What to do in Florence? The 18 best things to do in Florence!

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What to do in Florence?

This page is full of the best activities in Florence, real unmissable gems. Immerse yourself in unique experiences and discover the most sought-after gems. Whether strolling historic lanes, marveling at artistic masterpieces or savoring the delights of Tuscan cuisine, each selected activity promises total immersion in Florentine charm.

Don’t miss these must-see attractions that make Florence an exceptional destination. Let yourself be guided towards a memorable adventure, because Florence has treasures around every corner!

The office gallery

What to do in Florence – An artistic feast at the heart of the renaissance

What to do in Florence? The office gallery

Tour Highlights

Master works. Admire masterpieces by great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, Caravaggio and many others. Don’t miss the famous paintings “The Birth of Venus” and “La Primavera” by Botticelli.
Architecture. Explore the historic building itself, a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture, with its elegant corridors and ornate rooms.

Useful information

Access. Located in the heart of Florence, the Uffizi Gallery is easily accessible on foot from the city’s main attractions. The exact address is Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6.
Schedules . The gallery is open every day except Monday. Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 a.m. → 6:50 p.m.

Why visit the Uffizi Gallery?

Italian Renaissance. Immerse yourself in the Renaissance era as you discover works of art that have left their mark on history and continue to influence modern culture and art.
Artistic education. Enjoy an art history lesson as you wander the museum’s rooms, each work telling a unique and fascinating story.

Book your ticket

Duomo Cathedral

What to do in Florence?

The Duomo Cathedral in Florence is a true architectural gem and a must-see for all visitors to the city.

Tour Highlights

Architecture. The cathedral, officially named Santa Maria del Fiore, is famous for its different colored marble facade and majestic dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. This Renaissance masterpiece dominates the Florentine skyline.
The dome. Climb the 463 steps to reach the top of the dome and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Inside, admire the impressive frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari.
Giotto’s campanile. Climb the 414 steps of the campanile for another spectacular perspective of the city and a close-up view of the architectural and sculptural details.
The Baptistery of Saint-Jean. Located opposite the cathedral, this octagonal building is famous for its intricately carved bronze doors, known as the “Gates of Paradise”, made by Lorenzo Ghiberti.

Useful information

Access. The Duomo Cathedral is located right in the center of Florence, in Piazza del Duomo, easily accessible on foot from the city’s main attractions.
Schedules. The cathedral is open every day from 10:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sunday morning.

Why visit the Duomo Cathedral?

Renaissance masterpiece. The cathedral is an exceptional example of Italian Renaissance architecture and art, with its innovative elements and lavish decorations.
Amazing views. Climbs to the top of the dome and campanile offer unforgettable panoramas of Florence and the surrounding area, ideal for memorable photos.
Historical wealth. Each part of the cathedral and its annexed buildings tell a fascinating story of Renaissance architectural and artistic genius.

Book your ticket

Duomo Cathedral + Duomo dome and Brunelleschi

What to do in Florence? Duomo Cathedral & Duomo Dome mtt2

Climb to the top of Florence’s Duomo Dome and discover the history and engineering of this architectural marvel with our exclusive audio app.

Your ticket includes:

Access to the Dome of the Duomo
Access to the audio application
An audio guide in French

Your tour will begin with a climb to the top of the Duomo, where you can admire breathtaking views of Florence. Then you will listen to the audio application which will tell you the story of the Dome and its designer, Filippo Brunelleschi. You will discover how Brunelleschi overcame the technical challenges to build a dome of this size and complexity.

Book your ticket

The Academy gallery

What to do in Florence?

The Accademia Gallery in Florence is famous for housing one of the most iconic sculptures in the world, Michelangelo’s David.

Tour Highlights

Michelangelo’s David. The centerpiece of the gallery is undoubtedly the David sculpture. This masterful work by Michelangelo depicts King David at the moment he decides to fight Goliath. Admire the details of this sculpture which measures more than five meters high.
The Prigioni. These unfinished sculptures by Michelangelo, also known as The Slaves, show human figures appearing to emerge from blocks of marble. They offer a fascinating insight into the artist’s creative process.
Renaissance paintings. The gallery also houses an impressive collection of Florentine Renaissance paintings, including works by Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, Pontormo and Andrea del Sarto.
Musical instruments. Discover a unique collection of historical musical instruments, including some belonging to the Medici family.

Useful information

Access. The Accademia Gallery is located at 60, Via Ricasoli, a few steps from the Duomo Cathedral. It is easily accessible on foot from the city center of Florence.
Schedules. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Why visit the Academy Gallery?

