Florence Travel Blog: Our Honest Take After Visiting the Birthplace of the Renaissance

What We Recommend You Do in Florence

Florence has a wonderful concentration of art, architecture, and history packed into a remarkably small footprint. After multiple visits, we have learned that trying to see everything is the fastest way to feel exhausted. After two trips to Florence together, plus a visit Lauren took on her own during university, we feel well prepared to share our recommendations for this Florence travel blog. 

Rather than organizing your days around every “must-see,” we think in terms of what consistently feels worth our time, what is great if you have extra time in your itinerary, and what we would personally skip or approach differently on a future trip to Florence. 

What’s Worth It in Florence (And Why)

These are the experiences we think belong at the core of any Florence itinerary, especially on a first visit to this incredible city. Think of them as the best things to do in Florence!

A QUICK PLANNING NOTE: The Uffizi Galleries, Accademia Gallery, and the Pitti Palace are closed on Mondays. Meanwhile, the Bargello is closed on Tuesdays. The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Duomo Museum) is closed on the first Tuesday of the month.

Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze)

The Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze) dates back to 1784, occupying a 14th century hospital and convent. Closely connected to the Academy of Fine Arts, the gallery provided works that students could study as part of their artistic training.

The museum forever changed in 1873, when Michelangelo's David was moved here from Piazza della Signoria for its protection. A gallery was eventually constructed to showcase the sculpture, and the present-day Accademia was formally established in 1882. Today, the collection extends well beyond Michelangelo, with medieval and Renaissance paintings, plaster models, and historic musical instruments.

Of course, most visitors come for one reason: Michelangelo's David. 

Michelangelo's David

If there is one work of art synonymous with Florence, it is Michelangelo's David. It is arguably the most famous sculpture of the Renaissance and one of those works that, no matter how many times you have seen it reproduced in photographs, is completely different when you are standing directly in front of it. 

We have visited the Accademia Gallery twice, and seeing David up close is still absolutely incredible. The sculpture's scale alone is impressive, but take time to look more closely. The muscles, veins, tendons, facial expression, and subtle shift in weight reveal an astonishing understanding of human anatomy. This is not a work we recommend simply taking a photograph of and checking off of your must-see list. Walk around it, look at it from different angles, and give yourself a few minutes to really appreciate the artistry. 

David was originally commissioned for the Duomo. Once completed, however, it was decided to place the sculpture outside Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza della Signoria, where it became a symbol of the Florentine Republic. 

Artistic Highlights at the Accademia Gallery 

While David is unquestionably the star of the museum's collection, the Accademia contains several other works and galleries worth your attention.

The hallway leading toward David is lined with four of Michelangelo's unfinished Prisoners, sometimes called Slaves. The male figures appear to emerge from the blocks of marble, giving you a fascinating look at Michelangelo's sculpting process. They also illustrate something that becomes apparent as you explore more of the artist's work throughout Florence: Michelangelo left a surprising number of projects unfinished. 

If you have ever visited the Louvre in Paris, then you have likely seen two other finished sculptures from this series: the Dying Slave and the Rebellious Slave. These six sculptures were all commissioned for the extravagant tomb of Pope Julius II. The project ultimately went unfinished because of interruptions and competing high-priority projects, including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. 

Two additional sculptures attributed to Michelangelo on display at the Accademia, both incomplete: the Palestrina Pietà and a sculpture of San Matteo.  

Elsewhere in the museum, look for the full-size model of Giambologna's Abduction of a Sabine Woman (The Rape of the Sabine). The finished marble sculpture is located in the Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria. 

The Gallery of Plaster Casts, or Gipsoteca, is another highlight, filled with models and casts that make the room feel almost like an artist's workshop. The collection is closely connected to Florence's Academy of Fine Arts, where plaster models were used as teaching tools for students learning sculpture. The gallery is packed with casts and models, many associated with prominent 19th-century Florentine sculptures. 

One of our favorite parts of the museum, however, is the Museum of Musical Instruments. The collection includes historic instruments, including some of the first ever-created pianos dating to the late 17th century. They are more than just instruments, but beautiful works of art in their own right. 

If you have additional time, head upstairs to view the museum's collection of medieval and early Renaissance paintings. These galleries tend to be much quieter and provide a nice look at Italian art before the period dominated by Michelangelo and his contemporaries. 

Why We'd Visit Again

We have visited the Accademia twice together, and we would absolutely return for a future visit. 

A large part of why we would visit again comes down to David. Seeing this masterpiece in person, even on a second visit, does not make it any less impressive. If anything, knowing what to expect gave us more time to notice the details that make it such an incredible, lifelike masterpiece. 

We also love that the Accademia never feels as overwhelming as the Uffizi. The collection is substantial enough to make the museum worthwhile beyond David, but compact enough that you can explore it without dedicating half of your day to the experience. We also think the museum simply does a better job of managing crowds in comparison to the Uffizi.  

For us, seeing David in person remains a bucket-list Florence experience. It is a defining work of the Renaissance, inseparable from the history of the city, and something we believe everyone should see at least once. 

Practical Tips Before You Go

The Accademia Gallery is one of Florence's most popular attractions, and timed tickets typically sell out in advance, especially during the spring and summer months. We recommend purchasing your tickets before you arrive in Florence.

Tickets can be purchased directly through the official Ministero della Cultura website. Combo tickets are available if you are also interested in visiting the Bargello Museum and the Medici Chapels.

