Things to do in Florence for first-time visitors are endless in this city in the heart of Tuscany. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Florence, Italy’s most captivating city, is where medieval architecture, the Renaissance, and Italian culture blend. Besides Venice and Rome, Florence attracts millions of visitors from all around the globe every year with its historical beauty and strong-tring charm. Whether you’re exploring Florence for a few days or making it your base to enjoy the region. There’s no reason not to achieve your memorable vacation.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Florence for first-time visitors to help you make the most of your time.
1. Be amazed by Florence Cathedral and climb the Duomo
Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral) is the city’s most iconic landmark. Designed by Brunelleschi, the massive dome is a masterpiece of engineering, offering sweeping views of the city.
To reach the top of the dome, you must ascend 463 steps. Yet, you will be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in Florence. You can reserve your time slot in advance. Aim to arrive early in the morning for optimal views and reduced waiting times. Piazza del Duomo serves as both a center for historical and religious sites and a lively meeting spot where tourists can admire the magnificence of Florence’s architectural wonders.
Tip: Purchase an entry ticket in advance. Dome tickets are often sold out, especially during the summer season.
2. Visit the Uffizi Gallery
A significant art museum in Italy can be found in Florence’s historic center. The gallery has operated since the 16th Century, and the artworks were donated following the Medici family’s loss of authority. It features works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and numerous other artists. Sandro Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ is the most famous artwork in the Uffizi Gallery. To maximize your time in Florence, I strongly suggest buying the “skip the line tickets” before you visit the Uffizi Gallery.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds; weekdays have fewer visitors.
3. Visit Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
The Galleria dell’Accademia houses one of the world’s most famous sculptures: Michelangelo’s David. It is breathtaking to stand face-to-face with this towering marble statue in person. There are also incomplete works by Michelangelo, which provide insight into his creative process.
Tip. Buy a skip-the-line ticket or a combo tour with the Uffizi Gallery to save time and money.
4. Walk Through Boboli Gardens
Boboli Gardens is an expansive field of green and a Renaissance landscape behind the Pitti Palace. Fountains, grottos, and statues are scattered all over the grounds, and there are hundreds of places to sit or take pictures. It’s one of the best spots in Florence if you want fresh air and to get away from the crowds. Its upper trails provide a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Don’t miss the Bountalenti Grotto and the Fountain of Neptune. There are also shady areas great for picnics or relaxing. Bring comfortable shoes for walking—some walks are pebbly and steep.
Tip: Purchase a ticket for this attraction and combine it with a visit to the Pitti Palace to get your money’s worth.
5. Cross the Ponte Vecchio
The most famous bridge, with Jewelry stores dating back to the 1500s lining it. It’s one of the few bridges where you can shop while strolling over a river. The golden hour views from the center of the bridge are beautiful. Both tourists and locals come here for a dose of atmosphere or a romantic walk.
You’ll also notice the Vasari Corridor above, once used by the Medici to move unseen between palaces. Street musicians often add ambiance to the experience, making it feel like a scene from a film. Stick around after sunset to see the lights shimmer over the Arno.
Tip: For the best view of the bridge, walk to Ponte Santa Trinita just down the river.
6. Visit Pitti Palace
This old Medici home is filled with treasures—from lavish rooms and imperial apartments to a vast art collection. The Palatine Gallery includes works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. The costume gallery offers an intriguing glimpse into fashion from centuries past. Each room tells a different tale of power, wealth, and art.
The ceilings themselves are worth looking at—many are richly frescoed. Spending a couple of hours meandering through the various museums within the complex is not difficult. Don’t forget to see the Royal Apartments to learn about how the Medici lived.
Tip: Consider visiting early or late in the day to avoid group tours and enjoy a quieter experience
7. Enjoy the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo provides the most expansive view of Florence. You can see the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Arno coursing through the city. The terrace attracts tourists and locals alike, particularly during sunset. Street performers and musicians are often present to enhance the festive atmosphere.
There’s a replica of David at the center of the square. Bring a bottle of wine or gelato to enjoy while watching the sky change color. For an even more magical scene, arrive 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot.
Tip: If walking uphill isn’t for you, take bus 12 or 13 from the city center directly to the top.
8. Taste the traditional Florence Food
Florence’s food culture is rooted in hearty Tuscan traditions. You can’t leave without sampling bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick T-bone steak cut rare. Don’t miss local classics such as ribollita, lampredotto sandwiches, and cantucci con vino santo. Trattorias and osterias concealed down side streets tend to offer the most traditional meals.
If you’d like to try several dishes at once, try Mercato Centrale, which offers a sampling of food stalls. Many restaurants have outdoor seating that overlooks surrounding piazzas. Don’t forget to enjoy your meal with a glass of Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.
Tip: Always reserve for dinner—Florentines dine late, and tables are in demand.
9. Walk around the Piazza della Signoria
This lively square showcases Florence’s political and artistic history. It’s where you’ll find the Palazzo Vecchio, Neptune Fountain, and outdoor sculpture gallery Loggia dei Lanzi. You can view copies of David and other statues without paying a museum admission fee. It’s a popular place where history comes alive with daily life.
The piazza has been the civic center since the 14th century. Outdoor cafés with outdoor seating provide an ideal spot to observe people. Be sure to walk the side streets to discover small artisanal shops and secret alleyways.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or night for a crowd-free visit to see the statues.
10. A day trip to the Tuscan countryside
Florence is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns. Popular day trips include Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti wine tours. Each destination has its charm, from Gothic cathedrals to scenic drives and tastings. You’ll appreciate Florence even more after seeing the rural landscape that shaped it. Small group or private tours make it easy to unwind and enjoy without worrying about logistics. Lunch and wine tastings are included on most tours and are served at a farmhouse. Views along the drive alone are worth the trip. Tip: Plan weekday trips for day trips—weekends are more crowded with locals and regional tourists.
Florence is a city that seamlessly combines the past and present, allowing each visitor to walk through the pages of history amidst everyday Italian culture. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, these top 10 things to do will get you the most out of your time in the Renaissance capital.
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