Florence, Italy, stirs the soul with its art, architecture, and amazing gelato. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with so much to see and eat, so I’ve gathered some of my favorite spots recommended by travel experts. It’s a mix of the absolute must-sees and some quieter places that offer a different perspective on this Tuscan capital. Get ready to fall in love with the city; here’s where you can start.
Climbing to Incredible Views
No visit to Florence is complete without seeing the Duomo. It’s a landmark that stands out in the skyline. The sheer scale of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore is breathtaking, with construction that took over 170 years to finish. Brunelleschi’s famous dome is the centerpiece, a true marvel of architecture.
You can just admire it from the piazza, but I highly recommend climbing. You have two options: climbing the dome itself or Giotto’s Bell Tower. Both offer amazing panoramas. Climbing the 463 steps to the top of the bell tower was a workout, but the view of the terracotta rooftops and rolling Tuscan hills is absolutely worth every step. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity, and seeing the city spread out below makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. This climb is something you’ll remember for years.
Immersing in Renaissance Art
After the Duomo, I suggest heading to the Uffizi Gallery for a deep dive into the Renaissance. This is where you can see masterpieces like Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “La Primavera,” Caravaggio’s “Bacchus,” and Michelangelo’s “Doni Tondo” up close. It’s an incredible collection that really showcases the artistic achievements of the era.
To avoid long lines, especially during busy seasons, it’s essential to reserve timed tickets well in advance. I found it helpful to plan my visit around specific neighborhoods to see more sights without excessive travel. It’s also wise to avoid Sundays and Mondays when many places have reduced hours. And while free first Sundays of the month sound appealing, they can be incredibly crowded, making it harder to enjoy the art and sometimes limiting reservation options.
Experiencing a Local Market
For a more authentic food experience, I’d recommend skipping the very popular Mercato Centrale and heading east to Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio. This is where local Florentines do their daily shopping. The market is filled with stalls offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and delicious street food. It’s a lively place, with nonnas busy with their shopping.
I loved grabbing a porchetta sandwich from one of the stalls. Finding a sunny spot nearby to enjoy it felt like a true taste of local Florence. Lily mentioned how amazing the smells were, and Ethan, even at four, was fascinated by all the colorful fruits and vegetables. It’s a simple pleasure that’s incredibly rewarding, giving you a real sense of daily life in the city. It felt much more personal than the more tourist-oriented markets.
Finding Peace in Gardens
Florence is packed with art and history, but it’s also important to slow down and just be present. You don’t have to see everything. Sometimes, finding a quiet spot to enjoy an espresso or a glass of local Chianti is where the real beauty of the city lies. It’s about soaking in the atmosphere.
The Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, offer a beautiful, peaceful escape. You can wander through paths surrounded by Renaissance statues and enjoy sweeping views. For an even quieter experience, I discovered Bardini Gardens. It’s less crowded and offers stunning panoramic city vistas, especially lovely in the spring with blooming wisteria. It’s a great place to find some tranquility away from the crowds. Michael enjoyed the shaded benches and the chance to just relax for a bit.
Where can I find the best gelato in Florence?
When it comes to gelato, my go-to expert recommendation led me to Gelateria dei Neri. It’s a charming spot near Palazzo Vecchio, with exposed wood beams and staff who speak fluent Italian. This place carries on the legacy of an original gelato master.
You can expect incredible flavors. I particularly enjoyed the tangy fruit sorbets, like the mandarin, and their unique combinations. The pistachio-chili-chocolate was surprisingly good! Ethan declared it the best part of the day, and it’s very affordable, making it an easy and delicious treat.
A Quiet Cultural Escape
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, I found the Biblioteca delle Oblate to be a real discovery. This public library is tucked inside a former convent, just a short walk from the Duomo. It’s a popular spot with local students and serves as an important cultural center, with a dedicated section on Florentine history.
The shaded courtyard is a tranquil place to sit and recharge. But the real gem is the Caffetteria delle Oblate upstairs. This rooftop café has a quiet terrace with one of the best unobstructed views of the Duomo. It’s a fantastic way to see this iconic landmark without the usual tourist crowds. Lily loved looking at the books, and I savored the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning view.
Exploring Unique Collections
The Stibbert Museum is one of Florence’s most interesting and unique museums, yet it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It’s located a bit further out from the city center, making it a less crowded option. This museum houses the private collection of Frederick Stibbert, who also donated his villa and gardens to the city.
Inside, you’ll find over 36,000 artifacts. Highlights include ornate historic armor from the Middle East and a striking display of a reconstructed medieval knights’ army on horseback in the grand hall. A truly surprising piece is Napoleon Bonaparte’s cloak from his coronation. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore a different side of Florentine history, and it was so much quieter than the main galleries.
Visiting Florence in 2026 offers so many opportunities to connect with the city’s rich past and vibrant present. From climbing ancient towers to savoring simple street food, there’s always something new to experience. I hope sharing these spots helps you plan your own unforgettable journey.