Florence: A Timeless Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany

Florence is an amazing city to visit, offering a blend of historical richness, artistic grandeur and vibrant romantic vibes. The walkability of Florence makes it easy to explore. Visitors are encouraged to get lost in its charming streets and uncover hidden gems around every corner.

The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)

Pre-buy tickets for climbing the Duomo: Purchasing tickets in advance is essential for climbing the Duomo and beating the crowds. The climb rewards you with a breathtaking view of the mural inside the cupola.

Visiting the cathedral: While entrance to the cathedral itself is free, be prepared for long lines. The interior of the church may feel a bit underwhelming compared to the exterior. Focusing on the climb can provide a more rewarding experience with a sneak peek at the cathedral and a close-up view of the mural.

Accademia Gallery

The Accademia Gallery in Florence is renowned for its impressive collection of Renaissance art — most notably Michelangelo's David. It offers visitors a chance to explore various masterpieces, sculptures and paintings from the 13th to 16th centuries.

Early Tickets: Pre Buy tickets for the earliest time slot, 8:15am, to head straight to Michelangelo’s David. This guarantees a great view and an opportunity to take photos without the usual crowds.

Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the most famous art museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of masterpieces from the Italian Renaissance, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael.

Avoiding crowds: Pre-purchase tickets for the earliest time slot available and plan to spend at least an hour exploring. The early visit allows you to enjoy the masterpieces with fewer people around.

Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio in Florence is a medieval stone arch bridge known for the unique shops built along it. Historically, it was occupied by butchers but now houses jewelers, art dealers and souvenir sellers.

After visiting the Uffizi Gallery, take a leisurely stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Stunning city view: For a panoramic view of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is a must-visit. Although it involves a significant hike, consider taking a cab up and then walking down to enjoy the views without the strenuous climb.

Much of Florence’s allure lies in wandering the streets to discover quaint shops, cafes and historical sites.

Day trips from Florence

Florence serves as an excellent base for day trips to explore Tuscany. Consider the following destinations:

Winery Tours: Enjoy a day trip to Tuscany’s renowned wineries.

Pisa: Famous for its Leaning Tower, Pisa is a short trip from Florence.

San Gimignano: Known for its medieval towers and beautiful scenery, San Gimignano is another great day trip option

Dining and drinks

Il Locale: A perfect spot for enjoying a drink in an elegant setting, one of the top bars in the world

Cinto Cucina in Torre: Offers delicious local cuisine, making it a great dining choice.

Gelateria La Carraia: Excellent Gelateria near Ponte Vecchio.

Il Borro Tuscan Bistro: Bistro-style menu with excellent food.

FirstGlass Wine: Top-notch wine tasting experience right in front of the Ponte Vecchio, with great wines and people watching.

I Fratellini: Landmark hole-in-the-wall sandwich bar serving classic meats & cheeses in panini bread with wine. Lines can be long, but the food is well worth it.

La Buchetta Food and Wine: Cozy and old-timey with amazing food and an extensive wine list.

Florence captures the essence of Italy with its rich history, unparalleled artistic heritage and vibrant cultural scene. From the awe-inspiring Duomo to the serene beauty of the Tuscan countryside, every moment in Florence is a celebration of Renaissance brilliance. Whether you're marveling at Michelangelo's David, exploring the treasures of the Uffizi Gallery or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, Florence promises an unforgettable experience. This city, with its blend of historical charm and contemporary vibrancy, is not just a destination but a journey into the very heart of Italian culture. Florence is a must-visit that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, making it an essential part of any Italian adventure.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florence. In need of further inspiration? Check out Nikki Smith’s guide, Florence Favorites: A Guide to a Perfect 4 Days.