Florence Travel Guide: Local Tips for your Trip

This ultimate Florence travel guide is your key to experiencing the city's rich history, art, and cuisine.

Visiting Florence, Italy

Florence was founded between the 6th and 7th centuries by the Etruscans and later established in 59 BC by the Romans as a military colony. The city has been one of the most powerful cities in Europe for centuries, and it was especially known for its importance as a city in trade and banking.

Florence is widely accepted to be the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it is often referred to as the cradle of the Renaissance. Today, this beautiful Tuscan city draws millions of tourists every year, and there’s a valid reason for that.

Read this comprehensive Florence travel guide to learn how to get around in Florence, must-visit attractions and local tips, the best time to visit Florence, and many more!

Where is Florence Located?

Florence is the capital city of Tuscany, located in central Italy. It is the most populated city in Tuscany, with a population of approximately 370,000 as of 2023.

Spanning 40 square miles, Florence is situated on the Arno River and surrounded by the Tuscan countryside, which is known for its stunning landscape, rich artistic heritage, and renowned wineries.

Quick Facts about Florence, Italy

Name: Firenze (Italian)
Region: Tuscany
Area: 102 square kilometers (39 square miles)
Districts: 5 administrative districts (Quartieri)
Population: ~380,000 (city), ~1.5 million (metropolitan area)
Top Attractions: Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Galleria dell'Accademia (Michelangelo’s David), Palazzo Pitti, Piazza della Signoria, Boboli Gardens, Basilica di Santa Croce

Getting to Florence

Getting to Florence is as exciting as the journey you’ll have in the city. Florence is well-connected with the rest of Italy and Europe, both by land and air.

While you can get to the city by plane and bus easily, Florence also stands out as a major hub for the railway network in Italy, which connects it to the other major cities and makes traveling between two cities much easier.

There are many convenient ways to get to Florence, and each node of transportation below offers a different experience for visitors who are traveling from different parts of the world.

Transportation Options:

Flights: There are two main airports that you can choose to get to Florence. Amerigo Vespucci (Florence Airport) is a small one for direct flights from Europe, and it’s located close to Florence’s city center. Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport), on the other hand, is the international one for long-haul flights, and it’s 53 miles from Florence. Both airports offer various transportation options to reach the city center, mainly trams, buses, and shuttle services.
Trains: There are many railway stations in the city, but the main train station is Santa Maria Novella (SMN), which is located near some of the major attractions in the city. This station handles both the high-speed trains (Frecciarossa and Italo) and the international train routes that are connected to the other European cities. Other notable stations include Florence Campo di Marte and Florence Rifredi, which also handle more regional routes and long-distance trains.
Buses: There are many bus options in Florence, with regional and long-distance buses. One of the companies that run buses in Florence is FlixBus, which has a very extensive network that allows travelers to reach Tuscany and Florence, alongside other European cities like Madrid, Paris, and others. The company offers tickets at affordable prices, making it a top choice among travelers. Most of the buses arrive at the Piazzale Montelungo, which is the bus station near the Santa Maria Novella (SMN).
Driving: Driving to Florence is ideal for those who would like to have a scenic ride along the Tuscany countryside. Italy's main highway is A1 Autostrada, which is connected to major Italian cities, including Rome and Milan. However, there's a restriction called ZTL, ‘Zona a Triffico Limitato’, in the historic center. This is an area controlled by cameras where driving is restricted, and you would need permission to drive there before your planned travel.

Arriving in Florence

Amerigo Vespucci Airport (Florence Airport): The city center can be easily reached from the airport, by trams and taxis. There’s a new tram line called T2, which connects the train station to the airport, and this shuttle tram is the cheapest and easiest way to reach the center. In addition to the tram, taxis can be used by those who are staying far from the SMN station. Taxis have a fixed rate from €22 to €28, from the airport to anywhere in the center.
Santa Maria Novella (SMN): Major attractions of the city can be reached easily from the train station, as Florence is pretty compact. Multiple Autolinee Toscane buses run from the SMN station, as well as taxis and two tram lines called T1 and T2. Reaching the central points of Florence, like the Duomo, takes approximately 10–15 minutes on foot. For those who don’t want to walk, taxis and public transport can easily be reached, with each of them stopping by the key attractions in the city.
Piazzale Montelungo and Parking Areas: After arriving at the Piazzale Montelungo bus station via a long-distance bus, the easiest way to transfer to a public bus is to walk to the SMN station. The walk takes a few minutes, and you can use public transport from there to reach the central areas. On the other hand, most areas of Florence are restricted to access by driving, so unless you don’t have a permit for ZTL, you can’t drive in most parts of the city. Read here for detailed information about the ZTL restrictions.

