The Ultimate Travel Guide to Florence, Italy

Florence isn’t loud about its beauty. It doesn’t need to be. The city reveals itself slowly — through worn stone steps, echoing church bells, espresso sipped standing at a bar, and evenings that stretch longer than planned. It’s the kind of place that rewards presence. You don’t conquer Florence; you live alongside it, even if only for a few days.

This guide is written from actually being there — walking until your feet hurt, learning when to sit instead of rushing, and understanding that Florence is best experienced at an unhurried pace.

Getting to Florence, Italy

By Train (Best Option)

Arriving in Florence by train is honestly the easiest and most seamless way to get into the city. Santa Maria Novella (SMN), Florence’s main station, is centrally located and walkable to much of the historic center, which means the moment you step off the train, you’re already there. High-speed trains from Rome, Milan, Venice, Bologna, and Pisa are fast, reliable, and far less stressful than driving. This is the route I always recommend — and personally love — because Florence works beautifully as a hub if you’re exploring multiple Italian cities.

By Plane

Florence Airport (FLR) is small, manageable, and conveniently close to the city — about a 25–30 minute ride into the center. A taxi is the easiest option and typically costs around €25, which feels reasonable after a flight. Uber is available, but in my experience taxis are often quicker and easier to grab. If Florence is your main destination, flying directly here is straightforward and efficient.

By Car (Not Recommended for Staying in Florence)

Driving through Tuscany can be magical — rolling hills, vineyards, countryside views — but Florence itself is not built for cars. Narrow streets, strict ZTL (limited traffic) zones, and confusing signage make driving more stressful than helpful. Parking is expensive, limited, and one wrong turn can result in a fine that shows up weeks later. Florence is meant to be experienced on foot, not behind the wheel.

Parking in Florence (Important)

Parking in Florence is honestly one of the biggest pitfalls travelers run into. The city is incredibly walkable, and having a car often creates more problems than it solves. Spots are scarce, rules are strict, and circling the city looking for parking will only drain your time and patience. If you absolutely need a car, park outside the historic center and ask your hotel for specific garage recommendations. Garages like Garage Ponte Vecchio exist and are convenient, but they come at a premium.

Real advice: If Florence is your main destination, skip the car entirely. If you’re visiting multiple cities, trains are your best friend. And if you’re covering long distances, choose flying or rail depending on where you’re headed. Florence rewards travelers who let go of the wheel, slow down, and experience the city on foot.

Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria dei Fiori)

Seeing the Duomo never gets old — no matter how many times you pass it. The scale, the marble, the way it suddenly appears at the end of a narrow street — it still stops you in your tracks. Climbing the dome is a physical experience. The stairways are tight, the climb is steep, and the crowds thin as you go higher. Inside, the frescoes feel overwhelming in the best way. At the top, Florence opens up completely — terracotta rooftops, church towers, and rolling Tuscan hills in the distance.

Tip: Book in advance and go early. It’s worth every step.

Uffizi Gallery (Gallerie degli Uffizi)

The Uffizi is not a museum you rush through, and it’s not one you casually pop into between stops. It asks for intention. The moment you step inside, you can feel the weight of history — long corridors, high ceilings, and rooms that quietly demand your attention. Seeing The Birth of Venus in person caught me off guard. Not because it’s famous — everyone knows it is — but because of how still the room feels once you’re standing there. The colors are softer than you expect. The scale is more intimate. People instinctively lower their voices, as if the painting sets the tone itself. It’s one of those rare moments where the hype doesn’t overpower the experience.

The biggest mistake people make here is trying to see everything. You don’t need to. Focus on the key halls, let yourself linger where something pulls you in, and give yourself permission to move on when it doesn’t. The Uffizi rewards patience far more than endurance.

Tip: Free Sundays sound tempting, but they are crowded to the point of distraction. If you want space to actually absorb what you’re seeing, buy a timed ticket and go early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli)

Boboli feels like Florence’s pause button. After hours of walking on stone streets and weaving through crowds, stepping into the gardens feels like a physical release. There’s space here — real space. Sculptures appear unexpectedly between hedges, fountains echo softly, and the city feels distant even though it’s right below you. I always gravitate toward the area near the Pitti Palace with a snack or coffee. Sitting there, you can hear conversations fade into background noise while Florence stretches out in front of you. It’s one of the few places where time genuinely loosens its grip.

