What To Do In Florence Italy?

Florence is a vibrant and colorful city located in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is often referred to as the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it is home to some of the world’s most impressive art and architecture. As a result, it is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, drawing in millions of tourists every year. If you are planning a visit to Florence, you won’t be disappointed as there is so much to see and do in the city.

Explore Florence’s Famous History

Florence has a wealth of history and culture, which can be seen in the city’s many beautiful buildings, churches, and public squares. A great place to start exploring the city’s history is at Piazza della Signoria, which is one of the most famous public squares in Florence. Here, you will find the stunning Palazzo Vecchio and replicas of two of Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures, David and Judith. The city also has an impressive network of cobbled streets, which are full of antique shops and galleries. Venturing into these narrow alleyways is a great way to discover hidden gems and explore the city’s rich past.

View Art in World-Famous Galleries

Florence is home to the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, which houses one of the largest collections of Renaissance art in the world. Visitors can admire works from some of the great masters such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Raphael, as well as the impressive Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of 500). Art enthusiasts should also make sure to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia, where they can see Michelangelo’s iconic statue David. Aside from these two main galleries, there are a number of smaller galleries and shops where art lovers can pick up unique works.

Visit Florence’s World-Renowned Churches

Florence is home to many beautiful churches, which are worth exploring when you are visiting the city. The Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore (or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) is one of Florence’s most iconic sights, and it is well worth taking the time to admire its Gothic architecture. Other notable churches include the Basilica di Santa Croce, Basilica di San Lorenzo, and the Chiesa di Santa Maria Novella. All of these religious buildings are decorated with awe-inspiring frescos, sculptures, and stained glass windows, making them a must-see for art enthusiasts on a trip to Florence.

Taste Authentic Italian Cuisine

When it comes to Italian cuisine, there is only one place to go – Florence! As with everything in the city, its food culture dates back centuries and its restaurants offer some of the best Italian dishes around. A great suggestion for dinner would be to visit Il Buffet, located near Santa Maria Novella station. Here, customers can sample an array of traditional Tuscan dishes in a pleasant setting. A popular choice is the Tuscan steak with sautéed spinach and mashed potatoes, or lasagna with bolognese sauce.

Go Shopping in the Heart of Florence

For those who enjoy shopping, Florence provides endless opportunities. One great spot to visit is the Ponte Vecchio, or old bridge. Here you will find a variety of stores selling handcrafted gifts, jewelry, fashion items and more. The area around Piazza della Repubblica is another great place to go shopping; here you will find luxury outlets selling designer labels such as Prada and Gucci as well as lesser known Italian brands. For those on a budget, a trip to San Lorenzo market is a must – here you will find an array of souvenirs at affordable prices.

Discover Chianti Valley and Its Vineyards

For nature lovers there is plenty to do around Florence. A great day trip for wine connoisseurs would be a visit to the Chianti Valley – located around 35 kilometres outside of Florence. The area is renowned for its classic red wine made up of Sangiovese grapes. Here you can explore charming towns such as Greve in Chianti and Gaiole in Chianti – both boasting beautiful cypress-lined pathways, rolling hills and scenic lookout points. Wine tasting tours can be booked through local companies, where you can sample some of the region’s finest wines with some delicious cheese pairings.

Overall Opinion

Florence is an incredible city packed with art, history, culture and amazing food. From its iconic landmarks to its delicious cuisine, there really is something for everyone to explore in Florence. For those keen to immerse themselves in Italian culture and discover Tuscany’s stunning landscapes, this city should definitely be added to your travel bucket list!