Trips to Florence

Travel to Florence – Experience the city's history, sights, and cuisine

Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, is a city filled with art, history, and culinary delights. With its architecture, museums, and vibrant atmosphere, it attracts visitors from all over the world. Here is everything you need to know before your trip.

Attractions in Florence

Florence offers a wealth of attractions for both history and culture enthusiasts. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is the city’s most iconic building, featuring its impressive dome designed by Brunelleschi. Ponte Vecchio, the famous bridge, boasts unique architecture and charming shops. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s most renowned art museums, showcasing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens combine history with a scenic experience, offering art collections and beautiful gardens. Piazza della Signoria is one of the city’s most famous squares, surrounded by historic buildings and striking statues.

Best areas to stay in Florence

Florence has many different areas suitable for different types of travelers. Centro Storico is ideal for those who want to stay close to major attractions and have everything within walking distance. If you seek a more relaxed and authentic experience, Oltrarno is a great choice with its traditional restaurants and artisan shops. Santa Croce is a lively area with plenty of restaurants and bars, as well as proximity to the Arno River. San Niccolò is a charming and artistic district near Piazzale Michelangelo, offering fantastic views over the city. Sembo offers a wide range of hotels in various price ranges and areas, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Food and restaurants in Florence

Tuscan cuisine is one of the city’s major highlights. You can enjoy classic dishes such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a juicy T-bone steak, or Ribollita, a hearty bread soup with vegetables. If you want to try a local specialty, Lampredotto, a dish made from cow’s stomach often served in a sandwich, is a must. For those with a sweet tooth, Florence is renowned for its high-quality gelato, perfect for a refreshing break while exploring the city.

Best museums in Florence

Florence is a paradise for art lovers, home to some of the world’s most famous museums. The Galleria dell’Accademia is best known for Michelangelo’s renowned statue, David. The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the world’s finest art collections featuring Renaissance masterpieces, while the Bargello Museum focuses on sculptures by some of Italy’s most celebrated artists.

Shopping in Florence

Florence is famous for its craftsmanship and high-quality products, offering many opportunities to find unique items. The San Lorenzo Market is a great place to buy authentic Italian leather goods, while Via de’ Tornabuoni provides luxury shopping with boutiques from fashion houses such as Gucci and Prada. For those who want to experience a local market, Mercato Centrale is the perfect spot to buy fresh produce and enjoy local food experiences.

Excursions from Florence

For those who want to explore more of Tuscany, there are several exciting day trips from Florence. The Chianti region is famous for its vineyards and scenic landscapes. Pisa, with its Leaning Tower and historic sites, is just a short trip away. Siena offers a medieval atmosphere with impressive architecture and charming streets, while San Gimignano is known for its towers and well-preserved historic environment.

Best time to visit Florence

The best time to visit Florence is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer months can be very hot and crowded, especially around the most popular attractions. In winter, the city’s atmosphere is calmer and more relaxed, making it ideal for those who want to experience Florence without large crowds.

Getting around Florence

Florence is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within comfortable walking distance. There is also a well-developed network of buses and trams, making it easy to get around. Taxis are available but can be more expensive than other transport options. For those who want a more local experience, renting a bike or scooter can be a great way to explore the city.

Florence is a city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary experiences. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, there is always something new to explore.