Upon arrival in Florence, Italy you will immediately be captivated with its rich history and beautiful architecture. I spent my days exploring the winding streets and charming piazzas, admiring the stunning Duomo and the beautiful Ponte Vecchio. I also visited a few of the city's world-famous art galleries and museums, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia, where I had access to viewing works by Michelangelo and other Renaissance masters. My favorite part as always being the delicious local Italian cuisine, including various fresh pasta dishes, gelato and some of the most popular local wines. Florence is one of those cities that you can casually stroll around, soaking in the sights and sounds for hours without a wasted moment.
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Some attractions and things to do when visiting Florence:
Visit the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. It's free to enter the cathedral, but there is a strict dress code to enter. Knees/shoulders must be covered and no sandals, hats or sunglasses.
Located in front of the Duomo, this ancient building features stunning mosaics and a bronze door by Lorenzo Ghiberti.
Explore one of the world's most famous art museums, featuring works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. This museum was a temporary home of the Mona Lisa painting before returning to the Louvre after its theft in 1911.
Visit this museum to see Michelangelo's famous statue of David and other Renaissance masterpieces.
Explore this grand palace and its beautiful gardens, which offer stunning views of the city.
Walk across this historic bridge and admire the jewelry shops and beautiful views of the Arno River. This is the oldest bridge of Florence, now only open to pedestrian traffic.
Take a bus or taxi up to this hilltop square for some of the best views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.
Visit this bustling market to shop for leather goods, souvenirs, and local food products.
Visit this beautiful Franciscan church, which features the tombs of many famous Italians, including Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei.
The Palazzo Vecchio (Site may require browser translation to english)
Visit this historic palace and its famous tower, which offers stunning views of the city. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy and overlooks the Piazza della Signoria which is the home of Michelangelo's famous statue of David.
Explore this museum, which houses an impressive collection of sculptures by Donatello, Michelangelo, and other Renaissance artists.
Visit this complex of chapels and tombs, which features stunning works by Michelangelo and other artists.
Some local foods and drinks to experience while in Florence:
Local foods of Florence:
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
A grilled T-bone steak seasoned with salt and pepper and served with roasted potatoes and vegetables.
Lampredotto
A traditional Florentine street food made with beef tripe, typically served in a sandwich.
Ribollita
A hearty soup made with bread, vegetables, and beans.
Crostini Toscani
Toasted bread topped with chicken liver pate, a Tuscan specialty.
Local Drinks of Florence:
Vin Santo
A sweet dessert wine made from white grapes and usually served with cantuccini, a type of almond biscuit.
Chianti Rufina
A red wine made from Sangiovese grapes grown in the Rufina area.
Negroni
A classic cocktail made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
Chianti Classico
A red wine made from Sangiovese grapes grown in the Chianti region.
Some local Florence restaurant recommendations:
Best bistecca alla fiorentine I had in Florence was at a spot called Regina Bistecca . I have received a few questions about what the dress code is for Regina Bistecca, which I have confirmed that there is no particular required dress code. Most people were dressed in casual clothing.
Link to local restaurants of Florence
Additional summary:
Florence, Italy is a city steeped in history, with stunning architecture, mouth-watering cuisine, and a vibrant culture that has attracted visitors for centuries. The city played a crucial role in the Renaissance, with artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli having lived and worked in the area. The city's architecture is a testament to this rich history, with landmarks such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery showcasing the city's artistic and architectural legacy. Food is also an integral part of Florentine culture, with dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina, ribollita, and cantucci being some of the region's most famous culinary offerings. The city's cultural scene is also thriving, with festivals like the Calcio Storico and events like the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino attracting visitors from all over the world. Overall, Florence is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best of Italy's history, architecture, food, and culture.