An Insider’s Guide to Where to Stay, What to Do and Where to Eat In Florence, Italy

Must-see attractions in Florence & essential travel tips

Before diving into the top attractions in Florence, let's talk about tickets. Florence is a highly popular city, so purchasing or reserving tickets well in advance is essential to avoid long wait times.

Florence Travel Tip: FirenzeCard: A great option for exploring multiple museums in Florence is the FirenzeCard. This pass provides access to 60 museums over three days and can currently be extended for two additional days if needed. Children under 18 typically receive free admission.
Official website: FirenzeCard

• Climb the Duomo & Giotto’s Tower: If you’re up for a challenge, climbing the Duomo at Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore is an unforgettable experience. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, and the stunning frescoes on the cathedral's domed ceiling are well worth seeing.
  Tip: The stairways are narrow, and the walkways above the cathedral can feel dizzying — this climb is best suited for those comfortable with heights and confined spaces.

• Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze: No visit to Florence is complete without seeing Michelangelo’s David in person. This masterpiece is absolutely worth your time, and the Music Room, featuring 300-year-old violins, violas, and cellos, is another highlight.
  Pro Tip: Book your Accademia tickets in advance to skip long lines.

• Boboli Gardens & Giardino Bardini: During spring, summer, and autumn, Boboli Gardens is a beautiful escape from the bustling city. With expansive grounds and hidden picnic spots, it rarely feels crowded. If you're visiting during peak tourist season, Giardino Bardini is an excellent alternative. Its stunning gardens and breathtaking city views make it a must-see.
  Tip: Pack a picnic with wine, cheese, and olives from a local market and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the gardens.

• Uffizi Gallery: One of the world’s most famous art museums, Uffizi Gallery is home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Botticelli. The collection is vast, so prioritize the highlights early in your visit.
  Plan ahead: Spend at least a few hours here to fully appreciate its treasures. Booking skip-the-line tickets is highly recommended.

• Mercato Centrale – A Food Lover’s Paradise: Every morning in Florence, I start my day with coffee and pastries at Mercato Centrale. Watching vendors set up their stalls is a delightful experience.

  • Morning: Grab a coffee downstairs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

  • Afternoon/Evening: Head upstairs to the bustling food hall featuring diverse local cuisine.

  • Insider Tip: Buy fresh fruit and snacks to toss in your backpack for the day’s adventures.

• Piazzale Michelangelo – The Best View in Florence: For a panoramic view of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset. The energy here is electric, with crowds gathering on the steps to sip wine and enjoy street performances. On your way back down, stop at Zeb for delicious dinner snacks and cocktails.

• Vivoli Gelato – The Perfect Afternoon Treat: For an indulgent break, visit Vivoli Gelato and order an affogato (espresso poured over gelato). Though crowded, the experience is worth it. Plus, your Instagram followers will appreciate a snapshot of this delicious treat!

• Piazza Santo Spirito – Local Vibes & Markets: This vibrant piazza is perfect for a morning stroll through market stalls selling clothing, handbags, jewelry, and produce. During the day, step inside the Santo Spirito Church for a moment of tranquility. In the evening, the bars and restaurants surrounding the piazza come alive. Grab a pre-dinner cocktail, relax at an outdoor café, and soak in the local scene.

FAQs about visiting Florence

• Do I need to book tickets in advance for Florence attractions? Yes! Popular sites like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia, and Duomo sell out quickly. Booking online in advance is highly recommended.

• What’s the best way to see Florence’s top attractions? Walking! Florence is a compact city, and its historic center is best explored on foot. Consider a FirenzeCard for seamless museum access.

• Where can I find the best views of Florence? Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for a spectacular sunset over the city.

• What is the best time to visit Florence? Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months.

Best places to eat & drink in Florence: A local's food & wine guide

Italians dine later than Americans and Brits, embracing slow, leisurely meals with lively conversation. There’s no rush — just an experience shared with good food and good company. A key cultural difference: the bill is typically paid at the host stand or bar on your way out, not at the table.

• Trattoria dall'Oste (Via De' Cerchi): If you're searching for the best restaurants in Florence, this popular spot specializes in eight different types of beef, served in made-to-order cuts: Scottona, Chianina, Romagnola, Wagyu, Kobe, Marchigiana and Fassona Piemontese. Your skilled server will present the cuts tableside, guiding you through the options before taking your selection to be grilled to perfection. Florentine steak is traditionally served rare — deep red, perfectly seasoned and incredibly flavorful. Trust me, it’s not undercooked. If you prefer well-done steak, consider other dining options.

• Trattoria Sostanza Troia: Though primarily a steakhouse, every dish here is memorable. The artichoke omelet, a Tuscan specialty, is outstanding, and the butter chicken is a must-try. Share plates with your party to sample a variety of flavors.Tip: There are only six tables in this cozy trattoria, so book in advance.

• Manly The Office: If you're wondering where to get the best coffee in Florence, this is the spot. When my son first moved to Florence, he lived a block away from Manly on Via Pisana. We spent countless hours at this small coffee shop, working on our laptops, organizing coursework and learning Italian customs from Maykol, the ever-cheerful owner. The coffee is sourced from Manly, Australia — where he and his partner first entered the coffee world. Back in Florence, they serve fresh cornetti in the morning, and Alice often bakes delectable homemade pastries. Seating is limited, but the outdoor deck is a perfect spot to sip your coffee while chatting with passing neighbors.

• Mad Souls & Spirits: This lively cocktail bar on Borgo San Frediano is a favorite for after-work or post-class drinks. The service is excellent — expect glasses of water and small bites as soon as you sit down. The mixologists craft signature cocktails from a cheeky chalkboard menu, but if you're in the mood for something unique, they’re happy to mix up a custom creation. Fun tip: Be sure to check out the bathroom — affectionately known as the disco ball room.

• Vineria Sonora: If you love natural wines, pét-nats and orange wines, this is your place. The selection is primarily regional, with a few international offerings, but always artisanal — organic, biodynamic and natural. The groovy retro decor, complete with a turntable spinning vinyl, adds to the charm. They also host wine tastings and live music events throughout the month. Check their website's calendar so you don’t miss a cool performer during your stay.

• Sbrino Gelato: Looking for late-night gelato in Florence? This is the perfect spot for a sweet treat before turning in for the night.

• Melaleuca: I absolutely love this little café along the Arno River. It’s a great breakfast stop before heading to the Boboli Gardens or Pitti Palace. Though small and easy to miss from the street, look for the café tables nestled in a little alcove out front. This Australian-style coffee shop has a bit of a Los Angeles vibe, and the breakfast is phenomenal. Bring your appetite or plan to share plates. The coffee is among the best in Florence, and the pastries are to die for.

• Pizzeria Il Pizzaiuolo: Craving authentic Neapolitan pizza? Head toward the Sant'Ambrogio Market and grab a reservation at this cozy pizzeria. The restaurant is always packed, but it’s worth squeezing in for their Naples-style pies. The pasta and risottos are excellent as well.

FAQs about eating & drinking in Florence

• What time do Italians eat dinner? Italians usually eat dinner between 8:00 and 10 PM. Restaurants may not open for dinner service until 7:30 pm.

• Do I need reservations for dinner in Florence? Yes. Yes. And yes.

• What is the best time to order a cappuccino in Florence? Cappuccino is considered a morning drink in Italy. Order one in the morning, before noon and save the afternoon for iced coffee and Aperol Spritzes.