Florence, the jewel of Tuscany, birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the most magical cities in Italy. With its rich history, stunning art, architectural wonders and world-famous cuisine, it is visited by millions every year. In this blog post, we will explore the history, sights, gastronomy and curiosities of Florence to provide a true travel experience.
TIP: Florence is a city to return to several times without ever fully discovering it
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History of Florence
The city was founded by the Romans in 59 BC and became a major centre of trade and finance in the Middle Ages. Under the rule of the Medici family, Florence became the cradle of Renaissance art and culture, with artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. The first modern banks were founded here and the world’s first gold-based currency, the fiorino, originated in Florence.
Did you know? The Florentine lily, also known as the lilium florentinum, is a symbol of the city, often appearing on the coat of arms of Florence and in its artistic heritage. The flower represents the historical importance of the city and its rich culture,
Interesting fact: Florence was the first city in the world to use paper money, thanks to the banking system founded here. The fiorino, the first currency of Florence, was one of the most stable currencies of European trade in the Middle Ages.
Things to see in Florence
Florence is an easy city to explore on foot. Public transport is efficient, with buses and trams providing good coverage of the main sights. Tickets can be purchased at selected stations, in convenience stores or even by contactless payment on board
TIP: Discover Florence from a truly unique perspective: by boat on the Arno river! Accompanied by a local guide, you can admire the city’s iconic buildings while hearing interesting stories about the Arno riverfront attractions. As the sun sets, casting the city in a golden glow, you can enjoy the picturesque panorama with a glass of prosecco. On the traditional „Barchetto” boat trip, you can pass under Florence’s most famous bridges, such as the Ponte Vecchio, Ponte Santa Trinita and Ponte alla Carraia, while taking in the imposing views of the Uffizi Museum and other historic buildings.
Uffizi Gallery – One of Italy’s most important museums, home to the world’s most valuable collection of Renaissance art. The museum is one of the world’s most famous art museums, with masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. Particularly famous is Botticelli’s iconic painting, The Birth of Venus, which depicts the goddess of beauty and love emerging from her shell and arriving on the shore. The painting is a culmination of the Renaissance’s sophisticated aesthetic, full of symbolism and airiness. Wandering through the rooms of the Uffizi, visitors can embark on an unparalleled journey through art history, while admiring the evolution of Italian painting from the Middle Ages to the Baroque.
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The Church of Santa Croce is a religious and cultural site in Florence, where many famous Italian personalities are buried. It is the final resting place of the world-famous scientist Galileo Galilei and one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, Michelangelo Buonarroti. The interior of the church features stunning works of art, sculptures and frescoes, which are outstanding examples of Renaissance and medieval art. The church is not only of religious significance, but also an important part of Florence’s artistic heritage, as it preserves the works of many artists and scholars.
Galleria dell’Accademia – Home to Michelangelo’s world-famous statue of David, one of the most outstanding works of Renaissance art. The monumental marble sculpture is fascinating for its perfect anatomy and detail. The gallery also features Michelangelo’s unfinished sculptures, known as the Slaves, which give an insight into the master’s creative process.
Piazza della Signoria – One of Florence’s most important and lively squares, it has been the political and social centre of the city for centuries. The centrepiece of the square is the impressive Palazzo Vecchio, which still serves as the town hall. The iconic landmark of the square is the Neptune Fountain, the work of Bartolomeo Ammannati, which rises up to the visitor as a symbol of Florence’s naval power. It is also home to the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery with masterpieces such as Benvenuto Cellini’s statue of Perseus and Giambologna’s The Abduction of the Sabine Women. The square was once the site of important historical events, including the execution of Savonarola. Today, the square is a lively meeting place, with a range of cafés and restaurants, while a special atmosphere of art and history surrounds the area.
