To say I really like touring to Florence is an understatement. With so many locations left on my bucket checklist, you’d suppose revisiting locations wouldn’t be the neatest resolution. However Florence? It retains calling me again.
This metropolis is loaded with enjoyable issues to do, see, and style—from beautiful museums to high-end buying and the very best pasta on the planet. Did I point out the pasta?
In case you are fortunate sufficient to go to Firenze, because the locals name it, then you definitely may need to tick just a few of those experiences from your personal Florence Bucket Listing.
WHAT TO SEE + DO
1. Go To The Museo Zoologico La Specola
Let’s get a bit of bizarre in Florence, lets? Head over to the Museo Zoologico La Specola (or extra generally often called La Specola). Curious minds ought to undoubtedly try this web site, which has every part from huge elephant skeletons to an astounding assortment of extremely reasonable anatomical wax fashions.
2. Climb To The Prime Of The Duomo
Named after Santa Maria del Fiore, development of this big Gothic constructing began within the late Thirteenth century and took over 140 years to finish. The Dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1418, showcases frescoes of the Final Judgment by Giorgio Vasari and affords a tremendous aerial view of Florence.
However to see all this, it’s important to climb about 463 steps to the high of the Duomo! It’s fairly a exercise, however the view (and the burned energy) is completely price it.
3. Then, Climb Giotto’s Campanile
Situated throughout the famend Florence Cathedral advanced (together with the Duomo, this spectacular Gothic bell tower is a outstanding 84.7 meters (277.9 toes) in top—414 steps! And you may climb it too.
4. Stroll Via The Flower Market In Piazza Della Repubblica
From herbs and cacti to Christmas bushes, you’ve received to hit up the flower market in Piazza della Repubblica. Head there early—like, crack-of-dawn early—as a result of by lunchtime, the lower flowers are largely gone, and the distributors are already packing up.
5. Rub The Nostril Of The Fontana Del Porcellino
Locals name this bronze fountain of a boar ‘Il Porcellino.’ They consider it brings good luck should you rub its nostril, as a result of a feminine wild boar was historically seen as a fortunate image. It’s price a shot!
Insider Tip: You’ll discover Il Porcellino close to the Mercato Nuovo. However, go early as a result of it’s a preferred spot within the metropolis—I went at 7:00 am and had all of it to myself!
6. See The Killer View From Piazzale Michelangelo
The view from Piazzale Michelangelo is image excellent, with Florence laid out beneath you want a Renaissance portray. You’ll be able to see the Arno River winding by way of the town, the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the terracotta rooftops shining within the solar. Wow!
TIP: Getting there may be a part of the journey. If you happen to’re up for it, stroll up from Piazza Poggi or take the shady route by way of Michelangelo from Piazza Ferruccio. Not within the temper to stroll? Catch bus 12 or 13, and even the pink sightseeing bus for a simple experience.
7. Escape To The Neighboring City Of Fiesole
Typically, even a metropolis as superb as Florence wants a break. Simply outdoors the town, within the Tuscan hills, is Fiesole—an enthralling city excellent for a day journey. Assume wide-open views, historical Etruscan ruins, and a laid-back vibe that feels miles away from Florence’s busy streets.
Discover the stays of the Etruscan metropolis partitions or wander across the historical Roman amphitheater. The gorgeous San Francesco church is a good spot to see Renaissance artwork. And, after all, don’t miss the beautiful views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
8. Stroll Via Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens, linked to the beautiful Palazzo Pitti, are as inexperienced and as lush as may be. Created within the Sixteenth century, these 45,000 sq. meter gardens provide extra than simply grass and flowers. They supply a refreshing break from visiting museums and historical buildings.
I all the time make a cease right here when visiting the town!
The gardens showcase fascinating sculptures from the Sixteenth to 18th centuries. The principle garden options an obelisk, a fountain, and unique flowers and vegetation, together with massive ponds and spectacular water options. It’s the proper place to get pleasure from nature proper within the coronary heart of the town.
