Things to do in Florence

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A cityscape with prominent historical architecture, including a large dome and a bell tower.
A historic bridge over a calm river at twilight, reflecting the surrounding buildings.
A historic square with a prominent church featuring striped arches and a large central window.
A river with a boat, buildings, and a bridge.
A statue of a man on horseback in a square with historic buildings and outdoor cafes.

Florence Attractions

Smaller cities have a vibe you just don't find in their larger counterparts. Look up all the fun things to do in Florence before you head off so you can see as much as possible during your escape. You'll soon learn that bigger isn't necessarily better!

If you're ready to hit the streets of Florence, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an expert show you some of the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {1328 fun activities in Florence fun activities in Florence} are also worth a look.

Things to do

City Sightseeing Florence Hop-on Hop-off

City Sightseeing Florence Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

$28
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
City Sightseeing Florence Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Skip-the-Line Florence Duomo: Priority-Access Express Guided Tour

Skip-the-Line Florence Duomo: Priority-Access Express Guided Tour

$21
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Skip-the-Line Florence Duomo: Priority-Access Express Guided Tour
People riding scooters in Tuscany

Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills, Food and Chianti Wine

$133
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills, Food and Chianti Wine
The Best of Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour

The Best of Tuscany Tour: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery

$82
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
The Best of Tuscany Tour: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery
Florence half day combo tour with David, Uffizi & Duomo

Florence Half Day Tour with Michelangelo’s David, Accademia & Uffizi Option

$38
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Florence Half Day Tour with Michelangelo’s David, Accademia & Uffizi Option
Tuscany Experience In Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti

Tuscany Experience In Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti

$63
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Tuscany Experience In Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti
Michaelangelo's David

Accademia timed-entry Ticket with Instant Delivery & Priority Access

$47
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Accademia timed-entry Ticket with Instant Delivery & Priority Access
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Florence must see attractions

1. Ponte Vecchio

As you make your way over the Ponte Vecchio, peer into the windows of the goldsmith stores that have been here since the 16th century. Enjoy a sweeping view down the banks of the Arno from the viewing balconies in the center of the bridge. Street performers, artists and tourists create a lively atmosphere during the day. When the shutters come down over the shops in the evenings, the bridge takes on a romantic ambiance, perfect for a romantic stroll.
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A historic stone bridge over a calm river, with colorful buildings on either side.

2. Piazza di Santa Maria Novella

Dominated by the impressive façade of its eponymous church, Piazza di Santa Maria Novella is one of the most picturesque and convenient piazzas in Florence. It is a quick walk from almost anywhere in the city and especially close to the train station. Use the piazza as a staging ground for adventures both within and outside Florence proper or simply as a resting place on a busy day. Tour sites around the edges and relax on some of the benches dotting the center.
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A historic building with a large central dome and arched windows, surrounded by a well-maintained square with a grassy area and flower beds.

3. Piazza del Duomo

Join the bustling crowds, vendors and street performers in the cultural and geographical heart of Florence, the Piazza del Duomo. The cathedral for which the square is named is a spectacular centerpiece. In its shadow you will find several other historical, artistic and architectural treasures.
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A detailed view of a cathedral's facade with intricate carvings and statues.

4. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is also known as the Duomo, which is an Italian term for cathedral. Dominating the Florence skyline is the Duomo’s magnificent dome, considered by many to be the most important architectural achievement of the Renaissance. Inside the cathedral, you’ll find stained-glass windows and frescoes by Italian masters, and one of the oldest examples of an hora italica clock in the world. For many, the most impressive part of a visit is a close-up view of the building itself.
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A historic building with intricate architectural details and a prominent tower.

5. Piazza della Signoria

Take a seat at an outside table in one of the Piazza della Signoria’s many cafés and restaurants. Watch the crowds jostle as they have for over seven centuries in the town’s political and civic center. Flamboyant street performers, milling tourists and busy locals move about this L-shaped town square in front of some of Florence’s most famous buildings.
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An ornate ceiling with intricate carvings and a view of a tower through an archway.

6. Uffizi Gallery

Names of the masters exhibited within the U-shaped Uffizi building read like a who’s who of Renaissance art. Find seminal works by Botticelli, da Vinci, Raphael and Rembrandt in a collection that spans six centuries. The Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi) is unique in that it contains only masterpieces. It’s considered by many to have the most important collection of Western art in the world.
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A grand, illuminated building with classical architecture, featuring tall columns and statues.

7. Pitti Palace

Discover a wealth of art within the vast, fortress-like walls of the Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti). The Gallery of Modern Art holds important Italian pieces from the 18th to early 20th centuries, while the Silver and Carriages museums offer glimpses into the lifestyle of Florence’s longest-ruling family. The Palatine houses a collection of masterpieces second only to the Uffizi’s. The core of the building was constructed in 1458 for wealthy banker Luca Pitti, and sold to the Medicis in 1549. It was opened to the public in 1919.
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A historic building with a central fountain, surrounded by a formal garden and a large pond.

8. Palazzo Vecchio

With its crenellated roof, the Palazzo Vecchio sometimes resembles a fortress rather than a city hall. Though first constructed in the early 1300s on top of the old Roman theater, the building was continuously rebuilt and expanded upon, marking it with the passage of time and fashion in Florentine history. Learn about this interesting past and climb the tower, whose elevated position makes it as good for getting pictures and views of the city as it has been for spotting enemies on the horizon.
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A historic tower and a cathedral in a cityscape with a mountainous backdrop.