Masterpiece of sculpture. Seeing Michelangelo’s David in person is an unparalleled experience. The anatomical perfection and expression of the sculpture are striking.
Renaissance art. The gallery offers a dive into Renaissance art, allowing you to better understand this rich and influential period.
Artistic inspiration. As you explore the gallery’s unfinished works and paintings, you can draw inspiration from the creative genius of the Renaissance masters.

Accademia Gallery Priority Admission Ticket with eBook

Timed entry ticket to Michelangelo’s David

Your ticket includes:

Access to the gallery of the Academy of Florence
Access to Michelangelo’s David

Florence: time-stamped entry for Michelangelo’s David

Leonardo interactive museum

What to do in Florence?

The interactive Leonardo Museum is a fascinating experience for lovers of science, engineering and art. Located in the heart of Florence, this museum celebrates the inventions and works of Leonardo da Vinci.

Tour Highlights

Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. The museum displays life-size models of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions. These machines, built from his sketches, include flight devices, war machines, musical instruments and hydraulic tools.
Interactive experiences. Enjoy the many interactive installations that allow visitors to manipulate the machines and understand the scientific principles behind them. These immersive experiences make the visit educational and fun for all ages.
Artistic works. Admire faithful reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous works of art, including the ‘Mona Lisa’ and ‘The Last Supper’. Interactive screens provide detailed information about each work and its historical context.

Useful information

Access. The interactive Leonardo Museum is located in the very center of Florence, close to Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. The exact address is Via dei Servi, 66/R.
Schedules. The museum is open every day from 9:30 a.m. → 7:30 p.m.

Why visit the Leonardo Interactive Museum?

Scientific discovery. Immerse yourself in the world of Leonardo da Vinci and discover his revolutionary contributions to science and engineering. The museum offers an in-depth understanding of his creative genius and innovative spirit.
Fun learning. Interactive installations and hands-on demonstrations make learning fun and engaging, ideal for children and adults.
Cultural wealth. In addition to inventions, explore the artistic achievements of Leonardo da Vinci and learn how his work influenced Renaissance art and culture.

Florence: Leonardo Interactive Museum Admission Ticket

Pitti palace

What to do in Florence?

The Pitti Palace, located on the south bank of the Arno in Florence, is a sumptuous Renaissance palace that houses several museums and art galleries.

Tour Highlights

Palatine Gallery. Home to an extensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings, this gallery features works by masters such as Raphael, Titian, Rubens and Caravaggio. The richly decorated rooms themselves are worth the visit.
Royal apartments. Explore the luxuriously furnished apartments that were inhabited by the Medici, Lorraine and Savoy families. Each piece offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the Florentine nobility throughout the centuries.
Modern Art Gallery. Discover works of Italian art from the 18th century to the modern era, with paintings and sculptures that reflect the artistic and social changes of each period.
Museum of Costumes and Fashion. This museum exhibits an impressive collection of historical and contemporary clothing, illustrating the evolution of fashion over the centuries.
Silverware Museum. Admire silver treasures, jewelry and precious objects from the Medici and Lorraine collections. Each piece is a work of art in itself.

Useful information

Access. The Pitti Palace is located in Piazza de’ Pitti, easily accessible on foot from Ponte Vecchio. The exact address is Piazza de’ Pitti, 1.
Opening hours and tickets. The palace is open every day from Tuesday to Sunday from 1:30 p.m. → 6:30 p.m. (except Mondays). It is advisable to buy tickets online to avoid queues.

Why visit the Pitti Palace?

Exceptional art collection. The richness and diversity of the art collections make the Pitti Palace an essential place for art and history lovers.
Renaissance architecture. The palace itself is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, with its imposing facades and sumptuous interiors.
Boboli Gardens. Be sure to visit the magnificent Boboli Gardens, located behind the palace. These Italian gardens offer panoramic views, fountains, statues and man-made grottoes.

Entrance ticket to Pitti Palace

Boboli gardens

The Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace in Florence, are one of the most remarkable examples of Italian gardens.

Tour Highlights

Landscape architecture. The gardens are a masterpiece of landscape architecture, designed in the 16th century for the Medici family. Stroll through the paths lined with ancient and Renaissance statues, and admire the terraces, fountains and artificial grottoes.
The Amphitheater. Inspired by Greek and Roman theaters, this open-air amphitheater is surrounded by sculptures and provides an impressive setting for outdoor shows.
The Fountain of Neptune. This majestic fountain, also known as “Fontana del Nettuno”, is located on top of the hill and offers a spectacular view of Florence.
Buontalenti Cave. A unique work of art with its stalactite and stalagmite sculptures, this artificial cave is a fascinating blend of nature and art.
The Knights’ Garden. This raised garden offers panoramic views of Florence and its surroundings. It is also decorated with flower beds and medicinal plants.

