🇮🇹 Florence: Top Things to Do
Renaissance art, a famous dome and Tuscan food — a compact, walkable open-air museum.
The Renaissance in one city
Florence packs extraordinary art and architecture into a small, walkable center. You can cross it in 20 minutes, so slow down, book the big sights ahead, and leave time to simply wander.
Best time to visit
April–May and September–October bring pleasant weather and slightly thinner crowds. Summer is hot and very busy. Winter is cool and quiet, with short queues at the museums.
Getting around
Florence is best on foot — almost everything is walkable. The center is largely pedestrianized, so skip a car entirely. Buses cover the outskirts.
Where to stay
The historic center puts you steps from the sights but costs more. The Oltrarno, across the river, is charming and a little quieter. San Marco is handy for the museums.
What to eat
Try Tuscan classics — ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, fresh pasta and gelato. Step away from the main squares for better value. Vegetarian options are easy; BeforeDepart's finders also map Halal and kosher spots.
Top things to do
- The Duomo and a climb up Brunelleschi's dome.
- The Uffizi Gallery (book ahead).
- Michelangelo's David at the Accademia.
- The Ponte Vecchio and a sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo.
- A day trip into the Tuscan countryside.
Safety & money
Florence is safe; watch for pickpockets around the main sights and stations. The currency is the euro; cards are widely accepted. Emergency number is 112.
✈️ Before you go to Florence
Sort the practical stuff that saves money and stress:
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Florence?
April–May and September–October bring pleasant weather and slightly thinner crowds. Summer is hot and very busy. Winter is cool and quiet, with short queues at the museums.
How do you get around Florence?
Florence is best on foot — almost everything is walkable. The center is largely pedestrianized, so skip a car entirely. Buses cover the outskirts.
What food should I try in Florence?
Try Tuscan classics — ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, fresh pasta and gelato. Step away from the main squares for better value. Vegetarian options are easy; BeforeDepart's finders also map Halal and kosher spots.
Is Florence safe for travelers?
Florence is safe; watch for pickpockets around the main sights and stations. The currency is the euro; cards are widely accepted. Emergency number is 112.