When visiting a city as iconic as Florence, it can get overwhelming knowing where to start with your itinerary. To make your planning easier, here are all the BEST things to do in Florence! This list includes all the must-dos and sees – from architectural wonders to hidden gems, art museums, guided tours, and more.
This list is perfect for all visitors, whether it’s your first time visiting Florence, or you’re coming back for more!
Without further ado, get ready to discover all the best of Florence!😍
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22 Best Things to Do in Florence | Perfect Guide for First Time Visitors
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1. Visit the Florence Duomo Complex
- 💵 Entry Ticket: Depends on the parts you want to visit.
- ⏰ Duration: Depends on the parts you want to visit.
- 📍 Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
One of the absolute best things to do in Florence is visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the most famous attraction of Florence. With its construction starting in 1296, it took around 140 years to complete the complex. This is the third-largest cathedral in the world and is nothing short of a Renaissance work of art. The iconic façade wraps around every part of the complex, keeping you entranced as you try to notice each detail.
The Florence Duomo complex is made of several parts: the Cathedral, Brunelleschi Dome, Giotto’s Belltower, and St. John’s Baptistery. Whether you plan to enter any of the sites making up the complex, you simply must see it from the outside! Each of the sites is decorated in the most beautiful and intricate Renaissance art details.
Before visiting the Florence Duomo Complex, make sure to read these 15 ESSENTIAL tips. These tips will teach you everything you need to know – from tickets, to dress codes, when to line up, and so forth.
The Duomo receives an average of 4.5 MILLION visitors each year! The Cathedral is free to enter, but you can book a live guide if you want to skip long lines and dive deeper. However, make sure you book your tickets to visit the Brunelleschi Dome now, or ASAP, as they sell out months in advance! 👇
2. Climb the Brunelleschi Dome
- 💵 Entry Ticket: $35 for Brunelleschi Pass. Other prices depend on the experience you choose.
- ⏰ Duration: Depends on the ticket, or experience you pick (eg. guided tour vs entry ticket).
- 📍 Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
The Brunelleschi Dome is a wonder of its own. This is the largest masonry dome in the world, and that’s the most boring fact!
Would you believe me if I told you that the architect of this Dome, Filippo Brunelleschi, had no architectural training? Or that he became the designated architect because he won a contest with an egg? And yes… this is all true!
By climbing this dome you will get the opportunity to its spectacular art from up close and catch beautiful views over Florence. Fair warning though, there are almost 500 steps to climb! If you want to see the Dome but don’t want to climb it, you can enter the Cathedral for free and see it from there.
Ready to climb the Dome? Get your ticket today!👇
3. Basilica di Santa Maria Novella
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 7.5 euros for regular entry.
- ⏰ Duration: Average visit is 1-1.5 hours
- 📍 Location: Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Say hello to Michelangelo’s wife! Yes… the Basilica.
This 13th-century hidden gem, once a convent, is a large complex with several parts to visit. Here you will find a breathtaking cathedral, courtyards, art rooms, and so forth. The façade of this basilica is both the oldest and only original one standing in all of Florence.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is easily one of the most incredible works of art in Florence. Personally, this is the most breathtaking site to see – in other words, I understand why Michelangelo named it his wife.
Visiting this hidden gem is truly one of the best unusual things to do in Florence. If you’re ready to meet Michelangelo’s wife, here’s the perfect entry ticket that includes an audio guide!👇
4. Uffizi Gallery
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 13 euros for regular entry
- ⏰ Duration: 2 hours on average
- 📍 Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
- CLOSED on Mondays!
Welcome to one of the world’s most famous art galleries! The Medici Family created this gallery over 250 years ago, making it one of the oldest and finest galleries in the world.
In this gallery, you will find endless world-renowned works of art and artists. Just to name a few artists, you will find Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raffaello, and Caravaggio. Art-wise, some world-renowned paintings include “Primavera” and “Birth of Venus” by Botticelli, “Dono Tondo” by Michelangelo, and “Annunciation” by Leonardo da Vinci.
