The works of great artistic masters combine with nature’s beauty in a Tuscan city that’s overflowing with grand architecture, famous museums and irresistible charm.
Visit Florence and step into the worlds of Michelangelo and Donatello. From artistic masterpieces to frescoed chapels and cobblestone piazzas, the Renaissance city features a photo moment around every corner. Stroll along the Arno River and admire formal gardens dotted with sculptures between gallery hopping and choosing your next gelato flavour.
Time your trip with the Easter celebration of the Scoppio del Carro. Visit in June for Calcio Storico, a combination of rugby, soccer and wrestling played in historical costumes. Summer buzzes with alfresco dining while winter festivals deliver Christmas cheer among market stalls and twinkling lights. In spring, wildflowers blanket Tuscan landscapes for magical day trips.
Things to do in Florence
With its magnificent Renaissance dome, Florence Cathedral dominates the skyline. Known locally as The Duomo, it’s one of the world’s largest churches with a dazzling facade of white, pink and green marble. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views and keep your camera out for more from Giotto’s Bell Tower, also located on Piazza del Duomo.
Just steps away is the octagon-shaped Florence Baptistery of St. John, featuring the jewel-like interior created by 13th century mosaics. Walk to Piazza della Repubblica and choose a restaurant in view of street performers. You’ll need plenty of time for shopping along nearby Via de’ Tornabuoni, with Italian fashion houses tempting you to splurge on a new outfit.
Set aside an hour or two to wander through the Boboli Gardens, established by the Medici family and set behind Palazzo Pitti. See the Amphitheatre with a giant Egyptian obelisk, ancient Renaissance statues and gushing fountains amid lush gardens. After you’ve seen nature’s gems behold the dazzling wares in the jewellery stores on the Ponte Vecchio bridge, a symbol of Florence dating to 1345.
Art and culture in Florence
The political centre of the city since the Middle Ages, Piazza della Signoria impresses with grand statues and renowned buildings. See a copy of Michelangelo’s David in front of Palazzo Vecchio and works from the great masters inside. Uffizi Gallery is among the world’s most famous for its astounding collection of Italian Renaissance art. Admire Botticelli’s Birth of Venus among works by Leonardo, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and many more.
Gaze at the elegant buildings lining Piazza San Marco and discover San Marco Museum inside the Dominican convent of San Marco. See monks’ cells and the works of Dominican friar Fra Angelico. The Santa Croce museum complex features the basilica, chapels and a monastery filled with masterpieces by Cimabue and Giotto, among others.
It’s the Accademia Gallery that, arguably, draws the most museum visitors for its star attraction, Michelangelo’s David. Discover various collections across the wings of the building, including the Museum of Musical Instruments. For contemporary art, enjoy the revolving exhibitions at Palazzo Strozzi.
Dining and nightlife in Florence
You’re never far from restaurants serving bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) or tagliatelle with Tuscan truffles and porcini mushrooms in Florence. Pastries, fresh fruit and wine are some of the delicious offerings at Mercato Centrale, located in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood. Wander the charming streets to find pizza, pasta and panini restaurants.
The Duomo district has restaurants and bars tucked away in streets surrounding the iconic landmarks. Head to the Santa Croce neighbourhood for aperitivo hour and choose from some of the trendiest restaurants and bars in the city. Book tickets for a music concert at Tuscany Hall or a show at historical Teatro Verdi.
Getting around Florence
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport) is located approximately 20 minutes from the city centre. Take the tram service for a quick and easy ride, otherwise taxis and rental cars are available. With many pedestrian areas, Florence is a walker’s paradise. Most attractions are within leisurely strolls of each other and hotels.
Trams, buses and taxis are readily available to get around the city, along with bike and car share services. The primary train station is Santa Maria Novella, with services to popular day trip destinations such as Siena and Pisa.