Top Sites to Visit in Florence
Top Places to Explore in Florence
Florence, a city admired for its rich art and culture, offers numerous famous attractions that attract millions of tourists every year. Here are the must-visit places that one shouldn’t miss during their visit to Florence:
- Uffizi Gallery – A home to numerous masterpieces by Renaissance greats, including Michelangelo, Giotto, and Botticelli.
- Duomo Cathedral – A magnificent cathedral with a beautiful bell tower designed by a renowned artist Giotto. It a religious architecture lover’s paradise.
- Ponte Vecchio – A stunning medieval bridge famed for its shops that sell gold and silver jewelry.
- Piazza della Signoria – A grand square with statues, beautiful fountains, and cafes that offer panoramic views of Florence.
- Boboli Gardens – A breathtaking garden located behind the Pitti Palace that offers a glimpse of the city’s history and beauty.
- Palazzo Pitti – A massive palace with nine museums that showcases Renaissance art and history.
In addition to these popular destinations, one cannot forget to visit the lesser-known sites that offer an enchanting experience in Florence. For instance, visiting the Nardini Leather Factory to learn about the leather-tanning process, or strolling down the Via dei Bardi to view the stunning Arno river, or exploring the charming Oltrarno Quarter, just to name a few.
Did you know that the Uffizi Gallery houses the largest collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures in the world? It is a fascinating fact that art lovers will not want to miss.
I climbed to the top of the Duomo and felt closer to God, or maybe just really out of breath.
The Duomo
Santa Maria del Fiore, aka Il Duomo, is a must-see for anyone seeking architectural grandeur and historical significance. It’s situated in the heart of Florence and its dome is an impressive sight that dominates the skyline. The Gothic-style building was erected in 1296 and took six hundred years to complete. Its marble walls feature intricate reliefs of Biblical scenes. Climb the cupola for a breathtaking view of the city!
Giotto’s bell tower stands next to Il Duomo. Giotto began it in 1334, but it took two centuries to finish due to war and disease.
Don’t miss this masterpiece while in Florence. Explore its history and beauty and bask in its artistry. It’ll be an experience you won’t forget!
The Uffizi Gallery
Explore the Uffizi Gallery, an awe-inspiring building that was created in the 16th century for the Medici family. Get audio guides and take guided tours to learn more about its diverse collection and its history. Don’t forget to see the ‘Venus de’ Medici‘ statue with classical beauty.
Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid long lines at the entrance. Also, check out Ponte Vecchio for a Renaissance-era bridge and a souvenir shopping mall.
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is an ancient bridge situated in the heart of Florence. It was first built in Roman times, but after a flood destroyed it, it was reconstructed in 1345. This bridge is now known as Ponte Vecchio, which translates to “Old Bridge”. It’s the only surviving bridge from Florence’s medieval period!
History:
This historic bridge dates way back to the Roman era. The original was ruined by floods, and then rebuilt in 1345.
Shops:
Along the bridge are two rows of high-end shops, replacing where livestock used to stay centuries ago.
Views:
If you take a stroll across this ornate bridge, you’ll get breathtaking views of the Arno river and Florence skyline. Plus, visit at night to witness the storefronts lit up and street artists playing music!
Bonus:
Head over to Piazza della Signoria to see sculptures and a possible pigeon takeover.
Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria, located in the heart of Florence, is a historical hub of art and politics. It features a variety of Renaissance sculptures, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and Grand Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici’s statue on horseback. The sixteenth-century Fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati is also worth a visit. At one end stands the iconic Palazzo Vecchio.
If you’re intrigued by medieval history and architecture, visiting this important plaza is a must. It has seen some remarkable events, such as the ‘Bonfire of the Vanities’ in 1497. It is said that this incident led to Florentine democracy’s decline.
Pop culture fans will be interested to know that Piazza della Signoria has featured in films like ‘Hannibal’, ‘A Room with a View’, and ‘Quantum of Solace’. All in all, discovering facts like these can make exploring the square even more enjoyable. So take a chance and get off the beaten track – just don’t forget to take a map!
Hidden Gems of Florence
Florence’s Uncommon Marvels
Florence, the city of art, is filled with hidden gems that most tourists fail to explore. Here are a few of Florence’s unique treasures:
- Piazza della Passera – A charming miniature square that offers a fascinating blend of old-world architecture and street art.
- The Rose Garden – A peaceful oasis that provides a stunning view of the city and a diverse collection of roses.
