35 Best Things to Do in Florence (Ultimate Bucket List)

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a living, breathing museum with some seriously remarkable things to explore. This guide covers the most memorable things to do in Florence, plus additional tips for a smooth visit to this Tuscan capital.

In the heart of Tuscany, nearly every inch of Florence is overflowing with artistic masterpiece; from the street artists lining the pavements, to museums filled with some of the world’s most iconic art.

You don’t need to be an art-lover to fall in love with Florence. There’s plenty of history, authentic Tuscan cuisine, breathtaking views, adventures, and world-famous wine to enjoy.

After my third time visiting this iconic European city, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Florence. This detailed guide also includes other must-know information for planning your trip so you can have the most seamless and stress-free trip to Florence.

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Florence. 

→ Need some help fitting this all together? Check out our ultimate 3 days in Florence itinerary, perfect for your first trip!

---

1. Walk along the Ponte Vecchio

As the centerpiece of the city, and the oldest bridge in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio has lived through many eras of history since it was first documented in 996 AC. 

The iconic bridge is characterized by the shops built right into the foundation and is open to foot traffic only. 

Though it draws quite a crowd today, strolling across this bridge is part of the experience of Florence. You can enjoy views over the Arno River as you browse wares from the finest gold and silversmiths in Florence. 

Insider tip: The best views of the Ponte Vecchio are actually from the Ponte Santa Trinita bridge, just further down the river.

Wanna go more in-depth?

To see parts of the bridge few tourists have seen, you’ll need to venture into the secret underfoot passageways. 

Exploring the shadowed halls beneath the pedestrian bridge, you’ll learn about the governing of Florence and how it has changed over centuries from masquerading to the Medici family.

How to do it? Stop into the box office along the bridge and they’ll book you on the next available tour. Otherwise, you can book the Underground Florence Tour ahead of time. 

2. Gaze at Il Duomo from every angle

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (known as Il Duomo of the city of Florence) is one of the most recognized and iconic cathedrals in the world. You cannot walk through Florence without stopping to marvel at the intricate decoration and immaculate detail on the outside.

And if you think the outside is impressive, you’ll be equally as mesmerized by what’s inside. Brunelleschi’s Dome inside the cathedral is the largest masonry dome in the world with awe-inspiring murals by artist Filippo Brunelleschi. 

The entrance to the cathedral itself is free, however you will need a ticket if you want to climb the dome to get up close and personal with Brunelleschi’s masterpiece and take in the views of Florence from the top. 

How to climb the Duomo dome

A very popular way to admire Brunelleschi’s dome is by climbing the 463 steps to the top. This requires a Brunelleschi Pass. 

When you go to purchase, you’ll select a specific date and time to arrive at the Dome entrance. There will still be a line, but everyone will be allowed entrance at once during the time slot on your ticket, so there is no need to arrive super early to queue. 

The climb to the top involves navigating a lot of tight and narrow spaces and many, many stairs. This may present an accessibility challenge for some, so keep this in mind as you look into it further. 

Note: The Brunelleschi Pass includes entrance to the dome, bell tower, baptistry, museum and Santa Reparata. However, the time slot chosen is just for the dome climb. Everything else can be visited at your leisure for the 3 calendar days of your pass validity. 

3. Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower

Giotto’s Bell Tower  (sometimes referred to as Giotto’s campanile) is part of Il Duomo complex, though it requires a separate entrance from the cathedral itself. 

After ascending 414 steps to the terrace of this gothic masterpiece, you’ll arrive at a breathtaking panorama of Florence. A view that competes for the most acclaim in the city. The highlight of climbing the bell tower is that you’ll get views of the cathedral itself (as opposed to the views from the top of the dome). 

Among the views, you can admire decorative sculptures, seven bells, and the intriguing red, green, and white marbling that decorates the cathedral.

There are different levels of the tower, so you can decide how far up you want to climb. Just note that all views are fenced in for safety, so you’ll have to arrange your camera to point through the metal fencing in order to get decent photos. 

4. Watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo

As the day in Florence winds down, you can watch the city and its backdrop of Tuscan hills get painted with orange, yellow, and red hues at the Piazzale Michelangelo. 