One of the best ways to truly appreciate Michelangelo's masterpiece is to visit the Accademia on a guided tour. While official guided tours are not available through the Accademia Gallery directly, third-party tours can be booked through GetYourGuide.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: If you decide not to book a guided tour, consider using the free audio guide from Rick Steves' Europe for Accademia Gallery. The audio guide is easy to follow and adds much-needed context without the cost of a private tour guide.

The Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi) 

If you only have time for one museum in Florence, make it the Uffizi Gallery. Nowhere else in the world will you find a collection of Italian Renaissance art quite like this, with works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and many more under one roof. 

The Uffizi was commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici in the 16th century and designed by Giorgio Vasari. The name Uffizi literally means "offices" in Italian, reflecting the building's original purpose as the offices of the Medici government. 

Over time, the Medici used portions of the complex to display their growing art collections. After Medici rule ended in 1737, Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, the last surviving member of the family's grand ducal line, ensured through the Family Pact that their enormous collection of paintings, sculptures, jewels, books, and other treasures would remain in Florence. Those collections ultimately became the foundation of the museum visitors experience today.

Artistic Highlights at the Uffizi Galleries 

The Uffizi contains an incredible number of masterpieces, so it helps to know what you can expect to see before you arrive. 

The works by Sandro Botticelli in the collection are easily Lauren's favorites. Make sure you see Primavera (Spring) and The Birth of Venus. Both are much larger and more impressive in person than photos suggest, and they are easily among the most recognizable works in the entire museum.

Meanwhile, Brian particularly loves the two works in the collection by Leonardo da Vinci, The Annunciation and Adoration of the Magi, in addition to a work by da Vinci's teacher, Andrea del Verrocchio. A young Leonardo da Vinci helped his master with The Baptism of Christ, painting the angel to the left of the painting. According to legend, Verrocchio was so impressed by the talent of his young student, Leonardo da Vinci, that he never painted again.

Other works and artists we recommend looking out for include:

• Michelangelo: Holy Family (Doni Tondo), Michelangleo's the only surviving panel painting
• Raphael: Madonna of the Goldfinch (Madonna del Cardellino) and Portraits of Agnolo Doni and Maddalena Strozzi 
• Caravaggio: Medusa, Bacchus, and Sacrifice of Isaac 
• Titian: Venus of Urbino
• Piero della Francesca: The Duke and Duchess of Urbino Federico da Montefeltro and Battista Sforza 
• The Medici Venus (Venus de' Medici): One of the most ancient sculptures in the Medici collection, from the late 2nd century to early 1st century BC. The marble sculpture is believed to be a Roman copy of an earlier Greek original. Today, it can be found in the Tribuna and can be viewed from the room's doorways. 

There is far more to see than this short list, but these works provide a good starting point for a first visit to the Uffizi!

The Vasari Corridor

The Uffizi is also not-so-secretly connected to both Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti via the Vasari Corridor. Bearing the name of its builder, Giorgio Vasari, the elevated passageway allowed the Medici family to move privately between their offices and residence across the Arno River. The Vasari Corridor rises above the streets of Florence, across the top of Ponte Vecchio, before eventually reaching Palazzo Pitti.

In essence, the Vasari Corridor is just a really long hallway connecting some of the city's most important landmarks. The corridor is open to tourists, although access requires a specific ticket and is not included with standard admission to the Uffizi Galleries. If you want to walk through the Vasari Corridor during your visit, make sure you select the appropriate ticket when booking. 

Practical Tips Before You Go

We have visited the Uffizi twice now, and we still have not seen everything. That is something to keep in mind when planning your visit. The Uffizi is enormous, and trying to see every room is an easy way to end up with museum fatigue. Add in the crowds, particularly around the most famous paintings in the collection, and the experience can become extremely overwhelming rather quickly.

We strongly recommend booking the first entry time of the day for your visit to the Uffizi. Arriving when the museum first opens in the morning gives you at least a brief head start before the galleries become increasingly congested. From our experience, tour groups typically arrive mid-morning and that is when the museum gets to be the busiest. However, keep in mind that you will likely not be able to see the entire collection during one single visit.

The main Renaissance highlights are concentrated on the second floor, and this is where we recommend that you begin your visit. Give the works you are most excited to see your attention while you are still fresh, then explore the rest of the museum at your own pace. 

Tickets for the Uffizi should be purchased in advance of your visit via the official Uffizi Galleries website. Combo tickets are also available if you are interested in visiting the Vasari Corridor, Palazzo Pitti, and/or the Boboli Gardens. 

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: A free audio tour of the Uffizi Galleries is available from Rick Steves' Europe if you are looking for some added context as wander through one of the greatest collections of Italian Renaissance art. Keep in mind that the museum does occasionally move paintings around, so the works highlighted in the audio tour may be out of order. Even so, it is a great way to identify the pieces that deserve a little more of your attention.

We recommend spending at least three to four hours at the Uffizi during your visit. If you are pressed for time, we recommend booking a guided tour of the museum to help you see the highlights more efficiently. A number of guided tour options for the Uffizi Galleries are available through GetYourGuide.

Why We’d Visit Again

The Uffizi can be exhausting and overwhelming. It gets extremely crowded, the collection is expansive, and after several hours, even Renaissance masterpieces can begin competing for your increasingly limited attention.