With over 100 rooms and 2,200 works of art, some dating to the 13th century, the Uffizi Gallery will have you entranced. Being so immense, you can easily spend 3 hours here and feel as if it wasn’t enough time. Visiting the Uffizi is the perfect way to appreciate the deep love Florence has for art, and spend the day when it rains in Florence.
The Uffizi Gallery is simply something you cannot miss when in Florence! Being one of the world’s most beloved and famous galleries, make sure to book your tickets asap and in advance. Furthermore, the Corridoio Vasariano, a secret passage from Palazzo Vecchio to Pitti Palace, just re-opened in December 2024. Make sure to reserve your spot for the Vasari Corridor!
Here are the best and most highly-rated Uffizi Gallery experiences, from entry tickets to the best guided tours. Book your tickets here!👇
5. Accademia Gallery – Statue of David
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 13 euros for regular tickets
- ⏰ Duration: The average visit is 1 hour, but can be as short as 30 minutes when only seeing David.
- 📍 Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy
- CLOSED on Mondays!
Welcome to David’s home! The Statue of David by Michelangelo is another of Florence’s most visited attractions with over 1.7 million visitors each year. This is a 17-foot-tall statue, which is roughly the equivalent of a two-story building. This colossal marble statue was the first made in the early modern period, in the 16th century.
To visit the Statue of David, it is highly recommended to visit the museum when the doors open at 8:15 AM. This will help you with the insane crowds that begin to form later in the morning. If you want to see the statue but don’t care to enter the Accademia Gallery, you can see a smaller replica in Piazza della Signoria.
Want to meet David in person? Get your tickets before they sell out!👇
6. Visit Ponte Vecchio
- 📍 Location: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Welcome to one of the world’s most famous bridges, and Florence’s first bridge to cross the Arno River! Dating back as early as the 10th century, Ponte Vecchio (“Old Bridge”) is a very fitting name. Up until 1218, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge to cross the Arno River.
The Ponte Vecchio we see today has gone through renovations in the 12th century, and then in the 14th century due to a severe flood.
While the bridge is iconic to walk on due to its history, it is worth noting that the best way to experience it is from the adjacent bridges. Walk across the Ponte Santa Trinità or Ponte alla Grazia to see the bridge in its full splendor.
7. Piazzale Michelangelo Sunset
- 📍 Location: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
One of the best piazzas in Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is a large square dedicated to the one and only, Michelangelo. This square is famous for its mesmerizing views over Florence and is a popular spot for catching memorable sunsets. This is the perfect spot to end the day and surround yourself with fellow sunset lovers.
As an extra way to commemorate your Florence trip, check out this wonderful photoshoot experience at Piazzale Michelangelo!👇
8. Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 15 euros for the combined ticket
- ⏰ Duration: About an hour for each.
- 📍 Location: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
- CLOSED on Mondays!
As mentioned earlier, the Pitti Palace is where the Medici family moved after Palazzo Vecchio. Originally the residence of the Medici, the Pitti Palace is now an art museum. The Boboli Gardens, designed by the Medici, is a beautifully landscaped and luscious area. Along the greenery, you can find several statues, grotte, and fountains.
Despite being in the same area, the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens have two different tickets. Therefore, you can choose whether to visit both for a discount price or only visit one.
Ready to visit the Pitti Palace, or the Boboli Gardens, or BOTH?😍 Get the perfect ticket for you here!👇
9. Piazza della Signoria
- 📍 Location: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Welcome to the most beautiful and important square of Florence, Piazza della Signoria! As one of the best piazzas in Florence, this square is home to several important sites, including Palazzo Vecchio, Loggia dei Lanzi, and several statues.
Palazzo Vecchio was once the Medici family’s home and office before they moved to the Pitti Palace. Palazzo Vecchio’s name, which means “Old Palace”, was given after they moved out. The original name was Palazzo della Signoria.