9. Fountain Of Neptune Piazza Della Signoria
Proper in the midst of Piazza della Signoria, you’ll discover the spectacular Fountain of Neptune. This isn’t simply any fountain—it’s a large statue of the ocean god made out of shining white marble, which is why it’s known as “Il Biancone” or “The Huge White One.” Look carefully, and also you’ll discover that Neptune’s face seems lots like Cosimo I de’ Medici, who was the Duke of Florence again then. This element hints at Florence’s energy at sea.
10. Purchase Your Signature Scent The Officina Profumo Farmaceutica Di Santa Maria Novella
The Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is sort of a hidden treasure; should you don’t know the place it’s, you’ll in all probability miss it. Situated in an unassuming constructing close to the practice station, it’s one of many oldest beauty shops on the planet. This 600-year-old store nonetheless makes use of historical secret recipes to create among the most superb perfumes.
The shop is relaxed and pleasant, though it sells high-end merchandise. Certainly one of its best-sellers is ‘Acqua di Rose,’ a rose water made by 14th-century monks to assist combat the Black Demise, and it’s nonetheless fashionable in the present day.
11. Go to The Porte Sante (“Holy Gates”) Cemetery
The Porte Sante Cemetery, often known as the Sacred Doorways Cemetery, is a must-see for historical past and artwork lovers. It feels extra like an out of doors museum, stuffed with ornate tombs and sculptures that share tales of Florentines from all walks of life. You may even discover the graves of well-known figures like Carlo Collodi, the creator of Pinocchio, or Pellegrino Artusi, the “father of Italian delicacies.”
One of the well-known statues right here exhibits siblings Mario and Maria Mazzone frozen in a dance. Mario, a WWI pilot, died in service, and his sister Maria handed away simply earlier than her marriage ceremony. Their grieving mom had this statue made as a touching image of their reunion within the afterlife.
12. Go To Forte Di Belvedere
This Sixteenth-century fortress may not have seen any battles, nevertheless it affords among the finest views of the town. Image capturing the long-lasting Ponte Vecchio bridge, the Duomo’s dome, and the terracotta rooftops multi function shot!
Forte di Belvedere is greater than only a nice viewpoint. Discover the elegant Palazzina di Belvedere, a Medici villa filled with frescoes and sculptures. Take a look at the ever-changing displays or wander by way of the maze-like gardens of Giardino Bardini – excellent for a calming stroll after sightseeing.
13. Watch The Sundown Over The Arno And Ponte Vecchio Bridge
Lined with memento retailers and sparkly high-end jewelers, the Ponte Vechhio medieval bridge is a must-visit in Florence. It will get crowded with folks, so be ready for some hustle and bustle! After the chaos and buying, head to the subsequent bridge to look at the sundown over the Arno River, which lights up the Ponte Vecchio in all its glory.
Don’t neglect to make a fast cease at Gusta Pizza beforehand to get a take out pie to carry to the river!
14. Take The Stairs To San Miniato Al Monte
Perched on one of many metropolis’s highest factors, this stunning Romanesque church affords sweeping sights that can go away you breathless. Now, full disclosure, the 400ish stairs aren’t any joke – they’re steep and seemingly limitless. However, the sensation of accomplishment (and the killer Instagram pics) you’ll get on the high are completely well worth the leg burn!
TIP: You can begin on the Piazzale Michelangelo for this one. Nonetheless, in case you have extra time in your arms, there’s additionally a longer route which begins at Ponte Vecchio and takes you to totally different sights alongside the way in which.
15. Purchase Leather-based at San Lorenzo Market
Close to the San Lorenzo church you’ll discover San Lorenzo Market, a spot that’s recognized for high-quality Italian leather-based. The factor about it’s that not each merchandise that claims to be ‘Made in Italy’ is genuine, so perform a little research. You do, nevertheless, have A LOT of choices obtainable to you.
