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Curator’s statement
Florence, Italy, is one of those places in the world that everyone should experience at least once in their lives. I have been to Florence many times & every time I go I am taken back by the food, architecture & overall vibe. Drinking a Chianti Classico red wine with fresh pasta in front of you while watching the sun set on the Duomo is just what life is about. Florence has a lot to offer. Don't let this walkable city fool you. There are endless possibilities. Here's a guide to help you experience the best parts of Florence, Italy.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Florence, Italy
Gallery Hotel Art
Refined Florentine architecture and gallery with an inviting lounge library and Eastern cuisine.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Continentale — Florence
A chic Florence retreat on the Arno River, blending contemporary design with Italian flair, offering panoramic views of iconic landmarks, upscale accommodations and a stylish base for exploring the Renaissance city.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Experience timeless elegance and Italian charm at this boutique hotel, where classic design meets modern comfort, offering a stylish retreat in the heart of Florence.
The Place Firenze
In the heart of Florence, deeply connected to its daily life, artistic heritage and lively cultural scene, The Place is a unique accommodation that makes you feel at home.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Robert to book your trip.
Things to do in Florence, Italy
Visit the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore): Climb to the top for stunning views of the city and explore the beautiful interior. The Duomo is the heart of Florence. You can't miss it! Make sure to book tickets in advance as they do sell out! Get tickets here!
Admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery: This iconic sculpture is a must-see masterpiece. David is located in a pretty small museum, believe it or not. If traveling in the summer, make sure you get tickets in advance. Get your tickets here!
Visit the Uffizi Gallery: It has a great collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Get tickets here!
Walk across the Ponte Vecchio: This historic bridge is lined with jewelry shops and offers picturesque views of the Arno River. Learn more about Ponte Vecchio & where to find it here!
Stroll through the Boboli Gardens: These expansive gardens behind the Pitti Palace are perfect for a relaxing walk with beautiful sculptures and fountains. Learn more about the Boboli Gardens here.
Enjoy a wine tour in Tuscany: Take a day trip to the Tuscan countryside to visit vineyards, taste world-renowned wines and enjoy the scenic landscapes. There are many different types of winery tours you can take. I recommend taking a winery tour from Viator! Get tickets here!
Take a walk through the Oltrarno district: Explore this artisan neighborhood filled with workshops, boutiques and charming cafes. The Oltrano district has the soul of Florence. Make sure to take time to walk this strip!
Visit the Mercato Centrale: This busy market is great for trying local foods, buying fresh food and eating at one of the many food stands. Florence is all about the food! This is a great place to get started!
A note from Robert
A day trip to Tuscany is a must!
Tuscany is the wine capital of the world & is a quick 30-40 min ride from Florence. I highly recommend doing a guided tour. Fortunately, there are many tours that will bring you on a round trip to Tuscany & back.
Trip summary:
Early morning pick up at location of travel companies choice.
Drive through the mountains of Tuscany to one of the many famous wine vineyards.
Get off bus & go for a tour through wine vineyard where you will be shown how the vineyards operate & also how the wine is made & prepared.
Wine tasting #1 at the vineyard with some tapas.
Back on the bus you go to a wine vineyard/country house even deeper in the hills.
This time you will get served a home cooked pasta meal & served more wine that was made at that very vineyard with some olive oil tasting.
Back on the bus & off to an estate that makes olive oil. Here you will be fed yet another meal with more homemade wine.
After this its unfortunately time to go! Leaving you with an unforgettable experience that will cherish forever!
Please do yourself a favor, book the wine tour!
Places to eat & drink in Florence, Italy
When it comes to premium Italian food, Florence thrives. Here are some of the best restaurants & places to eat & drink in Florence!
Restaurants
All'Antico Vinaio: This sandwich shop is considered the most famous sandwich shop in the world. These giant Italian sandwiches will leave your stomach full after a long morning of exploring the city!
Osteria Pastella: This restaurant is famous for their truffle pasta that they make right in front of you. Their menu is to die for, having some of the best pasta in Italy!
Trattoria Dall'oste: Florence is famous for its Florentine steak. Trattoria Dall'oste is voted as one of 101best steak houses in the world. If you love steak, this restaurant is a must!
Trattoria Zaza: Another world-famous restaurant known for its pasta dishes! If you are looking for a wide range of pasta options, this is the spot for you!
Wine Bars
Le Volpi E L'Uva: An absolute classic Italian wine bar that will have a wide range of Chanti Classico's for you to choose from.
Oratio: An elegant wine bar that is in the heart of downtown Florence. This tiny, charming wine bar will have you feeling like you are in a romance movie from the 50's. If honeymooning, you will not want to miss out on this!
Procacci: A wine bar that was established in 1855! This wine bar is located right in the center square of Florence! This is the perfect spot for a nice early snack before dinner festivities.
Hotel Continentale rooftop bar: This hidden gem of a rooftop bar is small in stature but gives the biggest views of all of Florence. Highly recommend going at sunset & catching the sun fall behind the Duomo, as you see the lights of Florence come to life!
Travel Advisor
Robert Christian
Get in touch with Robert
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florence. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Nikki Smith's guide, Florence Favorites: A Guide to a Perfect 4 Days.