Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Florence, Italy. #Top Attractions

Spread the love!

With the help of our travel guides, organizing a trip to Florence, Italy, is a breeze. Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Florence, Italy, and the best places to visit in Florence, Italy below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.

Baptistery of St. John

Baptistery of St. John, Florence, Italy
Baptistery of St. John, Florence, Italy / Larry Koester / Flickr

Don’t be surprised if your trip to Florence will be full of religious sites. That is the cherry on top, folks!

Explore the Baptistery of St. John, considered one of the oldest buildings in Florence. 

This Basilica is believed to have been constructed in the 4th to 5th centuries. In the year 897, it was given the status of a minor basilica.

In 1128, the Basilica was formerly named the Baptistery of St. John. 

The structure of this building is similar to the Santa Crose Basilica and the popular Florence Cathedral.

Its beautiful facade boasts a stunning baptistery with an octagonal plan dedicated to the Patron Saint John the Baptist. 

It has an octagonal lantern covered with vibrant Carrara marble and green Prato that is commonly designed in Florentine Romanesque architecture.

Today, children and infants are the ones that get baptized in the baptistery.

When you enter the Basilica, you will be mesmerized by the gorgeous mosaic that dates back to the 13th century. 

Religious statues, paintings, and sculptures are on display, which will complete your historical exploration.

Spare some time to visit the place when you are in Florence.

Address: Piazza San Giovanni, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Bardini Gardens

Bardini Gardens, Florence, Italy
Bardini Gardens, Florence, Italy / Putneypics / Flickr

Make your Florence trip more lovely and magical as you walk to one of the most stunning gardens in the city.

Bardini Gardens, also known as Villa Belvedere, is established between the 16th to 17th centuries. 

This enchanting garden boasts a gorgeous landscape and the sight of a picture-perfect Italian garden. 

The grand baroque staircase at Bardini Gardens is a sight that visitors should not miss. It was beautifully placed to complement the magical ambiance of the garden.

Here, visitors can explore the English Garden, an Anglo- Chinese landscape that displays exotic plants and flower species.

But the icing on top is the sight of beautiful Wisteria Pergola. These flowers range in hues from lilac to violet flowers hanging in the alley. 

This is a real sight to behold! 

Make sure you capture this amazing spot in the garden.

You are just a distance away from completing your magical journey in Florence. 

Go and travel now!

Address: Via de’ Bardi, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Bargello Museum

Bargello Museum, Florence, Italy
Bargello Museum, Florence, Italy / Dave & Margie Hill / Kleerup / Flickr

The adventure leading to more discoveries will start in the Bargello Museum.

Bargello Museum is located right next to Palazzo de Bargello.

The construction of the museum began in 1255. It was once used as a headquarter for Police and a jail facility. 

Later on, it was transformed into a Museum. 

Bargello Museum has a beautiful courtyard and balcony that are worth seeing. It was said to be built during the 14th to 15th centuries. 

The preservation of this stunning place is remarkable. 

In 1859, the museum housed some of the important Renaissance sculptures and minor arts of notable Renaissance artists, including Michelangelo.

Michelangelo was an Italian artist who worked in sculpture as well as painting. His most famous work is the breathtaking frescoes he painted in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City.

The museum’s facade boasts stunning walls covered with podesta dating back from the 13th century. 

Take your time because you will be rewarded with thousands of sculptures that symbolize the great art history of Florence.

This is now the best time to go here!

Address: Via del Proconsolo, 4, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Basilica di San Lorenzo
Basilica di San Lorenzo / Richard Mortel / Flickr

If you find the design of the other Basilicas in Florence to be comparable to that of other cathedrals in the city. No worries! You have arrived at the right spot.

Visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo, it is not as grandeur nor ornamental as the previous cathedral, but it is worth your visit.

The Basilica boasts a gorgeous dome that is covered with a terracotta tiled roof. 

You might be thinking, “Ooh, that’s hmm,” but wait!

You need to enter the Basilica to appreciate more of its beauty. 

Here, a plethora of impressive artworks will greet you!

