Florence travel guide

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Introduction to Florence

Florence, known for its incredible Ponte Vecchio, Piazza del Duomo, and Piazzale Michelangelo, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This Italian city, located in Tuscany, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 380.9 thousand people, Florence is truly one of the main highlights of Italy.

Easily accessible from the Florence airport, Florence is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Italy. Travelers looking to experience the best of Italy often choose to stay in Florence.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Florence below!

History of Florence

Florence, nestled in the heart of Italy's Tuscany region, is a city with a rich and storied history. Known as the 'Cradle of the Renaissance', Florence was the epicenter of a cultural and artistic explosion in the 14th century.

The city was founded by the Romans in 59 BC and prospered under the rule of the powerful Medici family in the 15th century. During this time, Florence saw significant advancements in art, architecture, politics, and science, with notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo leaving their mark here.

The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery, that represent the city's rich past. Despite suffering during World War II, Florence's historical structures have been well-preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in its unique history.

Top services in Florence

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Florence, Italy. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 332 airlines that fly to Italy. Browse the 1958 top-rated tours available to you in Florence. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Florence.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Florence, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Florence on your vacation in Italy.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Florence from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Florence!

Best time to visit Florence

The best time to explore Florence is during the late spring, from April to June, and early autumn, from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 18-24°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Florence's signature event, the Scoppio del Carro, is held in April, offering a unique cultural experience. However, these seasons also draw significant crowds, so booking accommodations and attractions in advance is advisable. For travelers who prefer a quieter visit, November to March presents an alternative. Though colder (around 8-15°C), these months are less crowded. The winter season is also adorned with festive lights and Christmas markets, providing a different charm to the city. Regardless of the time of year, Florence always has something unique to offer. The best time to visit Florence thus depends largely on your personal preferences and the kind of experience you seek.

Weather in Florence

Florence, Italy enjoys a humid subtropical climate, experiencing hot summers and cool, damp winters. Summer temperatures, from June to August, usually range from 26°C to 35°C. The city can become quite hot and humid, especially in July and August. Autumn, in contrast, is typically mild and wet, while winters, from December to February, are cool with temperatures often dropping to around 1°C at night. Snow is rare but possible. Spring, from March to May, is arguably the best time to visit Florence weather-wise, with a pleasant average temperature ranging from 12°C to 24°C.

Florence has a considerable amount of rainfall throughout the year, even in the driest month. The wettest period tends to be in November. Extreme weather conditions are relatively rare, but heatwaves can occur in the summer months. It is advisable for travelers to carry lightweight clothing for the summer, a sturdy umbrella for the rainy months, and warm clothing for the winter.

Local tip for visiting Florence

One insider tip when visiting Florence is to explore the city during its early morning hours. The city, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, can get quite crowded with tourists during the day. However, the morning hours, especially around sunrise, provide a peaceful, lesser-known perspective of Florence's picturesque landmarks. Start your day by visiting the Piazza della Signoria or the Piazza del Duomo before the crowds arrive, soaking in the quiet beauty and historical ambiance. Or, take an early morning stroll along the Arno River, relishing the stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio in the tranquil dawn light. Not only will you enjoy these iconic sights sans the hustle, but you'll also get to experience Florence just like a local - serene and splendid. Remember, the early bird catches the best view in Florence.

Learn more about Italy

There are many reasons to visit the city of Florence, but a trip to Italy needs no explanation.

Exploring Italy, which spans 301,338 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Italy offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Ponte Vecchio, Piazza del Duomo, and the Piazzale Michelangelo, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Italy.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Italy.

What to see in Florence

Photo of Florence Aerial View of Ponte Vecchio Bridge during Beautiful Sunny Day, Italy.

Florence has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Florence.

Top attractions in Florence

Home to plenty of top attractions, Florence is more than just a wonderful city in Italy. Florence is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Italy.

One fascinating sight in Florence is the unforgettable Ponte Vecchio. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Florence.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Italy, check out our list of top attractions in Florence below. Discover the best places to visit in Florence, including the fascinating Ponte Vecchio, Piazza del Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Piazza della Signoria.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Florence.

Things to do in Florence

Photo of Woman enjoys beautiful view on famous Duomo cathedral in Florence, standing on empty cathedral square during morning time.

Enrich your travel experience in Florence by joining tours and activities. Florence offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Florence below.

Most popular experiences in Florence

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Florence.

Florence offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Bus Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Italy.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Florence by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Florence

Travelers in Florence can choose from 20 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Florence is the fantastic The History of Florence: Famous Historical Families Private Tour. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Florence one of the best travel destinations in Italy.

