25 Unique Things To Do In Florence You Can’t Miss

Florence is one of my favorite cities. It is so beautiful and full of history. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or simply someone who is just looking to explore, there’s no shortage of amazing and unique things to do in Florence. In this list, you’ll find popular attractions like the iconic Duomo and unique experiences like a pasta-making class or visiting the world’s oldest pharmacy. Florence is a city that never stops surprising you. So, grab a glass of wine as you glance over these unique things to do in Florence.

If you’re spending a few days in Florence and want a structured itinerary, check out the 3-day Florence itinerary I put together. It tells you what to do, where to stay & eat, and it’s going to make planning your trip much easier.

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Quick Picks for Florence

If you’re short on time, these are some of the top tours and experiences I’d recommend booking.

• Must-See: Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, Ponte Vecchio
• Tours you can’t miss: Walking tour and wine tour
• Best Time to Visit: April–June or September–October (fewer crowds, great weather)
• Where to Stay: Stay near the Duomo for first-timers, or in Oltrarno for a more local vibe
• Best Gelato: Gelateria dei Neri

Where to Stay in Florence

It is recommended to stay in the Historic Centre of Florence since you’ll be within walking distance of all the tourist areas. Below are some hotels where we stayed, ranging from affordable pricing to luxury options.

Il Salviatino – Luxury Italian Villa

If you’re looking for a unique luxury experience, Il Salviatino is where you’ll want to stay. It is one of the best hotels in Florence and a private Italian villa. Il Salviatino is nestled in the rolling Tuscan hills and has amazing views of the surrounding nature and of the Duomo. It also has many amenities like a pool, a rooftop terrace, a spa, a fitness center, and more.

Il Salviatino is within a 5-minute drive from the city center, and a shuttle service to the city center and to and from the airport is available for the guests.

We absolutely loved it there. And after a couple of nights, we switched to the Mercure Firenze Centro Hotel to experience the city center of Florence.

Mercure Firenze Centro

The location of the Mercure Firenze Centro is great, as it is located within a 10-minute walk of the Historic Centre of Florence and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It is a 4-star hotel that offers some amenities like a bar and lounge, continental breakfast, and more. This is a more affordable option for those looking for a nice hotel near the city center.

Residenza Della Signoria

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Residenza Della Signoria is a beautiful boutique hotel right in the center of the city. This is the closest hotel to the city center, located within a 5-minute walk from the Uffizi Gallery.

Since it is a boutique hotel, the hotel staff is not on the property the entire day, so if you have any issues or forget your keys, you’ll have to solve it via WhatsApp. That being said, we had a seamless experience in this hotel. It is so conveniently located. You’ll love it there.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Florence

• Book tickets in advance: Major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo can sell out quickly. Keep in mind that for extra popular attractions, skip-the-line tickets are worth the extra price.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Florence’s cobblestone streets are beautiful, but will definitely make you regret wearing sandals. Be ready for plenty of walking and make sure to bring comfortable shoes (preferably sneakers).
• Visit during shoulder seasons: The best seasons to visit Florence are Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). These seasons offer great weather and fewer crowds.
• Stay in the Historic Center: Accommodations near the historic center make it easy to explore the city on foot.
• Time your Duomo climb wisely: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and the heat.
• Pack modest clothing: Many churches require covered shoulders and knees for entry.
• Carry cash: Some smaller shops and cafes prefer cash over cards. Cash will also come in handy when shopping at the leather market.
• Try aperitivo culture: Enjoy a pre-dinner drink with complimentary snacks at local bars—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
• Shop smart at markets: Haggling is common in the leather markets, but be cautious of counterfeit goods.
• Keep valuables secure: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas; use a crossbody bag or money belt.
• Visit nearby cities: Combine Florence with other amazing cities like Rome, Venice, and Cinque Terre into the perfect 2-week Italy itinerary.

25 Unique Things To Do In Florence

Florence is a city that feels like an open-air museum. There are so many amazing and unique things to do in Florence, whether it’s climbing to the top of the Duomo, sipping wine at sunset, or just getting lost in the city.