The Loggia dei Lanzi, which sits in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, is an open-air museum populated with famous statue replicas. Some replicas in the Loggia dei Lanzi and the square include Neptune, David, and Perseus With the Head of Medusa. The Loggia dei Lanzi has free entrance.
10. Villa Bardini and Garden
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 10 euros for Villa Bardini
- Bardini Garden entry is included in the Boboli Garden ticket. 7 euros regular ticket.
- ⏰ Duration: Average visit is an hour.
- 📍 Location: Costa S. Giorgio, 2-4, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Villa Bardini is a 17th-century villa that is home to the Pietro Annigoni Museum and lush gardens. This villa and its gardens offer a serene oasis within the bustling city. Furthermore, this villa offers some of the most beautiful views over Florence.
11. Palazzo Vecchio: Skip-the-Line Entry and Secret Passage Tour
- 💵 Entry Ticket: 24.16 euros
- ⏰ Duration: 75 minutes
- 📍 Location: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
If you’re looking for a unique experience that gives you a deeper insight into the Medici family, this is for you! As mentioned earlier, the Palazzo Vecchio was once the Medici family’s residence. This guided tour takes you through a secret passage and shows you secret rooms, all of which are closed off to the public.
Get your Secret Passage Tour tickets today and the Medici family “tea” tomorrow!😉👇
12. Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
- 📍 Location: Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
With over 800 years of history, this is Florence’s oldest pharmacy and perfume store! The Dominican friars who founded the convent of Santa Maria Novella began cultivating a garden. This garden became the beginning of centuries of experience in natural preparations and pharmacopeia. Later on, the experience expanded to the world of cosmetics and fragrances later – creating the 600-year-old perfume store we see today.
Come here to smell their amazing fragrances and get one of your own! Here you can also buy skincare, home, and body/hair products.
13. Cappelle Medicee (Medici Chapels)
- 📍 Location: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Forming a part of the San Lorenzo complex, the Medici Chapels are the final resting place of the Medici family. These chapels are nothing short of a Renaissance work of art and are absolutely worth visiting!
Book your tickets here.👇
14. Fontana del Porcellino
- 📍 Location: Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
The “fountain of the piglet” is a bronze boar fountain from the 17th century that supposedly brings good luck. Legend says that it brings you good luck if you rub its nose and/or place a coin in its mouth.
Furthermore, if the coin gets washed from the mouth into the grate below, you will not only receive luck – but be sure to return to Florence.
15. Mercato Centrale di Firenze
- 📍 Location: Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Mercato Centrale is Florence’s iconic food marketplace where artisans and their foods are the stars. The goal of this marketplace was to bring together food artisans and for them to directly sell their produce. This is because nobody knows produce better than the artisans themselves.
Come to Mercato Centrale to experience the cultural and social aspects this marketplace offers. Most importantly, come here to eat authentic and fresh foods made with love and passion. This is a great place for all meals.
For all the foodies out there, this is easily one of the best things to do in Florence (food wise).
16. Artisan Shopping
When in Italy, support artisans! Artisanship is an important cultural heritage that must be supported for it to continue through the next generations. Along with supporting artisans, there are several other reasons to buy artisan products. For one, you will have an authentic, one-of-a-kind, and high-quality product. If you want a souvenir to commemorate your travels, an artisan product is the best way to go!
17. Pasta Making Class with Unlimited Wine
What better souvenir from Italy, then learning how to make three different types of pasta inside a medieval tower from the 1200s?
During this 3-hour cooking class you will learn to make fresh pasta, with the company of unlimited wine or soft drinks. At the end of the cooking class, you will eat everything you prepared
This school offers various classes, including one with truffle and flambé cheese wheel experience. Book your spot to this best-rated experience before it sells out!👇
18. Food Tours
What better way to enjoy Florence food than with a food tour? Food tours are a great way to dive deeper into Florence’s culture and create fun and delicious memories. Check out Florence’s best food tours, from street food to dining food, and get ready to EAT!😍👇
19. City Walking Tours
What better way to get to know Florence’s story than going on a guided walking tour? If guided tours are your vibe when traveling, here are Florence’s best city walking tours!👇
20. Day Trips
If you have plenty of spare time in Florence, it is worth considering going on a day trip to neighboring towns and cities! By going on a day trip, you have a chance to experience the magic of the Tuscan region and or even cities like Rome.