Did you know? A replica of Michelangelo’s statue of David is also in the square, while the original is in the Galleria dell’Accademia
The Gucci brand was born in Florence, where Guccio Gucci founded his first shop in 1921. Initially offering leather goods and elegant travel bags, it soon became known worldwide as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. The brand’s success was founded on a commitment to quality, innovation and traditional Italian craftsmanship that continues to define Gucci’s style today. The Gucci Museum in the city is a fitting tribute to the brand’s rich heritage and fashion history.
The Porcellino, or Florence Wild Boar statue, is located near the Mercato Nuovo market and is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Florence. Over the years, legend has it that throwing money into the statue’s mouth and it bounces back is good luck – making it a true local symbol that every visitor should touch.
If you’re really hungry, the Mercato Centrale is the place where all your food-loving dreams come true. This market paradise is packed with Tuscan delicacies, where local specialities and true Italian flavours await. Italian cuisine is much more than the well-known pasta and pizza: you’ll be spoilt with unique dishes from each region, rarely found elsewhere. In Florence, for example, don’t miss the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Tuscan steak), the super-tasty Lampredotto (sandwich), the Papardelle al Cinghiale with wild boar, the Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo with truffles, or the traditional Crostini Antipasto Toscano (bread starter). All of these are made with the locals’ own secret recipes, so you’re sure to experience the best flavours.
Did you know? The area around Mercato Centrale in Florence is the site of the famous leather market, where visitors can buy authentic Tuscan leather goods such as bags, purses and coats. The market and the small shops surrounding it have become one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city, with a wide range of handcrafted products and unique leather goods.
TIP: The Regina Bistecca in Florence is a testament to the Tuscan culinary tradition, beautifully combining the rustic charm of the region with a refined dining experience. Tucked away in the historic centre of Florence, this restaurant invites you into a timeless and elegant setting. The centrepiece of Regina Bistecca’s menu is the bistecca alla Fiorentina, a classic Florentine steak masterfully prepared. Sliced thick from local Chianina IGP cattle, the steak is grilled over a wood fire capturing the authentic flavour of the meat with a simple seasoning of salt, pepper and a drizzle of olive oil. It is a dish that respects tradition and showcases the quality of the ingredients. Regina Bistecca is a jewel in the culinary crown of Florence, offering a memorable steak experience that respects the rich gastronomic heritage of Tuscany. An ideal place for those who want to taste real Florentine cuisine in a warm, friendly atmosphere.
TIP: Antico Vinaio is not just a sandwich shop, it’s a true Florentine experience where local flavours come to life. Freshly baked, soft focaccia is the perfect base, topped with mouth-watering fillings, including rich, fragrant tartufo cream. Every bite is a new discovery in the world of Tuscan cuisine. Fratelli’s sandwich shop is another mouth-watering place, where the unique combination of creative sandwiches and truffle delicacies makes it special. Here, you don’t just come to eat, you can embark on a true Italian gastronomic adventure, where fresh ingredients and rich flavours are a real treat.
Duomo Square is located in the heart of Florence and is home to the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance architecture. The most famous feature of this imposing building is its huge dome, the brilliant work of Filippo Brunelleschi. The dome, which adorns the cathedral’s apex, was the greatest and most complex architectural challenge of the time and continues to be a source of admiration among architects and visitors alike. The interior of the building is richly decorated with paintings and sculptures, all of which represent the pinnacle of medieval religious art. The Campanile di Giotto, the bell tower next to the cathedral, is also a stunning sight and offers a perfect view of the city. Santa Maria del Fiore is not only important from a religious point of view, but has also become a historical and cultural symbol of the city of Florence.
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The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is located opposite another famous building in Piazza del Duomo, the Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery of St John the Baptist), an impressive building that is one of the oldest religious sites in the city and is of outstanding artistic value with its unique decorations and famous bronze doors such as the „Gates of Paradise” (by Ghiberti). The baptistery was built on Roman foundations and was an important religious centre for Florence before the Renaissance.
