What to see in Florence, top things to do

Florence in Italy is a city rich in history, culture, and art. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this article, we will give you some tips on what’s not to miss in the Renaissance city par excellence, including its iconic Duomo and breathtaking churches.

10 Things to Do in Florence, Italy

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most famous art museums, featuring works from some of the greatest artists in history. Remember to see Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera” paintings.

• Take a walk through Piazza della Signoria. This historic square is home to the Palazzo Vecchio, a stunning Renaissance palace that served as the city’s government center.

• Visit Palazzo Pitti, a historic palace that was once the home of the powerful Medici family. Today, it houses several museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery, which features works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens.

• Explore the Boboli Gardens, located just behind Palazzo Pitti. The gardens offer breathtaking city views, so be sure to bring your camera!

• Walk across the Ponte Vecchio. This iconic bridge is a symbol of Florence and is home to many jewelry shops and boutiques.

• Climb to the top of the Duomo. This is one of the most popular things to do in Florence, and for a good reason. The panorama from the top is incredible, and the climb is an adventure.

• Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. This museum is next to the Duomo and houses many important works of art from the cathedral, including sculptures and paintings.

• Visit the Accademia Gallery, the home to Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture, one of the world’s most famous works of art.

• Shop at the San Lorenzo Market, a bustling market home to vendors selling everything from leather goods to souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up a unique gift for yourself or someone else.

• Don’t miss the Mercato Centrale: this historic market is a foodie’s paradise. Sample local specialties and pick up ingredients to cook at home.

The beautiful landmarks of Piazza Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is one of the most iconic locations in Florence. Located in the heart of the city, the square is home to some of the world’s most stunning architecture and artwork.

The square’s main attraction is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. The Duomo is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, with its distinctive dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The exterior of the Cathedral is made up of pink, green, and white marble, and the interior is decorated with stunning frescoes and artwork. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of the city.

Also located in the square is the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of the oldest buildings in Florence. The Baptistery is famous for its beautiful bronze doors, which depict scenes from the Bible and are known as the “Gates of Paradise.” The interior of the Baptistery is also adorned with stunning artwork and mosaics.

The bell tower, or Campanile, is another must-see attraction in Piazza del Duomo. The tower was designed by Giotto and offers panoramic views of the city from its top. Visitors can climb the 414 steps to the top of the tower, where they will be rewarded with stunning views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.

Churches in Florence, the must-see

Florence is home to many breathtaking churches, each with its own unique history and beauty. The ones you should not miss during your visit include the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Santa Croce, and the Brancacci Chapel.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is known for its stunning frescoes and artwork, including works by famous Renaissance artists like Giotto and Masaccio.

Santa Croce is the final resting place of many famous Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The church is also home to beautiful artwork and frescoes, including Giotto’s stunning cycle of frescoes.

The Brancacci Chapel, located in the Santa Maria del Carmine church, is home to some of the most important frescoes of the early Renaissance, including works by Masaccio and Masolino da Panicale. These churches are just a few examples of the incredible beauty and history you can find in Florence and are not to be missed during your visit to the city.

Enjoy your trip to Florence and make the most of our advice to ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the incredible attractions and experiences this beautiful city offers.