Boboli isn’t manicured perfection — it’s layered, slightly wild in places, and deeply calming. Go when your legs are tired and your mind needs quiet.

Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)

The Pitti Palace doesn’t ease you in — it overwhelms you immediately. The rooms are massive, ornate, and unapologetically grand. Gilded ceilings, heavy frames, and endless galleries remind you how power once looked and how little subtlety it required. Walking through feels almost excessive, but that’s the point — this was wealth on display. Pairing the palace with Boboli Gardens makes the experience feel complete. Inside, everything is opulent and heavy. Outside, everything breathes. That contrast is what makes the visit memorable rather than exhausting.

Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell’Accademia)

Michelangelo’s David is impossible to prepare for, no matter how many photos you’ve seen. Nothing captures the presence — the veins in his hands, the tension in his stance, the confidence carved into marble. The room opens up, and suddenly there he is, larger than life and somehow incredibly human at the same time. What surprised me most, though, were the Prisoners. These unfinished figures feel raw and emotional, like they’re actively trying to break free from the stone. You can see the tool marks, the struggle, the intention left incomplete. Standing there, it’s hard not to think about creation, restraint, and what gets left undone. The Accademia is smaller than the Uffizi, but it’s heavier emotionally. Take your time here — it doesn’t take long, but it stays with you.

Tip: Go first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the tight crowds that form mid-day.

Piazzale Michelangelo

This is Florence at its most cinematic — and yes, it lives up to the hype. Bring a blanket. Bring wine. Arrive earlier than you think you need to. Sitting on the steps, you watch the city slowly shift colors as the sun sets — terracotta rooftops turning gold, then pink, then deep amber. It doesn’t feel real, even when you’re standing there. It’s crowded, but it’s one of the few crowded places that still feels collective rather than chaotic. People talk quietly. Cameras come down. Everyone is watching the same thing, together. It’s not just a viewpoint — it’s a shared pause.

Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is something you appreciate best from a distance. Walking across it can feel crowded and rushed, especially mid-day, but seeing it reflected in the Arno during early morning or evening is when it truly shines. The bridge feels softer then, less commercial, more historic. For the best views, walk over to Ponte Santa Trinita. From there, you get the full picture — the curve of the bridge, the river below, and Florence unfolding behind it. Golden hour here is unmatched.

Mercato Centrale

This is one of my favorite food stops in Florence — casual, lively, and endlessly satisfying. Downstairs is ideal for browsing and quick bites. La Pasta Fresca is unbeatable: fresh pasta for around €5 that genuinely rivals restaurant meals. The lemon ricotta ravioli and walnut sauce are standouts, especially when you want something comforting without committing to a long sit-down meal. Upstairs, you’ll find everything from quick panini to full meals. It’s a great option when everyone in your group wants something different, or when you’re hungry but undecided.

Giotto’s Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto)

If you want incredible views without climbing the Duomo itself, Giotto’s Bell Tower is the alternative — though don’t underestimate it. The 414 steps are no joke, and you’ll feel them by the end. What I love about this climb is that each level gives you a slightly different perspective of Florence. You’re not rushing straight to the top — you’re watching the city slowly reveal itself. By the time you reach the top, the view feels expansive and earned, with the Duomo close enough to feel almost touchable.

Piazza della Signoria

During the day, it’s in constant motion. People flow in from the Uffizi, street performers set up near the sculptures, conversations overlap under the shadow of Palazzo Vecchio. The statues feel casually magnificent, as if masterpieces have always been part of daily life here. In the afternoon, I love sitting along the edge of the square, letting Florence move around me. As evening approaches, the light softens against the stone, the energy slows, and the square becomes quieter, more cinematic — still alive, just more intimate.

Piazza della Repubblica

This square has two distinct personalities, and both are worth experiencing. During the day, it’s bright and social. Café tables fill up, shoppers pass through, and the carousel spins gently in the center. It feels cheerful and open — a perfect place to pause between errands or sightseeing. At night, everything changes. The carousel lights glow, street musicians play softly, and café lights spill onto the stone. The square becomes nostalgic, almost dreamlike — the kind of place you wander into “for a minute” and realize half an hour has passed without noticing.