- Torre della Zecca – A medieval tower that houses modern art and provides a breathtaking view of Florence’s skyline.
- The Vasari Corridor – A secret passageway that connects Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti and is home to an impressive collection of self-portraits.
- The Market of San Lorenzo – A bustling marketplace that boasts numerous street vendors offering a wide array of Italian delicacies.
- The Boboli Gardens – A Renaissance-style garden that serves as the perfect getaway from the city’s chaos.
Apart from these hidden marvels, Florence offers much more. Some noteworthy sites to visit include Michelangelo’s David at Galleria dell’Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Duomo. Exploring Florence’s hidden gems is an incredible way to tap into the city’s mystique, but it’s equally important to visit the most renowned attractions.
In addition, you can opt to visit lesser-known museums, such as Museo Galileo, Museum of San Marco, and Bargello National Museum, to delve deeper into Florence’s art and culture. It’s wise to plan your visit well in advance to ensure you cover as much ground as possible.
Bardini Garden
Discover the hidden corners of Bardini Garden, like the small chapel with frescoes depicting miracles attributed to Saint Francis. It features multiple levels and terraces with various themes, such as an Italian garden, an English wood, and a bamboo grove. There are also multiple fountains and sculptures by Augusto Rivalta and Luigi Pampaloni.
The villa houses the Bardini Museum with pieces from different periods, like Russian icons, Tuscan art, and 17th-century Holland paintings. Lastly, the panoramic viewpoint at the top of the garden offers an unforgettable view of Florence’s skyline.
Pro Tip: Visit late afternoon for better lighting conditions to take stunning photos.
San Miniato al Monte: where the view is worth the climb! But don’t worry, purgatory isn’t too far away!
San Miniato al Monte
Perched on Florence’s towering hills, San Miniato al Monte is a symbol of architecture. It offers amazing city views and a sweet escape from the hustle! Built in the 11th century, it’s adorned with multi-colored marble facades and stunning frescoes. With crypts, chapels, and intricate mosaics, it’s one of the city’s hidden gems.
Legend has it that San Miniato’s bones were found on the mountain where the basilica stands. His remains are in two reliquaries. As you take in the views, remember there’s more to this Romanesque wall than meets the eye. Its mix of art and religion will leave you awestruck! Plus, explore the Vasari Corridor like a Renaissance spy.
Vasari Corridor
We explore Florence’s hidden gems and find a secret passageway connecting the Palazzo Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti – The Vasari Corridor. It was commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de’Medici in 1565 and completed in only five months!
Let’s take a look at some interesting details:
| Vasari Corridor | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Florence, Italy |
| Length | 1.6 km |
| Construction | Built between 1565-1571 |
| Purpose | To enable safe passage for rulers and nobles |
It’s unique construction is what stands out: built above ground level, it connects the two palaces through other buildings in-between them. Plus, it has windows with views of Florence.
Did you know? During WWII, the Germans used it as a battleground – the strategic location allowed them to move troops unnoticed around the city.
Who needs confession when you can just admire the sinful beauty of the Brancacci Chapel?
Brancacci Chapel
This secret spot in Florence is a blessed spot, with artworks and frescoes that have great historical meaning. Going back over 600 years, the detailed masterpiece shows stories from the lives of Saint Peter and Saint John the Baptist.
Here are the basic details about the important Brancacci Chapel:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Piazza del Carmine |
| Creation Date | 1424 – 1428 |
| Architect | Felice Defrancesco and Michelozzo |
| Artwork | Frescoes & Reliefs |
You can find famous works by Masaccio and Filippino Lippi, as well as lesser-known art by Andrea del Castagno. The detailed art inside the chapel has amazing dimensions and expresses strong feelings that lead to reflection.
A legend says that someone rich ordered the artwork in the chapel to punish himself for killing somebody. But, some people think it was made to help spread Christianity with art. Still, this beautiful chapel brings in people from all around the world who are swept away by its beauty. Get creative and make a ‘David’ sculpture out of cheese – it’s a great way to experience Florence!
Unique Experiences in Florence
Florence is a city that has many intriguing experiences to offer. Its rich art and culture makes it one of the best destinations in Italy. Visitors can indulge in exploring the city’s unique landmarks, galleries, and museums. The city is known for its historical and architectural wonders, which will leave one awestruck.
There are many unique attractions in Florence that offer an out-of-the-ordinary experience for travelers. One can visit the hidden architectural gem of San Miniato al Monte, which provides a panoramic view of the city. Another must-visit location is the Mercato Centrale, which is a food lover’s paradise, with an array of Italian delicacies on offer.
