Here are ten places to consider for your Florence itinerary, covering galleries, landmarks, gardens and viewpoints.
1. Historic Centre
Florence's Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the city, known for its Renaissance architecture, winding lanes and landmark squares. Much of what you will want to see sits within these compact, walkable streets.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Renaissance architecture, historic squares, walkable lanes |
| Location | Central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Free to explore; individual sites charge |
| Tip | Wear comfortable shoes, as the centre is best seen on foot |
2. Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, known as the Duomo, is Florence's defining landmark, crowned by Brunelleschi's famous Renaissance dome. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views across the city's terracotta rooftops.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Brunelleschi's dome, cathedral, bell tower, rooftop views |
| Location | Piazza del Duomo, central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Cathedral entry is free; the dome, tower and combined ticket charge |
| Tip | Book a timed slot for the dome climb, as spaces go quickly |
3. Uffizi Gallery
One of the world's great art museums, the Uffizi holds an unmatched collection of Renaissance works, including pieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. It is Florence's most visited attraction and a highlight for any art lover.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Renaissance collection |
| Location | Central Florence, near the Arno |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Entry charge applies; timed tickets |
| Tip | Book online in advance to skip long queues, especially in summer |
4. Galleria dell'Accademia
The Accademia is home to Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. Its galleries also hold other Michelangelo works and a collection of Renaissance paintings.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Michelangelo's David, Renaissance sculpture and paintings |
| Location | Central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Entry charge applies; timed tickets |
| Tip | Reserve ahead, as same-day tickets often sell out |
5. Piazza della Signoria
This grand square has been the civic heart of Florence for centuries, lined with statues, historic buildings and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. The adjoining Loggia dei Lanzi is an open-air gallery of sculpture.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Palazzo Vecchio, Loggia dei Lanzi, open-air sculpture |
| Location | Central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Square is free; Palazzo Vecchio charges |
| Tip | Visit early morning for photographs before the crowds arrive |
6. Ponte Vecchio
Florence's most famous bridge, the medieval Ponte Vecchio spans the Arno and is lined with jewellers' and goldsmiths' shops. It is one of the city's most photographed spots, especially at sunset.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Medieval bridge, jewellery shops, Arno views |
| Location | Over the Arno, central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Free to cross |
| Tip | Come at sunset for the light on the river and the shopfronts |
7. Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace
Behind the grand Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens are a historic park of landscaped avenues, fountains and sculptures. Together they offer a quieter, greener side of the city.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Landscaped gardens, sculptures, Pitti Palace |
| Location | Oltrarno, across the river |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Entry charge applies |
| Tip | Combine the gardens and palace on a single ticket |
8. Oltrarno
Across the Arno from the main sights, the Oltrarno is Florence's traditional artisan quarter. Its narrow lanes and quiet squares are dotted with workshops, making it a good place to see the city's craft heritage.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Artisan workshops, quiet squares, local character |
| Location | South bank of the Arno |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Free to wander |
| Tip | Browse the leather and craft workshops for something handmade |
9. Piazzale Michelangelo
This hilltop terrace offers the classic panoramic view of Florence, taking in the Duomo, the Arno and the surrounding hills. It is especially popular at sunset.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Panoramic city views, Duomo skyline, sunset spot |
| Location | Hillside above the Oltrarno |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Free |
| Tip | Walk up for sunset, then stay for the city lights |
10. Arno River
The Arno runs through the heart of Florence, lined with historic bridges and riverside walks. A stroll along its banks is one of the simplest ways to take in the city's setting.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Highlights | Historic bridges, riverside walks, city views |
| Location | Through central Florence |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to October |
| Entry | Free |
| Tip | The stretch near the Ponte Vecchio is best in the evening light |