Where to Eat in Florence, Italy

Florence takes food seriously — but never in a stiff or pretentious way. Meals here feel warm, lived-in, and deeply traditional, and somehow even the simplest dishes taste like someone’s been perfecting them for decades. My biggest tip: build your days around meals, not the other way around. Florence rewards the slow pace. Florence takes food seriously — but never pretentiously. Meals here are about comfort, tradition, and slowing down long enough to really taste what’s on your plate. Some places are historic institutions, others feel like local secrets, but all of them leave an impression.

Mangiafoco Osteria Tartuferia

This is the place you go when you want truffle without restraint. Mangiafoco leans fully into Tuscany’s love affair with tartufo, and it does so unapologetically. The space feels warm and rustic, the kind of spot where the menu reads like a love letter to truffle lovers. I ordered the Ravioli di Burrata Artigianali al Tartufo Fresco, and it was everything you hope for — delicate handmade ravioli filled with creamy burrata, finished generously with fresh truffle. Rich but balanced, indulgent without feeling heavy. Each bite felt intentional, slow, and deeply comforting.

This is not a rushed meal. It’s the kind where you pause between bites, talk less, and let the flavors do the work. If truffle is on your Florence wish list, Mangiafoco absolutely delivers — bold, authentic, and deeply satisfying.

Trattoria Sostanza

This is one of those places you don’t forget — not because it’s flashy, but because everything just lands. It’s intimate without feeling cramped, relaxed without being casual, and the kind of spot where you immediately trust the kitchen. The pici al tartufo di San Miniato was exactly what I wanted it to be: perfectly al dente, coated in a truffle sauce that was rich but not heavy, earthy without overpowering the pasta. Every bite felt deliberate. It’s comforting food done thoughtfully — the kind that makes you slow down without trying.

What really surprised me was how reasonable the prices were for the quality. In a city like Florence, that’s rare. This is the place you go when you want a beautiful meal that feels authentic, unrushed, and genuinely cared for.

Vineria del Re

One of my favorite meals in Florence, hands down. This place balances warmth with refinement without feeling stiff. The pici al tartufo di San Miniato was perfectly al dente, deeply earthy, and comforting in a way that only good pasta can be. What really surprised me was how reasonable the prices were for the quality — especially in a city like Florence. It’s the kind of place you remember long after the trip ends.

All’Antico Vinaio

Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, the line moves slower than you’d expect. And yes — it’s absolutely worth it. This place is pure Florence energy: loud, chaotic, and unapologetically indulgent. I ordered the Tartufo 4 — truffle-cooked ham, fior di latte mozzarella, artichoke cream, and basil — and it was everything people hype it up to be. Rich without being overwhelming, perfectly balanced, and generously stuffed into warm, crusty schiacciata bread that somehow holds it all together.

There’s no real seating, and that’s part of the experience. You grab your sandwich, step aside, find a nearby wall or set of steps, and eat it with your hands while dodging pigeons and people doing the exact same thing. It’s messy, satisfying, and very Florence. Don’t overthink it — just embrace the chaos and enjoy every bite.

Osteria Santo Spirito

Tucked into a neighborhood that feels lived-in and local, this is the kind of place you return to without thinking twice. The menu leans classic — ribollita, pasta, steak — and everything feels honest and unfussy. The energy is relaxed, the crowd a mix of locals and travelers who know where they are. It’s comforting in a way that makes you want to order one more dish than planned and stay just a little longer.

Trattoria Zà Zà

Trattoria Zà Zà is loud, warm, and unapologetically indulgent — the kind of place where energy fills the room the moment you walk in. Tables are packed close together, conversations overlap, and plates seem to appear nonstop. It feels celebratory, almost chaotic in the best way, like everyone around you is having the exact meal they wanted. The truffle dishes here are what linger in your memory. I ordered the tagliatelle with creamy truffle sauce, and it was everything you hope truffle pasta will be — rich, silky, deeply comforting without tipping into too heavy. It’s indulgent, yes, but balanced, the kind of dish you slow down for without realizing it.

