Things to do in Florence based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
Overview: Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s most iconic medieval bridge, lined with jewelry shops and offering picturesque views of the Arno River.
History: Originally built in Roman times and reconstructed in 1345, the bridge has survived wars and floods, symbolizing Florence’s enduring beauty.
Since when: The current stone bridge has stood since the mid-14th century.
Review: Visitors praise its romantic ambiance, artisan jewelry shops, and sunset views, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
When to go: Best visited in the early morning or at sunset for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting.
How to go: Located in central Florence, it’s easily reachable on foot from most major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery.
What to do: Stroll across the bridge, browse jewelry boutiques, and enjoy riverfront photography.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Piazza del Duomo, Florence
Overview: Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Florence’s historic center, surrounded by masterpieces of Renaissance architecture including the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile.
History: Established as the city’s religious and social hub in the Middle Ages, it has been the site of major civic and religious events for centuries.
Since when: The piazza took shape in the 13th century alongside the construction of the Florence Cathedral.
Review: Tourists are awed by its grandeur and historical significance, though it’s often very crowded.
When to go: Early morning or late evening offers a quieter and more atmospheric visit.
How to go: Centrally located, it’s a short walk from Santa Maria Novella train station or accessible by local taxi.
What to do: Admire the architectural masterpieces, climb the Dome or Bell Tower, and visit the Baptistery’s bronze doors.
Free or paid: The square is free, but entry to the cathedral’s dome and museum requires a ticket.
Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence
Overview: Piazzale Michelangelo is a famous panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views over Florence’s skyline and the Arno River.
History: Designed in 1869 by architect Giuseppe Poggi, it was created as part of citywide renovations to celebrate Florence’s artistic heritage.
Since when: Officially opened to the public in 1869.
Review: Visitors describe it as the best viewpoint in Florence, especially stunning at sunset.
When to go: Visit at sunset or night for magical city views illuminated by golden light.
How to go: Accessible by car, taxi, or on foot via a scenic uphill walk from the city center.
What to do: Enjoy panoramic photography, relax at the café, and admire the replica of Michelangelo’s David.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
Overview: The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Florence Duomo, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture crowned by Brunelleschi’s iconic dome.
History: Construction began in 1296 and was completed in 1436, marking the dawn of Renaissance architecture in Italy.
Since when: Consecrated in 1436, the cathedral has been a symbol of Florence’s spiritual and artistic heritage ever since.
Review: Visitors are amazed by its architectural grandeur and the panoramic view from the dome’s top, though lines can be long.
When to go: Early mornings offer shorter queues and cooler weather for climbing the dome.
How to go: Located in Piazza del Duomo, easily accessible by foot from anywhere in central Florence.
What to do: Climb the dome, explore the cathedral’s interior, and visit the crypt and museum.
Free or paid: Entry to the main cathedral is free, but the dome and bell tower require a ticket.
Uffizi Galleries, Florence
Overview: The Uffizi Galleries house one of the most important art collections in the world, featuring masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
History: Commissioned by the Medici family in 1560 as administrative offices, it was later converted into an art gallery displaying the family’s vast collection.
Since when: Opened to the public as a museum in 1765.
Review: Visitors praise the museum’s incredible Renaissance art collection and organization, though it can be crowded.
When to go: Early mornings or late afternoons are best for avoiding large crowds.
How to go: Located beside the Arno River, easily accessible by foot from Piazza della Signoria or Ponte Vecchio.
What to do: Admire works like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, and enjoy views from the museum’s rooftop café.
Free or paid: Entry is paid, with discounted and free admission days for EU residents and students.
Piazza della Signoria, Florence
Overview: Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s political and historical heart, surrounded by grand architecture and open-air sculptures including a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
History: Established in the 13th century as the city’s main square, it became the center of civic life and home to the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall.
Since when: The square took its current shape around 1330 during the rise of the Florentine Republic.
Review: Visitors admire its artistic and historical richness, though it can be crowded during peak tourist hours.
When to go: Best visited early morning or at sunset to enjoy the sculptures and atmosphere with fewer people.
How to go: Located in the city center, easily accessible by foot from major landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery.
What to do: Explore Palazzo Vecchio, admire statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi, and enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafés.
Free or paid: Free to visit, though nearby museums and buildings require paid entry.
il Mercato Centrale Firenze, Florence
Overview: Il Mercato Centrale Firenze is a vibrant indoor market offering a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and gourmet dining options.
