5 Favorite Attractions and Recommendations When Visiting Florence, Italy

Oops! I forgot to publish my article about the gem of Italy, Florence! So, I am pressing pause on my Route 66 articles to revisit last September in Italy with my Top 5 favorite list when visiting Florence!

Florence is a beautiful city that captivates every visitor. Each cobblestone street has a story, and the amazing architecture reflects the Renaissance. Its rich history and lively culture allow for enjoyable exploration, with art and stunning views around every corner. You might find yourself in a cozy café, enjoying real Italian gelato and soaking in the atmosphere, wanting to stay forever! Plus, the shopping is a local favorite pastime!

Here are my top 5 recommendations for visitors to Florence (aka Firenze):

First and foremost – get your tickets early to the Gallery Academia (‎⁨Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze⁩, ⁨Florence⁩, ⁨Tuscany⁩). Go here to reserve your date and time! Hint: Book the earliest entry time to avoid the crowds!

Close-up of a sculpted child's head, featuring detailed facial expressions and textures.

A classical marble sculpture depicting two male figures embracing, showcasing intricate details and drapery.

The Duomo is the centerpiece of Florence. It also is an attraction that can be exhausting. Study up on the Duomo experience before venturing out. Pick your tours wisely, as some are very physically challenging. More information about Duomo tour options can be found here.

View of the Florence Cathedral, showcasing its intricate marble facade and iconic dome, with people walking in the foreground. — The Duomo

A historic building with striking black and white marble patterns, illuminated under a twilight sky with blue and gray clouds. People are walking around the square, some with strollers and one person holding a child. — The Duomo

View of buildings along the Arno River in Florence, Italy, with cloudy skies and reflections in the water. — View from the Uffizi Gallery

3. The UFFIZI. For me, this gallery was not my favorite. Yes, it has amazing artwork. But, it is overshadowed by the intense number of tourists, overworked docents, and not being very accessible for people with mobility or sensory issues. With that said, it is worth making time to see the work of many of the best in the art world – but do so, if possible, “off season”. For ticket information (a must!) go here.

Interior view of a museum with ornate decorations, featuring several classical sculptures and framed paintings on red walls. — The Uffizi

A marble sculpture of a nude woman is centrally positioned, with her hand covering her chest. In the foreground, another marble figure is seated, gazing thoughtfully. The background features framed classical paintings against a red wall. — The Uffizi

4. The City Center: Florence is magical. During the day you can walk the many streets with markets full of leather goods, wine, oils, and much more. I did most of my shopping for gifts in Florence.

But, know that Florence really comes alive when the sun goes down. From the lovely carousel that brings families together, to the delicious scents and tastes of the cuisine, to the musicians who entice people to dance on the streets. Most of all enjoy the laughter and love you will find in Florence!

A beautifully decorated carousel featuring ornate horses with colorful saddles and feathered plumes, set against an elegant backdrop with intricate designs and lights.

A plate of pappardelle pasta topped with a rich meat sauce, held by a person with a fork in hand.

5. Get some wine at a “Wine Window (buchette del vino)”. Yes, you can walk up to a designated window and order wine to drink on the streets of Florence. Hubby decided to check out the wine and gave it a thumbs up! Many tour companies offer wine window events. These three were listed on our friend, Google, as worth the visit:

Babae: Located on Via Santo Spirito, it is highly popular and known for serving various wines, including orange wine.
Cantina De’ Pucci: Near the Duomo, offering wine and food via the window.
Osteria San Fiorenzo: Close to Basilica of Santa Croce.

A man in a pink shirt reaching into a small nook on a stone wall, with a bell hanging above and greenery nearby. — Enjoy the experience of a wine window

BONUS TIPS and RECOMMENDATIONS:

Go explore beyond the city limits of Florence. With just a short train ride, you can visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, explore the five enchanting towns of Cinque Terre, or enjoy the picturesque countryside dotted with charming Tuscany hamlets (“borghi”). Many of these towns are celebrated for their old-world lifestyle, offering unique opportunities for local cooking classes and wine tastings. You can find numerous recommendations for specific cooking lessons or wineries on websites like TripAdvisor. Personally, I also refer to guides such as DK Florence/Tuscany and Frommer’s Rome, Florence, and Venice guide for detailed insights about various destinations.

TIP: Get your train tickets for CINQUE TERRE before you venture out.

Last thoughts…

If you don’t speak Italian that is OK, many restauranteurs and shop owners do know key phrases or can converse in English. However, I would encourage any tourist to learn key phrases in the language of the country they are visiting. I believe doing so shows “good will” and also adds to having an “authentic experience”.

Sadly, much of Florence poses accessibility challenges, as the city’s “old world” charm is characterized by its cobblestone streets, steep staircases, and limited availability of elevators.