Florence also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Original Florence Walking Tour is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 3 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Florence. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 286 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Florence and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Florence below.

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Discover the best things to do in Florence. Choose from 1958 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Florence. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Florence

Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, is equally renowned for its culinary prowess. The city's gastronomic scene is a blend of traditional Tuscan fare and innovative Italian cuisine. For the best places to eat in Florence, explore the bustling Mercato Centrale, a food lover's paradise brimming with street food stalls offering Florentine staples like the 'lampredotto' sandwich. Further afield, the chic Oltrarno district is home to a plethora of trendy eateries and artisanal gelaterias. Here, you can sample 'bistecca alla Fiorentina', a mouth-watering Tuscan-style T-bone steak, and 'ribollita', a hearty peasant soup. For a more refined dining experience, head towards the Piazza della Signoria. This area is dotted with high-end restaurants like Enoteca Pinchiorri, a three-Michelin-starred establishment known for its exquisite wine selection and innovative Italian dishes. When dining in Florence, remember that Italians usually eat late, with dinner starting from 8 pm. Whether you're indulging in street food or splurging on a Michelin-starred meal, Florence promises a culinary experience unlike any other.

Nightlife in Florence

Florence, a city renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture, transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub when the sun sets. The city's unique night culture is a blend of classic Italian charm and modern entertainment. The best area for bars in Florence is Santo Spirito, a neighborhood famous for its lively atmosphere and variety of bars and clubs. Head to Volume for an eclectic mix of music and artisan cocktails, or enjoy a glass of local wine at Enoteca Sant'Ambrogio, a must-visit for wine lovers.

Moving north, you'll find the Piazza della Signoria, another lively district brimming with open-air cafes and bars. Here, you can unwind at Cafe Rivoire, a historic coffee house turned cocktail bar. For a memorable night out in Florence, don't miss a visit to the rooftop bar at the Westin Excelsior, where you can sip a cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Florence's nightlife scene is vibrant yet relaxed, offering a range of experiences from casual drinks to late-night dancing.

Best Shopping in Florence

Florence, Italy's fashion and craftsmanship capital, offers a vibrant shopping scene. For luxury aficionados, Via de' Tornabuoni is the best place to go shopping in Florence. It hosts high-end brands like Gucci and Ferragamo, both born in this city. For a more local experience, visit the San Lorenzo Market. Here, you'll find the city's finest leather goods, a must-buy souvenir. Florence is also known for its goldsmiths; Ponte Vecchio, the medieval stone bridge lined with jewelry shops, is the perfect place to buy exquisite gold jewelry.

The Mall, an outdoor shopping centre just outside the city, offers designer brands at discounted prices. For those seeking local crafts, the Oltrarno district is home to many artisan workshops. Traditional Florentine paper, known as 'carta Fiorentina', makes for a unique gift. Practical tip: many shops close for a midday 'riposo', usually from 1pm-3.30pm, so plan your shopping day accordingly. Whether you're after high fashion, local crafts or tasty delicacies, Florence's shopping scene has something for every taste.

Best Free Things to Do in Florence

Florence, Italy's Renaissance capital, doesn't have to cost a fortune. The best free things to do in Florence are sprinkled with history, culture, and breathtaking views. Start at the iconic Piazza della Signoria, a vibrant open-air sculpture exhibit featuring replicas of famous statues such as Michelangelo's David. Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge known for its unique shops and stunning views of the Arno River. Enjoy a leisurely walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers panoramic views of the city's skyline dominated by the majestic Duomo. Be sure to visit the vibrant San Lorenzo Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and sample delicious Italian produce for free. Additionally, on the first Sunday of the month, state museums like the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti offer free entry, allowing you to soak in masterpieces from artists like Botticelli and da Vinci. Lastly, the serene Boboli Gardens, while typically paid, are also free on the first Sunday, providing a peaceful escape filled with sculptures, fountains, and verdant landscapes.

Vacation packages in Florence

Photo of Summer street cafe on Piazza della Repubblica in Florence, Toscana province, Italy.

The best and easiest way to visit Florence is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Italy.

Booking a vacation package to Florence means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Florence to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Florence is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 231 unique vacation packages to Florence, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Florence.

Popular types of vacations in Florence

The most popular way to experience Florence is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Italy. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Florence on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Italy, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Italy, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Florence, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Florence below.

Top vacation packages in Florence

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Italy. In fact, you can choose from as many as 231 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Florence, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Italy.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Florence.