History: Built in 1874 during Florence’s modernization under Giuseppe Poggi, it served as the city’s main food market.
Since when: The upper floor was renovated and reopened in 2014 as a modern food court combining tradition and innovation.
Review: Tourists and locals love the lively atmosphere, high-quality food, and diverse selection of Tuscan specialties.
When to go: Visit around lunchtime or early evening for the best dining experience and local energy.
How to go: Located near Santa Maria Novella train station, easily reachable by foot or local bus.
What to do: Sample regional dishes, buy fresh ingredients, and enjoy cooking demonstrations or wine tastings.
Free or paid: Free to enter, with food and products available for purchase.
Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, Florence
Overview: The Galleria dell’Accademia is one of Florence’s most famous museums, best known for housing Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David.
History: Founded in 1784 by the Grand Duke of Tuscany, it was created to train artists and display exemplary works of art.
Since when: It opened to the public in the late 18th century, expanding its collection over time to include Renaissance sculptures and paintings.
Review: Visitors are captivated by Michelangelo’s sculptures and the museum’s rich collection of Florentine art, though queues can be long.
When to go: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds.
How to go: Located on Via Ricasoli, a short walk from Piazza del Duomo or Santa Maria Novella station.
What to do: See David, explore other works by Michelangelo, and admire the gallery’s medieval and Renaissance paintings.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with reduced prices for students and free access on select days.
Stazione Ferroviaria Firenze Santa Maria Novella, Florence
Overview: Firenze Santa Maria Novella is Florence’s main train station, serving as a major transportation hub connecting the city to the rest of Italy and Europe.
History: Designed by architect Giovanni Michelucci and opened in the 1930s, it is considered an architectural icon of modernist design in Italy.
Since when: Officially inaugurated in 1935.
Review: Travelers appreciate its central location, convenience, and clean facilities, though it can be busy during peak hours.
When to go: Best used during off-peak travel hours for smoother transit experiences.
How to go: Located in central Florence, easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or local bus from anywhere in the city.
What to do: Use it as a starting point for train trips, shop at boutiques, or enjoy coffee at nearby cafés.
Free or paid: Free to enter; train fares depend on destination.
Museo Leonardo Da Vinci, Florence
Overview: The Museo Leonardo Da Vinci is an interactive museum dedicated to Leonardo’s inventions, scientific studies, and artistic genius.
History: Established to celebrate the legacy of the Renaissance polymath, it showcases reconstructions of his machines and models based on his original drawings.
Since when: Opened in the 1990s as one of several Leonardo museums in Italy.
Review: Visitors enjoy the hands-on exhibits and educational displays that make learning about Leonardo engaging and accessible.
When to go: Best visited in the morning for a quieter, more immersive experience.
How to go: Centrally located near the Duomo and easily reached on foot from most major attractions.
What to do: Operate Leonardo’s machines, explore interactive models, and learn about his work in art, science, and engineering.
Free or paid: Paid entry.
Gallerie Degli Uffizi, Florence
Overview: The Gallerie Degli Uffizi is one of the most famous art museums in the world, housing an extraordinary collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.
History: Commissioned by the Medici family in 1560 as administrative offices, it was later transformed into a gallery to display their private art collection.
Since when: Officially opened to the public as an art museum in 1765.
Review: Visitors are captivated by its vast art collection and architectural beauty, though crowds can make navigation challenging.
When to go: Best visited early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long queues.
How to go: Centrally located next to Piazza della Signoria, easily accessible on foot or by local bus from any part of Florence.
What to do: Explore Renaissance art, admire Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, and enjoy panoramic views from the museum’s terrace café.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with discounts for students and free access on select days.
Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, Florence
Overview: The Basilica of Santa Croce is a grand Franciscan church renowned as the burial place of many illustrious Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
History: Construction began in 1294 under architect Arnolfo di Cambio and was completed in the 15th century, symbolizing the power of the Franciscan order in Florence.
Since when: Consecrated in 1442.
Review: Visitors praise its magnificent frescoes by Giotto and its peaceful yet monumental interior filled with history.
When to go: Mornings are ideal for exploring in quieter surroundings and appreciating the detailed artwork.
How to go: Located east of Piazza della Signoria, easily reachable on foot or by local bus.
What to do: Visit the tombs of famous Italians, admire Giotto’s frescoes, and explore the cloisters and museum.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with discounts available for students and children.
Palazzo Pitti, Florence
Overview: Palazzo Pitti is a grand Renaissance palace that once served as the residence of the Medici family and now houses several important art museums.
