15+ top attractions & best places to visit in Florence

The poetic port city of Florence attracts tourists from all over the world. Save these top top attractions in Florence, best places to visit in Florence below for your upcoming itinerary!

Florence captivates at first sight with its quiet and poetic beauty. This city is like an open-air museum, where every street corner bears the mark of the Renaissance period. Wandering on the cobblestone streets, you will come across the magnificent Duomo Cathedral, the romantic Ponte Vecchio Bridge or the famous Uffizi Gallery.

If you love history, culture and architecture, then join Klook Vietnam to explore famous Florence tourist destinations right away!

Best places to visit in Florence: Florence Duomo Cathedral – Gothic Masterpiece

The Florence Cathedral, or Duomo di Firenze, is an outstanding architectural symbol of Italy. Started in 1296 to the design of Arnolfo di Cambio, the main part of the church took more than 100 years to complete, while the famous dome designed by Brunelleschi was built between 1420 and 1436. This work is one of the most important masterpieces of the Renaissance, inspiring Michelangelo when designing the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.

In addition to admiring the impressive architecture, you can climb Giotto’s bell tower, explore the Opera del Duomo museum or visit the San Giovanni Baptistry with its magnificent gold mosaic ceiling. A must-do experience is climbing the 463 steps to the top of the dome, which opens up a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 10:15 – 15:45, Monday to Saturday

Uffizi Gallery – A Treasure Trove of Renaissance Art

Located in the heart of Florence, next to Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi is one of the most famous art galleries in the world. The U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi was originally built in the 16th century by order of Cosimo I de Medici as an administrative office. However, it gradually became a space to display the precious art collection of the Medici family – the great patrons of Michelangelo, Raphael, Da Vinci and many other famous artists.

Opened to the public in 1785, the Uffizi owns a rich art treasure, from the Middle Ages to the Baroque. Masterpieces such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation or Caravaggio’s Medusa attract millions of visitors each year. Not only a destination for art connoisseurs, the Uffizi also preserves the historical imprint of Florence, taking visitors into the most brilliant art world in Europe.

 

• Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 21:20, from Tuesday to Sunday

Piazza Della Signoria – Cultural Center of Florence

An ideal stop for you to feel the rhythm of life in Florence is Piazza della Signoria. This square used to be the political center of the past, converging many artistic masterpieces. As soon as you set foot here, you will be attracted by the impressive Neptune Fountain, Michelangelo’s replica of David and many other precious sculptures in the Loggia dei Lanzi.

From the central station of Santa Maria Novella, you only need to walk about 15 minutes to reach the square. This area is also famous for the ancient Palazzo Vecchio, which used to be the headquarters of the government of Florence. If you love fashion, Gucci Garden will surely delight you with its iconic designs and creative exhibition spaces.

• Address: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Palazzo Pitti – The Magnificent Palace of the Medici Family

Located in Piazza Pitti, Palazzo Pitti is a prominent destination in Florence, bearing the mark of history and art over many centuries. Originally the residence of the 15th-century tycoon Luca Pitti, it later became the residence of the powerful Medici family, transforming the space into a treasure trove of art.

Inside the palace, the Palatine Gallery impresses with its collection of paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including works by Raffaello and Titian. If you love modern art, the second floor takes you to an exhibition space with works from the 17th to 20th centuries, reflecting the transformation of Italian fine art.

• Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 18:30, Tuesday to Sunday

Boboli Gardens in Palazzo

Right in the grounds of Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Garden is a cool green space, ideal for you to enjoy relaxing moments in Florence. This is a great place to walk under the trees, admire the fountains or simply find a quiet corner to read a book. With a large area, the garden brings a feeling of freedom and openness, very suitable for children to play after hours of visiting the palace.

The garden was created for Duchess Eleonora di Toledo in 1550 and was expanded over the centuries by the Medici family. Spanning over 111 acres, it features numerous sculptures, impressive fountains such as the Neptune Fountain and the Ocean Fountain, and beautiful grottoes, notably the Buontalenti Grotto. Visit in spring, and the vibrant flowers will add to the experience.

• Address: 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 18:30

Giotto’s Campanile

Soaring high in the Florence skyline, Giotto’s Campanile is a graceful and elegant photo spot next to the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. The structure stands out with its meticulously decorated floors, harmonious white, blue and red marble, becoming a typical symbol of the city.

