Things to Do in Florence in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated April 2025) | Trip.com

About Florence

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Florence Local Travel Guide 2025

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Florence Brief Guide

Florence was an artistic and cultural center of the Renaissance. The historic center of Florence has numerous great buildings and has already been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo Florence Cathedral) is stunning to behold. The Ponte Vecchio has become a unique sight on the Arno River due to the many art, jewelry, and souvenir shops lining the bridge. So many pieces of art have been collected by the major art galleries that it goes beyond measure. Go to the Uffizi to see astounding masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Giotto di Bondone, and enjoy Michelangelo’s original "David" at the Galleria dell'Accademia. After worshiping at the altar of humanity's priceless art treasures, you should go looking for some delicious local specialties. Lampredotto sandwiches and Bistecca alla Fiorentina are part of an essential gourmet experience in Florence.

Florence Must-try Local Experiences

1. Visit Florence’s Historic Center Landmarks Stroll through Florence’s historic center, exploring the iconic landmarks. Marvel at the breathtaking ceiling fresco The Last Judgment in the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower, climb Giotto’s Bell Tower for sweeping city views and walk across the Ponte Vecchio, lined with shops and offering a perfect vantage point over the Arno River and the city. 2. Immerse Yourself in Art at World-Class Galleries As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to renowned art galleries. The Uffizi Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. Don’t miss the David statue at the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace with its Medici collections, and the Bargello National Museum, known for its remarkable sculptures. 3. Take in a Panoramic View from Piazzale Michelangelo For a stunning panoramic view of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. The cityscape, especially at sunset, is unforgettable from this spot. 4. Savor Local Cuisine with a Scoop of Gelato Try traditional dishes like Florentine steak, vegetable soup, and lampredotto sandwiches, paired with a glass of Chianti wine. Don’t forget to indulge in a scoop of creamy gelato. 5. Shop Like a Local at San Lorenzo Market This bustling market is the ideal spot to find leather goods, souvenirs, and local delicacies. 6. Join a Tuscan Wine Tour Take a day trip to the renowned wine regions of Tuscany, visiting vineyards, tasting local wines, and enjoying the picturesque countryside views. 7. Capture an Unforgettable Travel Photo Capture the essence of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo as the sun sets over the city and the Arno River, or climb Giotto’s Bell Tower for a photo of the city’s iconic red rooftops and white walls.

Florence Travel Tips

1. Check Duomo's Closing Days: The Florence Cathedral (Duomo) is closed on Sundays, Christmas Day, and other key religious holidays like Easter. Verify the opening hours and plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. 2. Photography Restrictions in Museums: Many museums in Florence prohibit flash photography and some may not allow photography at all. For instance, the Accademia Gallery prohibits flash, tripods, and videos. The Uffizi Galleries allow non-flash photography for personal use but prohibit tripods and professional equipment. Always check the rules before taking pictures. cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet. Wear comfortable walking shoes to make your exploration more enjoyable. 3. ZTL Zones: Florence has Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) in the city center. These areas are marked with signs and monitored by cameras. Driving without a permit can result in fines. Park outside the ZTL in designated lots and use public transport or walk. Some hotels may offer permits for guests, so check with your accommodation.

Florence Must-see Attractions

Florence boasts iconic landmarks and museums such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Pitti Palace, featuring Renaissance art, panoramic views, and historical architecture that encapsulate the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Florence Where to Stay

Florence, with its small size and intricate urban fabric, offers a diverse range of accommodation options, primarily condensed in a few key areas that appeal to various types of travelers. These areas, each with unique characteristics, ensure that visitors enjoy the historical, architectural, and cultural delights of Florence while providing convenient access to transport and major attractions.

Florence Food Guide

Florence's food scene is rich with traditional Italian flavors, featuring the exquisite T-bone Steak, the local favorite Beef tripe bun, ubiquitous Pizza, and the essential daily Espresso, each offering a unique taste of Tuscany's culinary heritage.

Florence Useful Guide

Florence boasts a well-structured transport network pivotal for accessing the city, with Florence Airport and Santa Maria Novella Train Station serving as the primary gateways. Florence Airport, named after Amerigo Vespucci, stands as the second busiest airport in Tuscany, accommodating a variety of major airlines and providing essential connections across Europe. From the airport, travelers can easily access the city center using the Volainbus shuttle service. Additionally, the tram line T2 connects the airport with the central station, enhancing convenience for visitors. Santa Maria Novella Train Station, a central hub in Florence, is located ideally within the city and close to numerous attractions. Most notably, it provides direct rail connections to major Italian cities and is accessible by various bus lines, making it a critical node in Florence’s transport matrix. For those arriving at Florence Airport, the Volainbus offers a direct route to this station, ensuring a seamless transfer to the heart of the city.