Useful information

Access. The Boboli Gardens are located behind the Pitti Palace, accessible via several entrances, including the one located in Piazza de’ Pitti. The exact address is Piazza de’ Pitti, 1.

Schedules. The gardens are open every day, except the first and last Monday of each month.

From November to February 8:15 a.m. → 4:30 p.m.
March and October 8:15 a.m. → 5:30 p.m.
April, May and September 8:15 a.m. → 6:30 p.m.
June, July and August 8:15 a.m. → 7:30 p.m.
It is recommended to check specific times on the official website and purchase tickets online to avoid queues.

Why visit the Boboli Gardens?

Natural and artistic beauty. The gardens harmoniously combine natural and artistic elements, providing a unique visual and sensory experience.
History and culture.The Boboli Gardens reflect the taste and style of the Medici family, offering a fascinating insight into court life during the Renaissance.
Lounge. It is the ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while enjoying the beauty of the landscapes and panoramic views.

Reserved entry to Boboli Gardens

The Medici chapel

What to do in Florence?

The Medici Chapel in Florence is an iconic place full of history and art.

Tour Highlights

Chapels of the Princes. This grandiose mausoleum houses the tombs of members of the Medici family, the great patrons of the Florentine Renaissance. The chapels are richly decorated with polychrome marble, sculptures and magnificent frescoes.
The Sagrestia Nuova. Designed by Michelangelo, this chapel is famous for its elegant architecture and impressive sculptures, including the “Nights” and “Dawns” statues depicting day and night.
The museum of the Medici chapels. Explore the collections of jewelry, illuminated manuscripts, relics and precious liturgical vestments, which illustrate the artistic refinement and political power of the Medici family.

Useful information

Access. The Medici Chapel is located inside the Palazzo Pitti complex, in Piazza Madonna degli Aldobrandini. The main entrance is located at Via Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6.
Schedules. The chapel is open every day, except Mondays and public holidays – 2:00 p.m. → 6:30 p.m. (Saturday and Monday 8:45 a.m. → 1:30 p.m.).

Why visit the Medici Chapel?

Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Admire Michelangelo’s work in the Sagrestia Nuova, a moving testimony to his artistic genius.
History and art. Explore the fascinating history of the Medici family through the art and architecture of this sumptuous chapel.
Intimate atmosphere. Experience an intimate and sacred atmosphere while exploring the magnificent interiors of the chapel.

Reserved entry to the Medici Chapel

Palazzo vecchio

What to do in Florence?

Palazzo Vecchio is the city hall of Florence, capital of Tuscany in Italy.

Tour Highlights

Hall of the Five Hundred. The political heart of Florence, this majestic hall was once the seat of government of the Florentine Republic. Admire the impressive frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and learn about the city’s tumultuous history.
Private apartments of the Medici. Explore the sumptuously decorated apartments of the Medici, where you can admire precious frescoes and ornaments that attest to the power and luxury of this influential dynasty.
Arnolfo’s Tower. Climb to the top of this medieval tower to enjoy panoramic views of Florence and its surroundings. It’s also a great place to learn about the city’s architecture and history.

Useful information

Access. Palazzo Vecchio is located in Piazza della Signoria, in the heart of Florence. The exact address is Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.
Schedules . Palazzo Vecchio is open Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Why visit Palazzo Vecchio?

Fascinating story. Explore the nerve center of Florentine politics through the centuries and learn about the intrigues and events that shaped the city.
Art and architecture. Admire the robust architecture of this medieval and Renaissance palace, as well as the precious works of art that adorn its rooms and chapels.
Amazing views. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of Arnolfo’s Tower for a breathtaking view of Florence and its surroundings.

Florence: billet & audioguide pour le Palazzo Vecchio

Basilica of Santa Croce

What to do in Florence?

The Basilica of Santa Croce is one of the most important churches in Florence. It was founded by the Franciscans at the beginning of the 13th century and today is a monumental complex which includes a church, a convent and a cloister.

Tour Highlights

Illustrious tombs. Discover the tombs of famous Italian historical figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Rossini, who rest in this 13th-century Dominican basilica.
Masterpiece of Gothic art. Admire the majestic architecture of the basilica, a remarkable example of Italian Gothic art, with its white and green marble facade and spectacular interior.
Decorated chapels. Explore the richly decorated chapels inside, with frescoes and sculptures by Giotto, Donatello and other great Renaissance masters.

