Top 21 Best Things To Do in Florence: Art, Culture, and Food

Let your curiosity guide you to uncover the top 21 best things to do in Florence—a city full of Renaissance wonders, irresistible flavors, and timeless stories. Savor Florentine cuisine, explore historic streets, and immerse yourself in the magic of this iconic city. Continue reading to plan your ultimate Florentine adventure!

Florence is a masterpiece brought to life where every experience feels like a brushstroke on a timeless canvas. This list reveals the top activities to inspire your ideal Florence itineraries. With a wide selection of tailored tours in Florence and a variety of Florentine travel packages, you can easily craft the perfect trip. Read on and start planning today!

21. Explore Armor and Art at Museo Stibbert

Visit Frederick Stibbert's Villa and Park at Museo Stibbert, where history and art collide in one of Florence's most fascinating attractions. Once the home of Frederick Stibbert, this remarkable collection houses artifacts from across the globe, reflecting a lifetime of passionate collecting.

At its heart lies an extraordinary collection of around 16,000 pieces of armor and weapons. These items vary from European knight attire to intricately crafted Japanese samurai gear. The life-sized armored displays bring centuries-old battles and traditions vividly to life.

But there’s more to explore. The museum’s lavish rooms overflow with stunning ceramics, rich textiles, and elegant furniture. Outside, the villa’s green garden provides the perfect place to unwind after diving deep into Florence’s rich cultural legacy.

20. Dine Like a Local at a Traditional Trattoria in Florence

For authentic Florentine lunch experiences, nothing beats a traditional trattoria. These family-run establishments are the beating heart of Italian culinary culture. Step inside and see rustic decor, checkered tablecloths, and the hum of lively conversation that feels like dining in a local’s home.

Savor dishes like Pici Cacio e Pepe, a simple yet tasty pasta made with thick, hand-rolled noodles tossed in a velvety sauce of pecorino cheese and cracked black pepper. Crafted from recipes passed down through generations, dishes served in trattorias pair perfectly with a glass of red wine.

19. Experience a Pasta-Making Class in Florence

Dive into the heart of Italian culture with a hands-on pasta-making class in Florence! Roll up your sleeves and learn the art of crafting fresh pasta from scratch. Guided by a local chef, you’ll master traditional techniques passed down through generations and, later, savor your handmade pasta paired with local wine. 

Even if you’re a kitchen pro or a complete beginner, this immersive experience lets you taste, feel, and truly connect with Florence’s rich culinary heritage. Level up your experience with a cooking class near the historic Brunelleschi's Dome or a Florentine combo pasta and tiramisu cooking class!

18. See Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novell

Looking for unique activities in Florence? Visit Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a 13th-century treasure blending history, luxury, and captivating scents. Established by Dominican friars in 1221, this iconic pharmacy offers a sensory journey through Florentine heritage.

Let the aromas of handcrafted perfumes and herbal remedies surround you as you wander through frescoed rooms and antique displays. To uncover centuries-old secrets, tour the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella and its Basilica. Or, shop for one-of-a-kind treasures that embody the city’s artisanal brilliance.

17. Journey Through Science at Museo Galileo

Explore the wonders of astronomy and innovation at Florence's Museo Galileo, where centuries of scientific breakthroughs are on display. This fascinating museum showcases groundbreaking inventions and the genius of Renaissance science.

A kid-friendly private tour of the Galileo Museum features interactive exhibits that bring physics and astronomy to life. See Galileo’s original telescopes, globes, and the Medici collections, showcasing the tools and discoveries that shaped our understanding of the universe.

16. Unwind in the Beauty of Giardino Bardini

Escape the city buzz to explore the many gardens of Florence. Tucked away in Florence’s Oltrarno district, the peaceful Giardino Bardini offers lush gardens, quiet paths, and stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.

Stroll through the enchanting wisteria tunnel, a seasonal spectacle best seen in spring. During this season, cascading purple blooms transform the garden into a fairytale setting. Climb the garden’s medieval staircase to soak in breathtaking vistas of the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio, or simply relax amidst lovely flowers and carefully curated greenery. 

15. Shop at Florence’s Leather Shops and Markets

Shopping experiences in Florence are treasure hunts through centuries of craftsmanship, especially when it comes to leather. The city’s markets and workshops are brimming with artisanal creations, from stylish handbags and belts to custom jackets and wallets.

Explore the buzzing San Lorenzo Market, where you can haggle for unique finds, or wander the Oltrarno district, home to skilled artisans creating bespoke leather treasures. Take home a piece of Florence’s artistry and unmatched elegance. Your perfect leather accessory is waiting!

