Things to do in Florence

Being the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy, there are plenty of famous spots for which tourists visit Florence. One of its most prominent features is the renaissance era architecture and art scattered throughout the city. Most of Florence’s buildings have been built by artist architects such as Brunelleschi who personally designed the Duomo. Places like Santa Maria Del Fiore and the Piazza Michelangelo further reflect the deep-rooted Renaissance influence over the city.

Moreover, the gorgeous art galleries showcasing works of artists like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo are a treat to the eyes. Another offbeat thing to do in Florence is a shopping tour of its local markets that blossom with fresh local produce, choicest local wines and beautiful handicrafts. Overall, Florence is the ultimate Italian experience every tourist seeks.

Here are some of the best things to do in Florence:

Being an extremely popular tourist destination in Italy, Florence offers plenty to the visitors. Here are some things to do in Florence that you should not miss out on during your vacation.

1. Stroll at the Giotto’s Campanile: 

The Giotto's Campanile is a marvel of Gothic architecture, with pink-green accented polychrome marble decoration in the heart of Italy. Constructed between 1334 and 1359.

It is a separate building divided into five distinct levels where tourists can take casual strolls and admire the neo-gothic architectural style. This monument also does not disappoint when it comes to vantage. All you have to do for an undying view of Florence and the Duomo is climb the 414 steps of the campanile.

Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy (located in the Piazza Del Duomo).

Price: 18 euros.

Timings: 8:15am–6:50pm.

2. Art Exploration at Galleria Degli Uffizi:

Housing some of the greatest pieces of art known to the world, the U shaped art gallery at Uffizi is a stunning building. The extending colonnades and linear columns designed by architect Giorgio Vasari depict the era's incredible architectural brilliance.

The Medici family in 1743 gifted the gallery with their art collection on the condition that it would never leave Florence, and accurate to the word, the paintings here are not for sale. Exploring art on a lazy afternoon here is one of the best things to do in Florence for art lovers. Start by taking a look at the famous ‘the Birth of Venus’ art piece in the horseshoe-like gallery and venture further from there.

Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.

Price: 20 euros.

Timings: 8:15 am–6:50 pm (closed on Mondays).

3. Take a tour of Galleria Dell'accademia: 

Perhaps the most famous sculpture of all time, Michelangelo’s David finds a home at this place. A visit to this spot is one of the best things to do in Florence for those who are curious about renaissance art. Although this art gallery also displays other significant sculptures and historical paintings, David's almost perfect build enchants visitors the most.

A 26-year-old Michelangelo is said to have carved this masterpiece out of a mocked and abandoned piece of marble and turned it into the most revered body. You might have to bear a long queue of visitors to try out this activity to do in Florence, but a selfie with David is well worth it.

Location: 60, Via Ricasoli, 58, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.

Entry Fee/Price: 20 euros.

Timings: 9am–6pm on Saturdays and Sundays | 9am–2pm from Tuesdays to Fridays (closed on Mondays).

4. Exploring the Palazzo Vecchio: 

If you are puzzled about what to do in Florence during a busy week, heading over to the Palazzo Vecchio might be a good idea. Once the Signoria of the Republic of Florence and later turned into a town hall, this building still showcases its unabashed glory while serving as the main administrative center.

It was built in 1299, and the same architects who worked on the Duomo and church of Santa Croce are credited with its building. Walking through or gazing at the coat of arms on the front façade or exploring the sublime Hercules Room and the Room of Cybele in its interior is considered to be one of the best things to do in Florence according to most visitors.

Location: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.

Entry Fee/Price: 10 euros.

Timings: April - September, 9am—12am (except Thursdays and special days) | October - December, 9am—7pm (except on Thursdays and special days).

5. Riding across the Ponte Vecchio: 

It is not just elaborate old buildings that Florence is famous for, for its bridges are equally gorgeous. One of the most relaxing things to do in Florence includes riding across the Ponte Vecchio, an old bridge spanning over the river Arno.

The unique feature of this bridge are the countless shops built into its walls and the ones that line the main walkway. If you are asking yourself what to do in Florence, at the ancient Ponte Vecchio, start by exploring the local jewellery shops for souvenir shopping. Moreover, you can simply stroll along the bridge and shops, while admiring its vintage look, one that dates back to the 996 AD.

Location: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.

Timings: The shops have designated timings.

6. Enjoy the views from Giardino Bardini: 

Giardino Bardini is a grand pergola-covered establishment in Florence, it is a shallow stairwell that leads to the Belvedere Renaissance terrace garden of the Bardini Villa, on the hilly region of Oltrarno.

From the top you can get an uncanny view of the entire city, which is also one of the best activities to do in Florence. This place is also a nice break from the rest of the city tour as you get a moment to just relax, reflect and immerse in the surrounding beauty.

Location: Costa S. Giorgio, 2, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.

Entry Fee/Price: 10 euros.

Timings: 8:15am–4:30pm.

Must Checkout: Italy Vacation Packages