To conquer the top of the tower, you will need to climb 414 steps, but the reward is the stunning view of Florence that opens before your eyes. The domes, winding streets and the Arno River appear like a vivid picture. On the way up, take the opportunity to stop at the observation decks to rest and enjoy the romantic scenery from different heights.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 43°46’22″N 11°15’20″E, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 18:45

Galleria Dell’accademia

Entering Galleria dell’Accademia, you will be immediately attracted by Michelangelo’s proud statue of David – a timeless masterpiece reflecting the perfect beauty of Renaissance art. Located in the heart of Florence, this museum also preserves many other impressive sculptures such as the Prisoners struggling to escape from the rough marble.

In addition, paintings from the 13th-15th centuries with strong Gothic and Renaissance influences also contribute to the unique appeal of this place. In particular, the ancient musical instrument gallery takes you back in time, discovering the melodies that once sounded in the Medici palace. Spend at least one day to admire all the great works here!

• Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 18:20

Arno River – The Poetic River Embracing the Beauty of Florence

The Arno River winds through Florence like a soft stroke in the middle of the peaceful picture of the city. Originating from the majestic Apennines, this river is not only the source of life for the land but also witnessed many ups and downs of history. Standing on the bank, looking at the slowly flowing water, you will feel the harmonious beauty between nature and architecture.

A day walking along the river will open up many interesting perspectives of Florence. If you love exercise, the bicycle route extending to Cascine Park is an ideal choice. For those who are passionate about new experiences, try drifting on an old barchetto, gliding past the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio to admire the city from a completely different angle.
Arno River

• Address: Florence, Pisa
• Opening hours: 24/7

Wine Windows – Unique Tiny Window Wine Tasting Experience

Walking around Florence, you will easily come across small windows on the stone wall, where glasses of wine are handed to diners. That is the Wine Windows – a unique highlight of this city. Appearing since the 16th century, during the time of Cosimo de Medici, these windows help people buy wine directly from the producer without having to step into the shop.

Through many historical changes, to this day, more than 280 Wine Windows are still present in the heart of Florence. For the full experience, visit Babae – a pioneer in bringing back this tradition, or stop by Cantina dei Pucci for a charming glass of Barbanera Toscana Rosata. Most of the wines sold through Wine Windows are only available for consumption, so don’t be afraid to take the time to enjoy this nostalgic space!

San Lorenzo Market – A Local Food and Shopping Paradise

If Florence is a feast for art and architecture, San Lorenzo Market is a feast for food lovers. Stepping into this market, you will immediately be drawn into a space filled with the rich aroma of cheese, cold cuts, crispy toast and all kinds of Tuscan spices. The stalls here are meticulously cared for, reflecting the pride of Italians in traditional cuisine.

Besides being a place to shop for ingredients, this is also an ideal stop for a local lunch. The second floor of Mercato Centrale is home to a number of delicious food stalls, where you can enjoy a rich truffle tagliolini or the famous bollito sandwich. A small note is that the market is often very crowded, especially at noon, so arriving early will help you fully enjoy the experience without having to jostle.

• Address: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:00 – 23:00

Ponte Vecchio – The Romantic Symbol of Florence

For those who love taking photos and checking in, Ponte Vecchio, the symbol of Florence, is definitely a destination not to be missed. With a history stretching back to the Roman era, the bridge has witnessed many ups and downs, from fierce floods to important changes in architecture and function. The current version was built in 1345 and has remained unchanged for centuries.

Not only is it associated with the art of goldsmithing, the bridge has also witnessed important moments in history. During World War II, amid a series of destroyed structures, Ponte Vecchio was fortunately preserved thanks to a German officer. If you have the opportunity to visit, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the romantic sunset and take photos with the timeless beauty of this legendary bridge!

• Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

Santa Croce Basilica – The Resting Place of Michelangelo and Galileo

Step through the ancient gates of the Basilica of Santa Croce and you will immediately feel the solemn atmosphere mixed with artistic beauty. This is the resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli—names who left a deep mark on art, science and philosophy.

The special feature of Santa Croce lies in the exquisite frescoes by Giotto and impressive sculptures. If you pay attention, you will see the flat wooden ceiling, a rare design that reflects the humble spirit of the Franciscan order. A little tip for you, Santa Croce is a sacred place, so formal attire will help you have a more complete experience. Don’t forget to visit the museum inside to discover more masterpieces!

• Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:30 – 17:30. Sundays: 12:30 – 17:45

Piazzale Michelangelo – The Most Beautiful Sunset Spot in Florence

Located on a hill south of the city, Piazzale Michelangelo is the ideal place to capture the beauty of Florence in your sight. This square was created in 1869 according to the design of architect Giuseppe Poggi, possessing a spectacular view towards the magnificent dome of the Duomo and the poetic Arno River.

In the middle of the square, a bronze statue simulating Michelangelo’s masterpiece David stands tall, like a sentinel guarding the beauty of the Italian art capital. When the afternoon falls, the sunset dyes the ancient roofs orange, creating a scene that cannot be taken away from your eyes. You can reach Piazzale Michelangelo by bus 12 or 13, but walking along Viale dei Colli is a more poetic experience.

• Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 24/7

San Miniato Al Monte Ancient Church With Panoramic Views

Located atop Monte alle Croci, San Miniato al Monte Church impresses with its exquisite white-and-blue marble facade and its meditative, tranquil atmosphere. In addition to being an important Romanesque architectural work, the church is also a favorite destination for locals looking for some peace in the heart of the bustling city.

Step inside and you will immediately feel the sacred atmosphere with ancient columns, sparkling mosaics and the crypt containing the relics of San Miniato. If you visit on the summer solstice, don’t miss the phenomenon of the sun shining directly on the Cancer symbol on the floor. If you visit on a weekday, don’t miss the sunset on the terrace. From here, the whole of Florence opens up before your eyes like a splendid and romantic painting.

• Address: Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 9:30 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 19:00. Sunday only: 8:15 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 19:00

Cappelle Medicee – The Symbolic Chapel of Florence

With the perfect combination of art, history and architecture, Cappelle Medicee is a must-see stop when coming to Florence. Built over centuries, the complex includes the Chapel of the Princes, a splendid space decorated with precious stones and rare marble, along with the New Sacristy, where Michelangelo left his mark through the beautiful statues such as Day & Night, Dawn & Dusk.

Visiting here, you will be overwhelmed by the statues of Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici, surrounded by four statues of Allegories of Day and Night, Dawn and Dusk – a profound philosophical symbol of life and death. No less magnificent, the Cappella dei Principi dome brings majestic beauty with a fresco honoring the Bible. A small note is that this area has strict regulations on photography, please take note to avoid violations!

• Address: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8:15 – 18:50, closed on Tuesdays

Florence Travel FAQs

What is the best way to get to Florence from Rome, Milan or Venice?

The most convenient option is to take a high-speed train. From Rome, the journey takes about 1.5 hours; from Milan, about 2 hours; and from Venice, about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Popular train companies are Trenitalia Frecce and ItaloTreno.

How to get around Florence?

Florence has a convenient bus and tram system. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, train stations or via apps like Moovit. If you are walking, the city has many attractions close together, making it easy to explore.

How many days should a trip to Florence last?

About 2-3 days is enough to visit the main attractions such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and the old town.

What are some typical dishes to try when visiting Florence?

Some typical dishes include Ribollita (bread and vegetable soup), Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) and gelato (Italian ice cream).

Do you need to book tickets in advance to visit museums in Florence?

Yes, especially for famous museums such as the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery. Book your tickets in advance with Klook to save time queuing and avoid sold-out situations during peak season.

Walking through the heart of Florence, every street and every building seems to tell a fascinating story. Whether admiring the magnificent beauty of the Duomo, strolling along Ponte Vecchio or immersing yourself in the art at the Uffizi, every moment here will be a memorable one.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Florence you can refer to

• Duomo Monumental Complex Direct Access Ticket in Florence with Guided Visit
• Florence Duomo, Baptistery, and Museum Tour
• Small Guided Tour with Fast Track Entry to Duomo and the Secret Terraces
• Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Balcony & Dome Access
• Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour with Fast Track Entry
• Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket in Florence
• Val d’Orcia Tour from Florence
• Pisa Half Day Tour from Florence
• Florence Bike Tour with Food Tasting Experience
• Florence City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Open Top) and Leonardo da Vinci Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Tuscany Day Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Florence
• Rome to Florence Day Tour
• Chianti Afternoon Tour from Florence
• Excursion to Pisa through the Tuscan Countryside from Florence
• Florence Dome Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket + Free Souvenir Old Polaroid Photo
• Florence Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket with Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Florence: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And Italy guide here.