16. Stroll Via Palazzo Strozzi
Palazzo Strozzi is a vigorous Fifteenth-century Renaissance palace. It hosts among the most fascinating short-term exhibitions in Florence, with world-class shows that change each few months.
At some point, you may discover Florentine trend from the 1500s, and the subsequent, you’re taking a look at up to date pictures. Palazzo Strozzi all the time retains issues contemporary and thrilling, so that you by no means know what superb artwork you’ll see subsequent!
17. Test Out The Statue Of David At Galleria Dell’Accademia
The Galleria dell’Accademia is house to the ‘Statue of David’, Michelangelo’s most well-known sculpture. Similar to seeing the Mona Lisa in Paris, it’s a high factor to do in Florence and gained’t take lengthy to get a glimpse.
In case you are a museum lover, then this one additionally has many different sections with fascinating works, like one which shows musical devices from maestros resembling Bartolomeo Cristofori, the man who invented the piano.
Pre-E-book a Ticket: Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David
You can additionally all the time simply choose to see the strikingly comparable ‘Statue of David’ reproduction that sits in Palazzo Vecchio. They usually permit images there, however not contained in the Galleria.
18. Attend An Opera At St. Mark’s Anglican Church
The Opera at St. Mark’s Anglican Church is de facto like no different Opera on the planet—it’s intimate and dramatic. Constructed inside a former Medici Palace, the church has been renovated to mirror the Neo-Renaissance model that’s slowly starting to affect many areas in Florence.
You’ll be able to see upcoming exhibits and purchase a tickets on Classictic.com.
19. Go To The Uffizi Gallery
I’m not a gallery type of gal, however I’ll make an exception for the Uffizi Gallery. Excellent artworks resembling Doni Tondo (by Michelangelo); The Ognissanti Madonna (by Giotto); Madonna of the Goldfinch (by Raphael); and The Start of Venus (by Botticelli) are simply among the famend items one can find while you go to the Uffizi Gallery.
Tip: This can be a tremendous fashionable museum and should you go throughout peak season, you could possibly wait up hours simply to enter! So, I’d advocate shopping for tickets upfront, which you’ll simply do on the Uffizi Web site, however typically the location can get complicated so it’s also possible to purchase a ticket on Get Your Information.
20. Bargello Nationwide Museum
Situated not removed from the Palazzo Vecchio, the Bargello Nationwide Museum in Florence is a must-visit should you get pleasure from each artwork and historical past. This powerhouse museum, housed on this former barracks and jail, boasts probably the most mind-blowing assortment of Renaissance sculptures you’ll ever see. We’re speaking iconic works by Donatello’s fierce David, Verrocchio’s enchanting Girl with a Posy, and Michelangelo’s early masterpieces – all below one roof.
21. Basilica Santa Croce
The Basilica di Santa Croce, often called “The Pantheon of Florence” for good cause, is a gem of the Renaissance simply ready to be found. Situated in Piazza di Santa Croce, a pair hundred meters southeast of the Duomo, Santa Croce isn’t only a fairly face, it’s additionally house to tombs of Italian greats like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
22. Dante’s Home Museum
Ever questioned what it was prefer to stroll within the footsteps of one in every of historical past’s biggest poets? Properly, Dante’s Home Museum in Florence is your time machine. Tucked away on By way of Santa Margherita, this reconstructed home affords a glimpse into Thirteenth-century Florence and Dante’s early life (who, by the way in which, is finest recognized for his work, the Divine Comedy). You’ll see replicas of on a regular basis objects and clothes from the period, and delve into the historic and political panorama that formed Dante’s writing. Plus, there are displays devoted to his exile and lasting affect on artwork and literature.
23. Tour Galileo Museum
The Galileo Museum at Palazzo Castellani will take you on a visit by way of the historical past of scientific discovery, beginning with the precise telescope that Galileo used to seek out moons orbiting Jupiter (mind-blowing, proper?). Different highlights embrace elaborate human physique fashions and interesting early microscopes.
