10 places to visit in Florence on your next trip

Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is a city that effortlessly combines history, art, and culture. As you explore the streets of this enchanting destination, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring architecture, charming neighbourhoods, and an ambience that transports you back in time.

The city’s rich Renaissance heritage is evident in its museums, where masterpieces by renowned artists can be found. Galleries and exhibitions showcase a diverse range of artistic styles, allowing visitors to delve into the evolution of art throughout the centuries. Some best places to visit in Florence on your next trip are listed below.

READ MORE: We look at 10 historical places to visit in Europe

Accademia Gallery

The Accademia Gallery is a renowned museum located in Florence, Italy. It houses a remarkable collection of art, with its most famous highlight being the iconic sculpture of David by Michelangelo. This masterpiece is considered one of the greatest works of art ever created and attracts visitors from around the world. The architecture of the Accademia Gallery harmoniously blends historical elements with contemporary design, creating a captivating space for art appreciation. Visiting the Accademia Gallery provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistic legacy of Florence and appreciate the incredible skill and craftsmanship of these renowned artists. The museum offers a unique and intimate setting, allowing visitors to closely admire the intricate details of the sculptures and paintings on display. With Accademia Gallery skip-the-line tickets, you’ll have the opportunity to see Michelangelo’s iconic sculpture, David, up close. Additionally, you can explore the museum’s collection of Renaissance artworks, including other sculptures by Michelangelo and paintings by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Pontormo.

The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)

The Duomo is a stunning cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline. Its construction began in the 13th century, and its iconic dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. You can visit the interior of the cathedral, adorned with beautiful frescoes, and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Florence. With tickets to the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), you will see the grand interior of the cathedral, including its impressive frescoes and intricate details.

Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery, located in Florence, is a world-renowned art museum that houses an exceptional collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can explore its grand halls and admire the exquisite paintings and sculptures on display, offering a profound glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of Italy. The Uffizi Gallery is housed in the historic Uffizi Palace, originally built in the 16th century as offices for the Florentine magistrates. The museum’s extensive collection spans over 50 rooms, showcasing a diverse range of artworks from various periods and genres. Visitors can appreciate iconic paintings such as Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera,” Michelangelo’s “Tondo Doni,” and Caravaggio’s “Medusa.” The gallery also features sculptures, ancient Roman and Greek artefacts, and a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of Florence’s skyline. 

Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio, meaning “Old Bridge” in Italian, is a historic bridge that spans the Arno River in Florence. Known for its unique architecture and charming atmosphere, the bridge is lined with shops, predominantly jewellery and goldsmith stores. Originally built in Roman times, the current bridge dates back to the 14th century and has survived various floods and wars throughout history. It offers picturesque views of the river and the surrounding cityscape. Ponte Vecchio is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a symbol of Florence’s rich heritage and a testament to its enduring beauty. Its shops and vibrant atmosphere makes it a delightful place to stroll, shop for jewellery, and soak in the romantic ambience of this iconic landmark.

Palazzo Pitti

This grand Renaissance palace was once the residence of the influential Medici family. It now houses several museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery, showcasing an extensive collection of Renaissance art, and the Boboli Gardens, an enchanting outdoor space with stunning sculptures, fountains, and manicured gardens. With Palazzo Pitti tickets, you can explore the Palatine Gallery, Royal Apartments, Gallery of Modern Art, and the beautiful Boboli Gardens, offering a comprehensive experience of art, history, and stunning outdoor landscapes.

Basilica di Santa Croce

Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” this basilica is the final resting place of many renowned figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Niccolò Machiavelli. The church’s interior features beautiful frescoes and chapels, and the adjacent Piazza Santa Croce often hosts cultural events.

Bargello Museum

The Bargello Museum, located in Florence, is a former medieval palace that houses an impressive collection of sculptures and decorative arts. As one of the oldest public buildings in the city, the Bargello showcases masterpieces from the Renaissance and Gothic periods, including works by renowned artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello. Visitors can admire exquisite sculptures, including Michelangelo’s “Bacchus” and Donatello’s “David,” as well as decorative arts like ceramics, tapestries, and armour. The museum’s interior features beautiful courtyards and grand halls that add to the historic ambience. With its rich collection and architectural charm, the Bargello Museum provides an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and history lovers, offering a deeper understanding of the artistic heritage of Florence.

Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is a historic square in the heart of Florence that serves as the city’s political and social centre. It features the impressive Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and adorned with ornate sculptures. The square is also home to the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery showcasing masterpieces like Cellini’s “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” and Giambologna’s “Rape of the Sabine Women.” Piazza della Signoria has been a hub of activity for centuries, hosting public events, gatherings, and protests. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with outdoor cafes, street performers, and lively crowds. The square’s historical significance and architectural splendour make it a must-visit destination for visitors, providing a glimpse into Florence’s rich past and serving as a testament to the city’s artistic and political heritage.

Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens is a sprawling and enchanting garden located behind the Pitti Palace in Florence. Designed in the 16th century, the gardens are a prime example of Italian Renaissance landscaping and are considered one of the finest examples of an Italian garden in the world. Covering an extensive area, the Boboli Gardens feature a harmonious combination of formal gardens, terraces, sculptures, fountains, and lush green spaces. As you explore the garden, you’ll encounter beautiful paths lined with statues, elegant fountains, and charming grottoes. The layout of the garden offers stunning views of Florence’s skyline, including the dome of the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio. The garden is adorned with a multitude of sculptures, including works by renowned artists such as Giambologna, Ammannati, and Buontalenti. One of the garden’s highlights is the Isolotto, a small island featuring a fountain surrounded by sculptures depicting mythical creatures.

San Marco Museum

The San Marco Museum is located in the former Dominican convent of San Marco in Florence. The museum is renowned for its collection of religious artworks and frescoes by Fra Angelico, one of the most significant painters of the early Renaissance. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of Fra Angelico, who was also a Dominican friar. The highlight of the museum is the frescoes that adorn the walls of the convent’s cells and corridors. Each cell features a fresco, with subjects ranging from biblical scenes to depictions of Dominican saints. These delicate and beautifully executed frescoes provide a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic world of Fra Angelico. With tickets to the San Marco Museum in Florence, you can see Fra Angelico’s exquisite frescoes and a collection of religious artworks, offering insights into the spiritual and artistic heritage of the Dominican convent.

READ MORE: Here are 10 places to visit before you die

Can you suggest places to visit in Florence?

Have you been there before? Please leave us some of your suggestions for places to see and experiences that we must have.