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Things to do in
Florence

The soul of Tuscany brims with Renaissance influence evident in its myriad architectural and artistic wonders.

Our most recommended things to do in Florence

Florence: Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entry Ticket

1. Florence: Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entry Ticket

Discover masterpieces of art at one of Italy's (and the world’s) greatest art museums, and enjoy skip-the-line entrance at the world-famous Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Marvel at Italian Renaissance art by some of the greatest artists of all times. See paintings by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Raffaello, Giotto, Cimabue, Masaccio, and others. Go to the gallery’s most renowned room to see the stunning collection by Botticelli. Admire his “Primavera” and “The Birth of Venus,” and reflect upon his representation of the birth of the goddess as she emerges from the sea foam. Escape the hassle and hurry of organized group tours, and explore at your own pace. You are free to stay inside the museum for as long as you like. To see more stunning art, add skip-the-line entrance tickets to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens to your tour by selecting the option. After visiting the Uffizi, visit the palace and gardens in any order within the next 5 days.

Florence: Leonardo Interactive Museum Entry Ticket

2. Florence: Leonardo Interactive Museum Entry Ticket

If you want to try a new experience, to visit a very special museum, if you are curious to know more about Leonardo da Vinci, the greatest genius of all times, to take part in a fantastic first-person journey to discover his world, to learn more about his inventions and to try out the most beautiful machines drawn in his codices, you must visit the Leonardo Interactive Museum. The museum, which has been open for over 20 years in Florence, right in the city centre, is suitable for everyone aged 7/8 and over and involves the visitor, who becomes the protagonist of a new and fantastic experience that is truly interactive, interesting, fun and stimulating. You will experience Leonardo's most important inventions, discover his studies in engineering, physics, anatomy and painting. You will discover that many of his designs are still remarkably relevant today, more than 500 years later. Inside you can try out the tank, the catapult, the worm screw, the vertical screw, the hydraulic saw, the printing press and many other machines and mechanisms created by studying the designs Leonardo drew in his famous codices. To avoid queues at the entrance, museum tickets are sold exclusively online, where you can choose the day and time of your visit.

Florence: Michelangelo's David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

3. Florence: Michelangelo's David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

Experience Michelangelo's David with a skip-the-line entry ticket for the Accademia Gallery Museum. Explore this pearl in Florence with access to all parts of the museum. This museum contains more sculptures by Michelangelo than anywhere else in the world. After skipping the ticket lines, start exploring masterpieces created by artists who lived and worked in Florence during the Renaissance, including Botticelli, Filippino Lippi, Pietro Perugino, Paolo Uccello, and many others. If you select the audio guide option, plug in your headphones to learn about the highlights of the museum as you explore. Continue to the Four Prisoners and the San Matteo in the hall of Michelangelo, an impressive room dominated by the David. Go to the Museum of Musical Instruments, where you can admire the piano known as the most ancient piano existing in the world along with the priceless Viola Stradivari, created for the Grand Prince Ferdinando Medici. Before the end of your visit, make sure to see the renovated Gipsoteca Bartolini, a showroom of sculptures and busts related to the sculpture Lorenzo Bartolini.

Florence: Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David

4. Florence: Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David

Discover world-famous paintings, sculptures, and tapestries with this timed entry ticket to the Accademia Gallery in Florence. See iconic pieces by Michelangelo like 'the Prisoners', 'St. Matthew' and the statue of David. View works by other famous masters like Bartolini.  Admire the 5.17-meter marble statue representing the Biblical hero David, a favored subject in Florentine art. The statue soon came to symbolize the defence of civil liberties embodied in the Republic of Florence, an independent city-state threatened on all sides by more powerful rival states and by the hegemony of the Medici family.    In the adjacent rooms, which were part of two former convents, important works of art are collected here from the Academy of Design, the Academy of Fine Arts and from suppressed convents.  Recently the Gallery has been further enriched by the important collection of old musical instruments from the Cherubini Conservatory, the Department of Musical Instruments.

Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

5. Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

After meeting your guide and boarding the coach, drive to the Chianti region. On the way to the first winery, your guide will share interesting facts and curiosities about landmarks along the route. Arrive at the first “cantina” of the day, where you will be welcomed by the winemakers. After listening to a brief introduction about the winery’s history and the types of wine made there, join a guided tour of the facilities and nearby vineyards. Learn all about the winemaking process, the materials used to make the barrels, and what it takes to be classified as a “Chianti Classico”. Then, begin your first tasting session of 4 different wines. You will hear an explanation of each of the wines that you sample, as well as some tips on how to savor the wine and understand its qualities. The wines will be accompanied by local snacks produced in the region, such as cheese, bread, olive oil, and salumi. Board the bus and continue to the second winery. On the way, make a stop at a scenic lookout to observe a stunning panorama of the Chianti Hills. At the second winery, learn about their production methods, what is unique about their vines, and how weather can affect the grapes. Explore the facilities during a short guided tour, and walk through the vineyards. Then, sample another round of up to 3 wines, as the local charismatic wine producer tells you about the peculiarities of each. After some free time, head back to Florence.

Florence: Accademia Gallery Guided Tour

6. Florence: Accademia Gallery Guided Tour

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Italy, as told by its mesmerizing art. Embark on a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery in Florence and learn all about the artists behind each piece. Take in Michelangelo's world-famous David with your own eyes. Meet your guide and step right into the Accademia Gallery without waiting in line. Begin your insightful stroll through the incredible collection, discovering majestic paintings by Filippino Lippi, Domenico Ghirlandaio, and more. Hear secret stories about the artworks and artists featured in the gallery, as well as ancient tales of the powerful Medici family. Understand why the Renaissance was born in Florence and why this family was so important to Michelangelo. And, of course, come up close to the giant David.

Florence: Accademia Gallery Priority Entry Ticket with eBook

7. Florence: Accademia Gallery Priority Entry Ticket with eBook

Make the most of your time in Florence with a timed entry ticket to the Accademia Gallery. Admire one of the world's most famous sculptures, Michelangelo's David, and see some of the sculptor's other works. Explore the Gallery with a useful guide in pdf format. Skip the long lines and enter the gallery via a separate entrance. Your reserved ticket allows you to skip the ticket office line and avoid the worry of whether or not tickets will be available. Visit the main hall to see Michelangelo's statue of David and some of his unfinished works still bearing his chisel marks. Discover the Gipsoteca which houses original plaster models made by 19th-century Florentine sculptors. See original musical instruments belonging to the Medici, including 3 made by Stradivarius. Then, explore the painting galleries of the museum and see masterpieces by medieval and Renaissance painters. Go up to the top floor to admire huge Medieval altarpieces before concluding your visit.

Florence: Reserved Entry Ticket to the Boboli Gardens

8. Florence: Reserved Entry Ticket to the Boboli Gardens

The gardens extend over a vast area forming an open-air museum with antique and Renaissance statues, grottoes, and large fountains. Exploring its numerous and varied walks one is able to evoke the spirit of life at court. The Grotta del Buontalenti is an artificial cave filled with false stalactites and stalagmites, with statues of sheep, shepherds, and Romans goddesses. The cave is located close to the entrance of the Boboli Garden and at the end of the Vasari Corridor. 

Florence: Michelangelo's David Priority Ticket & Audio App

9. Florence: Michelangelo's David Priority Ticket & Audio App

Take advantage of our prioritized ticket, you'll have the right to enter at your chosen date and time and you'll skip the line to buy the ticket by meeting our host in front of the museum with your ticket ready for you. Our Italian and English speaking hosts will introduce you to the security check gate. The day before your visit you'll receive a WhatsApp message with a reminder for the meeting point and the instructions to download our included Mobile Audio Application on your devices; don't forget to charge your phone and bring your own earphones. Now plug your earphones into your device and enjoy our exclusive audio guide mobile application to discover the genius of the greatest artist of all time, Michelangelo, through his numerous sculptures at the unmissable Accademia Gallery of Art. Inside, admire the Original Michelangelo's David and see how his expression changes as you walk across the room. Marvel at the detail and poise chiseled into a single piece of marble, and find out for yourself why David has captivated generations the world over. David represents a biblical hero winning against Goliath, symbolizing the defense of civil liberties embodied in the Republic of Florence, an independent city in the Medieval and Renaissance Periods. In addition, experience other sculptures carved by Michelangelo such as Prigioni (Prisoners). These contorted bodies were meant for the tomb of Pope Julius II, but the tomb was never completed. Explore the museum further and see statues and paintings by other Renaissance artists such as Andrea Orcagna, Taddeo Gaddi, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Filippino Lippi, and Sandro Botticelli. You may also visit the room dedicated to the collection of old musical instruments from the Cherubini Conservatory, the Department of Musical Instruments. This collection includes a violin by Antonio Stradivarius that belongs to the Medicean Quintet. Get the opportunity to have a complete experience of the house of Michelangelo's David and book your visit with us!