Recommended for you: The Only 2-Week Italy Itinerary You’ll Need

Watch the Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

Pick up a bottle of wine and some snacks, and watch the sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo for the most iconic view of Florence. It is a bit of a climb as the Piazzale Michelangelo is perched on a hill across the Arno River, but you’ll enjoy the view of the red-tiled rooftops, the Duomo, and the rolling Tuscan hills.

Rub Il Porcellino for Good Luck

While strolling through the streets of Florence, make a stop at the famous bronze statue of Il Porcellino, the wild boar fountain located in the Mercato Nuovo.

According to local legend, rubbing the boar’s snout ensures good luck and guarantees a return trip to Florence. For an extra dose of fortune, place a coin in its open mouth and let it slide into the grate below. If it falls through, your wish will come true! We tried many times, and hopefully, we’ll be blessed with another trip to Florence!

Try the Iconic Bistecca alla Fiorentina

No trip to Florence is complete without indulging in the city’s most iconic dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina. The steak is a thick T-bone cut, typically sourced from the Chianina cattle, a breed native to Tuscany known for their lean yet flavorful meat. It is grilled over a wood or charcoal fire, leaving the inside rare or “al sangue” as the Italians say. Pair it with a glass of Tuscan red wine, and you’ve got a meal that’s both rustic and unforgettable.

We didn’t know much about the Bistecca alla Florentina before ordering it (our fault), and it was a bit too rare for us. So, we asked the chef to cook it more, and he was annoyed with us. So, know that it is traditionally served almost raw before ordering.

Go on a Wine Tour

Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find the Chianti region with its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. Many wine tours include visits to local wineries where you can sample renowned Tuscan wines like Chianti Classico, often paired with regional specialties like pecorino cheese and cured meats.

There are tours available for every budget, but we recommend the Chianti Safari: Off-Road Tuscany Wine Tour with Walkabout Tours. After hours of research and comparing over 15 tours, we decided to book this one because it offered the most value for the price. It takes you to three different villas, includes lunch, and it was highly educational. The tour started at 8:30 am until 6 pm. Buckle up for the last villa because the views are amazing!

Visiting the wineries in the Chianti region is an activity you simply have to do while in Tuscany, even if you don’t like wine that much. It is beautiful, and there are tons of tours to fit every budget.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Here you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the most famous works of art in history. This museum is home to a treasure trove of Renaissance masterpieces, featuring works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. Don’t miss Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera.

It is super important to book your tickets in advance to skip the often hours-long lines and take your time soaking it in.

Shop at Santa Maria Novella (The World’s Oldest Pharmacy)

If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Santa Maria Novella, a pharmacy that has been crafting remedies, fragrances, and soaps since 1221. It is a pharmacy, but it feels more like a museum. Here you’ll find unique products like artisanal perfumes, herbal skincare, and more. However, you don’t have to purchase anything to enjoy the ambiance.

Santa Maria Novella still sells fragrances inspired by the Medicis, particularly one created for Catherine de’ Medici, who was the Queen of France in the 16th century. If you ever wondered how people smelled back then, now you have a chance to find out.

Go on a River Arno Boat Tour

Experience Florence from a different perspective with a boat cruise along the River Arno. You’ll glide under the city’s historic bridges, including the iconic Ponte Vecchio, while taking in the stunning architecture.

Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia

You cannot leave Florence without seeing Michelangelo’s David. The sculpture was completed in 1504, and it took Michelangelo 18 months to complete it. Back then, nudity was scandalous, which is why David’s genitals were originally covered with a garland of copper leaves.

The sculpture is incredible; it is 13 feet tall, and the attention to detail is uncanny. Take your time to walk around and notice every angle.

The Galleria dell’Accademia is a very popular attraction, so you might have to wait in line for a while to get in. To avoid this while on a budget, you’ll want to book the tickets online in advance and choose the first time slot, which is 8:15 am.

If you prefer booking last-minute or don’t mind paying more for a seamless experience, then you can get guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. These are easier to get and you won’t be waiting in line, which in my book is a win-win scenario. More time to grab a Negroni or two.