However wait, there’s extra! The Galileo Museum additionally homes some fairly quirky displays, like Galileo’s personal preserved center finger (legend has it he stored it after a nasty duel – ouch!), and an enormous armillary sphere that provides you with the impression that you simply’ve entered a pirate’s chart room.
24. Giardino Bardini
Perched on the hill reverse Piazzale Michelangelo, the Giardino Bardini affords a peaceable oasis proper within the coronary heart of Florence. Right here, you possibly can wander by way of three distinct sections, every boasting its personal particular appeal – the Italian Backyard (don’t miss the Baroque Staircase!), the English Wooden (with its unique vegetation and Anglo-Chinese language affect), and the Agricultural Park (wisteria tunnels and a fruit orchard).
25. Medici Chapels
Tucked contained in the Basilica di San Lorenzo, these chapels are the Medici’s reply to a household mausoleum. Solely, WAY extra dazzling.
One of many chapels, the New Vestry, homes the tombs of two lesser-known family members: Giuliano de’ Medici and Lorenzo de’ Medici. There are additionally a number of statues right here, all sculpted by Michelangelo. Alternatively, the partitions of Cappella dei Principi (or Chapel of the Princes), are adorned with colourful marble and semi-precious stones, a testomony to the Medici’s insatiable love for luxurious.
26. Museo Stibbert
For these of you who get a thrill out of a very good assortment, then the Museo Stibbert will certainly ship. Perched on a hill in Montughi, this Nineteenth-century villa as soon as belonged to a passionate collector named Frederick Stibbert. His life’s work? Amassing a mind-boggling assortment of over 50,000 objects.
Throughout his lifetime, he collected objects from everywhere in the globe, from work to furnishings to even arms and armor coming from Europe, Islam, and even Japan. With over 56 rooms to go over, you’ll undoubtedly be right here for some time, so you’ll want to allot an hour or two for this one.
27. Museum of San Marco
The Museum of San Marco is finest recognized for its unimaginable assortment of frescoes by Fra Angelico, a monk-turned-artist whose work is serene and easily beautiful. His use of coloration and lightweight will wow you; it’s like strolling right into a dwelling Renaissance altarpiece.
Amongst Fra Angelico’s most well-known items are the poignant “Crucifixion” within the Chapter Home and the serene “Annunciation” on the high of the dormitory stairs. These frescoes aren’t simply stunning, they’re steeped in spiritual symbolism – so maintain an eye fixed out for hidden particulars that may shock you.
28. Take a Day Journey to Pisa
Florence may be your private home base for exploring Tuscany, however belief me, venturing out for a day journey to Pisa is a should! This little city leans into its most well-known landmark – the Leaning Tower of Pisa, after all. And you might want to go there for the long-lasting pictures. However, Pisa is greater than only a tilted tower, and listed below are simply among the many issues you need to try:
- Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knights’ Sq.): As soon as Pisa’s political hub, it’s now house to the Church of the Knights and the Clock Palace. A statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, can be situated right here.
WHAT TO EAT + DRINK
29. Have Lunch At Mercato Centrale’s Higher Ground
The Mercato Centrale in Florence is a two-level foodie haven. The underside ground is stuffed with an array of Italian merchandise: contemporary produce, meats, cheeses, and different native specialties.
Upon getting carried out a little bit of strolling round and possibly grocery buying in the marketplace’s first degree, you need to take the time to have lunch (and a glass of vino) on the newly renovated and adorned higher ground the place one can find fashionable meals stalls with all of the Italian favorites.
30. Eat Pizza—In every single place!
Right here in Italy, pizza isn’t only a tacky, greasy meal; it’s an artwork kind. From the easy but divine Margherita to the extra adventurous choices with truffles or wild boar sausage, Florence affords a pizza pilgrimage for any true foodie. Some pizza locations I like to recommend embrace Il Pizzaiuolo, Mister Pizza, and Gustarium Firenze.