Despite that, we have visited twice and will absolutely return! There is simply too much here to absorb in a single visit, and even after two trips, we still have not seen everything. More importantly, returning gives us the opportunity to revisit the works we genuinely love, while devoting our attention to galleries and artists we may have missed on previous visits.

Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee) 

The Medici Chapels are one of our favorite places to visit in Florence. We have visited twice, and even on our second visit, we were just as impressed by the sheer grandeur of the complex. 

Attached to the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the chapels were created to serve as the final resting place of the Medici, the family whose wealth, power, and patronage shaped Florence for centuries. The family financed churches, collected art, provided patronage for some of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance, and eventually ruled the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. Their influence is visible throughout Florence, but nowhere does the sheer scale of their wealth and ambition feel quite as tangible as it does here.

Nothing quite prepares you for entering the Chapel of the Princes. The enormous octagonal space rises high above you, covered in richly colored marble, semi-precious stones, monumental tombs, and elaborate decoration. It is opulent, dramatic, and genuinely incredible to see in person.

It is grand in a way that photographs cannot convey. The Chapel of the Princes offers so much detail to take in, from the elaborate stonework beneath your feet to the decoration extending all the way up toward the dome. It is one of those places that no matter how many times you may visit, there is always something else to notice.

The Chapel of the Princes was conceived in the early 17th century as an appropriate burial space for the Medici grand dukes, but completing it became an enormous undertaking. Work continued long after the Medici dynasty itself disappeared, with elements of the decoration, including the elaborate floor, not completed until the 1960s. 

Michelangelo & the Cappelle Medicee

The adjoining New Sacristy, however, provides a complete contrast to the Chapel of the Princes. Designed by Michelangelo, the space and design is far more restrained than the Chapel of the Princes, allowing architecture and sculpture to be the highlight. 

Here you will find the Medici tombs of Lorenzo, Duke of Urbino, and Giuliano, Duke of Nemours, accompanied by Michelangelo's famous allegorical sculptures of Dawn, Dusk, Day, and Night. Lorenzo the Magnificent and his brother, Giuliano, are also buried within the sacristy beneath Michelangelo's Madonna and Child.

Michelangelo never completed everything he intended for this space and that is really what makes the New Sacristy even more interesting. Instead of feeling unfinished or diminishing the experience, the incomplete nature of the grandiose tombs gives you a glimpse into a project that was still very much a work-in-progress when Michelangelo left Florence for Rome in 1534.

Michelangelo's Secret Room at Cappelle Medicee (Stanza Segreta di Michelangelo) 

Michelangelo certainly left his mark on the Cappelle Medicee and if you can get tickets, Michelangelo's Secret Room (Stanza Segreta di Michelangelo) will not disappoint! Seeing Michelangelo's Secret Room in January 2026 was easily the most incredible experience we have had in Florence! 

Hidden beneath the New Sacristy, the tiny room was rediscovered in 1975. Michelangelo took refuge in this space for two to three months during a turbulent period in Florence in 1530. During this brief period, Michelangelo was given a death sentence by Pope Clement VII, a member of the Medici family, after Michelangelo sided with the Florentine Republic against Medici rule. Pope Clement VII eventually pardoned Michelangelo, allowing the artist to emerged from hiding and resume work on the Medici projects at the Basilica of San Lorenzo. 

Knowing this history makes stepping into this room feel truly surreal. This is not simply a studio where Michelangelo happened to work. Instead, it is a tiny space where one of the most famous artists in history sought safety during an incredibly dangerous period in his life.

The walls are covered with charcoal drawings attributed to Michelangelo. Figures, faces, limbs, and anatomical studies appear across the plaster walls, some connected to ideas and works you can see today at the Bargello and the Vatican. Other drawings here are attributed to Pierino da Vinci, the nephew of Leonardo da Vinci. 

Practical Tips Before You Go

Access to Michelangelo's Secret Room is extremely limited due to its small space and in order to preserve the art. As such, admission requires an advance reservation. Tickets can be booked only through the official Ministero della Cultura website. Tickets to Michelangelo's Hidden Room include admission to the Cappelle Medicee.

If you can manage to get tickets, we cannot recommend the experience enough! Seeing Michelangelo's original sketches in the very space where he sought refuge was easily one of the highlights of our most recent trip to Florence. 

Tickets to Cappelle Medicee, without access to Michelangelo's Secret Room, can be purchased both on-site at the Cappelle Medicee and online via the official Ministero della Cultura website.

Basilica of Santa Croce

The Basilica of Santa Croce is our favorite church in Florence. It is certainly not unknown, but compared to the crowds that surround the Duomo, Santa Croce can feel like one of the city's best hidden gems. The basilica is beautiful, filled with important Renaissance art and Florentine history, yet it rarely seems to receive much attention from first-time visitors to Florence.  

The Franciscan basilica dates primarily to the late 13th and 14th centuries. Its marble Neo-Gothic façade, however, was added much later in the 19th century. Once you step inside, much of the experience is decidedly medieval. The soaring nave, pointed Gothic arches, and enormous stained-glass windows create an interior that feels dramatically different from the Duomo. 

The stained glass is one of the highlights of Santa Croce. The color the windows cast across the otherwise restrained Gothic interior is breathtaking, especially behind the main altar. There is also a lot of art to see at the Basilica of Santa Croce, including the recently restored Stories of St. Francis by Giotto in the Bardi Chapel. However, what really makes Santa Croce truly memorable is the individuals who are buried here.

