9 Unmissable Things to Do in Florence (2025) – You’ll Regret Missing These!
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Florence is more than just a city—it’s an open-air museum, a food-lover’s paradise, and a dream destination for travelers seeking art, history, and authentic Italian experiences. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old piazzas, marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, or sipping espresso in a charming café, Florence will leave you enchanted.
But where should you start? From bucket-list landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery to hidden gems like olive oil tastings in the Tuscan countryside, this Florence travel guide will help you plan the perfect itinerary.
And don’t let language barriers hold you back. While Italian is the primary language, many locals are happy to speak English, and a few simple phrases like “Buongiorno” (good morning), “Grazie” (thank you), and “Prego” (you’re welcome) will go a long way.
Must-See Attractions in Florence
1. Duomo – Florence’s Most Iconic Landmark
No trip to Florence is complete without seeing the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Designed by Brunelleschi, its massive red-tiled dome dominates the Florence skyline and offers one of the best panoramic views in the city.
Insider Tip: Climb the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo for an unforgettable 360-degree view of Florence. Want fewer crowds? Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon!
📍 Location: Piazza del Duomo
Ticket Tip: Book your Skip the line pass and get priority access.
Florence, Italy
2. Galleria dell’Accademia – Meet Michelangelo’s “David”
This small but mighty museum houses the most famous sculpture in the world—Michelangelo’s David. Standing 17 feet tall, this masterpiece is an absolute must-see in Florence.
Did You Know? Michelangelo carved David from a single block of marble that had been abandoned for 40 years—proof that even rejected stone can become legendary!
📍 Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon—morning crowds are the heaviest.
David Statue, Florence, Italy
3. Skip the Line: Uffizi & Accademia Small-Group Walking Tour 🎨
Why This Tour?
Florence is an open-air museum, but its most iconic masterpieces are inside the Uffizi Gallery & Accademia Gallery. Skip the long lines with this expert-led tour.
- Visit Florence’s top two museums in a single day – Hear the stories behind Michelangelo’s ‘David’ and visit the palatial Uffizi Gallery.
- Learn the secrets of the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria
- Enjoy Small-group sizes of up to 15 people
🔗 Skip the Lines & Book Your Tour Here
4. Palazzo and Ponte Vecchio – Florence’s Historic Bridge
One of Florence’s most photographed spots, the Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone bridge lined with charming jewelry shops. It’s the only bridge in Florence that survived WWII, making it a historic landmark as well as a romantic sunset spot.
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking views over the Arno River—perfect for dreamy Florence photos!
📍 Location: Arno River
Florence, Italy
5. Piazzale Michelangelo – The Best View in Florence
For the most Instagram-worthy view of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. Perched on a hill, this scenic overlook offers a postcard-perfect panorama of the city, from the Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio.
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for the most stunning golden-hour shots. Want an extra adventure? Hike up from Piazza della Signoria—it’s worth the effort!
📍 Location: South of the Arno River
6. Florence Renaissance & Medici Tales – A Storytelling Walking Tour
What Makes This Tour Special?
Step into the mystical world of the Medici family as a local storyteller takes you on a historical walking tour through Florence’s most intriguing sites.
- Stroll by highlights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signora
- Tick off the highlights of Florence in a couple of hours of strolling
- Hear about the powerful Medici family and other info of Renaissance history
🔗 Book the Best Storytelling Tour in Florence
Unique Experiences & Hidden Gems in Florence
1. Take a Tuscany Day Trip: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa & a Winery Visit
Why This Tour?
Dreaming of rolling hills, medieval towns, and award-winning Tuscan wines? This full-day Tuscany tour from Florence is the perfect way to explore:
- 🏰 Siena – Visit the stunning Piazza del Campo & the Siena Cathedral.
- 🌄 San Gimignano – Wander through UNESCO-listed medieval streets.
- 🏛️ Pisa – Take the classic Leaning Tower of Pisa photo.
- 🍷 Winery Lunch (ask beforehand if GF is possible) – Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch with plenty of wine at a family-run Chianti winery.
🔗 Book Your Tuscany Day Trip Here
2. Semi-Private Gluten-Free Cooking Class in Florence 🍝
👩🍳 Why You’ll Love This Class:
Ever wished you could make gluten-free pasta just like an Italian chef? This semi-private gluten-free cooking class in Florence teaches you how to create authentic Tagliatelle, Ravioli, Gnocchi, and Lasagna—all 100% gluten-free!
- 🍝 Hands-On Learning – Work alongside a professional chef to master traditional Italian pasta techniques.
- 🌱 Fresh, Local Ingredients – Learn how to craft gluten-free pasta from scratch using natural, high-quality ingredients.
- 🏡 Small Group Atmosphere – Enjoy an intimate setting with personalized guidance.
- 🍷 Indulge in Your Creations – End the class with a delicious meal, paired with local wine (or non-alcoholic options).
📍 Where: A beautiful Tuscan-style kitchen in Florence’s historic center
⏳ Duration: 3 Hours
👨👩👧👦 Who’s It For? Gluten-free travelers, celiacs, foodies & pasta lovers, age 16+
🔗 Book Your Gluten-Free Cooking Class Here
3. Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This:
Escape the city for a Tuscan wine adventure! This small-group tour takes you to two top-rated wineries for an intimate wine-tasting experience.
- 🍷 Taste 6 Local Wines and local olive oil.
- 🏡 Meet the Winemakers – Learn about the winemaking process from local vineyard owners.
