Florence Travel Guide
Discover the Renaissance capital with expert audio tours and insider tips
Florence: Cradle of the Renaissance
Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, offers an unparalleled journey through art, architecture, and history. Home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, this UNESCO World Heritage city transforms every corner into an open-air museum.
From the iconic Duomo with Brunelleschi's revolutionary dome to the treasure-filled Uffizi Gallery, Florence delivers an intensity of cultural experiences unmatched anywhere in the world. The compact historic center makes it perfect for walking, while expert audio tours bring the stories behind the art to life.
Whether you're admiring Botticelli's Birth of Venus, climbing the cathedral dome, or savoring Chianti wine as the sun sets over the Arno River, Florence promises moments that will stay with you forever.
Quick Facts
Top Attractions in Florence
Uffizi Gallery
World's greatest Renaissance art collection
Highlights:
- •Botticelli's Birth of Venus
- •Michelangelo's Doni Tondo
- •Leonardo da Vinci works
Pro Tip:
Book skip-the-line tickets weeks in advance
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
Iconic cathedral with Brunelleschi's dome
Highlights:
- •Climbing Brunelleschi's Dome
- •Cathedral interior
- •Panoramic city views
Pro Tip:
Dome climb requires separate ticket and fitness
Ponte Vecchio
Medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops
Highlights:
- •Historic bridge architecture
- •Jewelry shopping
- •Arno River views
Pro Tip:
Best photos from Ponte Santa Trinita
Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens
Former Medici palace with beautiful gardens
Highlights:
- •Palatine Gallery
- •Royal Apartments
- •Renaissance gardens
Pro Tip:
Combine palace and gardens for full experience
Basilica of Santa Croce
Franciscan church with Giotto frescoes
Highlights:
- •Giotto's frescoes
- •Michelangelo's tomb
- •Pazzi Chapel
Pro Tip:
Don't miss Michelangelo's tomb
Piazzale Michelangelo
Best panoramic views of Florence
Highlights:
- •360° city views
- •Michelangelo statue replica
- •Sunset photography
Pro Tip:
Perfect for sunset viewing
2-Day Florence Itinerary
Day 1: Renaissance Art & Cathedral
Day 2: Oltrarno & Medici Legacy
Florence Food & Dining
Traditional Dishes
- •Bistecca alla Fiorentina
- •Ribollita soup
- •Pappa al pomodoro
- •Lampredotto (street food)
Wine & Aperitivo
- •Chianti Classico
- •Aperol Spritz
- •Local wine bars
- •Sunset aperitivo spots
Sweet Treats
- •Gelato at Vivoli
- •Schiacciata alla Fiorentina
- •Cantucci cookies
- •Espresso culture
Practical Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
April-May, September-October
Mild temperatures, fewer crowds
Avoid: July-August (hot and crowded)
Duration
Minimum: 2 days
Recommended: 3-4 days
Comprehensive: 5-7 days
Transportation
Florence Airport (FLR) - 20 min to center
Santa Maria Novella - central location
Historic center is completely walkable
€Budget
Budget: €60-80/day
Mid-range: €100-150/day
Luxury: €200+/day
Experience Florence with Expert Audio Tours
Transform your Florence visit with our expert-narrated audio tours. Discover the stories behind Renaissance masterpieces, architectural marvels, and hidden gems that make Florence the world's greatest open-air museum.