Public Transport in Florence

From how to get around in the city to available public transport options, being prepared for the journey is the best way to save time. Key attractions in Florence can be easily reached by using trams and buses, while pedestrian-only streets provide a safe way to roam around the city.

How to Get Around in Florence?

Florence is a small, compact city, and the easiest way to get around the city is by walking. The reason for that is because, in Florence, it’s possible to walk almost everywhere.

Between two key attractions, such as the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze and Ponte Vecchio, it only takes approximately 15 minutes to walk. However, public transport is pretty effective and still commonly used by those who want to reach far points in the city.

Trams: There are two tram lines that are operating in Florence. T1 line starts from the Scandicci (Villa Costanza) and ends in Careggi Hospital located in the north. This line also passes from the Santa Maria Novella station. T2 line starts from the Unità stop near the SMN, and runs until the airport.
Buses: Buses in Florence are commonly used and pretty affordable. There are more than 100 bus lines that go through the city. Operated under the Autolinee Toscane, C1, C2, C3, and D buses are the ones that go to and around the Duomo area, and other buses reach further points in the city.

Must-See Attractions in Florence

Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo): Recognized as one of the most significant landmarks of Florence, the Florence Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece from the 14th century.
Palazzo Vecchio: Situated in the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio is the town hall of the city and a symbol of the political and civic power of Florence.
Uffizi Gallery: One of the most known museums in the world, the Uffizi Gallery holds a unique collection of Renaissance artworks from famous painters like Botticelli, Da Vinci, and Raphael.
Ponte Vecchio: The oldest bridge in Florence and the one of the most famous one in the world, Ponte Vecchio is a significant landmark that spans the Arno River.
Galleria dell’Accademia: A world-famous art museum that stands out the most for Michelangelo's sculpture David. The museum boasts a diverse collection of Renaissance art, including paintings and sculptures.
Piazzale Michelangelo: The most famous viewpoint of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is located on a hill, offering magnificent views over the city.
Basilica di Santa Croce: Renowned for being the biggest Franciscan church in the world, Santa Croce features monumental tombs of illustrious figures like Michelangelo and Galilei.

More Fun Things to Do in Florence

Stroll through. Boboli Gardens: Just behind the Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens is an outdoor museum where you can admire lush gardens, stunning sculptures, and water fountains. It offers a serene atmosphere, making it ideal for peaceful and scenic walks.
Visit Mercato Centrale: Famous market halls in the San Lorenzo district, Mercato Centrale is the place where you can find fresh ingredients, local produce, and delicious foods. Here, you can take a walk through the stalls and try the food in the eating areas.
Take a Day Trip to Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti, and Pisa: Take a scenic day trip to the Tuscany towns and cities of Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa, and stop by a winery in Chianti for a unique wine-tasting experience.
Join an Arno River Cruise: Join a sightseeing tour with an Arno River cruise and experience the charming atmosphere of this waterway. Float underneath the Ponte Vecchio and take in the stunning scenery of Florence.

Absolutely Free Things to Do in Florence

Piazza della Signoria: Take a walk around the square’s historical buildings, and admire the stunning sculptures around it for free.
San Lorenzo Market: Enjoy the most famous outdoor market of Florence, and find unique leather goods, hand-crafted items, and charming souvenirs.
The Medici Villas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Medici villas and gardens are free to visit, featuring stunning architecture, rich history, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Rose Garden (Giardino delle Rose): Situated below the Piazzale Michelangelo, visit the Rose Garden to witness spectacular views, 350 varieties of roses, lemon trees, and many others.
San Miniato al Monte: One of the greatest examples of Tuscan Romanesque architecture, this church is located at one of the highest points in the city, and visiting here is completely free.

When is the Best Time to Visit Florence?

The best time to visit Florence can vary greatly depending on what you expect from your trip. The city offers unique experiences and things to do in each season.

However, when planning your trip, it’s important to consider the varying weather conditions, including scorching heat and freezing cold, crowds of tourists at must-visit destinations, and popular annual events.

Spring (March-May): Ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and attractions due to its colorful spring scenery with vibrant flowers and mild weather. Usually considered the best time to visit Florence, since the crowds are also relatively low.
Autumn (September-November): Also one of the best seasons to visit Florence, as the weather is not as hot as summer, and the crowds start to shrink. It’s also the harvest season, so it’s ideal for trips to the villages of Tuscany.

