Things to do in Florence

All about Florence

When to visit

Summer in Florence brings key cultural events. Highlights include the Città dei Lettori literature festival, Florence Jazz Festival, and the four-month-long Estate Fiorentina. However, lines for most top attractions become interminably long—making advance tickets essential. Low-key travelers looking for cooler weather and lower prices are better served in the offseason, roughly from October to March. For foodies, one of the best things to do in Florence is visit in the fall. Then, a seasonal cuisine of local mushrooms, game, and white truffles is in full harvest.

Getting around

Florence is made for walking. Its compact, UNESCO-listed historic center hasn’t changed much since the Renaissance, when it was built (mostly) for pedestrians. Exploring by two wheels, whether on shared e-bikes or e-scooters, has become popular in recent years, but dedicated lanes are lacking. A smart network of public buses and trams connects the center with the train station, with some buses going as far as surrounding hill towns such as Fiesole and San Gimignano.

Traveler tips

If you’re planning on spending more than one or two days in Florence, look for discount cards that offer time- and money-saving deals. Versions offer free or discounted admission to most city museums and sights and provide access to unlimited public transportation for a small additional cost. If you’re an EU citizen, the card extends the privileges to your family as well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florence famous for?

Birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to some of the most recognized works of art and architecture in the world. One of the best things to do in Florence is the Duomo, the city’s soaring cathedral famous for Brunelleschi’s dome, which offers an extraordinary view of Florence. There’s also Michelangelo’s iconic 17-foot (5-meter) David statue, now housed in the Accademia Gallery.

What is the best month to go to Florence?

More than 5 million people visit Florence in an average year, so the city is overrun during the high-season summer months. Time your trip for early spring (March through April) or late fall (October through November) to avoid the tourist crush and enjoy the museums and sights in relative peace.

How many days do I need in Florence?

Plan to spend at least two days in Florence. Tour the historic center, outdoor markets, and the Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David) on the first day. On the following day, explore the Uffizi Gallery, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, and artisan workshops in the Oltrarno neighborhood.

How do I spend a day in Florence?

If you only have one day, one of the best things to do in Florence is a walking tour through the historic center. First, see the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral). Head to the Piazza della Signoria to explore landmarks like the Loggia dei Lanzi and admire Santa Maria Novella. Then make a beeline to the Accademia Gallery (book your ticket in advance) to marvel at Michelangelo’s David.

What should I not miss in Florence?

The two headliners in Florence are the Duomo (cathedral) and Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery, both a quick walk from the train station and easy to visit in a few hours. Other A-list sights include goldsmith-lined Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River, the Basilica di San Lorenzo, and the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte.

What attractions are free in Florence?

Florence’s top sight—the Duomo—is free, though you need to purchase tickets to climb the dome or bell tower or visit the baptistery. The city’s famous outdoor markets and Ponte Vecchio also cost nothing to explore. At sunset, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best free view of the city.

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