Top Things To Do In Florence (From a Local)
by Vittoria Gallello
When it comes to the top things to do in Florence, it’s truly a magical place. It is a city frozen in time, transporting you back to the birth of the Renaissance. This Tuscan city is small in size, but rich in culture, art, history, fashion, and like all Italian cities, food. This is a place for art and architecture lovers alike, but also for European travelers who want a good home base. Florence allows you to fully immerse yourself in the history and culture of one of the most significant periods of European history. Not into art? Don’t you worry, Florence has a little bit of something for every type of traveler. Here are the top things to do in Florence!
Frequently Asked Questions
- When To Visit: My absolute favorite time to travel to Italy is during the Fall and Spring. You get great weather while dodging the crowds, heat, and price surges you encounter in the high of the summer season. Florence is no expectation of this, there is truly nothing better than exploring this city all to yourself.
- Traveling Around Florence: Since Florence is small, it is completely walkable, so no matter where you stay within the city center, you’ll have the whole city at your fingertips. It is important to keep in mind that no cars are allowed within the city center, therefore I recommend taking the train to Santa Maria Novella Station to ease the traveling process.
- Where to Stay: From budget to bougie, here are some recommendations!
As someone who has also been to Florence, she’s the real expert! Can’t wait to explore more of this beautiful city on my next trip there. – The Brooklynite Abroad
Tuscan Cuisine: The Best Dishes & Places To Eat
When it comes to food, Tuscan cuisine has a humble peasant beginning, using the freshest of ingredients found in the countryside. These simple ingredients are translated into rich comforting flavors that make Florentine cuisine unique to the rest of Italy. Some traditional ingredients include; grilled and cured meats, unsalted bread, beans, and of course wine. So when you get to Florence make sure to try the following traditional dishes…
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
Bistecca alla Fiorentina is one of, if not the most famous dish from Florence, the Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine Steak) is a large cut of steak on the bone grilled to a rare doneness. You won’t be able to get this cut of steak anywhere else, so it’s a must-try.
My favorite places to get Bistecca alla Fiorentina include;
- 1. Trattoria ZaZa
- 2. Ristorante Buca Lapi
Schiacciata
Schiacciata is a Floretine’s favorite street food. Traditionally ordered at a stand and eaten on the go or sitting in one of Florence’s beautiful piazze. Schiacciata is best described as a panino on crispy focaccia bread. Traditionally served with cured meats, these stands offer a ton of combinations of meat, cheese, and toppings. My personal favorite is Finocchiona, which is a Tuscan salami with fennel seeds. But if you’re brave, unlike me, you can try Florentine natives’ favorite, Lampredotto, which is cow intestine.
Head to one of these Schiacciateria’s for a perfect quick lunch in between museum visits;
- 3. Schiacciavino
- 4. All’Antico Vinaio (most famous, prepare for a line!!!)
- 5. Tripperia Sergio e Pier Paolo (For Lampredotto)
Chianti Wine & Wine Tours
As you are grabbing a Schiacciata, make sure to wash it down with a glass of Chianti Classico. This medium-bodied red is made of Sangiovese grapes from the Chianti region of Tuscany. If you’re a wine fanatic, I recommend taking a day trip to Chianti for a wine tour and tasting to get the full Tuscan experience. If you’re feeling extra luxe; check out Osteria di Passignano, located in the Chianti region for the most incredible local food experience.
Ribollita
The comfort staple of Tuscan cuisine, Ribollita includes all ingredients that make Tuscany so special. Including, bread, parmesan, leafy greens, olive oil, and beans. This hearty soup goes back to the very beginning of Tuscan cuisine and plays homage to its humble beginnings. This soup serves as a warm hug and is perfect to try when traveling to Florence in the fall.
Where to try:
- 8. Trattoria Mario
- 9. Trattoria 13 Gobbi
- 10. Trattoria Marione
Pappa al Pomodoro
Similarly to Ribollita, Pappa al Pomodoro plays to the Tuscan tradition of eliminating food waste and making something inexpensive, and rich in flavor. This bread soup is made with leftover bread, tomatoes, and a ton of olive oil. It can be served warm or chilled and is a perfect start to a Tuscan meal.
Where to try:
- 11. Trattoria 4 Leoni
- 12. Trattoria Cesarino
- 13. Il Latini
Things To Do In Florence
With a city so full of life as this one, you can imagine just how many things there are to do. From the markets and museums to hidden gems and day trips, you’ll find yourself wanting to extend your hotel a few more days to fit it all in.
Markets (Mercati)
14. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio: Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio is a market filled with fresh fruits & vegetables, specialty foods like meats & cheeses, as well as some outdoor vintage clothing vendors. This market is where locals buy their groceries. The bustling nature of the market gives you a local experience like no other and for that reason, it’s my favorite in Florence.
15. Mercato Centrale: Mercato Centrale, has the same offerings of produce as Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, but I recommend it for its extensive leather market outside. Whether you’re on a hunt for a new bag, jacket, or belt these vendors have tons of options for a perfect souvenir. Since Florence is known for its leather craftsmanship, you’ll get amazing quality for a great price. Don’t be afraid to haggle!
