What are your plans for visiting Florence? Did you already make a list of things to do in Florence? We shall help you to discover this unique Italian city, a museum under the open air.
Florence is located on the banks of Arno River and is the center of Tuscany.
The name of Florence is translated from Italian as “in blossom”. According to historical data the city was founded in 59 B.C., which makes it the oldest city in the center of Europe.
To visit Florence from Rome, you would need to drive across the regions of Lazio, Umbria and amazing Tuscany.
Of course this is another great opportunity to explore the most fascinating places of Italy.
Upon arrival in Florence, visit Michelangelo Square – this is a perfect location for some spectacular images of the city from one of the highest points of Florence.
After that you can visit Florence city center and explore Santa Croce Square with its amazing Basilica.
For more things to do in Florence within a day, we would recommend visiting Florentine Leather stores, go to Cathedral Square, Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore (The Dome), check Saint John’s Baptistery and Giotto’s Bellower. Also you can take walking tour to Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) and Signoria Square.
Things to do in Florence
Plenty of travel spots are available for visiting in Florence: churches and Cathedrals, beautiful Palaces and monuments of culture and art.
Florence is the location of world known masterpieces of Michelangelo and Leonardo de Vinci, Boccaccio and many other Italian artists.
Contents
Florence Cathedral
The Duomo is one of the most famous Cathedrals in the world. Duomo Cathedral was erected in 1436 and the facade of this amazing building was completed only in the 19th century.
Duomo Cathedral is located in the very center of Florence, in the old city.
The front facade and the whole exterior of the Cathedral are covered with white marble, mixed with green, pink and red polychrome designs. Inside of the Cathedral you can observe the Last Judgement fresco, the large clock and just enjoy the interior.
Giotto’s Campanile
Giotto’s Campanile is a separate building and is not connected to the Duomo, as many tourists think. Giotto’s Campanile has one of the most renowned designs in Florence.
Designed in Gothic style it catches the attention of admirers.
Giotto’s Campanile has similar exterior of Duomo. This amazing architectural masterpiece was built during the period of 1334 -1359. The author of this spectacular design as you might have guessed is famous Giotto artist.
Because of the death of the authour, the building was finished by another person – Talenti.
Thanks to him the last levels were added to Giotto’s Campanile.
There are 414 steps in the tower, which you can climb to observe beautiful views of Florence from the top.
Giotto Bell Tower is open:
Tuesdays – Saturdays: 08:30am-07:30pm
Closed on: January1, Easter Sunday, September 8, December 25.
You can buy a single admission ticket (valid for 24 hours) and visit Giotto’s Bell Tower, Brunelleschi’s Dome, the Baptistery and the Crypt of Santa Reparata, and the historical museum.
Entrance fee is 10 Euros.
Plan a trip to Baptistery San-Giovanni
Visiting Baptistery San-Giovanni is surely in the top list of things to do in Florence.
Initially it was the location of the ancient Mars temple. In Vth century it was also a Christ Temple and in XI it turned into church baptized in the name of Joann the Baptizer.
All the citizens of Florence were baptized here till XIX century, including Dante and Medici.
Contents
Baptistery San-Giovanni Open hours:
Daily: 11:15am – 18:30
Sundays and the first Saturday of the month:
08:30am – 13:30
During Easter, April 25 and May 1:
08:30am – 18:30
Next to Baptistery there is a monumental construction of Santa Maria del Fiore.
In 1294 erection of the building started according to the project of the architect Santa Reparata. Such famous masters as Giotto, Pizano and Alenti participated in building of the Temple.
Only in 1434 Santa Maria del Fiore Temple was finished, right after 140 years from the beginning of construction date. It became biggest cathedral in Europe.
Now it is the symbol of Florence, pointing out its outstanding beauty and dominance in Tuscany.
Anastasia Collection, Canva.com
Best time of the year to visit Florence
The best time to visit Florence depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events. In general, the most popular times to visit Florence are the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons.
During these times, the weather is usually pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. You’ll also find fewer crowds than during the peak summer months.
If you prefer warmer weather and don’t mind larger crowds, summer (July and August) can also be a good time to visit Florence. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and more tourists.
Winter (December to February) tends to be the quietest time in Florence, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. While some attractions may have shorter hours during this time, you can still enjoy the city’s cultural offerings without the crowds.
Waldo93, Canva.com
Where to stay in Florence?
Your choice of accommodation in Florence will depend on your preferences, your budget and things to do in Florence during your visit. Here are some popular areas to consider:
Historic Center (Centro Storico): Staying in the heart of Florence puts you close to major attractions such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. This area offers a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget hostels.
Oltrarno: Located on the other side of the Arno River, Oltrarno offers a quieter atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the city center. This neighborhood is known for its artisan workshops, charming streets and authentic trattorias.
Santa Croce: This area is known for the Basilica di Santa Croce and its lively piazzas. It’s a little less touristy than the historic center, but still within walking distance of the main attractions.
San Lorenzo: Close to the train station, San Lorenzo is a convenient area to stay if you are planning day trips outside of Florence. It’s also home to the famous Mercato Centrale food market and the Medici Chapels.
Santa Maria Novella: Another area close to the train station, Santa Maria Novella is convenient for travelers arriving by train. It’s also within walking distance of the historic center and offers a variety of accommodation options.
Santo Spirito: Known for its bohemian vibe and artisan workshops, Santo Spirito is a trendy neighborhood with many cafes, bars and restaurants. It’s a little farther from the main tourist attractions, but offers a more local experience.
When choosing an accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, budget, and the type of experience, things to do in Florence during your trip there. It is also advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you have the best options available.
Hi, need your advise please, what are the best outdoor activities in Florence?
Hi, in my view the best outdoor activities in Florence are: visiting Bardini Gardens, Piazza Santa Croce, Spiaggia sull’Arno, Piazzale Michelangelo. You can also take electric cart tours in Florence, or ride a vintage Vespa through Tuscany from Florence.
Hello! Is 2 days enough in Florence?
Hi there! Yes, I think 2 days should be enough to see the most of Florence. Of course, if you can, you should stay in Florence for longer, but 2 days is enough to visit the most interesting places, museums, etc.
Hi All, is Florence an expensive city?