Visitors can also take a stroll through the Bardini Gardens, which is known for its lush greenery and outstanding landscaping. A visit to the Palazzo Pitti is a must for history buffs, as it contains a vast range of Renaissance art, and antique furnishings.
To truly experience Florence, one must witness the city’s vibrant nightlife and cuisine culture. One can indulge in local Tuscan cuisines, along with a glass of the best local wine. The city comes to life at night with lively music, and a vibrant street fashion scene.
Make the most out of your trip to Florence, by exploring its unique experiences and attractions. Don’t miss out on the authentic art, history, and culture that Florence has to offer. Plan your itinerary, book your tickets, and experience Florence like never before.
Watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo is like witnessing Florence’s skyline in a fiery embrace with the sky – a visual poetry at its best!
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
At dusk, Piazzale Michelangelo awaits. The view? The Arno River and Florence’s skyline. Cozy and romantic, it’s perfect for couples.
Chianti in hand, watch the warm, Tuscan sunset. Photographers, get ready for gorgeous aerial shots!
Giuseppe Poggi designed Piazzale Michelangelo in the 1800s. It’s on Florence’s highest hill and honors Michelangelo’s David’s replica in Palazzo Vecchio.
Don’t skip this unique experience. Capture memories that last a lifetime! Want something even more special? Check out a Calcio Storico match in Florence.
Watching a Calcio Storico Match
The ancient sport of Calcio Storico in Florence is an exciting sight. Players dress in historical costumes and play a mixture of football and rugby. It reveals Florence’s history, culture and love of sport. It is held each June in Piazza Santa Croce and draws thousands of people from around the world.
The match involves four teams from different parts of Florence. Every team has 27 players, including forwards, backs and goalkeepers. The game takes place on a sand-covered field called ‘sbalzo’. Players attempt to get the ball over the other team’s goal line. There are no substitutions or time-outs during the game.
Observers can feel like they journey back to medieval times while watching this remarkable event. The mix of strength and culture makes it unforgettable.
Calcio Storico dates back to the 16th century when it was played by noble families. Later, peasants and clergy joined in. In 1739, Cosimo III de’ Medici prohibited it due to its lawlessness. But, in 1930, Giovanni Battista de’ Stefani revived it by founding ACF Fiorentina club. To top it off, visit a rooftop bar in Florence for an aperitivo!
Aperitivo at a Rooftop Bar
Indulge in an exciting night of drinks and amazing views at a sky-high bar. Sample delectable, locally sourced cocktails and tantalizing bites while taking in the stunning views of Florence’s skyline.
As the sun sets, witness this city turn into a mesmerizing work of art against the soft orange hues of the sky. Relax on comfy chairs or gather around cosy tables with new people. Enjoy expertly crafted drinks and delicious food that will delight your taste buds.
This remarkable experience gives you an unequalled view of Florence, capturing photographs that will make a brilliant album of memories for years to come. Get ready to upgrade your Italian vacation and make unforgettable moments!
Book now before it’s too late to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity! Put on a mask and express your emotions in this one-of-a-kind workshop in Florence.
Mask-Making Workshop at a Traditional Atelier
Crafting Venetian Masks with Skilled Artisans!
A special workshop in a traditional atelier in Florence awaits you! Learn ancient techniques and history from experts while making your fascinante.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Pick your mold.
- Mix plaster powder and water in a bowl.
- Pour into the mold.
- Let dry (approx 30 mins).
- Take out the mask, clean off extra plaster, and decorate.
Premium materials like genuine Venetian masks and ceramic molds make your mask look amazing. These masks make great souvenirs and unique collection pieces for walls or cabinets.
Picture yourself on Italian Carnival day with loved ones, wearing a mask and singing together.
One happy customer crafted a black lagoon bird-shaped mask with diamonds – it was a beauty that charmed every Venetian mask fan!
If you’re looking for something to entertain adults and kids in Florence, these family-friendly activities might be just what you need.
Best Attractions for Families with Children
As a family visiting Florence, you might be wondering about the attractions you can visit with your kids. Here are some suggestions:
- Visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum – an interactive museum showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions and machines.
- Explore the Boboli Gardens – a large park with playgrounds, fountains, and gardens.
- See the Palazzo Vecchio – a fortified palace with a tower offering breathtaking views of Florence.
- Discover the Galileo Museum – a museum featuring science and astronomy education for kids.