History: Originally built in 1458 for the Pitti family, it was later purchased by the Medici, who expanded it and used it as a symbol of their power.
Since when: Became a public museum in 1919.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the lavish interiors, extensive art collections, and the beautiful Boboli Gardens behind the palace.
When to go: Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
How to go: Located on the south side of the Arno River, a short walk from Ponte Vecchio.
What to do: Explore the Palatine Gallery, stroll through the Boboli Gardens, and view royal apartments filled with Renaissance art.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with combined tickets available for the palace and gardens.
Galleria dell’Accademia, Florence
Overview: The Galleria dell’Accademia is a world-renowned art museum famous for housing Michelangelo’s David and other masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture.
History: Founded in 1784 by Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo to serve as an art academy and display exemplary works for students’ study.
Since when: Opened to the public in 1784.
Review: Tourists are awed by the beauty of David and the museum’s rich collection, though it is smaller than expected.
When to go: Best visited early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid long lines.
How to go: Located on Via Ricasoli, just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo.
What to do: Admire David, explore unfinished sculptures by Michelangelo, and view medieval and Renaissance paintings.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with reduced rates for students and free access on certain days.
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Florence
Overview: The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is a Dominican church celebrated for its striking marble façade and frescoes by masters like Masaccio and Ghirlandaio.
History: Begun in 1279 by Dominican friars, it became one of Florence’s most important religious and artistic centers.
Since when: Completed and consecrated in 1420.
Review: Visitors admire its peaceful atmosphere, magnificent Renaissance artwork, and beautiful cloisters.
When to go: Mornings are best for quiet reflection and optimal natural lighting inside the church.
How to go: Located opposite Florence’s main train station, easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to do: View Masaccio’s Trinity, admire the marble façade, and visit the adjoining museum and cloisters.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with discounts for children and students.
Duomo – Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
Overview: The Duomo, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is Florence’s iconic cathedral, famous for its massive dome engineered by Brunelleschi and its intricate Gothic façade.
History: Construction began in 1296 and was completed in 1436, marking a turning point in Renaissance architecture and engineering.
Since when: Consecrated in 1436, it has served as the city’s primary place of worship for centuries.
Review: Visitors are awed by the grandeur of the dome, stunning stained glass windows, and detailed exterior, though climbing the dome requires stamina.
When to go: Early mornings are best to avoid crowds and long entry lines.
How to go: Located in Piazza del Duomo, central Florence, easily accessible by foot from most nearby attractions.
What to do: Climb the dome for panoramic city views, explore the cathedral interior, and visit the adjacent Baptistery and museum.
Free or paid: Entry to the cathedral is free; dome, museum, and bell tower require paid tickets.
Boboli Gardens, Florence
Overview: Boboli Gardens is a historic park behind Palazzo Pitti featuring formal Italian gardens, sculptures, fountains, and panoramic views over Florence.
History: Commissioned by the Medici family in the 16th century as a grand garden for the palace, it reflects Renaissance landscaping and art.
Since when: Opened to the public in the late 18th century.
Review: Visitors love its serene environment, artful landscaping, and stunning city vistas, though it can be hot in summer.
When to go: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for cooler weather and better lighting for photography.
How to go: Located behind Palazzo Pitti, accessible on foot from Ponte Vecchio or by car with nearby parking.
What to do: Stroll through gardens, admire sculptures and fountains, relax on benches, and enjoy panoramic views.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with combined tickets available for the palace and gardens.
Piazza della Repubblica, Florence
Overview: Piazza della Repubblica is a lively city square in Florence known for its historic cafés, street performers, and central triumphal arch.
History: The square was redesigned during the 19th century as part of Florence’s urban renewal following the city’s brief period as Italy’s capital.
Since when: Took its current form in the late 1800s.
Review: Visitors enjoy its bustling atmosphere, historic cafés, and opportunity to people-watch, though it can be crowded with tourists.
When to go: Best visited in the morning or evening for a relaxed café experience and fewer crowds.
How to go: Centrally located in Florence, easily accessible on foot from Piazza del Duomo or Santa Maria Novella.
What to do: Sip coffee at historic cafés, watch street performers, and admire surrounding architecture.
Free or paid: Free to visit; food and drinks are paid.
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence
Overview: Palazzo Vecchio is Florence’s town hall and a symbol of civic power, featuring grand halls, frescoes, and an iconic Arnolfo Tower.
