Florence, Italy, also known as Firenze by the locals, holds a special place in my heart. When I studied abroad there at 19, it was the catalyst for starting this blog and shaping who I am today. Florence remains one of my top spots in Italy, bursting with vibrant life, incredible cuisine, and a deep-rooted history. The experience of studying there was a highlight in my life, giving me insights to offer recommendations and insights on what to explore, whether you are a student or a holidaymaker. Take a look at a few options that interest you, and I hope you stumble upon something new. Let’s delve into it.
Getting There
- When traveling to Florence from abroad, note that the city does not have a large international airport, so there might always be a layover. For a cost-effective and quicker journey, I suggest taking the tramway connection T2 between the Florence airport and the City Centre. (This tip would have been handy during my study abroad experience)
- Opting for a train ride to Florence is convenient as the train station is centrally located in the city, which is highly walkable. Keep in mind that there are limited taxis due to certain car restrictions on city roads.
- In my view, the ideal time to explore Florence is from the beginning of Fall to Winter, starting in September. Although Florence is always bustling, the crowds lessen significantly after summer, providing relief from the intense summer heat.
Where to Stay
- Drawing from my experience of staying in various Airbnbs and long-term accommodations in Florence, I would suggest that the top neighborhoods to stay in are Santo Spirito (a local area with fantastic food and bars, less crowded), Santa Croce (a beautiful, less congested local neighborhood), and Santa Maria Novella (known for its vibrant Asian community, proximity to the train station, and the Duomo).
- Florence’s apartments are charming and distinctive, making an Airbnb stay ideal to immerse yourself in an authentic Italian vacation experience.
- Whichever neighborhood you opt for, you will uncover a side of the city that is uniquely yours. Every time I stayed in a new area, I encountered new eateries, bars, museums, and, of course, people.
What to See
Museums play a significant role in Florence, and I have selected some that I believe are worth a visit, listed in order of my preferences. While some of these museums may not be the typical ones tourists talk about in Florence, each has its charm and uniqueness:
- Palazzo Pitti:
- Located on the other side of the river, away from the crowds, Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens were once the residence of the Medici family. Built in 1457, this stunning palace is now a museum.
- Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze:
- Known for housing Michelangelo’s famous sculpture David, this museum is a must-visit in Florence. Despite its size, it also showcases other sculptures by Michelangelo, making it an iconic destination in the city.
- Basilica di San Lorenzo:
- Situated at the heart of the main market district, this basilica is one of the largest churches in Florence. It serves as the burial site for prominent members of the Medici family and features intricate ceiling art.
- Uffizi Galleries:
- As the most visited museum in Florence, the Uffizi Galleries are vast, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in art for an entire day. Notable pieces include The Birth of Venus by Botticelli, Medusa by Caravaggio, and Diptych of Federico da Montefeltro and Battista Sforza.
- Museum of the Last Supper of Andrea del Sarto:
- The Museo del Cenacolo di Andrea del Sarto in Florence showcases the remarkable piece ‘The Last Supper,’ covering over 40 square meters. Andrea del Sarto spent more than eight years creating this masterpiece, with some of his other works also displayed.
- Palazzo Vecchio:
- Overlooking Piazza della Signoria, the Palazzo Vecchio serves as Florence’s town hall and houses a replica of Michelangelo’s David statue. The gallery of statues in the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi offers stunning views of Florence.
- Gucci Museum:
- Visit this modern museum, combining a boutique and museum of the Florentine fashion house Gucci. Explore unique exhibits and collections, take photos in the mirror room, and admire avant-garde artworks ranging from clothing to accessories, offering perfect photo opportunities.
What to Do
You must explore the cultural and local activities beyond museums, while being in Florence. So here are a variety of engaging activities related to history, food, and wine in Florence.
- Piazzale Michelangelo
- Enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape, including the Duomo, Arnolfo Tower of the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi. The vibrant energy during sunset attracts many visitors.
- Wine Tasting
- Embark on a wine tour in picturesque Tuscany to savor the local flavors. It’s a must-do experience that offers a delightful escape from the bustling city.
- Pasta Making Class
- Indulge in an Italian culinary adventure with a pasta-making class, where you can learn and enjoy your creations.
- Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
- Explore the world’s oldest pharmacy to find unique scents like candles and perfumes, ideal as special souvenirs.
- Wine Windows
- Discover hidden wine windows in Renaissance buildings, now revived for serving Chianti and gelato. Perfect for budget-conscious visitors and content creators.
- Biblioteca delle Oblate
- Enjoy a serene view of the Duomo from the top floor café at the Oblate Library, away from the tourist crowds. Occasionally, live music events add to the charm.
- ACF Fiorentina
- Experience a football match with ACF Fiorentina, a prominent Italian club based in Florence. Immerse yourself in the local sports culture for an authentic Florentine experience.
Practical Tips
- The most convenient ways to navigate Florence are by walking or using the bus system, as the city is compact and easy to get around.
- While Florence itself is not notorious for pickpocketing, Italy is currently facing a significant issue with this crime. Stay vigilant with your belongings, especially during peak seasons.
- Explore beyond Florence’s city center as numerous hidden gems are waiting to be discovered throughout the city.
- Don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from locals; they hold the key to uncovering the best-kept secrets of the city.
Florence holds a special place in my heart, and I trust you found these tips useful. For more insights on top dining and nightlife spots, check out my other blog posts to stay updated. Share your favorite spots in the comments section; I’d love to hear about them.
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