It has stunning frescoes with a gold and white color, and no other church ceiling in all of Italy can compare to its beauty.

It has an interesting mix of hues that compliments the church atmosphere, making it an ideal place to meditate and pray. 

Here also lies the tomb of the Medici family, a powerful European family that ruled Florence during the early 15th century. 

So, what are you waiting for? Visit here and see the beauty right in front of your eyes!

Address: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 9, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Basilica of Santa Croce

Basilica of Santa Croce, Florence, Italy
Basilica of Santa Croce, Florence, Italy / faungg’s photos / Flickr

Your religious exploration of Florence will not be complete without visiting this place.

The Basilica of Santa Croce is built-in and resembles the popular Florence Cathedral. 

This is not surprising since it was also constructed in 1436. 

The Basilica features a facade that is made up of marble in the colors white, pink, red, and green. 

Although it is greatly similar to Florence Cathedral, the Basilica has its own distinct charm and history.

The Basilica of Santa Croce is the home of the tombs of the most influential and notable Renaissance artists in the world, including Michelangelo.

Michelangelo Buonarroti is an Italian artist and sculptor during the Renaissance period. 

His best work is the Reinassance frescoes in the Sistine Chapel of Vatican City. It was painted to depict the Creation of Adam. 

Moreover, the Basilica of Santa Crose was able to retain its glorious name as the largest Franciscan church in the world, for it houses 16 chapels in total that were believed to be founded by Saint Francis himself. 

The choice is yours. Discover more of its history by visiting it in person!

Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens, Florence, Italy
Boboli Gardens, Florence, Italy / Ed Webster / Flickr

Reward yourself for a peaceful walk in one of the grandest gardens in Florence.

Boboli Gardens is located near the Palazzo Pitti, which was formerly home to royal families during the 15th century. 

It is a garden that spans a total area of 45,000 square meters and is known for being the largest garden in the city.

Boboli Gardens was established in the 16th century. It features a lawn that has an impressive fountain with renaissance sculptures, vibrant flower blossoms, and lush green surroundings. 

It is home to various trees and plant species you may discover only here. 

In the beautiful terrace spot, you will encounter the 18th-century pavilion, the Kaffehaus, which features Rococo architecture. 

This is a picture-perfect spot that you should capture with your camera!

To make most of your time here, walk around the scenic pond and witness the stunning reflection of this magical place in the water. 

You may also take a rest and unwind at the staircase or on benches in front of the wonderful fountain.

This is the best place to have a little moment of reflection. 

Unwind to this place now! 

Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Church of Santa Maria Novella

Church of Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Italy
Church of Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Italy / Colin Howley / Flickr

Church exploration continues at Santa Maria Novella.  

Church of Santa Maria Novella features Renaissance architecture that is very prominent in the cathedrals found in Florence.

The construction of the building began in the mid-13th century. It has Gothic and Romanesque bell tower architecture that is worth seeing.

The church’s facade has an eye-catching white, red, pink, and green marbled design that contributes to the church’s endearing appeal.

When you explore the church, you will be greeted with fascinating frescoes on the ceiling and wall that Ghiberti painted. 

Ghiberti was born in 1378. He is widely considered one of the most important artists and sculptors of the early Renaissance period. 

Santa Maria Novella, like the majority of the churches in Florence, is an excellent location for contemplation and prayer.

Make sure you bring your camera and take a few snapshots for a piece of souvenir. 

Include this in your Florence itinerary right away!

Address: P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Corridoio Vasariano

Corridoio Vasariano, Florence, Italy
Corridoio Vasariano, Florence, Italy / . Ray in Manila / Flickr

A little trip to the classic corridor of Florence.

Head to Corridoio Vasariano, a walkway that is initially created for Cosimo de Medici. 

Cosimo is the head of the Medici family that once ruled the city from 1434 to 1537.

The corridor stretches on the riverbank of Arno. It is situated next to the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in the city. 

When you visit the corridor, you will be amazed by the artworks as well as other paintings that have been renovated after having suffered damage over the years.