Summer (June-August): It’s the hottest time in Florence, especially during June and August. Expect higher prices and larger crowds, but summer in Florence is also perfect for a variety of festivals and outdoor activities.
Winter (December-February): Not the best time in terms of the weather, but winter is ideal for museum-hopping and various indoor activities, with fewer crowds. Also suitable for budget travelers, with lower flight and hotel rates.

Upcoming Holidays, Festivals and Events in Florence, Italy

Public holidays and school breaks can impact your visit to Florence, influencing crowd levels, attraction availability, and accommodation costs. For a quieter experience, consider planning your trip outside of these peak periods.

On the other hand, holidays, festivals, and events offer a special opportunity to enjoy Florence’s vibrant cultural celebrations and festive atmosphere.

New Year's Day (January 1st)
Epiphany (January 6th): This religious celebration takes place on January 6, and it celebrates the three Wise Men arriving in Bethlehem to visit Jesus. The Epiphany involves a long parade from Piazza Pitti to Piazza del Duomo in costumes.
Easter Sunday - Scoppio del Carro (June 24th): Celebrated on June 24th, this is one of the oldest traditions of Florence. It involves a decorated cart being pulled by oxen from Porta al Prato to the Piazza del Duomo, along with various other performances.
Festa di San Giovanni & Calcio Storico: Held in honor of Florence's patron saint, the Festa di San Giovanni celebrations include various religious ceremonies, parades, and Calcio Storico, a form of sport played in the 16th century.
Florentine New Year (March 25): An official holiday celebrated on March 25, this traditional New Year dates back from the Middle Ages to 1750. The celebrations include a historical procession starting from the Palagio di Parte Guelfa to the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.
Christmas Day (December 25th)

School holidays in Italy generally follow a national calendar with breaks in:

Christmas and New Year (about two weeks)
Easter (one week)
Summer break (late June to early September)

How Many Days to Spend in Florence?

From historical museums and churches to lush gardens and breathtaking views, Florence is the perfect destination to mix and match various attractions and create the perfect itinerary for one or several days.

1-2 Days: Ideal for visiting the highlights of Florence, including Santa Maria del Fiore, Palazzo Vecchio, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, and Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze.
3-4 Days: For a more relaxed trip, you can combine top attractions with leisurely trips to the Boboli Gardens and the Piazzale Michelangelo, as well as day trips to the Chianti wine region.
5+ Days: Longer stays are perfect for in-depth explorations of historical sites and museums, cultural day trips to nearby Tuscany cities like Lucca, Pisa, and Siena, and shopping at the Ponte Vecchio, or San Lorenzo Market.

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Where to Stay in Florence?

Even though it’s quite a small city and everywhere can be reached on foot, where you’ll be accommodated during your trip matters greatly. While there is so much to see and explore, choosing the right place to stay based on your preferences can highly enhance your Florence trip.

From the Duomo, which is the city center, to the vibrant Santa Croce or the stylish Oltrarno, Florence offers plenty of options to choose from for families, solo travelers, couples, or luxury seekers.

Here are the most popular neighborhoods for tourists in Florence:

Centro Storico - Near The Duomo & Piazza della Signoria: The city center of Florence is the area near the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, and this is a perfect place to stay if you’re a first-timer, or luxury seeker in Florence. Centro Storico is the most touristic area for a stay, as it’s close to the major attractions, including the Ponte Vecchio, Galleria della Uffizi, Fountain of Neptune, and others. In addition to these landmarks, there are also lots of cafes, restaurants, and shops in this area.
Santa Croce: For those who are looking for a more quiet area with a close distance to the city center, Santa Croce is an ideal place to stay with its relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the more expensive areas due to its strategic location and being home to some historical attractions like the Basilica of Santa Croce and Casa Buonarroti, so it wouldn’t be the best choice for budget travelers, but for families, because of its tranquil atmosphere and quiet streets.
Santa Maria Novella: This district is mainly known for being home to the main train station of Florence, and proximity to the city center. Santa Maria Novella is especially ideal for business travelers who need to commute during their trip, and budget travelers due to the affordable hotels in the area. The highlights of the area include the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, which is a must-visit in Florence, and there are also plenty of beautiful places to dine and shop.
Oltrarno / Santo Spirito: Also known as the “other side of the Arno River”, Oltrarno is perfect for travelers who prefer fewer crowds, more green spaces, and residential areas. It may not be perfect for first-timers due to its distance from the center and the landmarks of Florence. Oltrarno mostly features artisan workshops, stylish boutiques, and lively bars. If you’re traveling with your family, you’ll appreciate the neighborhoods around Santo Spirito, as they offer plenty of restaurants and open spaces for kids to enjoy.