14. Indulge in Florence’s Best Gelato

Immerse yourself in Florence’s food experiences and indulge in scoop after scoop of gelato! Enjoy creamy classics, explore creative options like lavender, or savor a refreshing scoop by the riverside. Chocolate lovers will be in heaven with the city’s indulgent dark chocolate gelato—a rich, velvety delight.

Want to take your gelato obsession to the next level? Join a pizza and gelato cooking class with your family and friends. Uncover the secrets of crafting this iconic dessert from scratch. So grab a scoop (or two) and let the sweet adventure begin!

13. Taste Authentic Florentine Pizza

Savor the best culinary tours of Florence and enjoy its delicious pizzas! Florentine pizza is all about simplicity and bold flavors, served on a thin, crispy crust kissed by the heat of a wood-fired oven. With fresh ingredients like tangy San Marzano tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil, every bite celebrates the delicious Florentine tradition.

For an unforgettable experience, book a Florentine pizza cooking class at a Tuscan farmhouse to learn the secrets behind crafting this iconic dish. You’ll master everything from kneading the dough to perfecting the toppings before enjoying your freshly made creation.

Prefer to leave it to the pros? Head to local pizza spots for a classic Margherita or experiment with toppings like prosciutto and seasonal veggies. Pair your slice with a glass of Chianti, and you’ve got the ultimate Florentine experience!

12. Discover Florence’s Hidden Wine Windows in Oltrarno

Go on a walking tour through Florence’s wine windows or buchette del vino. Found tucked into historic buildings, these tiny openings were once used by winemakers in the 16th century to sell their goods directly to passers-by.

The Oltrarno district is your go-to spot to find these hidden gems. Wander streets like Via dei Velluti, Piazza Santo Spirito, and Via Romana, where well-preserved wine windows peek out from centuries-old walls. Some of these windows are still in use, allowing you to sample Tuscan wines in the most unique way imaginable.

While exploring, pair your wine adventure with local bites as the sun sets in Florence. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the charming details against Florence’s beautiful backdrop to create a truly memorable shot.

11. Cruise Along the Arno River in Florence

Set sail on a traditional barchetto on the Arno River for a fresh perspective on Florence’s beauty. Pass under the arches of Florence's Ponte Vecchio bridge and feel the magic of this historic city come alive.  Expect incredible views and picture-perfect moments at every turn!

Feeling adventurous? Grab a kayak and paddle down the Arno through the Old Bridge for a close-up view of the city’s magic. Landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and the Florence Cathedral reflect beautifully on the water, especially at sunset when the golden light casts a dreamy glow.

10. Experience the Scenic Fiesole Hills

Trade the bustling streets of Florence for a half-day e-bike ride through the Fiesole Hills. This hilltop gem offers breathtaking panoramas of Florence. Arrive at sunset when the city glows golden from spots like Piazza Mino and the ancient Roman theater.

Alternatively, hike the Tuscan hills on trails once carved by locals excavating Pietraserena stones! Now, they weave through stunning olive groves and vineyards, perfect for a scenic adventure.

Monte Ceceri, a hill just outside Fiesole, adds a historical twist to your visit. Known for its breathtaking views, it’s where Leonardo da Vinci conducted experiments with his flying machines.

9. See Basilica di San Lorenzo and Cappelle Medicee

Dive into Florence’s history and artistry with a private guided tour of Florence's basilicas. Explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo and join an exclusive walkthrough of the stunning Cappelle Medicee. These iconic landmarks are a bold mix of Renaissance brilliance and Medici power!

Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is a masterpiece of balanced elegance. Inside, you’ll find frescoes and sculptures by Donatello.

Adjacent to the basilica, the Medici Chapels serve as the final burial ground for the Medici family. Amidst the marble interiors, you’ll find Michelangelo’s breathtaking sculptures, including the statues of Dusk and Dawn, celebrated for their emotional depth.

To fully appreciate the stories behind these landmarks, take a private guided tour of both Basilica di San Lorenzo and Cappelle Medicee. It’s the perfect way to uncover the legacy of the Medici family and Florence’s Renaissance spirit.

8. Sample Local Flavors at Florence’s Mercato Centrale

Head to Florence’s Mercato Centrale for an authentic food tour and discover rich Tuscan food traditions. Located in the bustling San Lorenzo district, this lively market is the city’s top food destination. It’s a haven for food lovers, blending traditional Tuscan flavors with modern culinary experiences.

Wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. Savor a classic lampredotto sandwich or indulge in freshly made pasta. The market buzzes with artisan pizzas, Tuscan wines, and an inviting, communal vibe.

For an interactive twist, join a cooking class paired with a market tour to get a hands-on experience of Tuscan cuisine. Before you leave, stock up on local treasures like premium olive oil, handmade pasta, or sweet cantucci biscuits.

7. Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce in Florence

Take a tour of the Basilica di Santa Croce, Florence’s grand Gothic masterpiece and the final resting place of Italy’s legends. Known as the Temple of Italian Glories, this breathtaking church showcases art, architecture, and history.

Inside, you’ll find the tombs of iconic figures like Michelangelo, whose resting place is as grand as his legacy, and Galileo, the father of modern science. Machiavelli, the political philosopher whose ideas still resonate today, is also honored within these historic walls. The basilica is also home to artistic marvels, featuring Giotto’s frescoes in the Bardi Chapel.

6. Explore Art at Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens

Experience Renaissance luxury on a private tour of Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens. These legendary landmarks are a whirlwind of rich history, world-class art, and stunning outdoor scenery—a Florence must-see that promises to captivate at every turn!

Inside Palazzo Pitti, marvel at the Palatine Gallery’s stunning collection. It features masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. Wander through the elegant Royal Apartments and the Museum of Costume and Fashion for a glimpse into centuries of Medici luxury.

The Boboli Gardens, just outside the palace, are a paradise for art and nature lovers alike. The Viottolone’s cypress-lined path and the whimsical Grotta del Buontalenti make the gardens an absolute stunner.

Families can enjoy an exciting treasure hunt through Boboli Gardens for a fun and interactive experience for kids. Meanwhile, Dan Brown fans will delight in a tour inspired by the Inferno novel, which explores Boboli Gardens and other scenes from the book.

5. Step Inside History at Palazzo Vecchio

Enjoy a private tour of Palazzo Vecchio to delve deep into Florence’s historic powerhouse, where politics, art, and history collide. Located within Piazza della Signoria, this medieval fortress has been the city’s town hall since the 14th century, with its striking Arnolfo Tower dominating the skyline.

Inside, every room reveals a story. The Salone dei Cinquecento dazzles with Vasari’s monumental frescoes. On the other hand, abundant spaces like Francesco I’s study and Eleonora di Toledo’s apartments reflect the grandeur of Medici luxury.

Palazzo Vecchio is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of its influential leaders. Don’t miss climbing the 308-foot (94-meter) Arnolfo Tower for sweeping views of Florence, offering a glimpse into the city as it once was.

4. Take In the Views at Piazzale Michelangelo

Take in the most breathtaking views of Florence on a private guided tour of Piazzale Michelangelo. Perched on a hill above the city, this scenic square offers a lovely panorama of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio, with the Tuscan countryside stretching beyond.

Want a fun and unique way to get there? Ride an electric bike up to Piazzale Michelangelo in the evening to see the city’s nighttime view. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk or bus ride from the city center and arrive at sunset when Florence is bathed in golden light. It’s perfect for a romantic evening or a stunning photo op!

3. Admire Michelangelo’s David at Galleria dell’Accademia

With a skip-the-line ticket to the Galleria dell’Accademia, you can avoid long waits and discover the brilliance of Michelangelo’s David right away. Towering over 17 feet (5 meters) tall, this iconic sculpture captures every detail of human anatomy with unmatched precision.

The Galleria dell’Accademia also features Michelangelo’s unfinished Prisoners, raw and powerful works that glimpse his creative genius. Exploring these creations offers a profound insight into Michelangelo's artistic journey and the relentless pursuit of perfection that defined his legacy.

2. Explore Masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery

Get a fast-track ticket to the Uffizi Gallery, where Renaissance comes to life with iconic masterpieces and legendary artists. Botticelli’s mesmerizing Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s gripping Medusa are just a glimpse of the sensory feast waiting in every room.

Pair your skip-the-line ticket with a private tour of the Uffizi Gallery and head straight into this treasure trove of art and history—it’s a game-changer for making the most of your visit. Once inside, you’ll find da Vinci’s Annunciation, Michelangelo’s Doni Tondo, and Botticelli’s Primavera, among countless other masterpieces!

1. Marvel at the Iconic Duomo Complex in Florence

No visit to Florence is complete without a guided tour of the Duomo Complex. It’s Florence’s crown jewel and the beating heart of the Renaissance. A stunning blend of art, architecture, and history, it’s a place where brilliance and beauty meet.

The complex is a collection of remarkable sites, each with its own story, coming together to create an unforgettable experience. Here are some attractions to explore in the Duomo Complex:

• The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Take in the beauty of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It’s the centerpiece of it all and is a work of art inside and out. Its colorful marble facade glows with Florentine flair. Inside, marvel at intricate chapels, glistening stained glass windows, and an atmosphere filled with centuries of history.

• Brunelleschi’s Dome

Brunelleschi’s Dome is the largest brick dome ever built, defying 15th-century expectations. With an audio guide, climb its 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi's Dome, where Florence spreads out before you like a living canvas. Don’t miss the frescoed interior, a celestial drama of the breathtaking Last Judgment.