Eat at Mercato Centrale

For a true taste of Florence, head to Mercato Centrale, a vibrant food market that has the best food stalls.

On the first floor, you’ll find local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and spices. This is a great place to pick up certain Tuscan ingredients to take back home. Upstairs, you’ll find a food hall filled with stalls offering everything from freshly made pasta to artisan gelato.

It is the perfect place to sample a variety of dishes, and it is budget-friendly too.

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll love this Florence food tour. Think local wines, handmade pasta, and even the famous Florentine steak, all while exploring the city’s streets with a guide who knows exactly where to go.

Shop at the Leather Market

Italy is known for its leather craftsmanship, and there’s no better place to explore this than at the San Lorenzo Leather Market. Here you’ll find everything from bags and belts to jackets and wallets, all made with high-quality leather. This is your chance to practice your haggling skills. Most vendors will give you a discount if you pay with cash instead of using your credit card. This is also a great place to find souvenirs at a great price.

Half of our suitcase was full of handbags to take home after visiting this leather market. And I would love to come back to Florence, especially to go back to the market, because I need to buy more handbags.

If you’re visiting multiple cities in Italy, I’d recommend shopping for leather goods in Florence. We visited Rome and Venice, and noticed the price of leather goods was significantly lower in Florence.

Visit Scuola del Cuoio

Located behind the Basilica of Santa Croce. The Scuola del Cuoio is a leather school using traditional techniques. It was founded after World War II to teach leatherworking to orphans. And the school continues to produce amazing handcrafted goods today. You can watch artisans at work, creating bags, belts, and wallets. Many items can be personalized, making them one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

If you’re visiting Italy soon, you’ll love my upcoming guides to Rome and Paris. Join below so you don’t miss them!

Climb the Top of the Duomo

For breathtaking views of Florence, climb to the top of the Duomo, the iconic dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The climb involves 463 steps, winding through narrow stairways, and it gives you a chance to see The Last Judgement fresco up close. This was a challenging but unforgettable experience and I’d do it all over again!

Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower

For another stunning view of Florence, climb Giotto’s Bell Tower. It is right next to the Duomo, so you can do both in the same day. The climb involves 414 steps, and once you reach the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the cathedral’s dome and the city.

👉 Pro tip: If you want to see it all without stressing over tickets, grab a combo pass that covers the Duomo, Baptistery, and Giotto’s Bell Tower. It saves time (includes skip-the-line), plus you’ll get the full Florence experience in one go.

Enjoy a Negroni

Florence is the birthplace of the Negroni, so sipping one (or two) during aperitivo hour at sunset is a must. The perfect Negroni blends equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, garnished with an orange peel. Pair it with some aperitivo bites like olives, crostini, and charcuterie for a unique Florentine evening.

Taste a Gelato Flavor Invented for the Medici

There’s nothing better than a cold treat after a day exploring the city. Try a gelato flavor inspired by the Medici family, such as Crema Medici. This ice cream flavor has hints of citrus or honey. Many gelaterias in Florence, like Gelateria dei Neri or Vivoli, pay homage to the Medici with specialty flavors crafted using traditional recipes.

Explore the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens

You cannot leave Florence without first exploring the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens.

The Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti) is a Renaissance palace, located across the Arno River, that once housed the powerful Medici family. Highlights include the Palatine Gallery, filled with works by Raphael and Titian, and the Royal Apartments, which showcase lavish interiors.

After exploring the palace, step outside to the Boboli Gardens, a gorgeous park filled with fountains, sculptures, and breathtaking views. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy stunning views of Florence.

👉 Pro tip: If you’re planning to see both the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens, it’s way easier to just grab a combo ticket. That way you can wander through the palace and then head straight into the gardens without worrying about separate entry. Plus, you can save a bit by buying the combo ticket instead of buying them separately.

Keep in mind that you can purchase the tickets separately in case you don’t want to visit the palace but do want to stroll around the garden.