History: Construction began in 1299 as a fortified palace for the city government and the seat of the Florentine Republic.
Since when: The palace has served as the political center of Florence since the early 14th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its blend of history, art, and architecture, though exploring the tower can be physically demanding.
When to go: Morning visits are ideal for quieter exploration of rooms and artwork.
How to go: Located in Piazza della Signoria, central Florence, easily reachable by foot or local transit.
What to do: Tour the grand halls, climb the Arnolfo Tower for city views, and view historical artwork and sculptures.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with guided tours available for additional cost.
LEONARDO INTERACTIVE MUSEUM, Florence
Overview: The Leonardo Interactive Museum is a hands-on museum showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions and scientific studies through interactive models and exhibits.
History: Founded to celebrate Leonardo’s contributions to art, science, and engineering by allowing visitors to engage with his designs.
Since when: Opened in the early 2000s as part of Florence’s effort to provide educational experiences on Leonardo’s work.
Review: Visitors enjoy its interactive approach to learning about Leonardo’s genius, though some exhibits can be crowded during peak hours.
When to go: Best visited in the morning for a more relaxed, immersive experience.
How to go: Centrally located near Piazza della Signoria, easily accessible on foot from major attractions.
What to do: Operate mechanical models, learn about Leonardo’s inventions, and explore multimedia exhibits.
Free or paid: Paid entry.
David, Florence
Overview: David is Michelangelo’s world-famous Renaissance sculpture representing the biblical hero, celebrated for its artistic mastery and anatomical precision.
History: Carved from a single block of marble by Michelangelo between 1501 and 1504, it was originally commissioned for the Florence Cathedral.
Since when: The statue has been on public display in Florence since 1504, initially in Piazza della Signoria and later moved to the Galleria dell’Accademia.
Review: Visitors are awed by its lifelike detail, scale, and the genius of Michelangelo’s craftsmanship, though it attracts large crowds.
When to go: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds and capture photographs in good light.
How to go: Located in the Galleria dell’Accademia, it is accessible on foot from Piazza del Duomo or by local bus.
What to do: Admire the sculpture up close, take photographs, and explore other Renaissance artworks in the museum.
Free or paid: Paid entry.
Mercato Centrale, Florence
Overview: Mercato Centrale is Florence’s historic food market offering a vibrant mix of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local Tuscan cuisine.
History: Constructed in 1874 during Florence’s modernization, it became the city’s central hub for food trade.
Since when: It has been operating continuously as a marketplace since the late 19th century, with a renovated food court opening in 2014.
Review: Visitors enjoy its lively atmosphere, variety of foods, and opportunity to taste authentic Florentine specialties.
When to go: Visit during lunch or early evening for the best selection of fresh foods and dining experience.
How to go: Located near Santa Maria Novella station, easily reachable by foot or local bus.
What to do: Sample Tuscan delicacies, buy fresh ingredients, and attend cooking demonstrations or wine tastings.
Free or paid: Free to enter; food and drinks are paid.
Parco delle Cascine, Florence
Overview: Parco delle Cascine is Florence’s largest public park, featuring expansive lawns, tree-lined avenues, fountains, and recreational spaces along the Arno River.
History: Originally established in the 16th century by the Medici family as a hunting ground, it was later opened to the public as a park.
Since when: The park has been accessible to the public since the 18th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its open spaces, walking and cycling paths, and family-friendly environment, though it can be crowded on weekends.
When to go: Early mornings or weekdays are best for a quiet experience and exercise activities.
How to go: Located along the Arno River, accessible by foot, bicycle, or public transport from the city center.
What to do: Walk, jog, cycle, have a picnic, and enjoy outdoor sports or riverfront views.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Ponte Santa Trinita, Florence
Overview: Ponte Santa Trinita is a historic Renaissance bridge spanning the Arno River, known for its elegant arches and sculptural details.
History: Originally built in 1252, it was reconstructed in 1567 by Bartolomeo Ammannati and later restored after destruction in World War II.
Since when: The current reconstructed bridge has been standing since 1958.
Review: Visitors admire its graceful architecture, river views, and proximity to Florence’s historic center.
When to go: Morning or sunset provides the best light for photography and a quieter experience.
How to go: Located in central Florence near Piazza Santa Trinita, accessible on foot from Ponte Vecchio or Piazza della Signoria.
