First Timers to Florence – Top Things to Do
Florence offers a little something for everyone. You’re bound to be enamoured by all the top things to do in Florence.
This small walkable Italian city has some of the best art and architecture in Europe. Art lovers will be in awe of the classic masterpieces that can be found here.
Lovers of architecture will marvel at the historic churches, palaces, and soaring buildings shadowing the winding alleyways. The entire city centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its architecture.
Sunset lovers will be treated to the most beautiful golden hour casting an incredible glow over the entire city.
Colpo di fulmine. That’s what Italians call love at first sight, and that’s exactly what happened to me. I immediately fell in love with Florence Italy.
For those travelling to this Tuscan city for the first time, or maybe it’s a repeat visit, here are the top things to do in Florence. (Updated: November 2022)
Must See Florence Attractions – The Cathedrals
Santa Maria del Fiore
Experience | Skip-the-Line with priority tickets to Santa Maria del Fiore with Dome Climb, click here to book.
Campanile di Giotto
The Basilica of Santa Croce
Must See Florence Attractions – The Piazzas
Piazza della Repubblica
Just off of the main Piazza del Duomo (each main cathedral in Italy is called the duomo) is Piazza della Repubblica where you can find a grand arch, a colourful old carousel and great restaurants with their terraces. This is a great square for people-watching and having a drink. It’s bustling with activity all day long and is a popular hang-out spot in the evening.
Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della SS Annunziata
Must See Florence Attractions – The Bridges
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Santa Trinita
Ponte alla Carraia
Must See Florence Attractions – The Palaces
Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Strozzi
Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Garden
When visiting the Palazzo Pitti, it’s the garden that is the main attraction. Boboli Garden offers over 11 acres of green space, full of statues, sculptures, art, hidden pathways and fountains. It offers a peaceful escape from the busy city and is one of my favourite things to do in Florence.
Best Things to Do in Florence
Stroll Florence’s Winding Streets
Renaissance Masterpieces to See in Florence that Aren’t David
Experience | Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket, click here. Also,enjoy priority entry to Accademia Gallery, for best-guaranteed price, click here.
Wandering the Historic Centre of Florence
See Florence from the Arno
Travel to other Places in Italy with these
If you are looking to either take a day trip or want to travel to other places in Italy from Florence. Here are some popular attractions you might be interested in. Perhaps Florence is a stop along a longer itinerary in Italy. Here are some popular destination points from Florence.
Here are some of the best day tours from Florence
Cinque Terre. Visit all five villages of the colourful Cinque Terre National Park on this guided tour from Florence. Choose to add lunch on a scenic terrace, and/or a rewarding hike through coastal vineyards. Click here for more information, and to book.
Related reading | Check out my guide to Cinque Terre to make the most of your day trip
Pisa, Siena & San Grimignano. Discover Tuscany and visit its medieval sites on a guided excursion from Florence. You’ll explore the World Heritage Site of San Gimignano, Pisa, and Siena. Enjoy lunch in a typical Tuscan winery. Click here for more information and to book.
Siena, San Gimignano, & Monteriggioni. Enjoy a full-day tour of Tuscany’s villages and wine regions in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Visit San Gimignano and the medieval town of Siena. Click here to book.
Related reading | Check out my guide to Siena to make the most of your day there
Wine Tasting Tour. Taste the wines and olive oils of Tuscany on a small group tour where you will drive through the rolling hills and admire the olive groves and cypress trees of the countryside. This half-day tour brings you to 2 wineries to sample wine paired with local produce. Click here to book.
Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class. Enjoy making pizza and gelato in the authentic Italian style with a chef who will introduce you to the history of these glorious Italian creations. Click here to book.
Where to Stay in Florence
With so many things to do in Florence, I recommend staying at least 2 nights, if not longer. This romantic city offers a great selection of accommodations.
This is where we stayed, Mostarda, a large 1 bedroom with a private terrace in a 17th century palazzo.
Or, you can do your own search here.
If you prefer to stay in a hotel, here are a couple of options for the best accommodations in Florence.
- Hotel in a great location: Grand Hotel Baglioni is located close to the Santa Maria Novella Train Station making it convenient for day-tripping. Elegant rooms furnished in Florentine style with views of the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore and Giotto’s Bell Tower
- B&B in the centre of Florence: Corte Calzaiuoli is steps from Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio and Strozzi Palace. Rooms offer a city view and a traditional Italian breakfast
- Or, explore other properties using Booking.com
As a holidaymaker…
Have you fallen in love with Florence yet? Whether you are visiting Italy for the first time or the twentieth time, the Florence attractions are endless. This beautiful city is really a must-see on your Tuscan itinerary. Beyond these must see sights, Florence is also known for its food. Especially the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentina steak. The recipe has not changed since 1915 and can be found on almost every menu in Florence.
Colpo di fulmine. Is there any doubt why I haven’t fallen in love with this Renaissance city?