Useful information

Access. The Basilica of Santa Croce is located in Piazza di Santa Croce, Florence. The exact address is Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.
Schedules . It is open every day except Tuesday – Monday to Saturday 9:30 a.m. → 5:30 p.m. (Sunday and public holidays 12:30 p.m. → 5:45 p.m.).

Why visit the Santa Croce Basilica?

History and spirituality. Immerse yourself in the rich history and spirituality of this basilica which played a central role in the religious and cultural life of Florence.
Art and architecture. Appreciate the magnificent works of art that decorate every corner of the basilica, testament to the exceptional talent of Italian Renaissance artists.
Basilica Museum. Be sure to visit the Basilica Museum, which houses artistic treasures and historical artifacts related to Santa Croce and its illustrious personalities.

Entrance ticket to the Basilica of Santa Croce complex

Galileo museum

What to do in Florence?

The Galileo Museum is a science museum. It houses one of the largest collections of scientific instruments in the world, including many of Galileo’s original instruments.

Tour Highlights

Remarkable scientific collection. Explore a vast collection of historic scientific instruments, including telescopes, celestial globes and measuring instruments, which demonstrate revolutionary advances in science and astronomy.
History of Galileo. Immerse yourself in the life and discoveries of Galileo, one of the greatest astronomers and physicists of all time, through interactive exhibits and original artifacts related to his scientific experiments.
Historic palace. Visit the historic palace that houses the museum, located in the San Giovanni district of Florence, offering a unique atmosphere and remarkable Renaissance architecture.

Useful information

Access. The Galileo Museum is located at Via dei Castellani, 18, 50122 Florence, Italy. It is easily accessible on foot from Florence city center.
Schedules . Open every day from 9:30 a.m. → 6 p.m. (closed Tuesday afternoon 1 p.m.)

Why visit the Galileo Museum?

Interactive education. Enjoy an immersive educational experience through interactive exhibits that make science and history accessible to all audiences.
Scientific exploration. Discover the groundbreaking scientific advances that have shaped our understanding of the world, thanks to the contributions of Galileo and other scientists.
Unique collections. Admire rare and precious objects, some dating from the 16th century, which illustrate the evolution of science and technology through the ages.

Florence: Museo Galileo Entrance Ticket

Chianti wine tour with tasting

This full-day tour will take you to the beautiful Chianti region of Tuscany. You’ll visit two wineries and taste world-famous wines, accompanied by local snacks.

Visit

The tour begins with a bus ride from Florence to the Chianti region. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the region’s history and culture.

When you arrive at the first winery, you will be greeted by the winemakers. After a brief introduction to the history of the winery, you will take a guided tour of the facilities and neighboring vineyards. You’ll learn all about the winemaking process, the materials used to make the barrels, and what it takes to be classified as “Chianti Classico.”

You will hear an explanation about each of the wines you will taste, as well as some tips for savoring the wine and understanding its qualities. The wines will be accompanied by local snacks produced in the region, such as cheese, bread, olive oil and salumi.

After the tasting, you will return to the bus and continue to the second vineyard. Along the way, you will stop at a viewpoint to admire breathtaking views of the Chianti hills.

At the second winery, you’ll learn about their production methods, what’s unique about their vines, and how weather conditions can affect the grapes. You will discover the facilities during a short guided tour and stroll through the vineyards. Next, you’ll taste another round of up to 3 wines, while the charismatic local wine producer explains the particularities of each.

After some free time, you will return to Florence.

Tuscany: Small-Group Wine Tasting and Tour

A day in Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano

This day trip will take you to three of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano. You will discover their magnificent monuments, their rich history and their delicious cuisine.

Visit

The tour begins with a bus ride from Florence to Pisa. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the region’s history and culture.

Upon arrival in Pisa, you will visit Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will admire the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, the Baptistery and, of course, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

After your free time in Pisa, you will head to a Tuscan vineyard typical of the Chianti region. You will enjoy a delicious lunch of typical Tuscan dishes, accompanied by local wine.

After lunch you will continue towards Siena. You will visit Piazza del Campo, the city’s main square, where the famous Palio di Siena horse race takes place. You’ll also see Piazza del Duomo, home to Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Finally, you will travel to San Gimignano, a medieval town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will stroll through the narrow streets of the city and admire its many towers.

Advice

Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Bring water and snacks, as it can be a long day.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let your guide know in advance.

From Florence – Excursion to Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano with lunch

Cinque Terre day trip

This day trip will take you to the Cinque Terre, a collection of five medieval villages perched on steep cliffs along the Ligurian coast. You will discover their magnificent landscapes, their rich history and their delicious cuisine.

→ The visit

The tour begins with a bus ride from Florence to La Spezia. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the region’s history and culture.