This is one of the best and most iconic views of the city (a can’t-miss even if you only have one day in Florence!). 

However, it’s no secret. With the sunset comes the crowds, so be prepared to share the views. If you arrive late, it’ll be standing room only and you may find yourself craning your neck to get the best view from behind a sea of tourists. 

How to get there: You can walk up from the Piazza Giuseppe Poggi or grab a ride to the top. Stops 12/13 on the AT Bus stop directly at the plaza.

Insider tip: Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine to enjoy while you wait for the sun to set. Get there early (about an hour before the sun sets) to snag a seat in the limited space on the staircase to the plaza to enjoy your picnic. 

5. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David

Carved from a single block of white marble, this colossal masterpiece, known casually as The David, is a testament to Michelangelo’s unparalleled talent and skill. Looking up at David, towering over 17 ft in height, you can take in the statue’s impeccable anatomical detail and the lifelike expression captured in his face.

Housed in the renowned Galleria dell’Accademia, The David brings the crowds, but there are plenty other works to admire there.

As you wander through the halls, you encounter other remarkable masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s unfinished Slaves, which offer a glimpse into the artist’s creative process. The gallery also showcases an array of Renaissance paintings, intricately detailed sculptures, and fascinating artifacts, each telling its own story of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

6. Go on a food tour

This Florence Street Food Tour will have you eating like a local as you maze through the city’s lively piazza’s and historical streets.

You’ll visit a local market to sample olive oil and many different kinds of truffles, discover an 1860’s trattoria to taste local Florentine food, and try local specialties like “coccole” and schiacciata”.

I actually did this exact tour with my mom when we visited Florence and she said it was one of the highlights of her trip!

What guests are saying

“This was one of our highlights in Florence! Dilara was a delight and we left with bellies full of delicious food. The stops were super friendly, varied, and authentic; it never felt like we were going to touristy spots. This was a great deal for the time and food provided and I would recommend it to anyone!” – Hannah, United States (April 2023)

7. Peruse the Galleria de Uffizi

Crowned as the best art gallery in the world and the most visited museum in Italy, it’s a no-brainer that the Uffizi Gallery is one of the best things to do in Florence.

Curated across two floors, you could easily spend hours inside and barely scratch the surface of the “must-see” works, paintings, sculptures, and altarpieces.

8. Take a day trip to explore more of Tuscany

Florence makes an excellent base camp for seeing more of what Tuscany has to offer. 

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, sample world-class Italian wines, see the famous towers of San Gimignano, wander the artistic streets of Lucca, and the medieval Siena.

Check out our guide to the best day trips from Florence for more ideas!

9. Visit the Boboli Gardens

A line of wealthy families living in the Palazzo Pitti designed and decorated the backyard Boboli Gardens over centuries, with sculptures, fountains, and ancient trees. 

It acts as an open air museum that is a peaceful space to take a breather from the city bustle, admire masterful works, or enjoy a picnic. 

There is a small cafe onsite that serves coffees and alcoholic beverages. It’s a great place to grab an aperitivo and enjoy the views (plus free snacks!).  

10. Discover the Medici Chapels

You can’t wander Florence without hearing about the power and prestige of the Medici Family, the dynasty that brought wealth, art, riches, and an everlasting legacy to the city.

They erected a massive and opulent tomb to enshrine their remains and carry on their legacy, but interestingly enough the family lineage died out before the tomb was completed. 

The brown brick exterior gives no hint of the lavishness within, including many sculptures by Michelangelo himself, commissioned by the family. Even though the project was not completed, it is still quite the sight. 

The series of chapels creates a museum where you’ll learn about how the Medici family sculpted the city, and get a deeper appreciation and understanding of the famous sites that give Florence its trademark.

11. Eat all the pasta

You cannot come to Florence and not indulge in pasta. You’re in Italy after all! There are restaurants serving up delicious, fresh pasta everywhere you look in the city. 