From Rome, to Pisa, to Cinque Terre the day trip world is your oyster. Check out these best guided day trips from Florence!👇
21. Santa Monaca Church Italian Opera Concert
- 💵 Ticket: 25 euros
- ⏰ Duration: Ranges between 65 minutes to 2 hours
- 📍 Location: Via Santa Monaca, 6, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy
Attend a beautiful Opera concert hosted in the 15th-century Santa Monaca Church.
22. Discovering Florence Street Art
Florence is a city where art runs through absolutely everything. Here you find art in the culture, museums, culinary scene, the people, and even the streets.
One of the best things, which is more of an unusual thing to do and hidden gem, is looking out for the hidden Florence street art. These little works of art are bound to put the biggest smile on your face.
If you want to maximize how much street art you see, and learn about the famous street artists, this could be the perfect experience for you!👇
First Time in Florence FAQs
What is Florence best known for?
Florence is best known for the Renaissance, its PHENOMENAL architecture, food, and leather artisanship. Here you can expect a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, with enchanting medieval vibes.
When compared to the other “main” tourist destinations, such as Cinque Terre and Venice, Florence is a more authentic city with rich culture and great food.
How do you spend a perfect day in Florence?
Here is how you spend the perfect day in Florence! If you’re visiting Florence from Rome as a day trip, make sure to read my Rome to Florence day trip guide and itinerary. This day trip itinerary smoothly guides you through all the must-sees, and includes important travel tips!
Is 2 days enough to visit Florence?
2 days in Florence is enough to visit all of Florence’s must-sees, but it’s two well-packed days! If you’re looking to slow down and enjoy the city to the next level, it’s best to spend at least 3 full days!
How can I spend 3 days in Florence Italy?
3 days in Florence is the perfect amount to see all of Florence must-sees, hidden gems, and dive deeper into its rich culture. My 2 days in Florence Itinerary smoothly guides you through the city and all the must-dos, hidden gems, and gluten free restaurants. Simply take my 2 days itinerary and add more activities, or spread out my itinerary to cover your three days.
Do you want a curated itinerary that fulfills all your Florence dreams? Book my Custom Itinerary services, and let me help you experience the most perfect Florence vacation! For more one-on-one help, check out my Curated Recommendations and Consultation Call services.😊
Where to stay in Florence, Italy for the first time?
When visiting Florence for the first time, you simply must stay in the Historic Centre! If you book early enough, you will be able to find great deals with smaller hotels, bed and breakfasts, and AirBnBs. There are also plenty of hotels ranging from affordable to highly luxurious, allowing you to find your perfect stay.
What not to miss in Florence?
Out of all these 22 best things to do in Florence, some of the absolute must-visits are the Florence Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, admiring Ponte Vecchio, strolling around the Historic Centre.
Learn More About Florence
To learn more about Florence and prepare for your upcoming travels, check out these blog posts!👇
- One day in Florence Itinerary
- Two days in Florence Itinerary
- Unusual Things to Do & Hidden Gems in Florence
- All the Must-Eats in Florence
- 15 ESSENTIAL Tips to visit the Florence Duomo
- Day Trip from Florence to Pisa: Everything You Need to Know
- Day Trip to Florence from Rome
Want more help with your travels? Check out my services!
One of the main reasons I became I travel blogger is my love and passion for helping others experience the best of their destination. I offer three services on Thatch: Customized Itineraries, Customized Recommendations, and Consultation Calls.
If you want extra help on your Florence travels, check out my Thatch page and book my services! As a local, I’m ready to share everything with you, and help ensure you have the best experience possible.😍
📌 Pin for your Future Florence Travels
I have to ask…
Which of these best things to do in Florence are you looking the most forward to? Let me know in the comments!😊👇
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