• Giotto’s Bell Tower

Next door, Giotto’s Bell Tower awaits your climb. This 269-foot (82-meter) Gothic marvel impresses with its height and its intricate beauty. Polychrome marble shimmers in the sunlight, and detailed sculptures bring biblical stories to life. Ascend the 414 steps for a spectacular view of Florence.

• The Baptistery of St. John

Turn your gaze to the octagonal Baptistery of St. John, one of Florence’s oldest and most revered monuments. The golden Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti is an artistic masterpiece. Step inside and discover a glowing mosaic ceiling that feels like a divine jewel box.

• Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

For the true Renaissance aficionado, the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is a treasure trove. Home to Michelangelo’s unfinished Pieta and Donatello’s captivating sculptures, it’s where Florence’s artistic soul shines brightest. Dive into the history and craftsmanship of the Duomo itself as you admire the artifacts that shaped this masterpiece.

What are the most beautiful places in Florence?

The most beautiful places in Florence are the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo. Explore Florence's Duomo in a guided tour, witness its stunning Gothic architecture, and see Brunelleschi’s iconic dome. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with sweeping views of Florence’s red-tiled roofs and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

See the best of Florence and Ponte Vecchio, the city’s oldest bridge. This picturesque landmark is lined with artisan shops and offers romantic views of the Arno River. Its lively atmosphere and sunset reflections make it a must-see when in Italy.

Alternatively, hop on a bike and pedal your way through Florence to Piazzale Michelangelo. Here, you’ll be treated to the city’s best panoramic view, where the rolling Tuscan hills perfectly frame Florence’s iconic skyline. At sunset, the scene becomes pure magic as golden hues transform the city into a breathtaking masterpiece.

What are the most romantic things to do in Florence?

The most romantic things to do in Florence include watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo and strolling hand-in-hand along the Arno River. For a more unique experience, consider a dreamy hot air balloon ride over the Chianti Valley in the Tuscan countryside.

Quiet moments in lush gardens and candlelit dinners in historic squares are other subtly romantic things to do in Florence. With its breathtaking architecture, intimate cobblestone streets, and enchanting views, it's no wonder Florence is often celebrated as one of the most romantic cities in the world.

What are the best family-friendly things to do in Florence?

Family-friendly things to do in Florence include exploring Piazza Santo Spirito, visiting the Leonardo Interactive Museum, and enjoying a carousel ride in Piazza della Repubblica. Get your Leonardo Interactive Museum ticket for hands-on fun. It lets kids engage with models of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions while sparking creativity and curiosity.

Alternatively, Piazza Santo Spirito offers a relaxed atmosphere where kids can play while parents unwind in nearby cafes. Finally, the carousel in Piazza della Repubblica provides a delightful experience for younger children, combining classic charm with the lively energy of one of Florence’s iconic squares.

What are the best things to do in Florence for young adults?

The best things to do in Florence for young adults include exploring world-class art, enjoying serene gardens, and diving into the city’s lively nightlife. Join a small group tour of the Uffizi Gallery, where masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo offer an inspiring cultural experience.

For a relaxing escape, stroll through the Boboli and Bardini Gardens with a local guide. These stunning green spaces offer sweeping views of Florence, tranquil pathways, and charming features like Bardini’s famous wisteria tunnel and Boboli’s grand fountains.

As night falls, head to the Santo Spirito neighborhood, known for its bustling local scene. Packed with buzzing bars, casual cafes, and authentic Tuscan eateries, it’s the go-to area for aperitivos, live music, and mingling with locals.

What are the best free things to do in Florence?

Visiting Piazza del Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Loggia dei Lanzi are some of the best free things to do in Florence. Piazza del Duomo offers a chance to marvel at the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Enter the cathedral without charge to admire its magnificent frescoes and intricate marble details.

Piazzale Michelangelo provides a breathtaking spot for panoramic views of Florence, especially at sunset. The square features a replica of Michelangelo's David and is the perfect setting for relaxing and capturing stunning photos.

For art lovers, the Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria is an open-air museum featuring remarkable sculptures. These masterpieces showcase Florence’s artistic legacy and can be enjoyed for free amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the square. These experiences offer history, art, and stunning views, all without costing a thing.

What are the best non-touristy things to do in Florence?

Non-touristy things to do in Florence include exploring the Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio, visiting the Church of Ognissanti, and trying authentic lampredotto at a local food stall. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio offers fresh produce, cheeses, and Tuscan goods, giving you a true taste of local Florentine life.

On the other hand, the Church of Ognissanti is a peaceful retreat with stunning frescoes and the final resting place of Botticelli. For a true taste of Florence, try lampredotto, a beloved street food. Enjoy it at a stall where residents gather for this flavorful local specialty. These activities let you experience Florence’s charm through the eyes of its residents.