- 🏞️ Breathtaking Views – Capture Instagram-worthy shots of rolling vineyards & cypress trees.
🔗 Book Your Wine Tasting Tour Here
Olive Oil Tasting – A Tuscan Must-Try
Tuscany’s rolling hills produce some of the best olive oil in the world. If you want a truly local experience, head to an olive oil tasting just outside Florence.
Top Places for Olive Oil Tasting Near Florence:
1. Frantoio Buonamici: Located in the Fiesole Hills, just a short drive from Florence, Frantoio Buonamici offers an immersive olive oil-tasting experience. You’ll visit the olive grove, learn about the traditional production process, and then taste four different types of extra virgin olive oil paired with local Tuscan bread, cheese, and salami.
2. Azienda Agricola Il Palagio: Nestled amidst the vineyards of Chianti Classico, Il Palagio offers a unique olive oil tasting experience combined with a visit to their historic villa. You’ll learn about the history of olive oil production in the region, explore the olive groves, and then enjoy a guided tasting of their award-winning extra virgin olive oil.
3. Fattoria di Petrognano: This family-run farm in the Chianti hills offers a charming olive oil-tasting experience amidst stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. You’ll learn about sustainable olive oil production, visit the olive groves and the mill, and then enjoy a tasting of their organic extra virgin olive oil paired with local products.
4. Castello di Verrazzano: For a truly luxurious olive oil-tasting experience, head to Castello di Verrazzano, a historic castle nestled in the Chianti Classico region. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the castle grounds and the olive groves, followed by a tasting of their prized extra virgin olive oil paired with gourmet Tuscan dishes.
These are just a few of the many olive oil-tasting experiences you can find near Florence. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one to suit your interests and budget.
Want to Experience Florence’s Culinary Scene?
After exploring Florence’s world-famous landmarks, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the city’s top gluten-free restaurants! From crispy gluten-free pizza to authentic Tuscan pasta, check out my guide to the Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Florence for the tastiest celiac-safe dining options.
📌 Read Next: Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Florence
Interesting Facts about Florence
- Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is home to the world’s first modern opera house, the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, which opened its doors in 1933.
- The iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, spanning the Arno River, is not only renowned for its historical significance but also for being home to a unique array of jewelry shops, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century.
- Florence is the proud custodian of the world’s oldest pharmacy, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, established in 1612, where visitors can explore the historic apothecary and purchase artisanal fragrances and skincare products.
- The city’s historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, harbors the Vasari Corridor, an elevated passageway built in 1565 for the Medici family, connecting the Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti, and adorned with an impressive collection of paintings.
- Florence’s bustling Mercato Centrale is not only a haven for food enthusiasts but also houses a secret gem – a cooking school offering visitors the opportunity to learn the art of Tuscan cuisine from local experts in a vibrant, market setting.
FAQs about your visit to Florence
What is the best time to visit Florence?
The best time to visit Florence is in the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for sightseeing. Summer can be hot and packed with tourists, while winter is quieter and great for festive experiences.
How many days do you need in Florence?
A minimum of 2–3 days is recommended to see Florence’s main attractions like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. However, 4–5 days allow for a more relaxed experience, including day trips to Tuscany’s vineyards or Pisa.
What are the must-see attractions in Florence?
Top must-visit places in Florence include the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic city views.
Is Florence a walkable city?
Yes! Florence is extremely walkable, with most attractions located within a short walking distance. The historic center is best explored on foot, as many streets are pedestrian-only.
Are there any hidden gems in Florence?
Yes! Some lesser-known gems include the Bardini Gardens (a quieter alternative to Boboli Gardens), San Miniato al Monte (offering stunning views with fewer crowds), and Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, a local market perfect for experiencing authentic Florentine culture.
What are the best free things to do in Florence?
Enjoying the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, exploring Ponte Vecchio, visiting Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, strolling through Piazza della Signoria, and seeing Dante’s House (from the outside) are all amazing free experiences.
Can I take a day trip from Florence?
Absolutely! Popular day trips from Florence include Chianti wine country, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and San Gimignano. If you love nature, the Tuscan countryside and Cinque Terre are excellent options.
What’s the best area to stay in Florence?
For first-time visitors, staying near the Duomo or Piazza della Signoria puts you within walking distance of major attractions. The Oltrarno district offers a more local, artsy vibe, while Santa Maria Novella is great for those wanting easy train access.
What is Florence famous for?
Florence is famous for being the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to iconic landmarks like Michelangelo’s David, Brunelleschi’s Dome, the Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. It’s also known for its Tuscan cuisine, leather craftsmanship, and stunning architecture.
What’s the best way to get around Florence?
Walking is the best way to explore Florence’s historic center. However, buses and taxis are available for longer distances. Renting a bike or Vespa can be a fun way to explore the city like a local.
Final Thoughts: Why Florence Belongs on Your Travel Bucket List
Florence is a city that stays with you. Whether you’re climbing the Duomo, admiring Michelangelo’s David, or watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, every moment here is unforgettable.
But beyond the landmarks, it’s the energy of Florence—the narrow streets filled with centuries-old secrets, the aroma of fresh espresso drifting from cafés, and the friendly Italian hospitality—that truly makes this city magical.
📍 Planning a trip to Florence?
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Want more gluten-free travel tips? Read my Ultimate Gluten-Free Travel Guide for top celiac-friendly destinations, restaurant tips & expert hacks!