"Temple of the Italian Glories"

The basilica is the final resting place and place of commemoration for some of the most consequential figures of the Italian Renaissance. Michelangelo is buried here beneath an elaborate monument designed by Giorgio Vasari, with allegorical figures representing painting, sculpture, and architecture mourning the artist. Nearby is the monumental tomb of Galileo Galilei, honoring the astronomer and scientist whose strained relationship with the Catholic Church made his eventual burial inside Santa Croce particularly significant. The philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli is also buried in Santa Croce.

The basilica also contains memorials to numerous other Italian artists, writers, thinkers, and figures which have given the basilica a nickname of the "Temple of the Italian Glories." In many ways, Santa Croce feels like Florence's answer to the Panthéon in Paris, bringing together the memory of individuals whose work shaped the city's art, science, literature, music, and political scene.

The idea of Santa Croce as a “Temple of the Italian Glories” was reinforced by Italian poet Ugo Foscolo, who celebrated the basilica and its tombs in his 1807 poem Dei Sepolcri. Foscolo, who is also buried in Santa Croce, wrote of the power that monuments to great figures can have on future generations: “The tombs of the great inspire strong souls to noble deeds.” (In Italian: “A egregie cose il forte animo accendono l'urne de' forti.”)

Not every figure commemorated inside Santa Croce is actually buried here. Dante Alighieri is one of the most famous examples. An elaborate cenotaph honors the Florentine poet inside Santa Croce, but his remains are not physically here. Dante was exiled from Florence in 1302 and eventually died in Ravenna (a city in Emilia-Romagna), where he was buried.

Other memorials of note include Florence Nightingale, who was born in Florence in 1820 and named for the city, is commemorated here despite being buried in England. 

As you explore the basilica, be sure to check out areas beyond the main nave. The cloisters are peaceful and the Pazzi Chapel provides insight into the art and architecture of the early Renaissance. The Basilica of Santa Croce is one of our favorite places to visit in Florence because it brings together so much of the city's art and history in one place. While the Duomo may be the city's most recognizable church, Santa Croce is the one we enjoy visiting the most.

Practical Tips Before You Go

Tickets for the Basilica of Santa Croce can be purchased both at the ticket office at the basilica and online via the official Santa Croce Opera website.

As with all churches and religious sites throughout Italy, visitors should dress respectfully when entering the Basilica of Santa Croce. Avoid revealing clothing, shorts or skirts that fall above the knee, and tops that leave your shoulders bare. Hats and other non-religious head coverings should be removed before entering. If you are visiting Florence during the summer months, carrying a lightweight scarf or shawl is an easy way to cover your shoulders when needed.

Piazza della Signoria 

If there is one piazza in Florence that captures the city's history, politics, and art in a single place, it is Piazza della Signoria. This beautiful square has served as the civic heart of Florence for centuries, with Palazzo Vecchio rising above it and an incredible collection of Renaissance sculpture displayed throughout the surrounding space.

As cliché as this may seem, this is one of our favorite public spaces in Florence. There is so much to look at that even after multiple visits, we still find ourselves stopping here to take it all in. The architecture is imposing, the sculptures are remarkable, and few places make Florence's history feel quite as tangible. 

The entrance to Palazzo Vecchio is guarded by two monumental sculptures. Michelangelo's David originally stood here after its completion in the early 16th century, transforming the biblical hero into a power civic symbol for the Florentine Republic. The original remained outside of Palazzo Vecchio for centuries before being moved to the Accademia Gallery for its protection in the 19th century. A marble replica now occupies its former position beside the palace entrance. 

Next to David stands Baccio Bandinelli's Hercules and Cacus, while elsewhere in the piazza you will find Bartolomeo Ammannati's Fountain of Neptune (also known as Biancone and Lauren's favorite sculpture in the piazza) and Giambologna's Equestrian Monument of Cosimo I de' Medici. Unlike the David outside of Palazzo Vecchio, these are all original works, making Piazza della Signoria effectively an open-air Renaissance sculpture gallery. 

As beautiful as the piazza is during the day, it can get incredibly crowded, so we prefer to return late at night. Once the tour groups and daytime crowds begin to disappear, the square can actually be appreciated. At night, Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding buildings are illuminated, making the sculptures easier to appreciate without crowds scattered amongst them. Standing here after dark is one of our favorite ways to savour the beauty of Florence. 

Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio, also known as Palazzo della Signoria, has stood in Piazza della Signoria since the early 14th century and remains one of the best physical reminders of Florence's long history as a center of civic and political power. Its fortress-like exterior feels intentionally harsh, but step inside and the experience changes considerably. 

The palace began as the seat of the Republic of Florence's government long before becoming associate with the Medici. However, Cosimo I de' Medici moved his family and court here in the mid-16th century from the nearby Palazzo Medici Riccardi, transforming portions of the medieval government building into an elaborate palace fit for the Dukes of Florence, before the family eventually relocated across the Arno to Palazzo Pitti. 

That history is reflected throughout the palace's grand interior. The enormous Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the 500) is arguably the main highlight, created to accommodate Florence's governing council and then dramatically redesigned (as you see it today) under Cosimo I. Its soaring ceiling and enormous frescos make the room feel every bit as ambitious as the political figures who used it. The hall is also home to Michelangelo's The Genius of Victory. 

