Florence is a city that instantly feels like a dream. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, it’s a place where history, art, and culture come alive. Walking its cobblestone streets, I was mesmerized by the grand architecture, captivating masterpieces in every corner, hidden trattorias serving the best pasta and golden hour at Arno River.
My husband and I spent three days in Tuscany, exploring Florence and the surrounding countryside, and we completely fell in love. Beyond the iconic sights like Michelangelo’s David and the stunning Duomo, it was the local spots that made the experience unforgettable. Sipping wine at a tiny family-run vineyard, discovering artisan shops tucked into quiet alleys, and eating gelato while watching street musicians in Piazza della Signoria – every moment felt special. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, Florence isn’t just a stop on your itinerary; it’s an experience you cannot miss.
Here’s my ultimate Florence Travel Guide. In this guide you’ll find my recommendations on the best things to do in Florence – including where to stay, places to visit, must-do activities and my recommendations for restaurants and more.
Where to Stay?
For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in the historic center (Centro Storico). It’s close to major attractions like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, with charming streets and lively piazzas. Another great option, often recommended by locals, is Santa Croce, where you can experience vibrant nightlife and authentic Florentine restaurants.
For a luxurious stay – you can book a room in Hotel Brunelleschi with stunning views of the Duomo or The St. Regis Florence by the Arno River. The city has plenty of beautifully restored apartments, some with rooftop terraces overlooking the city. And we found a gem very close to Duomo – La Gabbia del Grillo
Beautiful boutique apartments with a fully equipped kitchen and bath, just steps from the Duomo – an ideal stay in Florence. The property also features a stunning courtyard where you can socialize with other travelers or sip coffee while enjoying spectacular views of the Florence Duomo.
Top 10 things to do in Florence
1. Visit The Duomo
The Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) is the absolute first thing you should see when you arrive in Florence. Seriously, you can’t miss it – even if you tried! This iconic cathedral dominates the city skyline with its massive red-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi, intricate marble façade, and breathtaking details that make it one of the most stunning landmarks in Italy.
If you want a quieter experience, go early in the morning right when it opens or at sunsets when tour groups have thinned out. Golden hour from the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome is absolutely magical. Tickets can be booked online in advance (which I highly recommend to skip long lines), and different passes are available depending on what you want to see. The Brunelleschi Pass includes access to the Dome, the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Bell Tower. If you plan to climb the Dome (and you should!), be prepared for a 463-step workout – there’s no elevator, but the view is 100% worth it.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just here for the views, the Florence Duomo is an absolute must. And if you’re sticking around, grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés and just take in the atmosphere – because this is Florence at its finest.
2. Go Shopping for Leather Goods in Florence
Florence is a dream destination for luxury shopping and high-quality Italian leather. If you’re in the mood to splurge, head to Via de’ Tornabuoni, the city’s most elegant shopping street, where you’ll find you’ll find flagship stores of Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo, and Bottega Veneta. But if it’s authentic Florentine leather you’re after, make your way to San Lorenzo Market or Santa Croce, home to some of the best leather shops and artisan workshops. Whether you’re after a statement handbag or a custom-made belt, Florence is the place to find timeless, high-quality pieces that will last a lifetime.
3. Brunch & Blooms at La Ménagère
If you’re looking for a brunch spot in Florence that’s as dreamy as it is delicious, La Ménagère is the place to be. This stylish café, restaurant, and concept store is filled with fresh flowers, soft lighting, and a cozy, rustic-chic vibe that makes it perfect for a slow, leisurely morning. The menu offers a mix of Italian and international flavors, featuring dishes like fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, and freshly baked pastries, all paired with expertly brewed coffee. Honestly loved their Avocado toast – yummm… super delicious. For a relaxed morning, grab a seat among the fresh flowers and enjoy a delicious, unhurried brunch in one of Florence’s most charming spots.
4. Knock at a Wine Window
One of the quirkiest and coolest things you can do in Florence? Order wine from a tiny Renaissance-era window! Scattered around the city, these historic “buchette del vino” (wine windows) were once used by merchants to sell wine directly to customers – think of it as a medieval version of a drive-thru, but for vino. Now, some of them are back in action, serving up glasses of Chianti through a little stone opening in the wall. Stop by Babae or Osteria delle Brache to experience this fun (and very Instagrammable) tradition. It’s a sip of history literally!
5. Tour the Palazzo Pitti and Baboli Gardens
Step into royal luxury with a visit to Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, one of Florence’s most opulent spots. This grand palace, once home to the powerful Medici family is packed with over-the-top Renaissance art, lavishly decorated rooms, and even a collection of royal treasures. But the real highlight? The Boboli Gardens – a massive, beautifully landscaped escape that feels like stepping into a fairytale. We absolutely loved strolling through its hidden pathways, past fountains, sculptures, and perfectly manicured hedges.
