Combine Renaissance-era art, Gothic architecture and Italian charm and what do you get? Florence, of course! With so many sights and delights to feast on, it’s hard to know where to start. To help you, we’ve drawn up a list of our top ten must-dos. Here they are...
- Duomo
- The Uffizi Gallery
- Piazzale Michelangelo
- Ponte Vecchio
- Mercato Centrale
- Giotto’s Bell Tower
- Accademia Gallery
- Piazza della Signoria
- Boboli Gardens
- Shopping
1. Duomo
Possibly Florence’s most iconic landmark, the Duomo dominates the skyline with its terracotta tiles and intricately designed façade. Once inside, avert your eyes to the dome above and you’ll see it adorned with a detailed painting designed by Giorgio Vasari and titled, The Last Judgment. Highlights also include detailed mosaic floors and narrow steps that take visitors up to the top of Brunelleschi's famous dome.
2. The Uffizi Gallery
Art aficionados will be in their element at the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the most famous works of art in the world. Anyone who was anyone in the Renaissance art era has their paintings hanging on the walls of this gallery — we’re talking Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Displayed in chronological order, you can trace the evolution of art all the way from Greek sculptures to 18th-century Venetian paintings.
3. Piazzale Michelangelo
As the sun starts to set, crowds of people descend on this steeped spot on the south bank of the Arno River. The view you’ve seen on everyone’s Instagram posts? Yep, that’s from Piazzale Michelangelo. With views over the whole cityscape and out towards the Tuscan hillside, it’s no surprise that this spot is so popular. So, grab yourself an aperitivo, get your camera at the ready and prepare to enjoy Mother Nature’s spectacular sunset show.
4. Ponte Vecchio
Meaning ‘old bridge’ in Italian, and true to its name, Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence. It connects the north and south bank and offers lovely views across the river, especially as sunset. And if you’re in the market for some new bling, you’ll find plenty of jewellery shops tucked into the crevices of the bridge. Walks over the Arno River don’t get more romantic than this!
5. Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is a food-filled market offering up a delightful array of dishes that showcase the very best of Florence’s cuisine. On the first floor, you’ll mainly find local Florentines perusing the butchers and grocers, picking up their weekly produce. Head to the second floor, and you’ll stumble upon a buzzy food hall with lots of different vendors, selling everything from fried fish and truffles to pizza and fresh pasta. The king of Florentine street food, Lampredotto is found on many a menu. Why not give it a try?
6. Giotto’s Bell Tower
Nestled right next to the Duomo is Giotto’s Bell Tower, which is famed for its intricate Gothic carvings and hexagonal patterns. Ascend the 414 steps for a bird’s eye view of the neighbouring Duomo, along with sweeping views over the rest of the city.
7. Accademia Gallery
This must-visit gallery has long lured art fans who dream of catching a glimpse of arguably the most famous statue in the world, Michelangelo’s David. Look to the less crowded halls and uncover unsung gems like the Grand Ducal collection, which showcases over 40 instruments that once played a primary role in the Medicean Court’s official celebrations.
8. Piazza della Signoria
At first glance, Piazza della Signoria appears to be just a pretty piazza, but it’s long been the political and social hub of life in Florence. Between Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s city hall, and Loggia dei Lanzi, a series of statues, there are plenty of historically significant sights to see here. If you’re a bit of a fashionista, Gucci Garden, a museum displaying some iconic pieces by the brand, might be more up your street.
9. Boboli Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a stroll around the lush greenery of Boboli Gardens. Often described as one of the greatest open-air museums in Florence, this flora-filled spot houses everything from sculptures and fountains to tree-lined paths and manicured shrubbery. Fronted by Pitti Palace and designed by the Medici family, it became something of a prototype and model for many European gardens and courts.
10. Shopping
It’s well worth saving space in your suitcase to bring home some goodies, because Florence has got a stellar selection of shops! Via Roma has designer labels down, while Piazza della Repubblica houses all your high street favourites. Regardless of budget or taste, shopping in the city is a real pleasure.
Posted: 10th Aug 2023.