Other highlights inside Palazzo Vecchio include the Bronzino Chapel of Eleonora of Toledo, wife of Cosimo I, as well as, the Hall of Lilies (Sala dei Gigli). The Hall of Lilies is named for the golden fleur-de-lis that cover its deep blue walls. The richly decorated room is easily one of the most beautiful inside Palazzo Vecchio.

Palazzo Vecchio is, however, more than just opulently decorated rooms. So much of Florence's political history unfolded within these walls. Visiting the palace gives you a better understanding of the republic that Florence once was, the rise of Medici power, and the close relationship between politics and art that shaped the city during the Renaissance. 

Tickets for Palazzo Vecchio can be purchased online in advance of your visit via the Comune di Firenze website. Guided tours of the palace are also available in English on Mondays and can be booked online. Access to the palace's tower, Torre di Arnolfo, requires a separate ticket for an additional fee. Keep in mind that the tower may close due to inclement weather. It is 418 steps to the top of the tower. Children under the age of six are not allowed to visit the Torre di Arnolfo. 

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: A free audio tour of Palazzo Vecchio is available through the official Museo di Palazzo Vecchio website, making it easy to learn more about the palace and its history as you explore at your own pace. Just scroll down to the section titled 'Audios' (about two-thirds of the way down the page) and remember to bring a pair of headphones so you can listen during your visit. 

Loggia dei Lanzi (Loggia della Signoria) 

Across from Palazzo Vecchio and lining one side of the Piazza della Signoria is the Loggia dei Lanzi (also called the Loggia della Signoria), and it offers something particularly unusual: the opportunity to see major works of sculpture in their historic setting without purchasing a ticket.

Built in the 14th century for public ceremonies and gatherings, the open-air loggia later became a showcase for sculpture under the Medici. Today, it is technically a part of the Uffizi complex, but the Loggia dei Lanzi remains completely free to visit.

Among its most important works is Benvenuto Cellini's bronze Perseus with the Head of Medusa, commissioned in the 16th century by Cosimo I de' Medici. Also located here is Giambologna's Abduction of a Sabine Woman (The Rape of the Sabine), an ambitious marble sculpture designed to be viewed from multiple angles, along with the artist's Hercules and Nessus. These are not modern replicas, but original works that have occupied this public space since the Renaissance. 

At the front of the Loggia, two Medici lions stand guard. One of which is Roman and dates to the 2nd century AD, while the other was created as to be its companion in the 16th century. The lion had long been associated with strength, authority, power, and royalty, symbolism that made these monumental sculptures particularly fitting for the Medici. 

The Medici Lions themselves are enormously influential, with copies and variations appearing at palaces, gardens, museums, and important buildings throughout Europe. Similar lion sculptures appear in royal settings such as the Throne Room of the Royal Palace of Madrid, where four gilded lions flank the Spanish throne. It is another reminder of just how far the influence of the Medici extended beyond Tuscany. The family did not simply shape the politics, art, and architecture of their own city. Through wealth, patronage, marriage, and political connections, their influence reached royal courts across Europe, helping spread the art and artistic ideals of Renaissance Florence well beyond Italy.  

That history is a big part of why we love visiting the Loggia dei Lanzi and the Piazza della Signoria as a whole. You can stand in the center of the square surrounded by incredible Renaissance sculptures, look up at the palace from which Florence was governed, and see evidence of the Medici's influence almost everywhere you turn. Few places in Florence encapsulate the city's art and political history together quite as vividly, and you do not need to step inside a museum to experience it. 

Day Trip to Siena

While this list is supposed to encompass the best things to do in Florence, we have to suggest at least one day trip from Florence: Siena. We have taken quite a few day trips from Florence over the years, including trips to Bologna, Pisa, Vernazza in Cinque Terre, and wineries throughout Chianti. However, if you have enough time in Florence to dedicate a full day to exploring somewhere else, Siena is our first choice. 

Siena is a medieval city that feels distinctly different from Florence and a place we genuinely love exploring. The historic center is compact and incredibly well preserved, with narrow medieval streets that all seemingly lead towards the city's center: Piazza del Campo. The enormous shell-shaped piazza is unlike any other we have encountered in Italy, but it was Siena Cathedral that really made the day trip from Florence memorable for us.

The cathedral is easily one of the most beautiful churches in Italy. Its striped marble interior is truly striking. The grand cathedral contains works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini, along with the incredibly opulent Piccolomini Library and the cathedral's elaborate marble mosaic floors. If you enjoy the art and architecture in Florence, Siena feels like a natural extension of that experience while still being a distinctly different city in Tuscany. 

While we would not give up one of only two or three days in Florence to visit Siena, if you have more time in the city and are eager to explore more of Tuscany, Siena is the day trip we would prioritize first.

Practical Tips Before You Go

Siena is one of the easiest day trips from Florence to do independently. Regional trains connect Florence Santa Maria Novella and Siena FS in approximately 90 minutes. Trains typically run hourly and tickets can be purchased directly through the train operator, Trenitalia, either at the train station's ticket kiosks or on the Trenitalia website. 

Of course, you can also book a guided day trip to Siena through GetYourGuide. A number of tour options also include stops in Pisa, Chianti, and elsewhere in Tuscany. 

Tickets for Siena Cathedral can be purchased at the on-site ticket office or via the Opera Duomo Siena website. We recommend purchasing the Porta del Cielo pass, which includes access to the cathedral's roof and all of the other sites at the cathedral complex. 