Here are some of my favorites:

• La Gistoria: a delightful fusion of traditional Tuscan cuisine and contemporary flavors.
• Trattoria Zà Zà: Authentic Tuscan food with generous portions.
• Acqua Al 2: Katie & Ben’s recommendation from the time they spent studying abroad in Florence
• Osteria Buongustai: Find homemade pasta, risotto and Tuscan home cooking at this no-frills eatery

And for our gluten-free readers…

• Ristorante Quinoa: This place is an entirely gluten-free restaurant! And the pasta is to die for! I recommend the purple carrot gnocchi.

12. Have an afternoon Aperitivo

Between lunch and dinner is the Italian happy hour known as aperitivo.

Given that Florence is the birthplace of the negroni and in the center of Italy’s best wine region, this pastime is an unmissable part of Italian culture. 

13. Take a free walking tour

First-timers and seasoned veterans of Florence adore this Free Walking Tour of the city.

While many tours can be monotonous and repetitive, this one takes you to the most popular attractions, as well as off the beaten path locations you won’t find strolling around by yourself.

As you marvel at the city, the thrilling stories and facts shared by the guide brings the Renaissance to life all around you. 

What guests are saying

“We loved this tour and our guide, Alberto, was amazing. He is not just a tour guide but a student of Tuscany and teacher of Florence. His knowledge was impressive. I have done many paid tours before and walked away knowing the names of buildings or statues, I left this tour understanding its social, political, and religious history. Highly recommend it!” – Donald (February 2023)

14. Climb the Arnolfo Tower in the Palazzo Vecchio

This massive stone facade soaring into Florence’s skyline is one of the most distinctive landmarks of the city. 

At the top are impressive, 360-degree vistas of the cityscape. Known as one of the best views in the city because it includes Il Duomo. And unlike climbing Il Duomo or Giotto’s Bell Tower, there wasn’t even a line here. 

Supporting it is the Palazzo Vecchio, a Renaissance palace that seated the Medici Family, but now holds artistic treasures that tell the entire history of Florence.

Inside its humble exterior is the charming Michelozzo Courtyard, historic Hall of the Five Hundred, Studio of Francesco I, elegant Medici Private Rooms, and countless other exhibits to experience living history. 

You’ll become enthralled with this building on a Palazzo Vecchio & Secret Passageways Tour. It doesn’t include the tower, but you will be taken on a journey through time and where many visitors don’t see underground. 

15. People-watch in the Piazza della Signoria

As the center of life and historic triumphs in Florence since the 14th-century, Piazza della Signoria was once the heart of the city’s social life in medieval Florence. 

Stop for a bite or coffee at the cafes framing the square or spend your time meandering the intriguing sculptures and fountains in the piazza. 

Tip: This piazza makes a great place to recoup after visiting the Uffizi Gallery (see #7) or climbing the Arnolfo Tower (#14).

16. Eat your heart out at Mercato Centrale

Once you’ve worked up an appetite outside, head inside the Mercato Centrale to grab a bite at this two-level food hall.

On the first floor, you’ll find fishmongers and butchers among fruit and veggie vendors. This is more of a typical market where locals stock up on goods. You can also find cured meats, cheeses, olive oil, mushrooms, and even sundried tomatoes. 

The second floor has a number of different restaurant concepts, in a more typical food hall with shared central seating. It’s a one stop shop for all sorts of Italian and international favorites—from pizza and pasta to BBQ and poke. 

17. Peruse the San Lorenzo Market

Lining several streets near the Mercato Centrale, the San Lorenzo Market has hundreds of stalls with anything and everything you can imagine.

Shop for high-quality leather goods, pottery, clothing, rings, notebooks, and various types of souvenirs and gifts. 

Good to know: The vendors restock the stalls each night from nearby shops and warehouses. So they may offer to bring you there to give you more options when browsing.

Tip: Take your time looking around and don’t buy the first thing you see. If you’re firm, you can bargain for a good deal as most products are marked up for sale.

18. Find the best gelato

Unbeknownst to many, Florence is believed to be where gelato originally planted its sweet roots. 

Although many different legends and characters take praise for its creation, one thing is for certain, you must have plenty of gelato while you’re here. 

