Florence, located in the Tuscany region of Italy, is a city known for its art, history, and architecture. Founded over 2,000 years ago, Florence has a rich cultural heritage that makes it one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.
One of the most famous attractions in Florence is the Uffizi Gallery, which houses an extensive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The gallery is located in the Piazza della Signoria, which is also home to the Palazzo Vecchio, a beautiful palace that served as the seat of government during the Renaissance.
Florence is also home to numerous other historic landmarks, including the Duomo, a stunning cathedral that features beautiful frescoes and intricate architecture, and the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge that is lined with jewelry shops and offers stunning views of the city.
For those interested in art and culture, Florence is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the Bargello Museum, which features sculptures by Michelangelo and Donatello, and the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s famous statue of David.
Florence is also a great destination for foodies, with numerous restaurants and cafes serving up classic Tuscan dishes such as ribollita (vegetable soup), bistecca alla Fiorentina (grilled steak), and cantucci (almond biscuits). The city is also known for its wines, particularly Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, which can be enjoyed at the numerous wine bars and restaurants located throughout the city.
Finally, Florence is a great destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities, with numerous parks and gardens located throughout the city. The Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, are particularly popular, featuring extensive gardens, several museums, and stunning views of the city.
With that said, Florence is also a popular city, so below are some non-touristy things to do in Florence to avoid the crowds
Visit the Mercato Centrale
A vibrant and bustling indoor market with local food vendors and artisanal products.
Mercato Centrale is a historic and popular indoor market located in the heart of Florence, Italy. It was first opened in 1874 and was renovated in 2014 to become a modern food market with a mix of traditional and innovative food stalls.
The market offers a wide variety of high-quality food products including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, seafood, cheeses, and specialty items such as truffles and olive oil. It also features numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve traditional Italian cuisine and international dishes. The market attracts both locals and tourists and is known for its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and authentic Florentine experience.
Explore the Vasari Corridor
A secret passage above the city streets offers a unique view of Florence’s architecture and hidden gems.
The Vasari Corridor is a historic passageway in Florence, Italy, which was built in 1565 by the architect and artist Giorgio Vasari. The corridor connects the Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of the Florentine government, with the Palazzo Pitti, the residence of the Medici family.
It is approximately one kilometer long and spans the Arno River over the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence. The corridor was created to provide a safe and private route for the Medici family to travel between their home and the government buildings, without being seen by the public.
Today, the Vasari Corridor is a museum and is considered a unique and fascinating attraction, offering visitors an exclusive view of Florence from a different perspective. It also houses an extensive collection of paintings and portraits, including works by famous artists such as Raphael, Rubens, and Rembrandt.
Go to the Sant’Ambrogio Market
A local and authentic open-air market selling fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
The Sant’Ambrogio Market is a bustling indoor and outdoor market located in the historic center of Florence, Italy. The market has been in operation since the 19th century and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It offers a wide range of food products including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, cheeses, baked goods, and specialty items such as truffles and spices.
The market is known for its authentic, high-quality products and friendly vendors who are happy to provide recommendations and samples. In addition to the food stalls, there are also shops selling clothing, housewares, and other goods. The market has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Florence.
Visit the Museo Galileo
A museum dedicated to science, astronomy, and Galileo Galilei’s life and work.
It is dedicated to the history of science, astronomy, and physics, and houses an extensive collection of scientific instruments, telescopes, and other artifacts. The museum is named after the famous Italian scientist Galileo Galilei and offers visitors an immersive and interactive experience.
See the Boboli Gardens
A magnificent Renaissance garden with fountains, sculptures, and stunning views of Florence.
The Boboli Gardens are a large and picturesque park located behind the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy. The gardens were designed in the 16th century for the Medici family and feature beautiful sculptures, fountains, and terraces. The park offers stunning views of Florence and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Visit the San Miniato al Monte
A hilltop church with beautiful frescoes, mosaic floors, and a panoramic view of the city.
San Miniato al Monte is a historic church located on a hill overlooking Florence, Italy. It was built in the 11th century and features a beautiful Romanesque facade, intricate mosaics, and stunning views of the city. The church is also home to a community of monks who continue to maintain its traditions and spiritual practices.
Take a tour at the Piazza Santo Spirito
A lively square with local bars, restaurants, and live music, popular among Florentines.
Piazza Santo Spirito is a vibrant and lively square located in the Oltrarno neighborhood of Florence, Italy. It is home to the Basilica di Santo Spirito, a beautiful Renaissance church designed by the famous architect Filippo Brunelleschi. The square is a popular gathering place for locals and offers a range of bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Explore the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
A museum showcasing the art and history of Florence’s iconic cathedral and baptistery.
The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is a museum located in Florence, Italy, that houses many of the original works of art from the Florence Cathedral complex. The museum features sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts from famous artists such as Donatello, Michelangelo, and Brunelleschi.
Visit the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana
A stunning library designed by Michelangelo, with rare manuscripts, ancient books, and stunning architecture.
The Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana is a historic library located in Florence, Italy. It was founded by the Medici family in the 16th century and houses an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, books, and other historical artifacts. The library is also known for its unique architecture, which was designed by Michelangelo.
Shop at the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
A historic perfumery and pharmacy selling unique and high-quality fragrances and body products.
The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is a historic pharmacy located in Florence, Italy. It was founded in the 16th century by Dominican friars and is known for its luxurious and high-quality beauty and fragrance products. The pharmacy also offers tours and tastings, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the history of Italian perfumery.
Enjoy the Ospedale degli Innocenti
A Renaissance building that once served as a foundling hospital, now a museum showcasing the history of childcare in Florence.
Ospedale degli Innocenti is a historic building located in the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata in Florence, Italy. It was originally a foundling hospital and orphanage that was established in the early 15th century. The building is famous for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and the striking loggia designed by the famous architect Andrea della Robbia.
See the Museo Stefano Bardini
A museum showcasing a private collection of Italian Renaissance art, including sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts.
The Museo Stefano Bardini is a museum located in Florence, Italy, that houses an extensive collection of artwork and decorative arts. It was founded by the Italian art collector Stefano Bardini in the late 19th century and features sculptures, paintings, and other works of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance period.
Go to the San Lorenzo Market
A bustling market selling leather goods, souvenirs, clothing, and local food products.
San Lorenzo Market is a lively indoor and outdoor market located in the San Lorenzo neighborhood of Florence, Italy. The market is divided into two sections: the indoor Mercato Centrale, which offers fresh produce and other food products, and the outdoor market, which features vendors selling clothing, leather goods, and other souvenirs. The market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists and offers a wide variety of products at reasonable prices.