Top Activities to Do in Florence: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Florence isn’t just a city — it’s an open-air museum, a food lover’s paradise, and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, Florence packs an incredible amount of history, art, and atmosphere into a walkable, beautiful city.

Here are the top activities you shouldn’t miss in Florence, from iconic landmarks to local experiences that make the city unforgettable.

Marvel at the Duomo & Climb the Dome

No visit to Florence is complete without seeing the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo. Its pink, green, and white marble façade is breathtaking — but the real magic is climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome.

The climb is steep (463 steps!), but the reward is one of the best panoramic views in Italy.

Don’t miss:

• The Baptistery’s Gates of Paradise
• Views of Florence’s red rooftops from the top

Tip: Book dome tickets in advance — they sell out fast.

See Michelangelo’s David

Standing before Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery is a goosebumps moment. Photos don’t do it justice — the detail, scale, and emotion are stunning in person.

The museum itself is small, making it an easy yet essential stop.

Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the most important art collections in the world. This is where you’ll find masterpieces like:

• The Birth of Venus by Botticelli
• Works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael

Even non-art lovers are often surprised by how captivating the Uffizi is.

Tip: A guided tour helps bring the art to life.

Walk Across Ponte Vecchio

Florence’s most famous bridge, Ponte Vecchio, is lined with historic jewelry shops and offers beautiful views over the Arno River. It’s especially magical at sunset when the light reflects off the water.

Best time: Early morning for photos, sunset for atmosphere.

Get Lost in the Historic Center

Some of Florence’s best moments happen when you’re not following a plan. Wander through:

• Piazza della Signoria
• Hidden alleys near Via dei Calzaiuoli
• Local cafés tucked away from tourist routes

Florence is compact, safe, and made for exploring on foot.

Enjoy a Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

For the best view in Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. From here, you can see the entire city — the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Arno River — all in one stunning panorama.

Tip: Bring a drink or snack and arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset.

Eat Authentic Tuscan Food

Florence is heaven for food lovers. Must-try local dishes include:

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina
• Fresh pasta with truffle or wild boar
• Ribollita or pappa al pomodoro (traditional soups)

For quick eats, grab a legendary sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio or explore Mercato Centrale.

Pair everything with a glass of Chianti, of course.

Explore the Oltrarno District

Cross the river to discover Oltrarno, Florence’s more local, artistic side. This area is known for:

• Artisan workshops
• Relaxed piazzas like Santo Spirito
• Authentic trattorias and wine bars

It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Florence beyond the tourist hotspots.

Visit Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

Once home to the powerful Medici family, Pitti Palace offers insight into Florence’s royal past. Behind it, Boboli Gardens provide a peaceful escape with sculptures, fountains, and city views.

Best for: History lovers and slow travelers.

Take a Day Trip to Tuscany

Florence is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany. Popular day trips include:

• Pisa (Leaning Tower)
• Siena & San Gimignano
• Chianti wine region

Wine tours and countryside trips are especially popular for couples.

Final Thoughts

Florence is a city that rewards curiosity. Whether you’re admiring world-class art, sipping wine in a quiet piazza, or watching the sunset over terracotta rooftops, every moment feels special.

No matter how many times you visit, Florence always finds a way to surprise you.

Travey Club specializes in creating custom travel plans tailored to individual interests, travel styles, and schedules. From curated itineraries to detailed logistics, our team helps travelers navigate destinations with confidence and ease. For a fully bespoke experience, contact us or become a Travey Club member and allow us to design a personalized journey based on your preferences. The itinerary below highlights key activities, while our custom planning ensures every detail is thoughtfully arranged to suit you.

Look at our three days Florence Itinerary : Travey Club