
Florence is a captivating city where history and culture intertwine seamlessly. Nestled along the picturesque Arno River, this city is celebrated as the cradle of the Renaissance, an era that revolutionized science, philosophy, and art. The Uffizi Gallery houses a remarkable collection of Renaissance masterpieces, featuring works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli.
Florence’s walkable streets are home to iconic landmarks. The Duomo, designed by Brunelleschi, dominates the skyline, while the medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge, lined with jewelry merchants, spans the Arno, linking the bustling city center with the creative Oltrarno district. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Palazzo Pitti, enjoying the blooms at the Boboli Gardens, or savoring a gelato in a charming piazza, Florence will enchant you with its timeless beauty and rich heritage.
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Essential Info:
Currency: €, Euro (EUR)
Languages:Â Italian
Airports:Â Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)
Transportation:Â Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station connects to major cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice. Florence is small and walkable, and rental cars are not allowed in the city center. Public transport is recommended, and scheduling your airport transfer is advised due to occasional taxi and Uber shortages.
Best Time to Visit:Â Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Ideal Length of Stay: A quick visit can be 2–5 days, but there’s enough to explore in Florence and its surroundings for a full week.
Dress Code:Â Stylish, comfortable clothing and shoes for cobblestone streets. Dress modestly (cover shoulders, avoid short skirts or shorts, and refrain from wearing hats inside) for churches and upscale dining.
Signature Dishes:Â Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, Pappa al Pomodoro, Lampredotto, Crostini di Fegato, Panzanella, Trippa alla Fiorentina, Cantucci, Schiacciata, Vin Santo e Cantucci.
Key Phrases:Â Buongiorno (good morning), buonasera (good evening), ciao (hello/goodbye, informal), arrivederci (goodbye), per favore (please), grazie (thank you), prego (you're welcome), scusa/scusi (excuse me, informal/formal), mi scusi (I'm sorry).
Must-Do Activities in Florence
When you think of Florence, the Duomo atop the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is likely the first image that comes to mind. Book a timed ticket to climb the steep stairs early in the day for breathtaking panoramic views. Art lovers can’t miss the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia — booking tickets ahead is essential to see Michelangelo’s David.
Wander through the magical cobblestone streets to the Ponte Vecchio bridge with its unique shops and stunning Arno river views. Continue to the Palazzo Pitti and the adjacent Boboli Gardens, once home to the powerful Medici family. For a smaller, lesser-known garden experience, visit Villa Bardini and its gardens, a short stroll from Boboli.
Food enthusiasts will find heaven at the city food markets: Mercato Centrale near the train station and Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio near the Santa Croce neighborhood. Sample regional cheese and fresh pasta, or grab some treats and head to Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset over the city.
For retail therapy, explore big-name designer stores and smaller artisan boutiques. Discover hand-made marbled paper at Giulio Giannini e Figlio, hand-stitched leather gloves at family-run Madova, and the city’s famous Italian leather goods at street markets outside Mercato Centrale.
Florence offers tours focusing on its rich artistic history and delectable food. Talk to me about booking a pasta-making class, olive oil tasting, or vineyard visit.
Day Trips:Â Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti, Lucca, and Pisa are all within easy reach for a delightful day trip.
Top Places to Eat in Florence
For a quick snack or a sweet treat, stop at one of the charming food shops found on every street. Procacci, known for its delectable truffle sandwiches, dates back to 1885 and offers fine wines and artisanal foods. La Prosciutteria makes fresh sandwiches with crusty focaccia paired with locally cured meats, spreads, and vegetable toppings. For the best Italian gelato, visit Gelateria dei Neri near Santa Croce.
Florence is famed for its steak, bistecca alla Fiorentina. Head to Regina Bistecca near the Duomo or Trattoria Marione closer to the train station for choice cuts.
Celebrating a special occasion? Book a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri, which boasts an extensive wine list and three Michelin stars. For a more casual experience, try Trattoria Cammillo, a family-run trattoria in the heart of Florence, or Il Santo Bevitore, an unpretentious trattoria offering refined pasta and regional dishes a block from the Arno.
Other Top Spots:Â Antico Ristorante Paoli 1827, Trattoria 4 Leoni, Mangiafoco, Trattoria Garga, and Il Parione.
Best Places to Stay in Florence

The Place Firenze:Â Boutique hotel with 20 upscale rooms on Santa Maria Novella Piazza. Perks include a $100 food/beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Lungarno:Â Elegant hotel with Arno views and spacious rooms, owned by the Ferragamo family. Perks include $100 food/beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rivoli Boutique Hotel: Classic rooms and suites steps from the train station and Santa Maria Novella Church. Perks include a 30€ voucher for bar/restaurant, breakfast daily, and complimentary spa entrance.
FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli:Â Traditional hotel in the bustling center of Florence. Perks include a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Palazzo Vecchietti:Â Grand hotel in a 16th-century manor house in the city center. Perks include a $50 credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Hotel Minerva:Â Family-friendly choice with contemporary vibes near the train station. Perks include a complimentary aperitif, 20% discount at the on-site restaurant, a welcome amenity, and an upgrade whenever possible.
Oltrarno Splendid:Â Charming 18th-century palazzo hotel with 14 rooms in the creative Oltrarno neighborhood. Perks include a complimentary bottle of wine, a welcome amenity, and an upgrade whenever possible.

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze:Â Old-world, sophisticated hotel with expansive grounds and a pool. Book through me to enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Helvetia & Bristol Firenze:Â Historic hotel in the city center offering upscale dining and a spa. Book with me to lock in perks like a $100 hotel credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
St. Regis Florence:Â Majestic hotel with stunning river views, gorgeous atrium, and terrace dining. Marriott STARS perks include a $100 hotel credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Indigo Florence:Â Modern hotel with vibrant decor and on-site dining near the train station. IHG Luxury & Lifestyle perks include a $50 amenity, late checkout, and an upgrade whenever possible.
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