Best Areas to Stay in Florence for Every Type of Traveler

Families: Near Oltrarno and surrounding countryside like the Florence Hills are ideal for quiet and relaxing trips.
Couples: San Niccolò offers a romantic atmosphere with charming streets, stunning views, and proximity to Piazzale Michelangelo.
Solo Travelers: Santa Croce is quieter than the center, but still lively with plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Honeymooners & Luxury Seekers: Centro Storico near the Duomo offers luxurious and comfortable accommodations close to the top attractions of Florence.

Tips for Choosing the Right Area in Florence

Consider the need for transportation: If you plan to use public transportation, or go on day trips, you may want to consider choosing a place to stay near the train station (Santa Maria Novella).
Proximity to attractions: Even though the city is compact and everything is close to each other, staying in a central place can help you save time while visiting major attractions.
Purpose of the trip: Based on your priorities, it may be ideal to stay in livelier and busier areas for bar and restaurant access, or quieter ones if you're visiting with your family, or seeking relaxation.
Set your budget: Avoiding touristy and central areas can help you manage your budget while allowing you to experience the more local areas of Florence.

Dining in Florence

Dining culture in Florence mostly comes from the Tuscan tradition, which largely includes dishes cooked with olive oil and fresh organic produce.

From famous Tuscan wines to desserts and foods that are unique to Florence, you’ll experience the essence of the city with each bite. Whether enjoying a warm plate of Ribollita or satisfying your senses with Bistecca Fiorentina, Florence offers the best culinary experience.

Must-Try Foods and Drinks in Florence

Bistecca Fiorentina: This Florentine steak is made from Chianina cattle, and it’s a T-bone steak that is cooked rare and served thick. It’s one of the most famous dishes of Florence, and a must-try for meat lovers.
Ribollita: A traditional Tuscan soup that is made of beans, carrots, cabbage, and bread, ribollita is usually left to sit overnight and then reboiled to make it even tastier.
Schiacciata Sandwiches: For an authentic Florentine snack, try schiacciata sandwiches made with the local flatbread schiacciata. These sandwiches are typically filled with various ingredients like ham, salami, and cheese, offering a true taste of Florentine street food. All’ Antico Vinaio and Pino are highly recommended.
Lampredotto: A very popular street food in Florence, lampredotto is a kind of sandwich made with the fourth stomach of cattle, and it’s a really delicious food that you must try!
Trippa alla Fiorentina: Has been a part of the Florentine tradition for centuries, trippa alla Fiorentina is a slow-cooked soup with beef tripe, tomato sauce, onion, carrot, celery, and herbs.
Chianti Wine: Produced from Sangiovese grapes, Chianti is one of the famous wines of Tuscany. This wine also complements the Florentine dishes perfectly.
Schiacciata alla Fiorentina: This is a soft and fluffy cake flavored with orange zest that is unique to Florence, and it’s usually enjoyed during the Carnival.

Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients

Florentine cuisine is rooted in simplicity, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll find dishes featuring olive oil, tomatoes, beans, and hearty vegetables. Expect seasonal specials like porcini mushrooms in autumn, chestnuts, and artichokes, which are often integrated into traditional dishes.

Dining Etiquette

Florentine dining customs reflect a deep respect for food and tradition. It’s customary to linger over meals and savor each course. In many restaurants, a cover charge (coperto) is added to your bill. Tipping is appreciated, but not obligatory. Be mindful of meal times—Florentines eat lunch around 1:00 PM and dinner typically starts after 8:00 PM.

Restaurants

For a true taste of Florence, dine at classic trattorias like Trattoria Mario or Trattoria dall'Oste known for their authentic Florentine cuisine. If you’re looking for something more upscale, Enoteca Pinchiorri, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a gourmet take on Tuscan classics with an impressive wine list.

Gelato

Florence is also known for its gelato, with some of the best spots in Italy found here. Indulge in flavors like pistachio, chocolate, and fruit sorbets at famous gelaterias like Gelateria dei Neri or La Carraia. Be sure to try gelato artigianale, which is made with fresh, natural ingredients for an authentic Florentine treat.

Tuscan Specialties

A trip to Florence isn’t complete without tasting iconic Tuscan dishes. Enjoy bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick, juicy steak cooked over an open flame, or ribollita, a comforting bread and vegetable soup. For pasta lovers, pappardelle al cinghiale (wide ribbon pasta with wild boar sauce) is a must-try.