If you’re visiting in the summer, this place is pure magic – the gardens are in full bloom, the sunshine makes everything glow, and it’s the perfect spot to take a break from the city’s hustle. Bonus tip: climb to the top for some seriously stunning views of Florence!
6. Wine Tasting tour to Chianti or Tuscany Countryside
If you’re in Florence and not planning a wine-tasting trip to the Tuscan countryside, you’re seriously missing out! Renting a car and driving through the rolling hills of Tuscany is one of my favorite ways to escape the city and soak in those dreamy vineyard views. Chianti is a must-visit for its world-famous wines (hello, Chianti Classico!) and charming wineries where you can sip, swirl, and savor like a true local. And then there’s Siena; a town that feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting, with its stunning Piazza del Campo and that gorgeous cathedral. Whether you’re clinking glasses in a cozy family-run vineyard or wandering through medieval streets, this little wine adventure is the perfect way to experience the magic of Tuscany.
Our favorite was Tenuta Torciano Winery in San Gimignano which offers the best tasting experience with lunch in their patio during the winter months and has picnic tables in the vineyard during summers. I highly recommend booking this experience in advance as they sell out pretty quick.
If you have more time I’d recommend staying a night or two at an agriturismo—a countryside farmhouse which provides an authentic taste of Tuscan culture, with home-cooked meals and a slower pace of life. If your trip is shorter, there are plenty of guided tours that combine a visit to Pisa with a wine-tasting experience in a single day, making it easy to see more without the hassle of driving. However, renting a car allows for more flexibility, letting you explore hidden gems at your own pace, from the vineyards of Montepulciano to the picturesque town of San Gimignano. For a more detailed road trip itinerary with the best stops in Tuscany, stay tuned for my upcoming blog post, where I’ll map out the ultimate wine and countryside adventure!
7. Take a Pasta Making Class
Taking a pasta-making class in Florence was one of the highlights of our trip! We dove right in, rolling up our sleeves and learning to make both tagliatelle and stuffed pasta from scratch. The chef was hilarious, and the whole experience felt like an Italian cooking party – flour flying, dough kneading, and pasta rolling with tons of laughs along the way. We even got to feel like real Italians as we shaped our pasta with pride.
But it wasn’t just about the pasta – we got to meet a fun group of fellow tourists, all ready to roll (literally). After mastering our pasta-making skills, we moved on to make tiramisu, and let’s just say… the dessert did not disappoint! To top it off, we enjoyed unlimited champagne, which made the whole experience even more festive. The grand finale? Sitting down to eat all the pasta we had made, paired with a glass of bubbly, of course. Honestly, it tasted even better knowing we had made it ourselves. This experience was pure Italian joy from start to finish!
8. Climb up the Piazzale Michelangelo for the Best Sunset Views
For the best sunset views in Florence, climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo – trust me, it’s totally worth the hike! From the top, you’ll get a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, with the Duomo, the Arno River, and the rolling Tuscan hills all lit up by the golden glow of the setting sun.
On your way up, make sure to stop by the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge lined with charming jewelry shops. It’s the perfect spot to snap some photos and soak in the lively atmosphere before continuing your stroll to the Piazzale. Watching the sunset over Florence is the kind of magic you won’t forget!
9. Go on a Florence Food Tour
If you’re a foodie in Florence, a food tour is an absolute must! You’ll get to taste some of the city’s most iconic dishes, like the rich, flavorful crostini topped with pâté, which you can find at local spots like Osteria Il Cinghiale Bianco. Then, make sure to grab a hearty sandwich at I’ Girone de’ Ghiotti, where they serve up incredible sandwiches filled with delicious local meats and cheeses. And, of course, you can’t miss the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive T-bone steak cooked to perfection at Osteria All’Antico Vinaio.
For a cozy treat, stop by a café for some mulled wine during the colder months – Florence does it just right! End your tour with a bite of cantucci (almond cookies) dipped in Vin Santo and a refreshing gelato from Gelateria La Carraia. Trust me, this food tour will have you craving more and filling up your Instagram feed along the way!
10. Stroll Through Piazza della Signoria and Enjoy Local Artists in Action
Spend some time at Piazza della Signoria, one of the best spots in Florence to kick back and soak up the city’s energy. With the iconic David (yep, the replica) and the grand Palazzo Vecchio as your backdrop, it’s a vibe. Local artists and performers are often around, adding an artsy touch to the square. You might stumble upon a musician strumming a guitar or an artist creating portraits. Grab a gelato or coffee, find a good spot, and just enjoy the lively, artsy atmosphere—it’s one of those moments that makes you fall in love with Florence.
Thank you for reading along. I will be sharing my Tuscany road trip details next. Stay Tuned!