You can also go to the old bridge, where you will witness this classic corridor from a distance, making the place more charming in its own right. 

The typical Italian houses are in the area where you can also take photographs. 

The best time to visit this location is during summer, when the alley flowers are in full bloom. 

Travel and see it now!

Address: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Florence Cathedral

Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy
Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy / Harshil Shah / Flickr

Italy is blessed with many historical cathedrals, the Cathedral of Florence is one of the most prominent religious sites in the city.

The Cathedral of Florence was constructed in 1436, and it features a Gothic Italian architectural design.

The Dome of the Cathedral is one of its remarkable features. It soars over the medieval buildings making it stands out.

The Cathedral’s facade features marbled hues of pink, white, red, and green in the polychrome design.

Explore the Cathedral and witness the exciting piece that symbolizes the place’s historical significance, such as the sculpture of the Virgin Mary that dates back to 1380. 

The two stunning frescoes from 1456 and the large clock face depict the saints’ heads.

In addition, you will be mesmerized when you see the splendid glass windows that are well preserved, it dates back to 1434. 

This Cathedral is in a picture-perfect location. Make sure to bring your camera and take a few shots at every angle you like. 

Start your Florence journey with this Cathedral. Visit today!

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Seeing something in person is infinitely more fruitful than simply hearing about it. The world is vast and full of wonders. For the full list of countries to visit around the world, visit our travel round the world guide. Looking for a truly American adventure? Discover the popular states to visit in USA.

Forte di Belvedere 

Forte di Belvedere, Florence, Italy
Forte di Belvedere, Florence, Italy / Franco Dal Molin / Flickr

Whether you are a history buff, science enthusiast, or just a simple tourist, you need to explore this place.

Forte di Belvedere is situated near the Boboli Garden. It is the second-largest Renaissance fortress in the city. 

Forte di Belvedere was built in 1500. The fortress serves as a military facility during 1951.

The fort was once visited by the famous astronomer Galileo Galilei. He was known for his great contribution to science, particularly to astronomy. 

He just only discovers the moons of Jupiter, the phases of Venus, and more.

If you are wondering why would he visit the fortress if his into science?

The fortress is once was used by Galileo in his discoveries. The fort is situated on a hill that has a panoramic view of the city’s entire skyline.

Therefore, this is an ideal place for star gazing activity!

That is another level of fun and experience.

 What are you waiting for? Pay a visit now!

Address: Via di S. Leonardo, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Galleria dell’Accademia

Galleria dell’Accademia, Florence, Italy
Galleria dell’Accademia, Florence, Italy / Andy Montgomery / Flickr

Perhaps, you are in Florence because you want to see some of its masterpieces? If such is the case, then you might want to visit this place.

Galleria dell’Accademia is an art museum located in the city center of Florence. 

This is the Gallery of Academy, known as the most important gallery museum in the city. 

Galleria dell’Accademia is the home of the popular Renaissance sculpture of Michelangelo.

Michelangelo is notable for his artwork, The Creation of Adam frescoes that can be found in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. 

Apart from this impressive sculpture, you may be able to explore the Hall of the Colossus, which exhibits the 19th-century controversial sculpture of The Rape of the Sabine Women. 

The Rape of the Sabine Women symbolizes the crucial event for sabine women during the great Roman Empire. 

It was sculpted by Giambologna, an Italian sculptor during the Reinassance period. 

Visitors may also explore the well-preserved musical instruments found in the 17th century.

This is another fun exploration of the rich history of Florence. 

Pay a visit now!

Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy

Giotto’s Campanile

Giotto’s Campanile, Florence, Italy
Giotto’s Campanile, Florence, Italy / Giulio Chiappini / Flickr

Florence will give you more than what you expect, and here is another masterpiece you need to see. 

Giotto’s Campanile is part of the Florence Cathedral. Due to its impressive structure, it became popular among locals and visitors. 

The Campanile of Giotto is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and was constructed in the 14th century.

Covered with polychrome marbled decoration in vibrant green and pink hues. The bell tower stands at the height of 277 meters, which is climbable by visitors.

