Florence: The Essential Must-Do Guide

Wander the old streets and Ponte Vecchio: One of my favorite things about Florence is just getting lost in those twisty, narrow streets and tiny piazzas—there’s no grid, so don’t even try, just wander. Make sure to check out Piazza della Signoria, Piazza della Repubblica, and of course, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s iconic town hall. Cross the jewelry-packed Ponte Vecchio or peek at it from the nearby bridge for killer Arno River views, with street musicians and twinkling lights at dusk—it’s pure magic.

Watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo: Head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best skyline view ever—the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Arno all glowing in golden light. Grab a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio, a beer or wine, and chill with the crowd while live music plays—sunset vibes here are unreal.

Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome (Il Duomo): Climbing the 463 narrow steps to the top of the Duomo is tough but worth every single one. The views make the city look like a living Renaissance painting, and along the way, you get a peek at the insanely detailed frescoes inside the dome.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery: The Uffizi is packed with world-class art that hits you right in the feels, even if you’re not usually a museum person. Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera (a mythical spring garden bursting with over 500 identifiable plant species) are my favorites—you’ll be thinking about them long after you leave.

Explore the Oltrarno neighborhood: Oltrarno is Florence’s cooler, less crowded side, full of local artisans, hidden cafés, and real Florentine vibes. Swing by Piazza Santo Spirito for an afternoon drink—and keep an eye out for the tiny wine windows (buchette del vino) scattered around where you can order a glass of Chianti and sip right on the street.

See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia: Seeing the real David in person blows every photo away—the scale, the detail, and how alive it feels is insane. Fun fact: the head and right hand are deliberately bigger so it looks perfect from below, just like it was meant to.

Eat your way through Mercato Centrale: Mercato Centrale is my go-to spot for stuffing your face with truffle pasta, fresh mozzarella, killer pizza, and local wine—all in one buzzing, casual space. It’s hands-down the best way to taste Florence.

Spend an afternoon in the Boboli Gardens: The Boboli Gardens behind Palazzo Pitti are perfect for a chill break from the city chaos, with sprawling lawns, cool sculptures, fountains, and great views. A perfect spot to relax, though if you’re short on time or it’s chilly, it’s one you could skip.

La Giostra: This cozy, old-school spot in the historic center feels like dining in a fairy tale with its candlelit tables and family-run charm. I had their legendary pear ravioli and it was amazing—don’t miss it, plus the stracciatella to share is incredible and the ossobuco is a must.

Trattoria Sabatino: This historic Oltrarno gem in the San Frediano neighborhood, run by the Buccioni family since 1956, sits right under the ancient Porta San Frediano and pulls in locals for its warm, homey vibe and daily-changing menu of nonna-style Tuscan classics. Go for the ribollita soup or their legendary bistecca alla fiorentina—grab a spot at one of those shared outdoor tables and just lean into that authentic neighborhood feel.

All’Antico Vinaio: Yeah, the famous schiacciata sandwich spot with lines out the door—don’t skip it, just go early. Order the Favolosa and add stracciatella (the original doesn’t come with it), it's the perfect grab-and-go for a picnic at Piazzale Michelangelo.

Volume: My top pick for drinks in Oltrarno—it’s a super cool bookstore/café right by Piazza Santo Spirito with mismatched furniture, vinyl spinning, killer cocktails, and even pizza. Try the Negroni (gin, vermouth, Campari) or Negroni Sbagliato (same but with prosecco for a fizzy twist)—it has the coolest vibe during the day, and at night it gets lively with a fun crowd perfect for aperitivo.

Trattoria Camillo: A classic Oltrarno favorite that’s always buzzing with locals. Grab a spot at the communal tables and order the homemade spinach tortellini—it’s simple and comforting.

Buca Mario: This tiny, historic basement trattoria in the cellars of Palazzo Niccolini feels like a time warp to the 1950s with its warm, family-run vibe. Their lasagna is hands down the best dish—plus we ordered the bistecca alla fiorentina to share (a portion of three is perfect for 6).

Trattoria Angiolino ai 13 Arrosti: This tucked-away spot in Oltrarno serves massive, mouthwatering portions—you won’t leave hungry. Go for the ossobuco with saffron rice or the spaghetti alla Daniele (arrabbiata)—share a table with whoever’s there and soak in that loud, authentic Florentine energy.