Upon arrival in La Spezia, you will take the train to Manarola, the first Cinque Terre village you will visit.

In Manarola, you will take part in a short guided walk through the vineyards. You will learn more about local viticulture and can taste some local wines.

After the walk, you will have free time to explore Manarola at your own pace. You can visit the parish church of San Lorenzo, admire the views from the belvedere or simply stroll through the narrow streets of the village.

Then you will take the train to Corniglia, the second village of Cinque Terre.

Corniglia is the only village in Cinque Terre that is not directly accessible by sea. To reach the center of the village, you will have to climb the 382 steps of Via dell’Amore.

Once at the top, you can admire the breathtaking view of the sea and the other villages of Cinque Terre.

Book your ticket – Cinque Terre Day Trip

The best things to do in Florence

Florence travel guide – The best activities

Where to park in Florence

The best parking lots in Florence

Are you looking for a parking lot in Florence? Choose a guarded parking lot for peace of mind.

See availability – Reservation – Parking

Where to stay in Florence

The best areas to stay in Florence

Some neighborhoods are more convenient than others for tourists. Here are 5 of the best areas to stay in Florence:

Oltrarno . This picturesque neighborhood is located on the left bank of the Arno. It is home to many craft shops, restaurants and bars.
Santa Croce . This historic district is home to the Basilica of Santa Croce, one of the most important monuments in Florence. It is also close to Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio.
Duomo . It is located around the Florence Cathedral. It is also home to many museums and art galleries, including the Uffizi Gallery.
San Lorenzo . This district is the commercial center of Florence. It houses the central market and many souvenir shops.
Piazzale Michelangelo . This neighborhood offers stunning views of the city. It is ideal for travelers who want to relax and enjoy the view.

Of course, the best area to stay in Florence depends on your interests and budget. If you’re on a budget, you might consider staying in a less touristy area, like Oltrarno or San Lorenzo. If you’re looking for a more upscale vibe, you might consider staying in a more central area, like Duomo or Santa Croce.

Getting around Florence?

Options available!

Florence is a compact city, so it’s easy to get around on foot or by public transportation. Here are some options for getting around Florence.

Walk

Florence is a very walkable city, and most tourist attractions are easily accessible on foot. If you are in good physical shape, walking is a great way to discover the city and enjoy its atmosphere.

By public transport

Florence’s public transport network is well developed and includes buses, trams and a funicular. Public transport tickets can be purchased at bus or tram stops.

In taxi

Taxis are available in Florence, but they can be expensive. They are a good option if you need quick transportation or are carrying heavy luggage.

By car

Traffic in Florence can be very heavy, and it is difficult to find parking spaces. It is therefore best to avoid the car if possible.

Here are some tips for getting around Florence

Buy a public transport pass

If you plan to make a lot of trips by public transport, it pays to purchase a public transport pass. Passes are available for 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 days.

Use Florence maps

Florence cards offer free or discounted access to many tourist attractions, as well as public transportation.

Find out about events

If you are visiting Florence during a busy time, such as summer or during school holidays, it is important to find out about events happening in the city. The events may cause disruptions to traffic and public transport.

Practical information for your trip to Florence

Language: Italian is the primarily spoken language in Florence, but many Italians working in the tourism industry also speak English.
Currency: the currency used is the euro (€).
Climate: Florence enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. Adapt your clothing according to the season of your visit.
Transportation: Florence has an efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses and trams. You can buy individual tickets or transport cards to make your travel easier.
Safety: Florence is generally safe for tourists, but remain vigilant against pickpocketing and take care of your personal belongings.
Opening hours: Shops, restaurants and tourist attractions have varying hours, check in advance to avoid disappointment.
Tipping: It is common to tip around 10% in restaurants, but it is not obligatory.
Electricity: Electrical outlets are type C and F, with a voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. If necessary, obtain a travel adapter.
Maps and Guides: Invest in a city map or tourist guide to help you find your way around Florence and discover its main attractions.
Local Respect: Show respect for local culture, especially in places of worship. Avoid speaking loudly and being noisy in residential areas.

MTT opinion – What to do in Florence?

Florence is a city rich in history, art and culture. There is so much to see and do in this stunning city, whether you are interested in art, history, food or simply enjoying the Italian atmosphere.

If you have limited time in Florence, focus on the main attractions, such as the Uffizi Gallery , Santa Croce Basilica, and Ponte Vecchio . If you have more time , take the time to visit the city’s museums and galleries , stroll the picturesque streets, and sample Tuscan cuisine.

Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to do in Florence. This city is a true jewel of Italian culture, and it will leave you with unforgettable memories.