Start at Vivoli, the oldest gelato shop in Florence, then use these tips to scour the city for the best scoops…

19. Try Florentine steak

As a gastronomic jewel to Tuscan cuisine, cutting through a Florentine steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) is a meat-lover’s dream. 

Dry-aged and cut three fingers high, this bone-in cut of beef is perfectly grilled between blue and rare, and served on many menus throughout the city.

20. Take an Italian cooking class

Perfect the art of Tuscan-style cooking on this Italian Food Market & Cooking Experience.

You’ll join two famous local chefs at the market where they’ll teach you how to shop like a true Italian. With their expert tips, you’ll choose the highest-quality ingredients and bring everything back to their kitchens to cook up a feast.

Learn how to make bruschetta, fresh homemade pasta, and a seasonal main course paired with local Chianti wine.

What guests are saying

“This was simply amazing! Alice was so nice and thorough with her explanations. The food was so good and really better than some restaurants. Plus, the lunch really was appropriate and filling. The trip to the market was really nice and we appreciated the local tips on where to eat and shop. You should definitely do this activity.” – GetYourGuide Traveler (May 2023)

21. Hit up a rooftop bar

Clinking glasses over a panoramic view of the city is easily one of the best things to do in Florence.

• View on Art: THE best rooftop view in Florence with up close views of the Duomo and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
• Divina Terrazza: Up close views of the Palazzo Vecchio and Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore from the top of Grand Hotel Cavour.
• Angel Roofbar & Dining: Charming multi-level rooftop with views of the Palazzo Vecchio and a southern Mediterranean menu.
• B-Roof: Large, garden-like terrace at the top of the Grand Hotel Baglioni. 
• SE·STO on Arno: Upscale spot with views of the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Arno River, and Ponte Vecchio.

22. Go church-hopping

As Florence was the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’ and Italy was once the center of the Roman Catholic Church, it should come as no surprise that the churches around the city are works of art, commissioned by some of the greatest artists of all time.

There are over 100 churches in the city of Florence, but here are a few notable ones worth checking out for the artistry and historical significance: 

• Basilica di San Lorenzo: The final resting place of the Medici Family, plus artwork and marvels from their legacy inside the oldest basilica in Florence.
  • Entrance fee: €9 ($9.92 USD)
• Basilica di Santa Maria Novella: A 13th-century Dominican church with impressive cloisters and works by Brunelleschi, Botticelli, and Vasari.
  • Entrance fee: €7.50 ($8.27 USD) 
• Cathedral di Santa Maria del Fiore: The most iconic cathedral in Florence adorned with red and colored marble. It’s one of the most significant pieces of Renaissance art and one of the largest churches in the world. (See #2 for how to get inside!)
  • Entrance fee: Free
• Basilica di Santa Croce: Visit the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei inside this Neo-gothic church.
  • Entrance fee: €8 ($8.82 USD)
• Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte: 11th-century church with marbled facade and stunning views over the city.
  • Entrance fee: Free

23. Visit the tombs of Michelangelo & Dante

The 13th-century Basilica of Santa Croce is full of a wealth of artistry, including famous final resting places and 16 chapels decorated with murals and memorials. 

World-famous sculptor Michelango, acclaimed poet and philosopher Dante, and Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei are just a few of the tombs this church pays homage to. 

24. Discover the secrets of Parmigiano Reggiano

Just a short train ride away from Florence is both the birthplace of parmigiano reggiano and some of the only areas in the world that it is made.

On this Parmigiano Reggiano Experience in Reggio Emilia, you’ll see how the famous cheese is produced from cow to wheel using thousand-year-old manufacturing processes. Plus you’ll get to taste the richness of the final product.

What guests are saying

“We loved this Reggiano (that’s right, we are big fans now!) tour with Claudio so much that we added the balsamic vinegar tour while on it! Claudio is one of the best guides we have ever met. […] We learned so much and left with a newfound appreciation for these products we thought we’d understood before. Highly highly recommend — you won’t regret it!” – Betsy, United States (April 2023)

25. Tour tuscany on a vintage vespa

Do you (like me) have dreams of touring Italy on a Vespa? Pair these classic vintage rides with the Tuscan countryside and you have a match made in heaven!