You need to climb the 414 steps before reaching the tower’s peak. 

At the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the dome of the Cathedral and the entire city of Florence.

It is worth the climb! Get your camera ready, and capture the spectacular view in front of you!

Don’t leave the Cathedral without stopping by this tower. 

Make a travel plan right away!

Start your Florence journey with this Cathedral. Visit today!

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Palazzo della Signoria

Palazzo della Signoria, Florence, Italy
Palazzo della Signoria, Florence, Italy / Rodrigo Soldon / Flickr

Looking for a place to relax and rest after your religious site exploration? Great! You’ve come to the right place.

Stroll along the Palazzo della Signoria. This is the central square of the city. Due to its strategic location, it was named after the popular attraction Palazzo Vecchio.

Palazzo della Signoria is a place to hang out with locals. Here you might meet and see them biking, sitting on the benches, or simply having chitchat talks with friends.

At the center of the plaza stands the very popular fountain of Neptune, built in the 15th century. It symbolizes the reign and power of the Pope in the country of Italy. 

The wonderful fountain continuously offers a unique presence that compliments the romantic ambiance of the place.  

Here you may also sight the huge clock tower of Vecchio while taking a rest on the benches, sipping a cup of coffee. 

There are some talented local street musicians playing jazz music in the plaza that you will definitely enjoy!

This is the best place to go after a tiring day of exploration!

Address: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Palazzo Pitti

Palazzo Pitti, Florence, Italy
Palazzo Pitti, Florence, Italy / Dan Cook Archived (dan-scape.co.uk) / Flickr

You are yet to embark on another historical site in Florence. Make your way out here and discover it yourself.

Palazzo Pitti is situated near the riverbank of Arno. Its construction began in 1400.

It is a perfect example of Renaissance architecture, for it boasts a castle-like palace that you will find during the Renaissance period.

The front of Palazzo Pitti is a large grand square where locals and visitors can take a rest and relax. 

Palazzo Pitti is home to Palatine Gallery, which features paintings that date from the 16th to the 17th century.

A Silver Museum also exhibits a large collection of silverware, stone vases, crystals, and jewelry that once belonged to Luca Pitti. 

Luca Pitti is a wealthy and powerful merchant that once lived in the Palazzo Pitti during the 15th century. 

And yes! The Palace was named after him. 

And suppose you have an interest in fashion. In that case, you may visit the Museum of Costume and Fashion, which displays the evolution of fashion dating back from 300 years to the present.

This is just a sneak peek of what you will witness here, visit the place and discover more!

Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, Italy
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, Italy / bvi4092 / Flickr

You don’t need to become an art lover to appreciate this gorgeous place.

Palazzo Vecchio is one of the most important buildings in the city of Florence. The construction began in 1299. 

It features a castle-like structure with a huge bell tower. The building facade exudes sophistication, especially at night. 

But that is just only a piece of its beauty. When you enter the Plazza, you will be astonished by how artistic it is in terms of historical value.

Witness the Salone dei Cinquecento that was built in 1494. 

Salone dei Cinquecento is the largest room inside the palace, the halls stretch over 54 meters, and it covers large frescoes and murals.

Every wall of this grand hall is adorned with stunning murals depicting battle scenes and the country’s victory.

These fascinating artworks are painted by none other than Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Leonardo da Vinci is the most notable artist of the Renaissance period. He is best known for his painting of the Mona Lisa. 

Michelangelo, on the other hand, is known for his impressive frescoes artworks in Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. 

WOW! That’s an exciting journey you are yet to experience! Travel to this place now!

Address: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy
Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy / Giuseppe Milo / Flickr

If you are looking for more places to hang out in the middle of Florence, visit this plaza!

Piazza del Duomo is one of the main plazas in the city. It is surrounded by stunning, sublime architecture.

This plaza is also home to the most important religious site in Florence, the Duomo, where it got its name.

This is the best place to start your journey in Florence. 

Piazza del Duomo is surrounded by beautiful Italian cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. 

If you are here, don’t miss the opportunity to taste one of the popular dishes in Florence, the Lampredotto.

