Discover Florence: A Guide to the Renaissance City's Top Attractions
Florence is a treasure trove of Italian Renaissance art and architecture, with iconic sights like the Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo's David, and Brunelleschi's Dome. To truly appreciate its grandeur, consider renting a car for expeditions beyond the city center.
For a curated experience of Florence's must-see attractions, follow this guide.
See also: Where to Stay in Florence
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo
The Piazza Duomo complex is a concentration of masterpieces by Renaissance greats like Ghiberti, Brunelleschi, and Michelangelo. Marvel at the exteriors before exploring the stained-glass adorned interiors. To avoid queues, consider a Skip the Line tour.
2. Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery of St. John)
The 12th-century baptistery is a marvel with its bronze Gates of Paradise by Ghiberti. For a closer look at its treasures, visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.
Guided tours in Florence
3. See Florence from Piazzale Michelangiolo
This panoramic terrace offers stunning views of Florence's skyline, especially at sunset. Nearby, visit the church of San Miniato al Monte or take a bus for a scenic route.
4. Uffizi Palace and Gallery
The Uffizi is a world-class art museum showcasing the evolution of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Skip the line with a priority access guided tour.
5. Piazza della Signoria and the Loggia dei Lanzi
This historic square is the civic heart of Florence, featuring the Neptune Fountain, Palazzo Vecchio, and the outdoor sculpture gallery Loggia dei Lanzi.
6. Galleria dell'Accademia (Academy Gallery)
Home to Michelangelo's original David, this gallery also features unfinished works by the artist, offering insight into his creative process.
7. San Lorenzo and Michelangelo's Medici Tombs
The Medici family's church and burial chapels are adorned with works by Brunelleschi and Michelangelo, showcasing some of the finest marble sculptures.
8. Palazzo Vecchio (Palazzo della Signoria)
This historic palace echoes with tales of power and artistry. Explore its opulent rooms and secret passages, and enjoy sunset views from the roof.
9. Santa Croce
Santa Croce is a repository of Renaissance art and the final resting place of luminaries like Michelangelo and Galileo.
10. Ponte Vecchio
The iconic bridge is not only a picturesque landmark but also houses the Corridoio Vasariano, a hidden gallery of artist self-portraits.
11. Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace)
The Pitti Palace complex offers a glimpse into royal life with its art gallery, royal apartments, and the Boboli Gardens.
12. Santa Maria Novella
This church is renowned for its frescoes by masters like Masaccio and Giotto, and its façade is a prime example of Tuscan Romanesque architecture.
13. San Miniato al Monte
San Miniato al Monte offers a blend of Romanesque architecture and Byzantine mosaics, with a stunning view of Florence.
14. Bargello Palace National Museum
The Bargello Palace is a treasure house of Renaissance sculpture and decorative arts, featuring works by Michelangelo and Donatello.
15. Stroll through Boboli Gardens
The expansive Boboli Gardens are a green oasis with fountains, sculptures, and panoramic views of Florence.
16. Explore the Oltrarno and Take a Break in Piazza Santo Spirito
The Oltrarno district is home to artisan workshops and the lively Piazza Santo Spirito, surrounded by cafes and the Basilica of Santo Spirito.
17. Palazzo Medici-Riccardi
The Medici-Riccardi Palace reflects the Medici family's power and patronage, with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli and a museum showcasing Medici history.
18. Mercato Centrale: Florence's Food Market
Mercato Centrale offers a glimpse into local life with its array of fresh produce, Tuscan specialties, and food courts for a quick lunch.
19. Bardini Museum and Gardens
The Bardini Museum showcases Stefano Bardini's art collections in a unique setting, while the Bardini Gardens provide a tranquil retreat with stunning views.
20. Brancacci Chapel
The Brancacci Chapel in Santa Maria del Carmine is adorned with groundbreaking frescoes by Masaccio and Masolino, marking the advent of the Renaissance.
21. Museo Galileo
The Museo Galileo celebrates the connection between art and science during the Renaissance, displaying Galileo's instruments and other scientific artifacts.
22. Shop for Leather at Piazza Santa Croce
Florence's tradition of fine leatherwork is best experienced at the Scuola di Cuoio in Santa Croce, where you can find handcrafted leather goods.
Where to Stay in Florence for Sightseeing
Florence's historic center is compact, with many highly rated hotels close to major attractions. Options range from luxury to budget accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Florence
- Getting Around: A Florence City Hop-on Hop-off Tour offers convenient access to top attractions with flexible pass options.
- Tuscany Day Trip: Explore the Tuscan countryside with a guided tour to Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa, including a three-course lunch and entrance to Siena Cathedral.
More Things to See and Do