On this Tuscan Countryside Tour, you’ll whizz by castles, villas, and olive groves. Gazing out of a private terrace, you’ll sip on a glass of Chianti wine with the region’s best meats and cheese before returning back to Florence.

What guests are saying

“The experience was absolutely amazing, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves adventure, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.[…] The tour itself was absolutely breathtaking. We drove through beautiful countryside, taking in the stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. […]  The guides provided fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region. […] Overall, I would highly recommend this Tour to anyone visiting Florence.” – GetYourGuide Traveler (May 2023)

26. Shop for leather goods

The techniques and dyes used to make leather goods in Florence over centuries coined it the finest leather in the country.

While that is still true, you’ll find leather everywhere and it’s hard to determine what is legitimate and what is mass-produced with a “Made in Italy” tag on it.

Luckily, there are a few shops in the city where you can find the good stuff to take back home with you, The Leather School at Santa Croce and Digerolamo, which both use traditional techniques.

27. Spot an ancient wine door

Wine doors are a concept almost entirely unique to Florence.

Back in the 1500s, nobles would use wine doors to sell their own wines as they weren’t required to own a store or pay taxes. A few knocks on the small door, fitted into the side of the building, and you could purchase a bottle of wine or refill your own.

When a plague hit in the 1600s, their popularity took off as people wanted to reduce contact (much like what happened world-wide in 2020). 

Note: In my experience, I found the wine door service to require waiting in a long line just for the novelty of passing your glass of wine through the door and drinking on the street as opposed to being served inside at a table. While the concept is pretty neat, I decided not to wait in line.  

28. Learn to make ceramic pottery

This Tuscan Ceramic Class is situated in a tiny village known around the world for its ceramic production. You’ll learn the history and techniques from the master potters, then put your skills to use as you create your own authentic Italian ceramic piece.

What guests are saying

“Well worth the short train trip from Florence to meet a welcoming family that takes the time to share their history and generations of experience. It was an amazing opportunity to be right in the center of their handmade processes, where everyone you meet is excited to share and show their hard work, from the throwers to the painters…” – Conor, Australia (January 2023)

29. Leonardo Interactive Museum

While Leonardo Da Vinci is almost exclusively attached to the Mona Lisa, not many know that he was just as incredible of an engineer as he was a painter. 

At the Leonardo Interactive Museum, you can see the pages of the Da Vinci code brought to life to interact with his inventions, anatomical pages, and expert cartography in an entertaining way. 

30. Go wine tasting

Florence sits beautifully among Tuscany’s most treasured wineries, and while you can sample endless varieties during aperitivo or at a wine bar, nothing compares to a sip directly from the source.

On this Wine Tasting Tour to Tuscany, you’ll visit 2 wineries in the heart of the acclaimed Chianti region and pair your tastings with local cheese, salami, bruschetta, and cold cuts.

I’ve personally done this tour and found it was a great balance of wine tasting in a small(ish) group and sightseeing around Tuscany.

What guests are saying

“We had a great time on our tour. […] Both gorgeous vineyards and a great tour guide. I would recommend!” – GetYourGuide Traveler (May 2023)

31. Explore La Specola

Note: Most of this museum is closed until redevelopment is complete. However, the Anthropology and Ethnology, Geology and Paleontology, and Giardino dei Semplici Botanical Gardens are open.

La Specola is the oldest public museum in Florence that originally began as a private collection of the Medici Family. 

After centuries of collection and preservation, it serves as a massive natural history museum with over 8 million specimens showcased through astronomy, mineralogy, botany, anthropology, and even zoology. 

32. Scented candle making

The world of candle-making using decades old techniques will be revealed to you during this Scented Candle Making Experience.

Born right in the city, Luciano’s family has been in the candle making business since 1866. Choosing from her wide variety of fragrances, you’ll choose your favorite and she’ll teach you how to melt it into wax to create the perfect smelling candle to take back home. 