Dessert was just as memorable. The homemade tiramisù was soft and perfectly layered, not overly sweet, and the special caramel-topped panna cotta felt like a final, intentional indulgence — smooth, delicate, and satisfying in a quiet way. This is the place you go when you want to fully lean into Tuscan comfort food, enjoy the noise, enjoy the pace, and not rush a single course.

Ciro in Florence — Columbus Urban Resort’s Rooftop Restaurant

One of the highlights of staying at Columbus Urban Resort Firenze is dining at its rooftop restaurant Ciro in Florence, where Neapolitan heartiness meets Tuscan elegance. Perched above the hotel with sweeping views of the Arno River, this is the kind of place that turns dinner into a memory. Here, classic Italian flavors are reimagined with creativity — the menu celebrates both Neapolitan and Tuscan traditions with dishes that feel both comforting and refined. The wine list is curated with Italian labels that beautifully complement every plate, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening or a special celebration against the backdrop of the Florentine skyline.

Gucci Giardino

Gucci Giardino is an experience — not just a meal. Walking in feels like entering a curated world where fashion, art, and food blur together. It’s intimate, moody, and unmistakably Gucci, but without feeling stiff or pretentious.

I had the Tagliolino with Prawn and Lemon — Tagliolino pasta, butter, lemon, prawn tartare — and it was one of those dishes you keep thinking about afterward. The pasta was delicate and perfectly cooked, the lemon bright but not sharp, and the prawn tartare buttery and fresh. Everything worked in quiet harmony, clean and elevated without trying too hard. I paired it with a cappuccino, which felt slightly rebellious in such a refined space — but somehow perfectly on brand. Sitting there, cappuccino in hand, felt like a pause between sightseeing and reality. Gucci Giardino isn’t about rushing. It’s about savoring — the food, the space, and the feeling of being somewhere distinctly Florentine yet completely its own.

Gilli Café

Gilli Café is one of those places you expect to be beautiful — and it is — but what surprised me was how genuinely good the food is beyond the elegance. Sitting right on Piazza della Repubblica, it feels historic and polished without being stiff. I ordered the truffle pasta here almost on a whim, expecting it to be “nice café food,” and it completely exceeded expectations. The pasta was silky, rich, and aromatic, with real truffle flavor that didn’t feel watered down or gimmicky. It’s indulgent in a quiet, refined way — the kind of dish you eat slowly, fully aware of where you are. Paired with the buzz of the square outside and the classic interior around you.

Paszkowski

Right in Piazza della Repubblica, Paszkowski feels social and lively without being overwhelming. It’s a great daytime stop when the square is buzzing — coffee cups clinking, conversations overlapping, sunlight bouncing off stone. In the evening, it turns into more of an aperitivo spot, but even then, it still feels rooted in Florence rather than touristy. A solid place to pause and reset without leaving the heart of the city.

La Ménagère

La Ménagère is less “coffee stop” and more full sensory experience. Flowers, design pieces, soft lighting, beautiful plating — it’s curated, but not cold. I loved coming here when I wanted to slow down intentionally. The coffee is excellent, the pastries feel thoughtful, and the space itself invites you to linger longer than planned. It’s the kind of place where you accidentally turn a quick stop into an hour.

Panificio Brunori

Panificio Brunori feels deeply local — no fuss, no performance. This is where you go when you want something real. Fresh bread, simple pastries, strong coffee. Standing at the counter with locals grabbing their morning bite made it feel like a slice of everyday Florence. It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly why it’s special.

Pasticceria Giorgio

If you love pastries, this place is dangerous — in the best way. The display case alone makes it hard to choose. Everything feels classic and indulgent without being heavy. I loved coming here mid-afternoon, when Florence slows slightly, for something sweet and a coffee. It feels like a reward built into the day.Where to Stay in Florence, Italy

Florence is one of my favorite cities to experience through an Airbnb. Staying in a local neighborhood, finding “your” café, and walking the same streets each morning makes the city feel personal instead of touristic.