Florence: Cathedral & Brunelleschi's Dome Ticket & Audio App

10. Florence: Cathedral & Brunelleschi's Dome Ticket & Audio App

Embark on an enriching three-day journey through Florence with our exclusive pass, granting access to the marvels of Brunelleschi's Dome, the ornate Baptistery, the majestic Cathedral, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the iconic Giotto Bell Tower. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history, art, and architectural wonders as you explore these renowned landmarks, each offering a unique glimpse into Florence's cultural legacy and artistic mastery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking views from the top of Brunelleschi's Dome and delve into the historical significance, all complemented by our audioguide crafted by passionate art historians. The day before your visit you'll receive a WhatsApp message with a reminder for the meeting point and the instructions to download our included Mobile Audio Application on your devices; don't forget to charge your phone and bring your earphones. On the day of the visit of the Brunelleschi's Dome, before the climb, if you do have a backpack, use the free luggage storage because you are not allowed inside with small or large bags. For the unforgettable climb to Brunelleschi's Dome, we kindly request visitors to adhere to their scheduled time and day as per their reservation to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. However, with the convenience of our three-day pass, the rest of the captivating complex—including the Baptistery, Cathedral, Opera del Duomo Museum, and Giotto Bell Tower—awaits exploration at your leisure within the 72-hour window, allowing for flexibility and ample time to savor each magnificent site. During your visit, please note that the Baptistery is undergoing restoration of its vault mosaics, providing an opportunity for visitors to witness the renowned Italian art of renovation, and showcasing the country's famous and fascinating restoration work.

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Frequently asked questions about Florence

What top attractions are a must-see in Florence?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Florence?

The best day trips and excursions from Florence are:

Pisa

Insider tips: Planning a trip to Florence

Paul & Mark are full time travel bloggers who discover hidden gems and local specialities on their blog Anywhere We Roam. They've travelled to Florence many times and never tire of this Renaissance gem.

What should I do on my first trip to Florence?

Florence is best known for being the birthplace of Renaissance art, so visiting one of the world-class galleries is a must for first time visitors to the city. The Uffizi Gallery has one of the most prestigious art collections in the world including 2 Leonardo da Vinci paintings and several works by Botticelli. Michelangelo’s famous statue of David in the Galleria dell'Accademia is another unmissable Florence experience.

What are some hidden gems to see in Florence?

A great hidden gem in Florence is the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica. Established in the 13th century, it's one of the oldest pharmacies in the world. Today you can buy perfumes and wellness products from the beautiful gothic vaulted sales room. To slow the pace in Florence, Torrigiani Garden is a private green oasis in the centre of the city which has been carefully transformed into a romantic English garden. As private tours need to be organised with the owner, it's the perfect hidden gem in the city.

How much time should I spend in Florence?

Florence is packed with wonderful things to do, so allow at least 3 to 4 days to see all the main sights. This will be enough time to visit 2 - 3 of the main art galleries, several of the more notable churches, and some of the other main attractions that give you a taste for Florence’s vibrant culture. If you are particularly interested in art and sculpture, you would need at least 5 days to see all the galleries.

What food is Florence known for?

A great dish to try in Florence is Tagliatelle with Porcini mushroom and truffle. The simple pasta with earthy local ingredients gives it an amazing depth of flavour that has made it one of the most popular dishes in the city. Follow it up with Cantuccini e vin santo; the small almond biscuits known as biscotti elsewhere in the world, served with sweet dessert wine for dunking.