Keep in mind that the grand mosaic floors of Siena Cathedral are not always visible to the public. Large sections are typically kept covered to protect the delicate marble and uncovered only during designated periods each year for visitors to see. We were lucky to see the floors during our visit in February 2026, however, even if portions of the floor are covered for conservation, Siena Cathedral is still one of the highlights of the city, and, in our opinion, well worth a trip!

Why We’d Visit Again

We love that a day trip to Siena does not require you to race between attractions to make the day feel worthwhile. There is plenty of time to visit the major sights, including Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo, while still wandering the medieval streets, stopping for a long lunch, and simply enjoying the city. Siena is genuinely beautiful, and having the time to slow down and appreciate it is a big part of what makes this such a great day trip from Florence. It is also one of the main reasons we would happily return!

Great Additions If You Have Extra Time in Florence

The following are not essential stops for a first visit to Florence, but they add depth and variety if you have extra time in your Florence itinerary.

Bargello Museum (Museo Nazionale del Bargello)

If you are interested in Renaissance sculpture, the Bargello Museum is one of the best museums in Florence. Housed inside a medieval palace that once served as the headquarters of the city's police chief (or bargello in Italian) and a jail, the building itself feels dramatically different from the grand Renaissance galleries found elsewhere in the city. The museum is also refreshingly quiet compared to the crowded halls of The Uffizi or the Accademia Gallery, making it a great stop if you have extra time in the city and want a brief escape from the crowds.

The museum is best known for its outstanding collection of sculpture, including works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Verrocchio. One of the most celebrated works in the collection is Donatello's bronze David, a landmark work of the early Renaissance and one of the first freestanding nude sculptures created since antiquity. The bronze sculpture is also a textbook example of contrapposto, the natural shift of weight through the body that Donatello helped re-introduce to Western art after studying ancient Greek and Roman sculpture. 

Donatello's influence is felt throughout the museum. In addition to the bronze David, the Bargello is home to his St. George, one of the most confident and lifelike sculptures of the early Renaissance, as well as works like David in marble and St. John the Baptist, which show Donatello's range of style and the development of Florentine sculpture during the 15th century. 

Andrea del Verrocchio is also represented in the museum, including his own bronze version of David. Verrocchio was another leading artist of the Renaissance, although he is arguably more famous for being a teacher of the young Leonardo da Vinci. 

Above all else, the main draw of the Bargello Museum is the collection of sculptures by Michelangelo. His sculpture of Bacchus, depicting the Roman god of wine in an unsteady, drunken pose, is one of the artist's few works that is not religious in subject. Michelangelo's Tondo Pitti, the bust of Brutus, and an unfinished sculpture known as Apollo-David are also on display in the museum. 

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: A free audio tour of the Bargello Museum is available from Rick Steves' Europe. The tour officially begins on the ground floor with works by Michelangelo. However, to better understand the evolution of Florentine sculpture during the Renaissance, we recommend listening to the introduction and then fast-forwarding to the first-floor galleries that feature Donatello and Verrocchio. (You will want to head upstairs to hear this part of the audio tour.) After exploring the upper-level rooms and completing that portion of the tour, return to the ground floor and finish with the section covering Michelangelo’s sculptures.

Tickets for the Bargello Museum can be purchased directly from the official Bargello Museum website. While the Bargello Museum does not offer guided tours, guided tours can be booked through our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide. 

Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti) & Boboli Gardens

If you are looking to experience the Medici at the height of their power, the Pitti Palace is hard to beat. Before moving across the Arno River, the Medici governed Florence from Palazzo Vecchio. When they relocated to Pitti Palace in the 16th century, the shift was symbolic as much as practical. Palazzo Vecchio functioned as a civic palace tied to the administration of the Republic of Florence. Pitti Palace, in contrast, is unmistakably royal. 

The scale alone is impressive. The palace stretches across the hillside, projecting the wealth and authority the Medici had accumulated by the time they made it their primary residence. Inside, the Palatine Gallery contains works by Raphael, Titian, and other masters displayed in lavishly decorated rooms. 

Visiting Pitti Palace offers a different perspective on Florence's history. It showcases how the Medici evolved from powerful republican bankers into a ruling dynasty that controlled Tuscany as grand dukes, with relatives becoming popes and marrying into royal families across Europe.

Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli) 

Behind the palace lie the Boboli Gardens, one of the great historic garden complexes in Italy. Designed in the Italian formal garden style, the gardens unfold in terraces of sculptures, fountains, and carefully planted greenery that climb the hillside behind the palace. This style of garden design would later influence the development of French formal gardens across Europe.

One of our favorite aspects of the Boboli is the perspective it offers on Florence itself. From several points in the gardens, you can look out over a sea of terracotta rooftops and see the Duomo rising about the historic center. It is a beautiful vantage point.

The gardens also provide plenty of space. While the palace galleries can feel busy at times, the Boboli Gardens allows you to wander along shaded pathways and open terraces.

The Boboli Gardens are a particularly great addition to your itinerary if the weather cooperates. On a pleasant day, the combination of views, sculpture, and gardens makes it one of the most enjoyable places to wander outside of the city's busiest areas.