🎟️ Tickets:

• Boboli Gardens Reserved Entry Ticket
• Pitti Palace Entry Ticket
• Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens Combo Ticket

Visit the Medici Palace

Located just a couple of blocks away from the Duomo, you’ll step into the world of Florence’s most powerful family at the Palazzo Medici Riccardi. This stunning 15th-century palace served as the original residence of the Medici family. Inside, you’ll find the breathtaking Chapel of the Magi and exhibits about the Medici’s influence on Florence’s art, politics, and culture.

We were able to get tickets the same day, and it wasn’t crowded, but you can also purchase tickets online in advance.

If you’re into history, this guided Medici tour is such a cool way to dig deeper into Florence’s past. You’ll hear stories and little details you’d never pick up on your own.

Also, I was so fascinated by the history and the impact of the Medici family in Florence that I decided to read this book about the Medici after my trip. But if you’re very into history, then I recommend reading it before you go to Florence. That way, you’ll be able to pick up different things, and you’ll be able to appreciate history in Florence much more because you’ll understand the big impact that this family had.

Visit the Basilicata of San Lorenzo

The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of the oldest churches in Florence, and it was the Medici family’s parish church and houses their elaborate tombs in the Michelangelo-designed Medici Chapels.

Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce

Known as the Temple of Italian Glories, the Basilica di Santa Croce is one of Florence’s most significant churches. Many renowned figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, now rest in this basilica. The interior features stunning frescoes by Giotto, intricate stained glass windows, and the famous Cappella dei Pazzi, credited to Brunelleschi. It is not as popular as other attractions, so it will be less crowded.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s most iconic bridge, and it is a must-see for anyone exploring the city.

This medieval stone bridge is lined with shops that have housed jewelers since the 16th century. Walking across it feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its unique architecture.

Don’t forget to stop in the middle of the bridge for a stunning view of the river. You could cross this bridge on your way to the Boboli Gardens and Palazzo Pitti – that’s what we did. If you’re trying to figure out how to fit all of these spots into a realistic plan, check out my 3-day Florence itinerary. It’ll give you a clear idea of how to see the highlights (and a few hidden gems).

If you want to have a unique and adventurous experience in Florence, then this rafting tour along the Arno River is for you. It takes you right under the Ponte Vecchio and past some of the city’s prettiest spots. It’s such a unique way to experience Florence — way more fun than just standing on the bridge for a photo.

Explore the Vasari Corridor

A hidden gem of Florence, the Vasari Corridor is a secret passageway that connects the Palazzo Vecchio to the Pitti Palace, crossing over the Ponte Vecchio. Originally designed by Giorgio Vasari for the Medici family, the corridor allowed the rulers to move through the city discreetly.

Though the corridor is not always open to the public, guided tours are occasionally available. If you get the chance to explore it, the Vasari Corridor is a rare and unforgettable experience.

Get Wine Through Buchette del Vino

Experience Florence’s old tradition of buchette del vino, or “wine windows”. These small windows or openings in the walls of buildings were originally used by local winemakers to sell wine directly to customers during the 17th century. There is a map of the buchette del vino, where you’ll see all the locations where you can purchase a glass of wine or even a bottle in this unique way.

Take a Walking Tour

Florence truly is an outdoor museum, and one of the best ways to experience the city is on foot.

A walking tour is the perfect way to learn about the city’s rich history and hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the city’s Renaissance roots, the Medici family, and its artistic heritage.

Have a Glass of Chianti Classico

Chianti Classico is the traditional wine of the region. Made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, this bold yet smooth wine boasts notes of cherry, plum, and a hint of spice. Chianti Classico pairs beautifully with local dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina or a plate of aged pecorino cheese.

If you’re going on a wine tour, you’ll have plenty of Chianti Classico!

Take a Pasta Making Class

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Italian culture is by taking a pasta-making class in Florence. Guided by local chefs, you’ll learn how to create fresh pasta from scratch. Many classes also teach you how to prepare traditional sauces using simple ingredients. The best part? Some of the tours also have unlimited wine!

Frequently Asked Questions About Florence

Florence is a city that leaves its mark on everyone who visits, and with so many unique things to do in Florence, it’s easy to see why. So start planning, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with this magical city!