Lampredotto is a sandwich that originated back in the Medieval period. It comprises seasons pork, spicy red and green herb sauce, and Bagnato, a bread with gravy thinly. 

This delightful sandwich can be found around the Piazza del Duomo. 

Make the most out of your time here and enjoy every moment of it.

Check this place now!

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy

Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy
Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy / Bengin Ahmad / Flickr

If you want to witness the city of Florence in its best view possible, go to this place.

Piazzale Michelangelo is situated along the Oltramo district. 

It is a central square that features urban architecture that is prominent during the 19th century. 

Piazzale Michelangelo is situated on the hill nearby the beautiful Boboli Garden. 

Due to its highly strategic location, a breathtaking panoramic view of nearby historic structures and the entire district are seen from a distance. 

In the center of the square stands the bronze statue of Michelangelo, which the plaza got its name. 

The statue is a replica, and the original can be found at Galleria dell’Accademia.

The place is surrounded by local street artists who draw a real-time portraits. 

You can participate and bring one for a perfect piece of souvenirs. 

For a more romantic and memorable experience, catch a glimpse of the spectacular sunset that stretches through the city skyline.

Piazzale Michelangelo is waiting for you. Travel now!

Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy
Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy / Osvaldo Gon / Flickr

Not only surrounded by historic buildings, but Florence is also home to Ponte Vecchio, a historical bridge that you definitely should visit.

Ponte Vecchio is situated along the river of Arno. This is the first bridge built in the Western part of the city.

The Ponte Vecchio dates back as early as 996. It features Roman semicircular arch architecture.

Today, the bridge has not lost even a single of its glorious days. Locals and visitors come to this place to unwind. 

A picturesque view of the river, the buildings of Italian homes, and the Ponte Vecchio can be enjoyed from one of the benches that are dispersed along the grassy area that runs near the riverbank. 

There are also various souvenir shops in the area which visitors may explore. 

The best time to visit here is in the mid-afternoon when the reflection of the historic bridge can be seen clearly in the river Arno.

Spend your sunny afternoon here!

Address: Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy

San Miniato al Monte

San Miniato al Monte, Florence, Italy
San Miniato al Monte, Florence, Italy / Neil / Flickr

There are a plethora of religious architectural sites in Florence from which you can pick. Here is another church that you may add to your list!

San Miniato al Monte is located on the hilly side of the Arno river. 

From a distance, you will astonish by how it was beautifully made. The construction of this place began in 1062. 

It has features that distinguish other cathedrals found in Florence. 

The church’s facade resembles the Doumo, also known as the Florence Cathedral. It boasts a white and green marbled, which is incredibly beautiful in person. 

San Miniato al Monte is strategically located across the old city of Florence. This makes the church more incomparable. 

You will witness impressive frescoes and medieval artworks when you enter the church. 

The marble collection is also worth seeing. Marble is used not just as decoration but also to cover the entire church interior floor. 

The choice is yours, see it now while you are in Florence!

Address: Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Uffizi Palace and Gallery

Uffizi Palace and Gallery, Florence, Italy
Uffizi Palace and Gallery, Florence, Italy / Andres Alvarado / Flickr

If you are in Florence, visiting one of its museums is a must. 

Take a trip to Uffizi Palace. It is founded between 1560 to 1580. 

Uffizi Palace and Gallery is one of the most important museums in the country. 

It houses an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the Modern period. 

Uffizi Palace is also home to some of the Renaissance artworks and masterpieces that are all available to explore. 

Visitors can witness the most impressive sculpture from ancient times and 14th-century paintings, including, The Birth of Venus.

The Birth of Venus is one of the famous paintings of Sandro Botticelli. He was an Italian painter in the Early Renaissance. 

His painting of the Birth of Venus was able to garner massive recognition worldwide. It depicts the rebirth and new hope after the Middle Age crisis. 

There are many more Italian masterpieces and works of art for you to find and appreciate.

Visit this museum and learn more about them!

Still wondering if you should visit Florence, Italy? Check out why visit Florence, Italy, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Explore Europe

Spread the love!