Tickets for the Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

If you are already planning to visit the Uffizi Galleries during your time in Florence, you should purchase the combo ticket (PassePartout 5 Days) that includes admission to the Uffizi, Palazzo Pitti, and the Boboli Gardens. It is the easiest and most cost-effective way to visit all three, particularly if you are spending several days in Florence. You can also add-on the Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano), to your combo ticket for an extra cost.

Individual tickets are available for the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens via the Uffizi Galleries website. Boboli Gardens are open daily, however, opening hours differ with the season. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Uffizi Galleries website. 

A guided tour can help you better understand the Medici family who once lived here. Guided tours of the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens are available through our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Located just a short walk from Florence's main train station (Firenze Santa Maria Novella, or SMN for short), the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is easy to overlook in a city filled with famous churches and incredible museums. If you have extra time in your Florence itinerary, however, it is well worth stepping inside. The Dominican basilica dates to the late 13th, with construction taking almost 200 years. That long period of construction is part of what makes Santa Maria Novella so interesting to visit. Throughout the church and its adjoining chapels, you can see the transition from medieval Gothic art and architecture to the perspective, proportion, and realism that would come to define the Renaissance.

The art at Santa Maria Novella is the real reason to visit. Its distinctive green and white marble exterior façade was completed in the 15th century by Renaissance architect Leon Battista Alberti and is considered one of the most important architectural works of the Florentine Renaissance. Inside, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella contains works by many artists who helped shaped the Renaissance, including Giotto, Masaccio, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Filippino Lippi, and Michelangelo.

While the art here is less familiar to casual visitors than the masterpieces filling the Uffizi and Accademia, they provide an incredible look at Florentine art. One of the most important works in the basilica is Masaccio's Holy Trinity. Painted in the 1420s, the fresco is considered one of the first works painted using linear perspective. As a result, the fresco shows a convincing illusion of depth, giving the painting dimension. 

Elsewhere in the basilica, additional highlights you will find include: Giotto's Crucifix, Botticelli's Nativity, and the incredible frescos by Domenico Ghirlandaio and his workshop (including the contributions of a young Michelangelo Buonarroti), behind the main altar in the Tornabuoni Chapel. 

There is also a work directly attributed to the young Michelangelo in the basilica, a small marble holy water font (stoup). The small sculpture features a beautifully carved caryatid with a green marble water basin. It is located right by the entrance to the sacristy. 

For us, Santa Maria Novella's appeal is simply how peaceful the church feels. The cloisters and chapels invite you to slow down and admire the art, something that can be difficult to do at Florence's busiest attractions. 

Tickets for the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella can be purchased on-site on the day of your visit. The last admission is one hour before closing. Guided tours are available in English on Fridays. To book a guided tour, please visit the Comune di Firenze website.

Piazzale Michelangelo 

If you are looking for one of the best views in Florence, a trip across the Arno River to Piazzale Michelangelo is certainly worthwhile. Perched on a hillside above the historic center, this large 19th-century terrace offers sweeping panoramic views of Florence, and unlike other viewpoints in the city, it is completely free to visit!

The terrace is named in honor of the Florentine artist and true Renaissance man, Michelangelo Buonarroti. An enormous bronze replica of the artist's iconic David stands at the center of the pizzale, with replicas of the artist's four allegorical figures created for the Medici Chapels at its base.

From the piazzale, you can see many of Florence's most recognizable landmarks. While the Duomo complex dominates the skyline, you can also see Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Arno River, and the city's terracotta rooftops stretching towards the Tuscan hillside on the horizon. 

Piazzale Michelangelo is incredibly popular with tourists at sunset, but we actually prefer to visit during the day. The crowds are usually small, especially in the morning, and the daylight makes it easier to pick out the landmarks and appreciate the details of the city below. While you will miss out on the dramatic sunset photographs, you gain a much better opportunity to actually enjoy the view.

A visit to Piazzale Michelangelo is not something you need to build an entire day around, but if the weather is clear and you have time in your Florence itinerary, it is one of the easiest additions we can recommend. The view is spectacular and it provides a completely different perspective on Florence after spending most of your trip exploring the city at street level.

Things We’d Skip, or Approach Differently Next Time

Experience has definitely reshaped how we approach a few of Florence's most talked-about spots. Here are the spots we think are overrated, over-hyped, and/or require a different approach as you plan your time in Florence. 

The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)

Few landmarks are as synonymous with Florence as the Duomo. Formally known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Duomo is the defining landmark of the city. Its marble façade is stunning, and Brunelleschi’s dome remains one of the most remarkable engineering achievements of the Renaissance. It is absolutely worth seeing up close. 

That said, visiting the cathedral and climbing the dome are two very different experiences.

The interior of the cathedral itself is surprisingly plain compared to its dramatic exterior. Aside from looking up into the dome, many first-time visitors find it less ornate than expected (ourselves included). Entry is technically free, but the general-admission line is typically long and slow-moving.

Climbing the Dome

Climbing to the top of Brunelleschi's dome is often presented as a must-do in Florence, but the experience comes with tradeoffs. The ascent involves 463 narrow steps through steep, tight stairways that can feel claustrophobic. If you are uncomfortable with heights or tight spaces, it can be more stressful than rewarding. Even once at the top, time is limited, and the experience can feel rushed depending on the pace of the individuals ahead of you.

