If you embark on a mission to witness everything that Florence has to offer, it will take weeks indeed. In fact, this petite city is a display of the extraordinary Italian Renaissance, the artistic and humanistic movement that proudly emancipated Europe from the restraints of the Dark Ages. Some of the places to explore in Florence are among the most renowned tourist attractions in Italy, encompassing a distinguished array of landmarks, museums, churches, and palaces.
Finest Places To Explore In Florence
Florence is a hub for all the captivating experiences to attempt in Italy. If you’re still contemplating what to see in Florence Italy, you’re in the right place. Let the game commence.
1. Cathedral Of Santa Maria Fiori And Piazza Duomo
The inventory of Florence’s tourist attractions can never be comprehensive without mentioning this grand artistic treasure that Italy proudly possesses. If you are a connoisseur of art and architecture, this is one of the finest places to visit in Florence. As you embark on a tour of the baptistery, its museum, the cathedral, and the bell tower, you will encounter some of the most renowned masterpieces of architecture and art created by the greatest artists – Michelangelo, Giotto, Donatello, Brunelleschi, and Ghiberti.
Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI
2. Winery At Renaissance Villa
For enthusiasts of wine, the Tuscan countryside vineyards and wineries can be one of the premier places to visit in Florence! Saddle up for a ride through the countryside and relish the scenic beauty, or marvel at the landscape transforming into picturesque olive groves and vineyards. Disembark at a winery at the Renaissance villa and indulge in delightful tastings of olive oil, wine, or other Tuscan delicacies. If desired, one can even conclude the bike tour with a delectable serving of Italian gelato for further Florence sightseeing.
Location: Renaissance Villa
3. Cinque Terre
If you are a thrill seeker, you may even attempt a one-day hike at Cinque Terre which is a UNESCO designated site. Encounter old-fashioned Italy while you traverse the five picturesque fishing villages. You can even delight in the magnificent views of the untouched stretch of Italian Riviera after strolling through the trails along the cliffs of this national park and absorb the ambiance on a boat ride along the Riviera. This unequivocally responds to your inquiry – what to observe in Florence!
4. 9 Santa Croce
This is another excellent choice amidst the places to explore in Florence for the admirers of architecture. Behind the typical geometrical marble inlay of the Tuscan facade, there exists both a mausoleum for some of the most eminent names of Florence and an art-filled church. It cherishes its landmarks of the Renaissance art. You should keep an eye out for the Cappella Bardi, Cappella Peruzzi, as well as the tombs of Machiavelli, Ghiberti, Galileo, and Michelangelo.
Location: Piazza di Santa Croce, 9, 50122 Firenze FI
5. Ponte Vecchio
One of the most widely recognized symbols of the city of Florence, it is one of the finest places to visit in Florence, Italy. A dazzling collection of exquisite jewelry can be observed while strolling across it. The Vasari Corridor or the Passageway of the Prince exhibits walls adorned with invaluable collections of portraits by artists such as Velasquez, Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Rembrandt, among Florence’s top attractions.
Location: Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence
6. Palazzo Pitti And Boboli Gardens
You can actually spend an entire day exploring the complete Pitti Palace Complex. This is one of the top attractions in Florence with Italy’s leading gardens, royal residences, historical significance, museums, Florentine craftsmanship, a Medici Palace, and an exceptional art gallery. The gardens ascend in terraces that provide a panoramic view of the city. Within these remarkable Florence tourist sites are fountains, an amphitheater in the quarry hole, formal flower beds, a maze, and a simulated grotto carved into the hillside.
Location: Southern side of the River Arno, close to Ponte Vecchio
7. Santa Maria Novella
: Travelato_eu by PixabayThis Dominican church presents the recognizable striped frontage of inlaid marble of Italy. This exhibits gracefully curving designs. It also features rows of arches in the lower level. The artistic creations inside are by renowned masters such as Paolo Uccello, Lippi, Domenico, Giotto, and Masaccio. And if that’s not enough, there is an entire chapel adorned with frescoes by Andrea di Bonaiuto. Truly, some of the finest attractions to behold in Florence!
Location: Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 50123 Firenze FI
8. San Miniato Al Monte
: Gerry64 by PixabayAdorned with a green and white marble frontage, the view of San Miniato al Monte is definitely worth the brief climb beyond Florence’s beloved viewpoint, the Piazzale Michelangiolo. It is the first of its kind, where the dramatic effect was employed in Florence. Undoubtedly one of the captivating sights in Florence.
