Florence Italy is one of the most unforgettable cities in Europe. It is famous for Renaissance art breathtaking architecture and some of the best food in Italy. From climbing Brunelleschi Dome at the Duomo to tasting bistecca alla Fiorentina and ribollita this Florence travel guide covers the top things to see and eat in Florence so you can plan the perfect trip.
Whether you are building a Florence itinerary for one day two days or longer this guide will help you experience the city’s most iconic sights plus its most delicious local dishes.
Quick List
Best Things to See in Florence Italy
- Florence Cathedral and Brunelleschi Dome
- Uffizi Gallery
- Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo David
- Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio
- Ponte Vecchio
- Oltrarno Florence
- Piazzale Michelangelo
- Mercato Centrale Florence
Best Food to Eat in Florence Italy
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina
- Lampredotto sandwich
- Ribollita Tuscan soup
- Pappardelle al cinghiale
- Crostini toscani
- Schiacciata sandwich
- Cantucci and Vin Santo
- Gelato in Florence
Best Things to See and Eat in Florence Italy
Visit the Duomo Florence and Climb Brunelleschi Dome
The Florence Cathedral also called the Duomo is the most famous landmark in Florence Italy. The marble exterior is stunning and the massive dome dominates the skyline. For one of the best views in Florence climb Brunelleschi Dome and look out across the rooftops of the historic center.
Helpful tip: Book tickets in advance and go early in the day to avoid the longest lines.
Tour the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous museums in the world and one of the top attractions in Florence. It is home to masterpieces by Botticelli Leonardo da Vinci Michelangelo and Caravaggio. If you only have time for one museum in Florence the Uffizi is the best choice.
Helpful tip: Reserve a timed entry ticket so you can skip the queue.
See Michelangelo David at the Accademia Gallery
The Accademia Gallery is where you will find Michelangelo David one of the most famous sculptures in the world. It is one of the top things to do in Florence and a must for first time visitors.
Helpful tip: Choose the earliest time slot available for the calmest visit.
Explore Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio
Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s most important square and feels like an open air museum. Nearby you can visit Palazzo Vecchio the historic town hall of Florence. This area is perfect for sightseeing and people watching while you take in Florence’s most iconic atmosphere.
Walk Across Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence and one of the most photographed places in the city. It is lined with jewelry shops and offers classic views over the Arno River. Visit in late afternoon for golden light and the best photos.
Discover Oltrarno Florence
Oltrarno is one of the best neighborhoods to explore if you want a more local Florence experience. You will find artisan workshops small trattorias and relaxed piazzas. Spend time near Santo Spirito and wander without a plan. This is where Florence feels slower and more authentic.
Watch Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
For the best view in Florence head to Piazzale Michelangelo. The panoramic viewpoint overlooks the entire city including the Duomo and the river. Sunset is popular but early morning is a beautiful alternative if you want fewer crowds.
Visit Mercato Centrale Florence
Mercato Centrale is one of the best places to eat in Florence and a great stop for travelers who want variety. You can sample pasta steak sandwiches cheese cured meats desserts and more. It is also a convenient place to pick up edible souvenirs like olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Best Food to Eat in Florence Italy
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
Bistecca alla Fiorentina also called Florentine steak is the most famous dish in Florence. It is a thick T bone steak traditionally cooked rare and served simply. It is usually priced by weight and meant to share.
What to know: If you love steak this is the number one must try food in Florence.
Lampredotto Sandwich
Lampredotto is classic Florence street food. It is slow cooked tripe served in a crusty roll with salsa verde and often a spicy sauce. Locals love it and it is one of the most unique foods to try in Florence.
Helpful tip: Start with one sandwich to share if it is your first time trying it.
Ribollita Tuscan Soup
Ribollita is a hearty Tuscan soup made from beans vegetables and bread. It is especially popular in cooler months and it is one of the most traditional foods in Florence.
Pappardelle al Cinghiale
Pappardelle al cinghiale is wide pasta with a rich wild boar sauce. This is one of the most popular Tuscan dishes and it is a must try for pasta lovers visiting Florence.
Crostini Toscani
Crostini toscani is toasted bread topped with chicken liver pate. It is a classic Tuscan appetizer and often served as part of an antipasti platter.
Schiacciata Sandwich
Schiacciata is a Florentine flatbread that is crispy salty and perfect for sandwiches. You can fill it with prosciutto cheese vegetables and spreads like truffle cream. It is one of the best quick lunches in Florence.
Cantucci and Vin Santo
Cantucci are crunchy almond cookies traditionally dipped into Vin Santo a sweet dessert wine. This is the most classic dessert pairing in Florence and a great way to end a Tuscan meal.
Gelato in Florence
Gelato is one of the best treats to eat in Florence. Look for natural colors and seasonal flavors for the best quality. Enjoy it while walking through the historic center for the full Florence experience. Stop by Vivoli for their famous affogado.
Florence Itinerary Suggestions
One Day in Florence Itinerary
Morning
Duomo Florence and Brunelleschi Dome
Piazza della Signoria
Lunch
Mercato Centrale Florence or a schiacciata sandwich
Afternoon
Uffizi Gallery or Accademia Gallery
Walk across Ponte Vecchio
Evening
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Dinner in Oltrarno Florence
Two Days in Florence Itinerary
Day one
Duomo complex
Piazza della Signoria
Palazzo Vecchio
Oltrarno dinner
Day two
Uffizi Gallery
Accademia Gallery
Mercato Centrale
Ponte Vecchio
Piazzale Michelangelo
Florence Travel Tips for First Time Visitors
Book tickets for the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery early
Wear comfortable walking shoes because Florence streets are made of stone
Plan time to wander because some of the best moments are in quiet side streets
Try a mix of famous restaurants and small trattorias in Oltrarno
Frequently Asked Questions about Florence Italy
What are the best things to do in Florence Italy
The best things to do in Florence include visiting the Duomo climbing Brunelleschi Dome touring the Uffizi Gallery seeing Michelangelo David at the Accademia walking across Ponte Vecchio exploring Oltrarno and watching sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo.
What is the best food to eat in Florence
The best food to eat in Florence includes bistecca alla Fiorentina lampredotto ribollita pappardelle al cinghiale crostini toscani schiacciata sandwiches cantucci with Vin Santo and gelato.
How many days do you need in Florence
Two days in Florence is ideal for first time visitors. One day is enough for highlights but you will have a more relaxed experience with at least two days.
What is Florence best known for
Florence is best known for Renaissance art the Duomo the Uffizi Gallery Michelangelo David and iconic Tuscan food.