to a flower market, passing through a market, La Fierucolina, dedicated exclusively to organic agriculture. However, the Florence flea market at Piazza dei Ciompi is the best place to make great purchases!

What not to do in Florence? Tips for tourists

While there are precautions to consider when deciding to visit Florence (as with any major city), there are also unique experiences that you absolutely must try. What are they?
Here are some suggestions:

They were trying to speak with a Tuscan accent. The reasons are so obvious that they don’t even need to be explained: people who speak Tuscan (with the “gorgia”) don’t like it!

Although this rule applies everywhere, you are disrespecting and defacing the city’s surroundings hosting you. In Florence, unfortunately, there have been many cases of tourists who have damaged priceless works of art, more than we might think.
I was paying little attention while amid the crowd. Again, this is a risk closely related to any big city, such as the risk of pickpocketing and theft. Especially when you are engrossed in contemplating the art around you, becoming unaware and falling into the so-called “Florence Syndrome“!

You must taste some of its typical dishes to visit Florence and return home. Besides the famous Florentine steak, there is a world of flavors to explore: lampredotto, Florentine-style tripe, ribollita… Try them at a typical Florentine restaurant, like Trattoria da Burde in Via Pistoiese, 154, or Osteria Podere 39, in Via Senese, 39r.