31. Drink Your Cappuccino Standing Up
There are some things you need to learn about ingesting a Cappuccino in Florence, and Italy on the whole; there are guidelines that needs to be adopted (I certainly broke all of them, on a couple of event!).
A few of these cultural guidelines embrace issues like:
- By no means drink your Cappuccino after and even together with your meal, except it’s your breakfast.
- By no means drink your Cappuccino after noon.
- By no means drink a Cappuccino with something savory.
However the one which stands out, so to talk, is that you need to drink your Cappuccino standing up and on the bar. Sitting down will value you far more; typically as a lot as 4 occasions extra! That is how the locals do it, and you already know what they are saying about being in Rome—it applies right here too.
32. Have An Aperitivo Cocktail
Florentines know tips on how to dwell, and a giant a part of that dwelling is the aperitivo ritual. You’ll be able to consider it as comfortable hour, besides far more trendy and scrumptious. Normally made with lighter spirits and typically a touch of bitterness, an aperitivo cocktail is supposed to whet the urge for food earlier than dinner.
A few my suggestions embrace the La Terrazza Rooftop Bar at Lodge Continentale, the B-Roof at Grand Lodge Baglioni, and the Pasticceria Serafini on By way of Gioberti.
33. Eat A Lampredotto Sandwich
In case you are too busy to have a sit-down lunch at Mercato Centrale’s higher ground, you already know, since you nonetheless need to go rub the nostril of the Fontana del Porcellino, climb to the highest of the Duomo and catch a glimpse of the Statue of David all earlier than you possibly can watch the sundown over the Arno and Ponte Vecchio Bridge, then you need to undoubtedly eat a Lampredotto Sandwich on the go.
A Florentine delicacy, your typical Lampredotto Sandwich is a smooth roll sandwiching tender slices of tripe (cooked cow abdomen—it’s a lot better than it sounds!), salsa verde, spicy sauces and heavenly delight. I’ve raved a few Lampredotto sandwich earlier than; clearly, it’s a favourite of mine.
There’s a scrumptious Lampredotto meals truck proper in entrance of Mercato Centrale.
34. Eat At One Of The Michelin Starred Eating places
Michelin stars are principally the Oscars of the effective eating world. Incomes one is a large honor, signifying an extremely gifted chef and an beautiful eating expertise. Florence has a number of Michelin-starred eating places, every providing a singular culinary journey.
For an explosion of recent Italian flavors with a playful twist, snag a reservation at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. Craving a extra traditional Tuscan expertise? Look no additional than Santa Elisabetta, the place Chef Rocco de Santis works his magic in a shocking historic setting.
35. Dine Al Fresco
Florence is without doubt one of the most inventive and culturally vibrant cities on the planet. Because of this you should have no scarcity of decisions must you need to dine in a high-quality restaurant serving a few of Italy’s most scrumptious delicacies. To reinforce your expertise discover one which has out of doors seating (sometimes proper alongside the cobbled streets) and dine al fresco with the remainder of the locals.
Locations like Ristorante Sant’ Ambrogio, Bottega Conviviale and Vini e Vecchi Sapori are excellent for individuals who need to dine Al Fresco on Italian dishes near all of your favourite metropolis middle sights.
36. Go Wine Tasting All through Tuscany
Florence may be a museum capital, however belief me, this metropolis is aware of tips on how to uncork a very good time too! When you gained’t discover vineyards sprawling proper throughout the metropolis middle, occurring a wine tasting tour (just like the Viator’s Tasting Expertise within the Tuscan Countryside or their Chianti Safari) into the Tuscan countryside unlocks a world of rolling hills, charming villages, and naturally, unimaginable wine.