Instead, we recommend skipping the dome climb altogether and purchasing either the Giotto Pass or the Ghiberti Pass in advance of your visit. The Giotto Pass includes access to Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the Crypt of Santa Reparata. Giotto's Bell Tower offers sweeping views of the city and the Duomo in a more open setting that feels significantly less claustrophobic or rushed than the dome climb. The Ghiberti Pass provides access to the same sites, but it does not include the bell tower. The Baptistery’s mosaics are a highlight worth seeing, and the Opera del Duomo Museum houses remarkable sculptures by some of Florence’s greatest artists, including Donatello and Michelangelo.

An added benefit of any of the Duomo complex passes, including the Brunelleschi Pass if you decide to climb the dome, is the fast-track access into the cathedral itself. Rather than waiting in the general-admission line, you will enter the Duomo through the Crypt of Santa Reparata entrance on the side of the cathedral. 

If you do not have time in your Florence itinerary to visit the interior of the Duomo, do not worry! Aside from looking up into the dome itself, you are not missing a richly decorated space. Instead, spend time admiring the cathedral’s marble exterior and the intricate bronze doors of the Baptistery. In our opinion, those exteriors are the true visual highlights of the cathedral complex!

Ponte Vecchio

Dating back to 1345, Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest and most distinctive bridges in Europe. Its name simply means “Old Bridge” in Italian, and for centuries it has connected both sides of the Arno River. Originally lined with butchers, the shops were later converted to goldsmiths and jewelers, a tradition that continues today.

In August 1944, retreating Nazi forces destroyed every other bridge in Florence in an effort to slow the advancing Allied troops. Ponte Vecchio was the sole exception. Its survival for nearly 700 years is remarkable on its own. The fact that it also withstood a war that devastated much of Europe makes it even more historically significant.

Today, however, walking across Ponte Vecchio can feel less charming than expected. The bridge is almost always crowded, and its small shops are dominated by high-end jewelry stores with prices that reflect their location. Moving across the bridge often means weaving through large tour groups, making it difficult to appreciate the architecture and the river views.

Instead, we like to admire Ponte Vecchio from a short distance away. For one of the best perspectives, walk along the Arno River near the Uffizi, where you can take in the bridge’s full profile without the congestion. For even better views of the iconic bridge, head to Ponte Santa Trinita, the bridge just west of Ponte Vecchio. From there, you will have a clear, unobstructed view framed against the river and a far more peaceful way to experience the Florentine landmark.

Palazzo Medici Riccardi 

Palazzo Medici Riccardi carries enormous historical weight. Built in the 15th century, it was the original Medici residence and home to Cosimo de' Medici, known as Cosimo the Elder, and later Lorenzo de' Medici, Lorenzo the Magnificent. Within these walls, the Medici family consolidated power and shaped the cultural trajectory of the Renaissance. Renowned artists, including Donatello, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, once worked here under Medici patronage.

The true highlight of the palace is the Chapel of the Magi, completed in the 15th century during the Medici era. Its vivid frescos, painted by Benozzo Gozzoli, are richly detailed and widely believed to include portraits of members of the Medici family in the biblical procession. 

However, beyond the chapel, much of what visitors see today reflects later renovations. In the 17th century, the Riccardi family acquired the palace and introduced many of the ornate Baroque details that now define portions of the interior. As a result, there is surprisingly little remaining from the original Medici spaces.

If you are particularly interested in the Medici family, the overall experience can feel underwhelming relative to the palace's historical importance. The Marble Museum is genuinely interesting, housing an impressive collection of ancient marble artifacts assembled by the Riccardi family. The Baroque ceiling in the Galleria degli Specchi is also striking. Still, these highlights do not fully compensate for the limited Medici-era context throughout the rest of the palace.

Instead, we recommend spending your time at Palazzo Pitti, Palazzo Vecchio, or one of our favorite sites in Florence: the Medici Chapels. Each offers a stronger Medici presence, artistic grandeur, and historical atmosphere. 

Mercato Centrale 

Mercato Centrale is often dismissed by travel writers as an overpriced tourist trap. We think that assessment is overly simplistic. 

Yes, it can be busy. No, it is not the most authentic market experience in Florence. The historic ground floor houses traditional vendors, but the space primarily caters to tourists. Upstairs, the modern food hall functions more like a curated dining complex than a neighborhood market.

That said, it is well executed. The upstairs food court offers a wide variety of options, at different price points, and can be a convenient place for a quick lunch, especially if you are exploring this part of the city. It is efficient, comfortable, and easy, which is sometimes exactly what you need in the middle of a busy sightseeing day.

It is also worth noting that Mercato Centrale is not unique to Florence. You will now find similar food hall concepts in Milan, Rome, and Turin, as well.

More Markets in Florence

If you are looking for a more authentic Florentine market experience, we instead recommend heading to Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio. It is more local, less curated, and far more reflective of how residents actually shop and eat. The market is open Monday through Saturday, from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you decide to visit Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio make sure you have cash as many of the vendors will give you a better price if you pay in cash. 

Florence also has other markets worth seeking out depending on your interests. Mercato delle Pulci offers antiques and vintage finds every Tuesday through Saturday, near Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio. The city also hosts a monthly antiques market in Piazza Santo Spirito on the second Sunday of every month from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM which draws collectors and casual browsers alike. 

Resources We Used to Plan Our Trips to Florence

At Jetset Seeker, we value transparency. In addition to sharing our own firsthand experience, here are the resources we have personally used over the years to help plan our trips to Florence.

• Rick Steves Italy (25th Edition, December 2019)
• Tripadvisor Florence 
• Visit Tuscany