What guests are saying

“An amazing experience from start to finish! My family and I consider it one of the highlights of our trip. Luciano was so gracious, her home was so welcoming, and her knowledge was so impressive. I cannot recommend her more, and her assistant was also very helpful. I loved every moment!” – Susan, United States (April 2023)

33. Learn how to make gelato

Right in one of Italy’s oldest gelato academies, you can master the art of an artigianale scoop during this Gelato Making Class.

A local chef will teach you about the secrets, measurements, and techniques, then you’ll put everything into practice to make gelato from scratch. The finale is learning how to serve your favorite flavor like a pro, and indulging in your finished product.

What guests are saying

“Amazing!! The absolute highlight of our visit to Florence. Vetulio was fantastic and the gelato and sorbet we made was the best we’ve ever tried. If visiting Florence, this activity is a must do!!!” – Alison, Australia (September 2022)

34. Visit the Gucci Gardens and museum

The Gucci Garden is a complex dedicated to the genius and vibrancy of the Gucci brand.

While the building itself blends right in with the city, once you step inside, you’ll be transported through fashion history. 

While inside, you can splurge on a Gucci piece at an official store, find something interesting in the bookshop, dine at the Gucci Osteria, or learn the story of Gucci all the way back to its first roots in Florence.

Florence’s artistic roots seep into the city’s fashion scene as its home to many of the world’s most famous fashion brands, making it an interesting stop for fashion and art lovers.

35. Attend a Fiorentina football game

The roaring, purple-filled Artemio Franchi Stadium is a standing cultural pillar in Florence.

Attending a game and cheering on the football team will immerse you in the spirit of the city and be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your trip as chants, singing, and cheering echo through the stadium. 

Grab your tickets for the soonest game at Fiorentina Point just near the stadium. Games generally run from August/September until the beginning of June, with a few breaks here or there for qualifiers. 

Alternative option: Calcio Storico

Calcio Storico is a historical game that’s been played in Florence since the 16th-century. It’s a combination of soccer, rugby, and wrestling that makes for a very entertaining series of matches.

Florence’s four historic districts each have a team that goes head to head in two semi-finals, then a final match on June 24th to decide who wins.

Tickets start selling the week before each game at the Box Office Toscana on via delle Vecchie Carceri.

---

Perfect Florence itinerary

Wondering how to fit all these great recommendations into 3 days? We did the legwork for you and came up with what we think is the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Florence. 

3 Days in Florence Itinerary: Iconic Sights + Expert Tips!

First timer’s guide to Florence

If this is your first time visiting Florence, you’ll want to read our ultimate travel guide which is packed with helpful information like how to get around and where to find the best eats. 

Ultimate Florence, Italy Travel Guide for First-Timer’s

Coming from Rome?

We have a detailed guide on how to get from Rome to Florence that goes over all your different travel options—like plane, train or car. Plus we share detailed instructions on how to navigate the Italian rail system (our favorite way to travel around Italy!).

Rome to Florence: How to Get There + Tips

Day trips from Florence

Being in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is well-located to use as a base to explore more of the greater Tuscany region. Think wine, food and epic sunsets on rolling hills and cute little hill-top towns. 

There are plenty of opportunities for day-trips (or weekend getaways!) near Florence. We put together an entire guide to all of the very best day trips from Florence (packed with all sorts of tips!).

15 Best Day Trips from Florence

---

Plan your trip to Italy

We have TONS of resources on travel in Italy and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ultimate Italy Travel Guide for answers to all your questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Not sure when to go? This guide to the best time to visit Italy will help you avoid crowds and make the most of your trip.
• Check out our guide to the best things to do in Tuscany—full of food, wine, and charming hill towns.
• First time visiting? Here are the best things to do in Rome so you don’t miss the highlights.
• Our 3-day Rome itinerary covers all the must-sees (and a few local secrets!).
• Our Cinque Terre National Park guide has everything you need to plan your visit. 
• Don’t miss our favorite things to do in Positano—from iconic views to hidden gems.

Don’t miss your chance to grab your Italy packing list!

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Florence before? What was your experience like? Which of these things to do in Florence are going straight to the top of your bucket list? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!