Curator’s statement
Florence will forever hold a special place in my heart—I lived here for four months during college and have returned many times since. Its beauty lies in the balance between world-class art and simple pleasures: walking through cobblestone streets, savoring local food, and watching the sunset over the Arno. This guide reflects the Florence I came to know deeply—the highlights and the hidden gems.
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Things to do in Florence
Outside of the Giunti Odeon – Libreria e Cinema
Piazzale Michelangelo
Head here for the best panoramic view of Florence—especially stunning at sunset. Bring a bottle of wine and get ready to climb a fair number of stairs if you’re walking. For those needing accessibility support, a local bus can take you right to the top.
Mercato Centrale
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers. Sample everything from fresh pasta to Tuscan cheeses, or just grab a glass of Chianti and people-watch. I spent afternoons and evenings here, sketching and drinking a glass of wine while listening to local artists perform.
The Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore)
Florence’s iconic cathedral is a must-see. Climb to the top of the dome or the bell tower for sweeping views, but even just admiring it from the piazza is an experience. If you don’t want to climb to the top, seeing it from a rooftop bar, like the View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar, is just as magical.
Walk the Oltrarno District
The Oltrarno District, which literally means “beyond the Arno,” is Florence’s quieter, cooler counterpart to the historic center. Cross over the Ponte Vecchio or Ponte Santa Trinita, and you’ll find yourself in a neighborhood that feels more lived-in, more artisan-driven, and more local. This is where real Florentines live, work, and unwind—and it’s where I always go when I want to experience Florence at a slower, more real pace.
Oltrarno has long been at the heart of Florence’s artisan scene. Wander down Via Maggio, Via dei Serragli, or Borgo San Frediano and peek into workshops where craftsmen still create leather goods, marbled paper, gold leaf frames, and restored antiques by hand. Some artisans have been in the same family for generations.
Uffizi Gallery
Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. Pre-book tickets to skip the line and soak in the Renaissance brilliance. It’s truly an amazing museum worth experiencing.
Boboli Gardens + Giardino dell’Iris
While Boboli Gardens behind Palazzo Pitti is a popular and beautiful choice, my personal favorite is the Giardino dell’Iris, a hidden gem near Piazzale Michelangelo. This serene garden is dedicated entirely to irises, Florence’s symbolic flower. It’s only open for a short window—about 20 days between late April and early May—when the flowers are in peak bloom. If your visit aligns, don’t miss this magical and peaceful spot with views over the city.
Giunti Odeon – Libreria e Cinema
Located just steps from Piazza della Repubblica, this gorgeous Art Nouveau building opened in 1922 as one of Italy’s first purpose-built cinemas. Today, it’s a stunning hybrid of historic theater, bookstore, café, and cultural hub. Grab a cappuccino and explore the elegant space—whether you’re flipping through books, catching an English-language film, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the interior. It’s one of my favorite places to pause and soak in the artistic soul of the city.
Places to eat & drink in Florence
Gnocchi gratinati al formaggi morbidi al profumo di tartufo from Osteria Santo Spirito
Trattoria ZaZa
A lively and beloved Florentine restaurant offering classics with a twist. It’s become incredibly popular—make a reservation in advance! They’re menu is quite extensive, and you cannot go wrong ordering, but I definitely recommend getting the classic Bruschetta and almost any of the pasta dishes.
Osteria Santo Spirito
Cozy, local, and unforgettable. Don’t miss the baked four-cheese truffle gnocchi (gnocchi gratinati al formaggi morbidi al profumo di tartufo). It was my all-time favorite.
La Ménagère
My favorite brunch spot. A beautiful concept space with a flower shop, restaurant, and coffee bar. They also serve dinner and host live music in the basement. A little on the pricier side, but the atmosphere is lovely.
All’Antico Vinaio (and Pino’s Sandwiches)
All’Antico Vinaio is world-famous for their incredible schiacciata sandwiches, and it draws long lines every day. But if you’re looking for something just as tasty (if not better) without the crowd, head to Pino's Sandwiches – Salumeria Verdi, a local favorite with amazing quality and a friendlier pace.
Antica Gelateria Fiorentina
This gelateria was a frequent stop for me during my time living in Florence. It’s centrally located and offers delicious, authentic gelato with classic and seasonal flavors.
Need to know
Florence is incredibly walkable—just be prepared for cobblestones and limited elevators, so pack light and wear comfortable shoes. When shopping at the leather markets, like the ones around San Lorenzo, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You’ll find everything from handbags and belts to jackets and wallets. Some stalls offer genuine, handmade Italian leather goods, while others are mass-produced knockoffs—so how do you tell the difference? Look for quality stitching, soft but structured leather (not stiff or plastic-like), and ask questions. Real artisans will proudly tell you where and how their products are made. And don’t be afraid to negotiate—it’s part of the culture.
Want to blend in a little more? Skip the athleisure—Italians tend to dress polished, even just to grab a coffee. Order your espresso al banco (standing at the bar) for a quick, local-style caffeine fix, and avoid large to-go cups—they’re a dead giveaway. If you’re heading out for aperitivo, embrace the ritual: a spritz or Negroni, light bites, and time to just unwind and people-watch. Oh, and never order a cappuccino after 11 am. That one’s sacred.
Florence is full of beauty and history, but what makes it most special are the quiet in-between moments: a walk through a tucked-away street, a conversation with a local shop owner, a view that stops you in your tracks. Leave space in your itinerary for those.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Florence page.
Travel Advisor
Alexandra Ullrich
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