What to do: Walk across the bridge, take photographs, and admire the surrounding Renaissance architecture.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Basilica di San Lorenzo, Florence
Overview: Basilica di San Lorenzo is a prominent Renaissance church in Florence, notable for its architecture, Medici chapels, and artworks by Michelangelo and Donatello.
History: Founded in the 4th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, it became the family church of the powerful Medici dynasty.
Since when: The current Renaissance structure was completed in the early 16th century.
Review: Visitors admire its architectural design, artistic treasures, and the historical significance of the Medici chapels.
When to go: Mornings are ideal to explore the church and chapels before large tourist groups arrive.
How to go: Located near Piazza del Duomo, easily reachable on foot or by bus from central Florence.
What to do: Explore the church interior, visit the Medici Chapels, and admire sculptures and frescoes.
Free or paid: Entry to the church is free; the Medici Chapels and museum require paid tickets.
Fontana del Porcellino, Florence
Overview: Fontana del Porcellino is a famous bronze fountain in Florence featuring a wild boar, known for the tradition of rubbing its snout for good luck.
History: The fountain was inspired by a Renaissance sculpture created by Pietro Tacca in the early 17th century, based on a Hellenistic boar statue.
Since when: Installed at the Mercato Nuovo in the 17th century, it has been a popular attraction ever since.
Review: Visitors love the charm and folklore surrounding the fountain, though the area can be crowded with tourists.
When to go: Morning visits are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the surrounding market.
How to go: Located near Mercato Nuovo in central Florence, easily accessible on foot from Piazza della Repubblica.
What to do: Touch the boar’s snout for luck, take photographs, and explore nearby artisan shops.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Opera del Duomo Museum, Florence
Overview: The Opera del Duomo Museum houses an extensive collection of Renaissance art and artifacts related to Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and Brunelleschi’s Dome.
History: Established to preserve and display the artistic heritage and works removed from the cathedral and surrounding structures.
Since when: Opened to the public in 1891.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the museum’s comprehensive collection and informative exhibits, though it can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
When to go: Early mornings or weekdays are best for a quiet and immersive visit.
How to go: Located adjacent to the Duomo complex, accessible on foot from Piazza del Duomo.
What to do: Explore sculptures, frescoes, original architectural elements, and learn about the construction of the cathedral.
Free or paid: Paid entry.
Strozzi Palace, Florence
Overview: Strozzi Palace is a Renaissance palace in Florence known for its grand architecture, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
History: Built in the late 15th century by the Strozzi family as a symbol of wealth and influence, it showcases Florentine Renaissance design.
Since when: Construction began in 1489 and was completed in the early 16th century.
Review: Visitors admire the imposing architecture and enjoy the rotating art exhibitions, though entrance fees apply for certain events.
When to go: Visit during weekdays for exhibitions and to avoid weekend tourist crowds.
How to go: Located in central Florence near Piazza della Repubblica, easily reachable on foot or by bus.
What to do: Attend art exhibitions, explore the palace interior, and appreciate its historic architecture.
Free or paid: Paid entry, with some free outdoor areas.
Brunelleschi’s Dome, Florence
Overview: Brunelleschi’s Dome crowns the Florence Cathedral and is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering, offering panoramic views of the city.
History: Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, it was the largest dome in the world at the time of completion and revolutionized architecture.
Since when: Completed in 1436, it has remained a symbol of Florence’s artistic and engineering heritage.
Review: Visitors are amazed by the dome’s structure and enjoy the climb to the top, though it requires physical effort.
When to go: Early morning visits are ideal to avoid long queues and enjoy cooler temperatures during the climb.
How to go: Located in Piazza del Duomo, accessible on foot from most central Florence attractions.
What to do: Climb the dome for panoramic city views, explore the interior frescoes, and learn about Renaissance engineering.
Free or paid: Paid entry.
All Around Florence, Florence
Overview: All Around Florence refers to guided city tours and sightseeing experiences designed to showcase Florence’s main attractions, history, and culture.
History: Organized tours emerged in the late 20th century to cater to growing tourism and the desire for structured exploration of the city.
Since when: Popular guided tours and walking itineraries have been offered since the 1980s.
Review: Tourists appreciate the informative guides and convenient access to major landmarks, though group tours can feel rushed.
When to go: Any time of year is suitable, with spring and autumn offering mild weather and fewer crowds.
How to go: Most tours start from central locations like Piazza del Duomo or Santa Maria Novella station.
What to do: Join guided walking or bus tours, explore museums, landmarks, and hidden streets with expert commentary.
Free or paid: Paid service, though self-guided exploration is free.