Wine Windows (Buchette del Vino)

Florence is home to the charming buchette del vino or wine windows, small openings on historic buildings used in the past to serve wine directly to customers. These windows, which became popular again during the pandemic, offer a unique way to enjoy a glass of Tuscan wine. You can find them at spots like Osteria Belle Donne or Babae, where this tradition comes alive.

Shopping in Florence

If you’re visiting Florence, you can’t go back home with empty hands! Whether it's a handmade product that you’re looking for, or high-quality jewelry to keep forever, there is a wide range of souvenirs and gifts that you can buy in Florence to cherish your trip.

What to Buy in Florence

Handcrafted Items: From ceramics and textiles to wooden goods, handcrafted items are quite popular in Florence. These products can be found in Oltrarno’s artisan workshops, where unique and traditional items are crafted.
Leather Goods: Florence is renowned for its high-quality leather goods, including wallets, belts, and bags. There are many places where you can buy leather products in the city, and San Lorenzo Market is one of them.
Olive Oil: When it comes to harvested products in Florence, olive oil shows up at the top of the list. Produced with the highest quality, Tuscan olive oil is one of the best souvenirs.
Tuscan Wine: Tuscany is known for its medieval towns, scenic countryside, and vineyards. This region produces some of the finest wines in Italy, which makes them a great souvenir to buy!
Marbled Paper: The city is famous for marbled paper, and marbled paper products make the best gifts. These products often include journals, book bindings, and a variety of stationery items.
Gold Jewelry: Florence has been known for its goldsmithing tradition, which makes it an ideal destination to find the finest gold jewelry. It won't be inexpensive, but this is the destination for the most unique items in the market.

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Best Areas to Go Shopping in Florence

Via de’ Tornabuoni: One of the most prestigious shopping streets of Florence, here you can find designer brands like Prada, Gucci, Versace, and others.
San Lorenzo Market: This market is famous for its variety of leather goods and souvenirs. From affordable goods to high-quality products, San Lorenzo Market is ideal for budget travelers seeking to buy affordable leather products.
Ponte Vecchio: Filled with fine jewelry and gold accessory shops, Ponto Vecchio offers a luxurious and touristy shopping experience.
Via dei Calzaiuoli: Ideal for both luxury seekers and budget travelers, Via dei Calzaiuoli is a popular shopping street that features high street and luxury brands.
Mercato Sant’Ambrogio: For those who would like to try Tuscan delicacies and buy local ingredients, this market offers a great variety of fresh produce, including meats and cheeses.
Via della Vigna Nuova: Another popular shopping street, this place is ideal for buying designer items from famous brands, such as Roberto Cavalli, Pomellato, and Trussardi.
The Mall Firenze: This mall is situated outside the city, and it features discounted items from high-fashion brands like Gucci, Armani, and Saint Laurent.

Payment, Credit Cards, and Tipping in Florence

It’s pretty common to use credit cards in Florence, as they are accepted almost anywhere. However, it would still be a good idea to carry some cash with you, since paying something under $5 or so is still common and more convenient in some places.

Tipping is not mandatory in Florence but is still appreciated, especially if the service is good. With that being said, in almost every restaurant in Italy, you may come across something called “coperto” on your bill. Ranging between 1 to 5 Euros, coperto is typically a cover charge per person in restaurants, and no, it’s not a tip.

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Traveler Tips for Visiting Florence

Read these traveler tips and facts about Florence to get yourself familiar with the culture and daily practices, and enjoy hassle-free travel.

Did you know that all of the state-run museums are closed on Mondays in Florence? So, if you’re planning a Florence itinerary for a couple of days, delay the museum visits before or after Mondays.
Unfortunately, pickpockets are no exception in Florence either. Keep an eye on your personal belongings all the time, and stay alert while traveling the Duomo and surrounding narrow streets.
Don’t eat or drink anything on the church steps in Florence. It’s prohibited to do so since the rise in litter on the streets has resulted from the increasing number of tourists participating in this activity.
Don’t hail taxis to stop them. It’s not a common practice, and people call operators to request a taxi or look for taxi stands that can be easily found in most tourist areas.
Make sure to dress modestly when visiting Florence's churches. Shoulders and knees should be covered to adhere to local customs.
Plan Ahead for Popular Attractions. Florence’s top attractions, such as the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell'Accademia, can get very crowded. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long wait times.
Use Public Water Fountains: Florence has several "nasoni" fountains where you can fill up reusable bottles with clean drinking water for free. A notable fountain in Piazza della Signoria even offers both sparkling and regular water! You can find it here on Google Maps.