For an epic vacation, discover Florence and other top destinations in Italy on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Italy Road Trip from Florence traveling west to Milan, Verona, Arezzo, and Rome. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Florence, but also in other top places to visit in Italy. If Ponte Vecchio, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signoria are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Florence, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Italy City Break in Florence and spend as little as 278 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Florence, including the fantastic Ponte Vecchio, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Central Market.

Get more Florence vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Italy that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Florence

Discover and compare 231 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Florence.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Florence get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Italy. Your customized holiday package to Florence is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Florence

To get to the city of Florence the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Italy can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Florence by booking flights with any of the 35 airlines that offer direct flights to Florence airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Florence airport are Azul, United Airlines, LATAM Airlines, Air China, and Lufthansa. Go to this page to compare all flights to Florence.

To reach the city of Florence, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Florence airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Florence, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Florence airport and Florence below.

Find cheap flights to Florence

Photo of Giotto's Campanile - An aerial dusk view of Giotto's Campanile and the historical Old Town of Florence, as seen from the top of Brunelleschi's Dome of the Florence Cathedral. Florence, Tuscany, Italy.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Florence, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Italy. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Florence, Italy, in October.

The cheapest one-way flight to Florence costs around 22 EUR and is offered by the airline Vueling.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Florence cost approximately 30 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on January 9 and the return flight is scheduled on January 18. The flight time is around 2 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Turin.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Italy and the city of Florence from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Florence

Travelers visiting Florence in Italy can fly to Florence airport directly from 1504 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Florence airport and the city of Florence in Italy depart from Florence Regional airport in Florence, the United States, Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States, and Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

Travelers can fly to Italy by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Florence; from 6 weekly flight(s) from Greenville; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Kingston.

The airline that operates most flights to Italy is Cambodia Angkor Air. Cambodia Angkor Air offers 5 scheduled flight routes to Italy.

Discover the most popular flights to Florence below. Click to view flights to Florence, Italy from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Florence

Photo of Ponte Vecchio, old bridge over Arno River, Florence, Tuscany, Italy.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Florence is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Florence usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Florence offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Florence and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Florence planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Italy can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Florence. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Florence.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Florence in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Florence

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Florence provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Florence. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Florence

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Florence for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Florence provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Florence are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Florence.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Florence. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Florence on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Florence that match the information provided.

Car rental in Florence

Photo of The Colossus of the Apennines, majestic stone sculpture by Giambologna located in the park of Villa Demidoff in Florence, Italy.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Florence. Florence has 12 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Florence start from 33.71 EUR per day or 235.95 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is an Opel Astra Automatic.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Florence, starting from 23.95 EUR per day or 167.65 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Smart Fortwo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Florence, Italy, below.

Popular types of car rental in Florence

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Florence to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Florence can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Italy at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Florence is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Florence is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Florence.

Check out all options available in Florence and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Italy below.

Search for car rental in Florence

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Florence. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Florence, Italy, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Florence

Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, offers a variety of transportation options that cater to every traveler's needs.

The city's public transit system, operated by ATAF, includes buses and trams that provide comprehensive coverage of the city and its suburbs. While the historic center is easily walkable, these public transit options are ideal for reaching peripheral locations. For more personalized service, taxis are readily available throughout the city, and can be hailed from the street, picked up at taxi stands or booked in advance.

For those who prefer to drive, rental cars are available from several international and local companies. However, please be aware that Florence's city center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL) where only authorized vehicles can enter.

For a unique local transportation experience, consider renting a Vespa, a classic Italian scooter. This mode of transportation is not only fun but also allows you to navigate the city's narrow streets with ease. Alternatively, Florence also offers bike rentals for those who prefer a more active mode of transport.

Popular destinations to visit after Florence

Photo of Fountain of Neptune in Florence in early morning.

The city of Florence is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Italy. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Italy has it all.

Italy is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Italy that are as magical as the city of Florence. The most popular travel destinations in Italy are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Italy

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Italy. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Florence

Photo of Sunset view of Florence, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and Florence Duomo, Italy. Architecture and landmark of Florence. Cityscape of Florence.

A taste of Italy through a visit to Florence can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Florence to another remarkable destination in Italy.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Florence to other spectacular locations in Italy, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Florence

Traveling to another city or region in Italy? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Florence to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Italy on the selected dates.

Popular domestic flights from Florence

Travelers in Italy can catch flights to domestic airports in Rome, Palermo, Bari, Olbia, and Cagliari. Domestic flights in Italy are operated by 4 airlines: Volotea, Vueling, ITA Airways, and Aeroitalia. There are around 8 scheduled flight routes operating to Florence on a weekly basis.

From Florence, travelers can book scheduled flights to 7 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Florence depart to many top-rated destinations in Italy and are offered by Volotea, Vueling, and ITA Airways.

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