The heartbeat of the Tuscany region in Italy is Florence. Much like its cousin city to the south, Rome, Florence is filled with history, culture, and engineering greatness. There is just so much to take in and see and an endless array of things to do in Florence.
However, these are the seven things you must do while you are in Florence.
Best things to do in Florence
How do these rankings work?
1. Ponte Vecchio Bridge
Ponte Vecchio is to Florence what Charles Bridge is to Prague. It is a historical bridge that links Florence together as the Arno River flows beneath it. History shows that the built is roughly just over 1,000 years old and today, tourists and locals alike walk over it every day.
Walk across the historical Ponte Vecchio bridge and take in the sunset and the souvenir stands that line this bridge.
2. Uffizi Gallery
Uffizi Gallery is perhaps the largest collection of Renaissance art in Europe and is a must-visit. Some of Europe’s most illustrious artists have their artwork exhibited here including Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo, to name a few.
Avoid the lineups when you come to Uffizi Gallery by taking a ticket from the museum and come back at the assigned time on your ticket.
3. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or better and simply known as the Duomo, is the crown jewel landmark of Florence. Take the 463 steps up this dome to the top and admire the panoramic views of central Florence.
To avoid large crowds, try to come to the Duomo early in the morning.
4. Galleria dell’Accademia
Another great place for art lovers is the Galleria dell’Accademia. This gallery is home to Michelangelo’s most famous piece of work, The David. This piece of art is an absolute must-see because it was made with one block of marble over 500 years ago.
You will likely have to wait in line to enter the Galleria dell’Accademia but with the valuable collection of art that is here, it will be worth your time.
5. Giotto’s Bell Tower
Giotto’s Bell Tower is right next door to the Duomo, in a separate building. This magnificent structure of Gothic architecture allows you to also make your way up the 400+ steps to the top of the tower.
Climb up all the way to the top of the tower for the best views of the Duomo in Florence.
6. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Another Renaissance-inspired piece of architecture is the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Closely resembling the architecture of the Duomo, this Basilica also has finely-detailed frescos covering the ceilings and walls.
Come here to escape the crowds of the Duomo to see equally as beautiful Renaissance architecture.
7. Piazzale Michelangelo
One of the highest points in Florence may also be one of the hardest ones to get to. For the best panoramic views of Florence by far, make your way up hundreds of steps to the Piazzale Michelangelo.
Once you get to the top, the views are simply unbeatable in Florence and the atmosphere here is incredible with street musicians, streets shops, and lots of picture-taking!