- Experience the Museum of Zoology and Natural History – an interesting museum with animal specimens and interactive displays.
- Visit the Florence Children’s Museum – a museum with exhibits and activities specifically designed for children aged 0-12.
Apart from these attractions, Florence offers a beautiful outdoor space called Piazza del Duomo, which is ideal for kids to run around and play. There are also street performers and illustrators in the square to keep kids entertained.
Pro Tip: Buy a Firenze Card, which will give you access to many of these attractions and save you time and money.
Boboli Gardens: Where you can pretend to be royalty for the day, or at least for the duration of your stroll through these grandiose green spaces.
Boboli Gardens
In Italy’s centre lies the Boboli Gardens; a Renaissance garden featuring statues, fountains and picturesque landscapes – perfect for families with kids!
This outdoor space was created by Niccolò Triburgo in the 16th century and is now open to all. It stretches 45,000m2 and is full of flora – from lemon trees to cypress hedges.
Kids can picnic on the lawns or explore trails leading to grottos and other gardens. For added adventure, visitors can take guided tours on horseback or bike rides around the park.
The Grotto Grande houses Michelangelo’s sculptures of mythical creatures, plus stucco crafted by craftsmen of that era.
The Galileo Museum offers kids a way to learn about the stars, while parents can navigate the gift shop.
The Galileo Museum
Experience the world through Galileo’s eyes at this outstanding museum! Enjoy a variety of exhibitions, interactive activities, and an incredible collection of scientific instruments and machines. Learn about astronomy, physics, and mathematics with fun exhibits, such as telescopes, compasses, and pendulums. Passionate staff give lively explanations for a fun and educational experience for adults and kids alike.
Exclusive audio-guides are available in ten different languages for foreign visitors or those seeking a personalized experience. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues at the ticket counter.
This inspiring museum showcases cutting-edge science concepts and pays proper homage to one of history’s most celebrated scientists. Spark curiosity in your children about scientific innovations and challenge them to explore more! Leonardo da Vinci may have been a genius, but even he couldn’t invent a better day out than this museum for families with kids!
Leonardo da Vinci Museum
Behold the works of the renowned Renaissance artist, Leonardo da Vinci, at this museum. Interactive exhibits and models bring Da Vinci’s inventions to life – from aviation to anatomy. See his incredible creations like the hydraulic saw and aerial screw! Plus, discover a vast collection of his sketches.
Take a virtual tour of Leonardo’s life during the Renaissance. His paintings, sketches and drawings reveal his interest in engineering, music, architecture, botany and machine design. Kids can join workshops to recreate his inventions using traditional techniques. Like drawing lessons on historical squares or building aerial screw models.
This museum offers an insightful glimpse into an artistic legend’s life. Plus, it showcases many scientific achievements made during his time period – giving visitors an enjoyable and educational experience. An estimated over 5000 sketches were produced by Da Vinci during his lifetime – most now unpublished or destroyed.
Pinocchio Park
Pinocchio Park is a family-friendly destination tucked away in a lush green area of Pistoia. Abounding with trees and vegetation, it offers shows, games, and attractions. The park’s centerpiece is a recreation of Carlo Collodi’s world-famous tale, “The Adventures of Pinocchio.”
Kids will find something to do here! They can explore the Butterfly House, take a ride on the vintage carousel, or watch musicals, juggling shows, and puppet theatre. A playground has areas dedicated to different age groups and climbing structures.
For those seeking education and entertainment, the park offers a discovery trail with interactive exhibits and themed sections. Visitors can learn about Italian flora, fauna, and geology. Plus, there are hands-on activities like planting herbs and constructing animal shelters.
Pinocchio Park is also environmentally responsible. Solar panels reduce carbon emissions by 12 tons annually!
Day Trips from Florence
Recently, I researched interesting places to visit near Florence. Here are some recommended day trips from the bustling city of Florence:
- Explore the ancient city of Fiesole, popular for its archeological treasures and breathtaking views of Florence.
- Visiting Lucca, an enchanting walled city recognized for its Renaissance-era ramparts and city walls.
- Discover Monteriggioni, a medieval town that will take you back to the 13th century
- Sienna, a visitor-friendly town packed with museums, art galleries, and stunningly restored medieval buildings.
- Wine tasting and tours in the Chianti Valley, where you can sample some of the world’s best wines and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
If you have a beautiful countryside, then taking a bike trip to the surrounding areas is something you should not miss. Imagine escaping the busy streets of Florence and immersing yourself in a beautiful rural landscape.