Location: Via delle Porte Sante, 34, Florence
9. Bargello Palace National Museum
Are you a lover of history and art? The four masterpieces by Michelangelo are enough reason to include the Bargello Palace National Museum on your list of places to visit in Florence. And we present our argument! Please inform us about your experience once you have visited this incredible museum!
Location: Via del Proconsolo, 4, 50122 Firenze FI
10. Mercato Centrale
Credit for Image: Timitruis by FlickrWell, if you have started categorizing Florence as an enormous open museum, you must encounter the Florentines going about their daily routines. There is surely no better place to find them, aside from the food market in Florence. We won’t complain if you decide to bring back some mementos!
Location: Piazza del Mercato, Florence
11. Mercato Nuovo
This is one of the distinctive marketplaces in Florence. Referred to as the Loggia del Porcellino, this is a building with Renaissance-style architecture. Apart from souvenirs, the place is renowned for its history. In the past, debtors were punished here. At the center of this place is the ‘stone of disgrace’, which holds significant importance. Established in the 16th century, the market used to sell extravagant goods like silk. Today, visitors can shop for leather items here.
Location: Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, Florence, Italy
12. Piazza Della Repubblica
Piazza Della Repubblica, the main square in Florence, is a well-known destination for tourists. The famous cafe called Giubbe Rosse, opened in 1896, has been a frequented spot for writers and artists. Once used as the Roman forum, nowadays the square is visited for its charming cafes. These cafes were significant places where literary individuals gathered and engaged in stimulating discussions. During your visit to Florence, make sure to explore some of the literary cafes here.
Position: Florence, Italy
13. San Lorenzo Basilica
If you are searching for places to explore in Florence in 1 day then this Basilica should absolutely be on your itinerary. Situated in the core of the primary market in Florence, this is a highly visited attraction in the city. This 15th-century church is one of the earliest churches in Florence and is a point of interest due to its impressive architecture. One can observe the ecclesiastical Renaissance architecture in San Lorenzo Basilica, which was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The interiors showcase a complete display of Renaissance neo-classical architecture. Make sure to visit the church during your trip to Florence.
Position: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 9, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
14. Signoria Square
An significant landmark throughout the years for political and historical affairs, the Signoria Square is a renowned landmark in Florence. In front of Palazzo Vecchio, you’ll find this L shaped square that holds some major attractions. The square is truly stunning thanks to the aesthetically pleasing structures that grace the plaza. Some famous sculptures here include Michelangelo’s Statue of David, Hercules, the Fountain of Neptune, and more. If you happen to be exploring Florence on a Sunday, take some time to visit this plaza on a relaxing Sunday evening.
Position: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
15. Uffizi Gallery
If you appreciate art, then Uffizi Gallery is a must-visit place during your Florence tour. It is one of the most fascinating places to explore in Florence, Italy. Located in Piazza della Signoria, you can easily cover it along with the beautiful L shaped square. It is a paradise for art enthusiasts, as the gallery houses paintings dating back to the Renaissance era. Here, you can witness masterpieces created by renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and more.
Position: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Additional Reading: Hollywood Honeymoon: 10 Film Locations That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet At First Sight!
Eager to head to this art capital of Italy? The city will offer you some unforgettable experiences. Know any more places to visit in Florence? Drop them in the comments below and reserve a fantastic trip to Italy right away!
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Commonly Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Florence
What should you not miss in Florence Italy?
Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Accademia Gallery, Sights around Piazza della Signoria, Basilica Santa Croce are some of the major spots that you should not overlook in Florence.
What is Florence best known for?
Florence is best known for its culture, mesmerizing architecture, art galleries, and numerous landmarks and museums.
Is it safe to visit Florence given the covid situation?
Yes, it is safe to visit Florence provided that you adhere to all guidelines and take all the necessary precautions. Make sure to get yourself vaccinated before planning a trip, also wear masks at all times, maintain social distance at public places, and sanitize your hands regularly to avoid the spread of the virus.
How do I spend a day in Florence?
You can spend your day in Florence exploring places like Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Accademia Gallery and visiting renowned art galleries like Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti.
What is Florence famous for?
Florence is renowned for its art. It is home to many exceptional galleries and museums like Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, and many more.
What kind of food is Florence known for?
Like any other Italian city, Florence is known for its Italian cuisine. But its famous dish is Florentine Steak.
How many days do you need in Florence?
One can spend a minimum of 2 days in Florence. There are many exceptional restaurants and sightseeing spots to explore in 2 days. However, you can always increase the number of days if you wish to explore more places.
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