best things to do in florence
Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is a city steeped in art, history, and culture. Here are some of the best things to do in Florence:
Visit the Uffizi Gallery: One of the world’s oldest and most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery is home to an impressive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
See Michelangelo’s David: The iconic statue of David is a must-see in Florence. You can find it at the Galleria dell’Accademia, where it has been on display since 1873.
Explore the Duomo: The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo, is a stunning Gothic church that dominates the city’s skyline. Take a guided tour to climb to the top for breathtaking views.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio: This medieval stone bridge is lined with shops and offers stunning views of the Arno River. It’s a great place to take a romantic stroll or simply enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
Visit the Pitti Palace: This grand palace was once the residence of the Medici family and now houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments.
Stroll through the Boboli Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located behind the Pitti Palace and offer stunning views of the city. They’re a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Try the local cuisine: Florence is famous for its food, including ribollita (a hearty soup), pappardelle (a type of pasta), and bistecca alla fiorentina (a thick, juicy steak). Be sure to try some of the local wine, too.
Visit the Oltrarno neighborhood: This charming neighborhood is located on the other side of the Arno River and is known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and local restaurants.
Take a day trip to Tuscany: Florence is the perfect base for exploring the Tuscan countryside. Take a day trip to visit a local vineyard, explore a medieval hill town, or simply enjoy the scenic views.
Attend a performance at the Teatro della Pergola: This historic theater is one of the oldest in Italy and hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts.
Visit the Accademia Gallery: In addition to Michelangelo’s David, the Accademia Gallery is home to a collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli and Ghirlandaio.
Explore the San Lorenzo Market: This bustling market is a great place to find souvenirs, try local food, and mingle with the locals.
Visit the Museo Galileo: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Galileo Galilei, one of the most famous scientists in history.
Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes with a cooking class. You’ll learn about the local ingredients, cooking techniques, and recipes.
- Visit the Brancacci Chapel: This small chapel is home to a stunning fresco cycle by Masaccio and Masolino, two of the most important artists of the Renaissance.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Florence. With its rich history, stunning art, and delicious food, Florence is a city that has something for everyone.