The history of these stunning places is something of interest. For instance, Fiesole was once a thriving Etruscan city before it was conquered by the Romans in the second century BC. Furthermore, the small town of Monteriggioni was an essential stronghold in the Tuscan region during the medieval period.
Exploring the nearby towns and cities surrounding Florence is an excellent way to experience the rich history and beauty Tuscany has to offer. The Chianti wine region is like a grape-filled fairy tale, where you can sip on history and forget about reality for a little while.
Chianti Wine Region
Nestled in Tuscany’s heart, this region shines for its world-class wineries and rolling green hills. Enjoy a drive admiring the countryside’s views or join a tour to explore local vineyards making some of Italy’s finest wines. Savor Tuscan cuisine, taking in the atmosphere of medieval towns scattered across the landscape.
Unwind at the 12th-century Castello di Brolio, with its transcendent vistas and wines. Greve awaits, tranquil with piazzas and porticoes. Don’t miss Panzano, where wine experts sample rare vintages and share knowledge.
The Chianti Wine Region produces over 7 million bottles yearly, like Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Relax, the tower’s not leaning more than when you last saw it on Instagram.
Pisa and its Leaning Tower
Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower, is a must-see spot for any Tuscan adventure. It’s one hour away by train from Florence. The Tower, which has been crooked since the twelfth century, is the highlight of the city. Climb to the top for some amazing views of the countryside.
Apart from the Tower, Piazza dei Miracoli boasts the iconic Cathedral and Baptistry, while Camposanto Monumentale is an impressive Gothic cemetery. Artwork abounds here.
Pro Tip: Pre-book your tickets online or arrive early to miss the lines! Plus, take a hike in the Cinque Terre National Park for more breathtaking views than you’ll ever find on Instagram.
Cinque Terre National Park
Nestled in Liguria, the Cinque Terre’s five stunning villages are embraced by rugged mountains and azure waters. This National Park is a perfect combination of natural beauty and human creativity. Wander along the undulating paths or take a beautiful train ride along the coast to see this lively paradise.
The nearby hidden inlets and clear waters make for an exhilarating dive. You can also explore the famous hiking trails connecting the towns, which run along terraced vineyards, where you can sample the region’s delicious wine. A visit to Manarola town offers stunning sunsets over a gorgeous harbour.
If you’re interested in history, head to Riomaggiore to discover ancient architectures, or take a stroll around Corniglia’s narrow alleyways for a glimpse of medieval Italian life.
Exploring the quaint streets and alleys is delightful, but traveling by boat grants exceptional views of the landscape. A day trip here is ideal, as every village has something unique to offer. Step back in time and visit the medieval town of San Gimignano for a Game of Thrones-like experience – without the risk of getting stabbed!
San Gimignano Medieval Town.
San Gimignano, nestled in the picturesque hills of Siena, is a hidden gem of medieval architecture. It boasts soaring towers and fortified walls dating back to the 10th century. This cityscape is one of the most perfectly preserved in Europe. So much so, that UNESCO awarded it World Heritage status.
Wander through its cobbled streets and you’ll find artisan shops selling pottery, leather goods and saffron-infused delicacies. The 14 stone watchtowers are the iconic symbols of the town, seen for miles around. For stunning views, climb Torre Grossa and marvel at the countryside.
San Gimignano was once an important stop on the ancient Via Francigena pilgrimage route. Legend tells of how St Fina’s miracles saved it from destruction. Today, it’s home to the famous Dondoli Gelato Shop – a Mecca for gelato lovers! This shop has won multiple International Best Gelato Awards over many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the most visited sites in Florence?
A: The most visited sites in Florence are the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio.
Q: What are the best attractions in Florence?
A: The best attractions in Florence are the Florence Cathedral, the Boboli Gardens, the Palazzo Pitti, and the Basilica of Santa Croce.
Q: What are some interesting sites to see in Florence?
A: Some interesting sites to see in Florence are the Mercato Centrale, Piazza della Signoria, San Lorenzo Market, and Florence’s Historic Centre.
Q: What should I visit in Florence if I’m interested in art?
A: If you’re interested in art, you should visit the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, and the Bargello National Museum.
Q: What to see in Florence in one day?
A: In one day, you should visit the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and Florence’s Historic Centre.
Q: What are the must-visit sites to visit in Florence?
A: The must-visit sites in Florence are the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, and Florence’s Historic Centre.