Things to see and do in Florence
Florence Cathedral – the city’s most recognisable landmark. Explore the ornate interior and climb either the dome or the bell tower for panoramic views.
Galleria degli Uffizi – one of the world’s most famous art museums and a top attraction in Italy. Discover Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Galleria dell’Accademia – another art museum and home to Michelangelo’s sculpture David. Get insight into Florentine art and Renaissance history.
Ponte Vecchio – Florence’s oldest and most photographed bridge, lined with jewellery shops. Sunset is the best time to enjoy the river views and atmosphere.
Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio – a square at the heart of Florence, surrounded by statues and historic buildings. Palazzo Vecchio serves as the city’s town hall and offers exhibitions and views from its tower.
Boboli Gardens – a vast Renaissance garden behind Palazzo Pitti, offering fountains, sculptures and peaceful walking paths with views over Florence.
San Lorenzo Market and Mercato Centrale – explore local cuisine, browse artisan stalls and sample Tuscan specialities such as cured meats, cheeses and fresh pasta.
Florence food experiences – the city is full of local delicacies to try. Have a bite of bistecca alla fiorentina (a thick‑cut grilled T‑bone steak), ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup), lampredotto (slow‑cooked cow stomach served in a sandwich) or gelato (ice cream). Join a cooking class to learn traditional Tuscan recipes.
Piazzale Michelangelo – the best viewpoint in Florence with sweeping views of the city, the Arno River and the Duomo. Especially popular at sunset.
Sights and activities near Florence
Chianti wine region – just south of Florence lies a scenic landscape of rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. Visit wineries, enjoy wine tastings and explore charming towns.
Pisa – around one hour from Florence, Pisa is famous for the Leaning Tower. A popular and easy day trip by train.
Siena – a beautifully preserved medieval city known for its Gothic architecture, winding streets and the spectacular Piazza del Campo, where the historic Palio horse race takes place twice every summer.
San Gimignano – a small medieval hill town known for its striking stone towers. Enjoy wide views over Tuscany and explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lucca – a relaxed Tuscan city surrounded by Renaissance city walls, which can be explored on foot or by bike. Discover charming squares, historic churches and a slower pace of life.
Bologna – less than 40 minutes away by high-speed train, Bologna is a food lover’s paradise. Often considered Italy’s culinary capital, it’s the birthplace of many famous dishes.
Cinque Terre – Florence is a convenient gateway to this iconic coastal region in Liguria, known for its colourful villages, dramatic cliffs and seaside hiking trails.