What is the best way to get around Florence?

Florence is a very compact city with all the main tourist attractions within easy walking distance of each other. With tight medieval laneways and all but local cars banned from the centre, taxis can generally take longer than walking. Another great way to get around is to hire a bike or go on an organise bike tour with a guide.

What are the best months to visit Florence?

The best time to visit Florence is May and June when the weather is warm and the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor dining experiences. The main attractions are all operational at this time, and the significant tourist numbers and very hot weather of July and August has not yet arrived.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Florence?

One of the best neighbourhoods in Florence is Sant’Ambrogio. Just east of the imposing duomo, tiny laneways overflow with fresh food markets, local restaurants, and traditional cafes. It's the perfect slice of old-school Florence. For something different, the San Lorenzo area is developing a reputation for artisanal food, organic restaurants, and some of the best gelato in Florence.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

One of the best areas for food in Florence is Santo Spirito. Just across the river from the centre, Santo Spirito is a local neighbourhood with a bohemian feel. Pizza restaurants line leafy squares that are perfect for casual outdoor dining. Via Santo Spirito is the main street which is usually lined with patrons leaning up against the old walls, sipping a wine as they wait for a table to come available.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

San Niccolò is a great area for independent luxury shops especially perfumeries and jewellery stores that look more like museums than retail spaces. But for more traditional Florentine shopping, the open-air market, Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, is one of the best places in the city to shop for leather goods with a staggering number of options to choose from.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Florence?

The historical centre of Florence is the best place to stay with easy access to the main attractions. The area around Santa Croce is on the edge of the main tourist centre but it has a slightly less-crowded feel and great options for dining. The area around Santa Maria Novella is slightly further away (about a 7-minute walk) but it has a lovely local residential feel.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Florence?

The Uffizi Gallery has organised family tours specially designed for young kids and teenagers including treasure hunts, trivia and interactive games. The whole family will enjoy the climb up to the top of the dome of the duomo for stunning views over Florence and the Leonardo da Vinci museum is great for older teenagers with an interest in the sciences.

What is the best thing to do in Florence for solo travelers?

Florence has a large expat community and it's full of travellers throughout the year, so you'll not feel out of place travelling solo in Florence. It's common to see people enjoying the restaurant scene by themselves and the bar of a traditional cafe is the perfect place to while away some time by yourself. One of the main benefits of solo travel in Florence is the ability to spend exactly as long as you wish exploring the world-class art galleries.

What is the best thing to do in Florence for couples?

One of the best things for couples to do in Florence is to simply pick a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over this beautiful city. Piazzale Michelangelo is a park about 25 minutes’ walk from the centre of the city with sweeping views over Florence. After the sun goes down, take in a classical concert at one of the churches for a truly memorable evening.

What are the best annual events in Florence?

One of the best annual events in the city is the Florence Carnival which celebrates the diverse world of culture with live music and parades through the city featuring a massive puppet dragon. In the summer months (June and July), the Florence Dance Festival overtakes the city with a programme of music, poetry and cinema.

What are the best things to do around Florence?

While in Florence, it’s a great idea to take advantage of the beautiful Tuscan countryside surrounding the city. One of the best places to explore is San Miniato which can be visited on a day trip from Florence. The charming hillside village is set in a stunning location and it’s the home of truffle hunting in Italy.

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What people are saying about Florence

Overall rating

4.5
(88,747 reviews)

With this tour we got pretty nice insights into the history and the making of pottery. Thanks to Matteo and his passion about his family business. We can recommend this to anyone (young, old, families) who is interested in not only discovering something new but also to be ready to get active.

Our guide was delightful. She provided excellent commentary that brought the experience to life for us. Without her expertise, the crypts would have seemed uninteresting as we didn't have much prior knowledge of the Medici family. The sculptures were totally worth visiting!

I dent remember the woman's (she had glasses) name but she was great!!! very professional and articulated everything well. We had time to ask questions which was important to us.

Ivan was great. Calm, professional, and showed us the most important parts of gallery. Simple and effective way to see it.

We had a great time. The two wineries were very different but afforded different charms.