9. Piazzale Michelangelo

The walk to visit Piazzale Michelangelo is a bit steep, but the sight of the Duomo and Florence’s narrow streets make the climb worthwhile. Located on San Miniato hill, overlooking the Arno and all of Florence’s great sights, it is a must-visit destination for any city visitor. Trek or take a taxi up, then cool down with a drink on one of the terraces or in the loggia lining the edge of the square.
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A cityscape at sunset with prominent historical architecture, including a bell tower and a dome.

10. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is a beautiful 14th-century church in the heart of Florence. Behind its striking green and white walls is a rich collection of religious art going back hundreds of years. See frescoes and other works by Renaissance masters in its chapels and cloisters.
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A historic building with striped arches and a tall bell tower.

Recommended things to do in Florence

Number of things to do
1328
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Florence's Hidden Gems: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $2
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Florence

Free Things to Do in Florence

An escape to Florence need not cost a fortune. You won't have to spend a penny if you check out:

Museo Horne - Roam around and take in the intriguing exhibits and carefully curated collections at this popular museum.

CLET - When the time comes to get cultured, drop by and see the talent on display.

Florence Design Academy - Fans of architecture will certainly enjoy marveling at the modern design of this landmark.

Loggia del Mercato Nuovo - Visit this historic site and learn a little about the region's cultural heritage.

Piazza della Repubblica - Amble along the streets and enjoy the charm and character of this popular local hangout.

Laurentian Library - Organize a visit and learn about the importance of this place to the locals.

Orsanmichele - Spend a bit of time in prayer or meditation at this respected religious site.

Giardino Bardini - Work on your green thumb and enjoy admiring the beautiful and diverse plants on show.

Things to Do in Florence with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in Florence. Here are some family friendly experiences to try together that will make your vacation unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Florence? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Florence attractions

A historic stone bridge over a calm river, with colorful buildings on either side.

Ponte Vecchio

9.2/10 (15,273 reviews)
Florence's oldest bridge houses glittering jewelry shops where butchers once stood. Stroll across at sunset for golden views of the Arno River and centuries of Florentine history beneath your feet.
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Where to stay in Florence

Find the best Florence areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Florence
Learn more about Florence
A historic bridge with arches over a river, surrounded by yellow buildings and a crowd of people.

San Giovanni

If you're spending some time in San Giovanni, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza della Signoria are top sights worth seeing.

An ornate building with intricate architectural details and a clear blue sky in the background.

Santa Croce

Travelers come to Santa Croce for its interesting museums, and you can see top attractions like Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza Santa Croce while you're in town.

A grand church interior with high vaulted ceilings, large columns, and a central altar.

Santo Spirito

Santo Spirito is known for its beautiful river views, and you can make a stop by Piazza Santo Spirito and Santo Spirito Basilica while in the area.

A historic church with intricate architecture and a large open plaza with people.

Santa Maria Novella

Enjoy the popular shops in Santa Maria Novella. Piazza di Santa Maria Novella is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Porta al Prato - Leopolda Tram Stop or Fratelli Rosselli Tram Stop to see more of Porta al Prato.

A domed building with red-tiled roofs, surrounded by other buildings with similar architecture.

San Lorenzo

San Lorenzo is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Piazza San Marco and Central Market. See more of Florence by jumping on the metro at Strozzi - Fallaci Tram Stop or San Marco University Tram Stop.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Florence

Rolling hills, a castle, and vineyards.

Bagno a Ripoli

A town with terracotta-roofed buildings, a prominent church with a bell tower, and rolling hills in the background.

Fiesole

A panoramic view of a city with a prominent river, historic buildings, and a large dome structure.

Campi Bisenzio

A church with a bell tower on a hill, surrounded by olive groves and a clear sky.

Signa

A panoramic view of a city with prominent historical architecture, including a large dome and bell towers, during sunset.

Sesto Fiorentino

A field of white flowers with a backdrop of trees and hills.

Scandicci

A bench in a field of lavender with trees and lanterns in the background.

Impruneta

A forested path with dense greenery and a person walking away from the viewer.

Grassina

Frequently asked questions

Is Florence worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Florence is explore Duomo Museum. Tick this major attraction off your itinerary, then experience more of this area's walking trails and shopping.
How do I spend a day in Florence?
Palazzo degli Uffizi and Palazzo Capponi are two great places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Florence while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Florence?
Don't go home without exploring Duomo Museum, rated the top tourist attraction in Florence.
Is three days enough to stay in Florence?
Three days in Florence is more than enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests stay for three days on average. Duomo Museum, Palazzo degli Uffizi and Tuscany Hall are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots like Porta al Prato.
Is Florence a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Florence is a good destination to explore on foot. Have fun wandering between Duomo Museum and Palazzo degli Uffizi. Then take a stroll around Historic Center - Downtown, located 0.2 miles from downtown, and Santa Maria Novella, which is roughly 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Florence with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all the family, take a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in Florence with kids.

What to do in Florence for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Florence, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Castello del Trebbio or Ruffino - Tenuta di Poggio Casciano.
Are there free things to do in Florence?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Florence is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Ponte Vecchio is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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