Don Nino Gelateria

Don Nino feels artisanal and refined without losing warmth. The flavors are balanced and elegant, and everything tastes incredibly fresh. It’s a great stop when you want gelato that feels thoughtful rather than over-the-top. I loved grabbing a scoop and wandering nearby streets afterward — one of those small Florence moments that sticks with you.

Badiani Gelato

Badiani is, without exaggeration, some of the best gelato I’ve ever had. This is the spot locals will tell you about — and for good reason. They’re most famous for their Buontalenti flavor, a rich, creamy, egg-based gelato created in Florence itself. It’s smooth, deeply flavorful, and not overly sweet — pure perfection. I always get Buontalenti, even when I tell myself I’ll try something new. It’s that good.

Where to Stay in Florence, Italy

Where you stay in Florence truly shapes how the city feels. Florence is intimate, walkable, and layered — and choosing the right base can mean the difference between feeling like a tourist and feeling quietly woven into daily life. Florence is one of my favorite cities to experience through an Airbnb. Staying in a residential neighborhood gives you small rituals that hotels can’t always offer — a morning walk to the same café, passing locals walking their dogs, recognizing the baker by day three. It slows everything down in the best way.

If you’re staying longer than a few days or traveling with others, Airbnb offers space, comfort, and the feeling of actually living in Florence rather than just visiting it.

L’Ottomano (Airbnb)

L’Ottomano is ideal for groups or longer stays. The apartment is spacious, beautifully laid out, and located between Piazza San Marco and Piazza della Libertà — which makes getting around incredibly easy. Being close to major bus lines also makes day trips to places like Fiesole effortless. It’s the kind of place where mornings feel unhurried and evenings feel grounded, especially after long days of walking.

Columbus Urban Resort Firenze

If you’re looking for a true luxury experience — but something modern, calm, and design-forward — Columbus Urban Resort Firenze is exceptional. This is a five-star hotel, and it absolutely feels like one. The rooms are modern and serene, the spa is stunning, and the overall atmosphere feels restorative rather than flashy. One important thing to note: it’s not in the historic center — and honestly, that’s part of the appeal. It’s quieter, more refined, and feels like a retreat after busy days in the city. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Ciro in Florence, is reason enough to stay here. Dining above the Arno with the city stretching around you feels special in a way that’s understated and elegant — not touristy. It’s the kind of place where you linger over dinner, enjoy the wine list, and let the evening unfold naturally. This is the hotel you choose when you want comfort, design, great food, and calm — and don’t mind a short ride into the historic center.

Hotel Continentale

Hotel Continentale is perfect if you want modern elegance right in the heart of Florence. Located near Ponte Vecchio, it feels sleek and stylish without being cold. The rooftop views are beautiful, especially in the evening, and everything feels intentional and polished. It’s a great option if location is your top priority but you still want something refined.

Hotel Lungarno

Hotel Lungarno feels artistic and quietly luxurious. Sitting along the Arno, the rooms are serene, thoughtfully designed, and filled with subtle details that reflect Florence’s creative spirit. Waking up to river views here feels grounding — especially early in the morning before the city fully wakes up. It’s romantic without being showy.

The St. Regis Florence

If timeless luxury is what you’re after, The St. Regis Florence delivers it effortlessly. The building itself feels historic and grand, the service is impeccable, and the rooms balance classic elegance with modern comfort. Staying here feels indulgent in the most traditional sense — chandeliers, river views, and a sense of stepping into Florence’s more opulent past.

Tip: If this is your first trip to Florence, staying closer to the historic center can be incredibly convenient. If you’ve been before — or want a more relaxed, restorative stay — branching slightly outside the center (like with Columbus Urban Resort Firenze) offers a completely different perspective on the city.

Best Time to Visit Florence, Italy

Spring and fall are ideal — mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect walking weather. That said, December in Florence is quietly magical. The city feels calmer, lights glow softly in the evenings, and you’re able to experience Florence without the constant rush. It’s colder, yes — but deeply charming and intimate.

Florence isn’t a city you rush through. It’s one you return to — again and again — noticing something new each time. A different light on the Duomo, a café you missed before, a meal that stays with you longer than expected. Take your time. Wander without a plan. Sit longer than you intended. Let Florence unfold naturally — it always does.

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