16. Mercato di Santo Spirito: Mercato di Santo Spirito, a market in my favorite neighborhood in Florence. This market focuses on vintage clothing, little trinkets, tableware, and cameras. Located in the beautiful Piazza Santo Spirito, it’s the most serene and relaxing market of the three listed.
Museums (Gallerie)
17. Giardino di Boboli: Right by Mercato di Santo Spirito, Boboli Gardens is a garden full of sculptures and perfect views of Florence. It’s a perfect escape from the city and transports you to the time of the Medici rule.
18. Gallerie degli Uffizi: Uffizi has one of the most incredible art collections in the world. Housing pieces from the Renaissance period including works of Botticelli, Leonardo, and Raffaello. The Uffizi also has the most beautiful views of the Arno River. If you love art, this is for you. I advise you to go and stare at the Birth of Venus for hours, it’s worth it.
19. Galleria dell’Accademia: The Galleria dell’Accademia is home to the ever-iconic Statue of David by Michelangelo. This is a must-see for anyone and everyone. Truly no explanation is needed.
20. Gucci Museum: If you’re a fashion fan, I recommend heading to the Gucci Museum to see the evolution of this great Italian fashion house.
Shopping
21. Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone Firenze: If you’re looking for a signature scent, definitely check out Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone, one of the oldest herbal shops in Florence. They make custom scents, creams, and home fragrances. My favorites are their Fico Verde (Green Fig) and Olivo di Toscana (Tuscan Olive Tree) scents.
22. Street Doing Vintage Couture: Street Doing Vintage Couture is the best designer vintage store in Florence. They have the most incredible collection ranging in different prices. I like to go through their vintage scarves and handkerchiefs.
23. Melrose Vintage: Another vintage staple in Florence, Melrose especially has an awesome collection of denim and leather pieces. I snagged a great leather blazer there for 50 euros!
24. Giulia Materia: Giulia Materia is located in the Santo Spirito neighborhood. This is my favorite neighborhood to shop in due to the number of artisans in the area. Giulia Materia specializes in making duffle bags out of old beach chairs. Her funky designs and color combinations make for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
25. Torrefazione Caffè Magic: If you’re an espresso lover you’ll want to check out Caffè Magic, this shop grinds coffee beans and makes for a great souvenir to give to family and friends.
26. Sbigoli Terrecotte: This shop/pottery studio has specialized in making hand-painted ceramics for generations. All of their pieces vary with the most unique patterns. It’s hard to walk past this traditional shop without wanting to go inside.
27. Pegna: Saving the best for last, Pegna is one of the most historic supermarkets in the world. They specialize in regional products that are unique to Tuscany. Whether you’re in the market for a specialty wine, tea, or chocolate, this place is for you. I recommend buying a package of Antonio Mattei Cantucci, these cookies, which we in America call biscotti, are famous throughout Tuscany and make for a great gift.
Hidden Gems in Florence
- 28. Park near the Arno: This hidden gem of mine is so hidden I can’t find a name for it….. You’ll just have to trust me on this one. To find this park, put Habana 500 into your GPS. This is a beautiful secluded park right on the Arno River. The best spot for a picnic! Go to Melaluca on the walk over, a cute little Australian bakery, to get a cinnamon roll & enjoy.
- 29. Piazza della Santissima Annunziata: My favorite square in all of Florence (I’m biased because it was right by my study abroad apartment), but it’s so beautiful. I loved to grab a spritz at Un Caffè and then sit on the steps with a book.
- 30. Piazzale Michelangelo: Arguably the best view in all of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to take in the beautiful architecture the city has to offer. I recommend walking to the Piazzale using the stair route, it will offer better views on the way up. Get a spritz or bring a bottle of wine to celebrate after the journey!
Day Trips From Florence
- 31. Lucca: This well-preserved medieval city is a great little day trip from Florence. Filled with shops and markets, it’s a fun break from the hustle and bustle of Florence.
- 32. Bologna: Located in the Emilio-Romana region, Bologna is a must for all things food. Bolognese, Tortellini, Prosciutto, and Balsamic Vinegar to name a few. This city is filled with young new perspectives. I like to look at it as Florence’s cool little sister.
There You Have It
For me, Florence will always have a piece of my heart. Studying abroad there in Spring 2021, as one of the few Americans in Italy, I had a unique experience with the city. Navigating Florence with zero tourists, allowed me to see the city in a way people wouldn’t have the opportunity to. I’ve been back since, experiencing Florence in its full capacity, and am thrilled to be able to share all the things that make Florence so special.
About the Author: It’s no question that Vittoria Gallleo is a Florence enthusiast. From her study abroad adventures, it wasn’t long until she fell in love with this quaint & lively town (& a Florentine as well). She loved it so much, she certainly found her reasons (or 33) to go back! She’s super chic (hence the numerous shopping recommendations) and knows her way around culture, art & history. Her words do Florence justice so do yourself a favor and book a flight there ASAP before she does!
what do you think?