37. Take A Pasta Making Class
Why wouldn’t you need to study to make pasta from the individuals who have perfected the artwork of it? Florence Cooking Courses has loads of choices (together with gelato making courses!) and provides you with a hands-on pasta class that can have you ever screaming “Mangia”.
For one thing further bucket checklist worthy, attempt the Pizza or Pasta Class with Gelato Making at a Tuscan Farm.
38. Eat A Conventional Bistecca Fiorentina
Historically, the Bistecca Fiorentina (that’s an Italian T-bone to you and I) comes from a selected Tuscan breed of cattle often called ‘Chianina’. Though some eating places use a special breed as a result of there aren’t that many Chianina cows obtainable, the style and magnificence of cooking Bistecca Fiorentina are comparable—sometimes grilled and topped with a high-quality further virgin olive oil.
Once you go to locations like Trattoria Sostanza or L’Osteria di Giovanni you’ll get to eat among the finest, most juicy and engaging conventional Bistecca Fiorentina in all of Tuscany.
39. Drink A Negroni within the Metropolis The place it Was Created
Ever heard of that bitter-sweet, impossibly cool cocktail with a fiery orange peel garnish known as a Negroni? This concoction of gin, Campari, and candy vermouth is a straightforward but refined aperitivo (suppose fancy pre-dinner drink) that’s change into a world phenomenon together with the Duomo and David.
So, the place do you sip this boozy piece of historical past? Head to Caffè Giacosa, the bar the place the Negroni legend supposedly started, and absorb the ambiance as you clink glasses with a slice of Florentine historical past. For a extra fashionable vibe, try La Ménagère, the place they put their very own inventive spin on this traditional.
40. Drink from a Wine Window
Sipping wine from a Wine Window in Florence is like stepping again into historical past with a scrumptious twist. These tiny hatches, known as “buchette del vino,” have been initially used as early because the Thirteenth century for promoting wine on to prospects, avoiding taxes.
Immediately, they’re making a pleasant comeback, and you will discover some charming ones scattered all through and out of doors the town (try this wine window checklist).
There’s normally a menu plastered both on the aspect or beneath the window, so you possibly can try what you need to drink earlier than ringing the bell or knocking on the wine window. You too can ask what wines they’re serving for the day.
41. And Sure — Eat Gelato
There may be simply no approach you possibly can go to Florence and never eat Gelato. This must be by far among the finest causes for being within the metropolis; there may be glorious Gelato on provide nearly in every single place you look.
Developing with an inventory of who serves the very best Gelato in Florence is de facto arduous; all of them do. Take your time and pattern as many choices as you possibly can eat with out dying of private disgrace. My favourite is a scoop of hazelnut with a scoop of pistachio at Gelateria La Carraia.
WHERE TO SLEEP
42. Sleep In A Hostel
In all my years of touring I’ve solely spent one single evening at a hostel, and it was in Florence at Tasso Hostel. It was not your typical, bare-minimum hostel. It’s clear; it’s tucked away between residential properties, Florentine craftsmen and eating places on a aspect of the Arno that doesn’t see as many vacationers. Plus, it has a totally stocked bar that sells low-cost wine and a splendidly adorned and spacious out of doors patio.
If sleeping in a hostel is in your bucket checklist, there are a lot of others to select from too. A few the opposite high rated are Academy Hostel and My Mates.
43. Lease An Condominium And Keep Awhile
If you happen to want greater than a bunk mattress at a hostel, and need to keep in Florence for some time, then take into account renting a complete residence. It’s the proper solution to really feel like you might be dwelling within the coronary heart of the town! Asso’s Place is a ravishing 1,300 sq. foot place that’s location may give you this distinctive expertise.
Plus, it has a shocking view of the Duomo.
Florence Lodge Suggestions:
A number of different really useful locations to remain in Florence:
Truthfully talking, there are simply too many issues to do and see on only one brief go to to Florence. Which is without doubt one of the principal the reason why it’s the excellent metropolis for individuals who need to expertise Italy at its finest; it has one thing for everybody
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