The basilica of San Lorenzo is one of Florence’s most important religious buildings, also known as the main church of the Medici family. The design of the building was begun by Filippo Brunelleschi, and later Michelangelo contributed to the interior. A special feature of the basilica is the presence of the Medici chapels, the resting places of the famous family, decorated in Renaissance splendour. The chapels were designed by Michelangelo and their interiors are richly decorated with marble tiles, sculptures and paintings, reflecting the power and artistic prestige of the Medici family.
The Ospedale degli Innocenti is Florence’s famous Orphanage, a historic building designed by Brunelleschi and a major work of the Renaissance. The building was originally a shelter for orphans and is now a museum with various temporary exhibitions. In the museum, visitors can learn about the social and artistic history of Florence and the city’s important artistic heritage. The Ospedale degli Innocenti is located in Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, a historic square in Florence. In the centre of the square stands the famous church of Santissima Annunziata, one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The church is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and has a significant artistic heritage, including the famous Andrea del Sarto paintings. The square is also home to other important buildings of the city, such as the Loggia dei Servi di Maria, which gives the square a beautiful view.
Dante Alighieri, the author of the „Divine Comedy”, is one of Florence’s most famous natives, whose legacy still permeates the city today. The Casa di Dante in the historic centre is a museum dedicated to his life and work. Although he was exiled for political reasons and never returned to his hometown, Florence still proudly preserves his memory through statues, plaques and his empty tomb in the church of Santa Croce. Walking through the streets, it is easy to feel the historical atmosphere that once inspired Dante.
The Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s most famous and unique bridges, linking the historic centre of the city with the Arno river. Famous for its jewellers, for centuries tiny jewellery shops have lined both sides of the bridge, making it not only a busy transport point but also a real shopping experience. The bridge was originally built around 1345, and its peculiarity is that during its construction, the master builders also designed a special enclosed corridor (the Vasara Corridor) at the top of the bridge, which connects the Palazzo Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti, allowing grandiose city leaders to avoid the crowds on the streets.
The Vasara corridor has been open to the public again since January 2025, after a long period of closure. This corridor offers visitors a unique art gallery, as it was originally planned to be a secret walkway full of paintings and artworks. Visitors can now enjoy a unique panoramic view of the city and the Arno River from the top of the bridge. The reopening also offers the opportunity to discover an architectural and artistic heritage that spans centuries of history, while discovering Florence’s unique atmosphere from a unique perspective.
Palazzo Pitti is one of Florence’s largest and most magnificent palaces, and was once the home of the Medici family. With its imposing Renaissance architecture and rich history, the palace is one of the city’s main tourist attractions. The palace also houses several museums, including the Palace Gallery, which houses Renaissance and Baroque art. The Boboli Garden, which lies behind the palace, is a beautifully preserved Italian garden full of sculptures, waterfalls and pavilions. The garden’s design represents the pinnacle of Renaissance art and is the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll while enjoying magnificent views of Florence. The palace and its park offer a unique insight into the luxurious life of the Medici family and the history of Florence.
The Garden of Roses (Giardino delle Rose) is one of Florence’s hidden gems, located at the foot of Michelangelo Hill. In the garden you can admire hundreds of different varieties of roses, while enjoying a beautiful panoramic view of the city, especially the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The garden attracts visitors not only with its flowers, but also with its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxing or a romantic stroll.
Michelangelo’s Lookout (Piazzale Michelangelo) is one of Florence’s most famous viewpoints, offering a stunning panorama of the city. The square is adorned with a replica of the famous artist Michelangelo’s statue and offers views of some of the city’s most beautiful sights, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and the Boboli Gardens. The view is particularly magical at sunset, when the city, bathed in sunlight, turns golden.
The church of San Miniato al Monte is one of the most beautiful and peaceful religious sites in the city, perched on top of Michelangelo Hill. Although less visited than other landmarks in the city, it is extremely imposing and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful mosaics, sculptures and carved elements, while its location offers a unique view of Florence. The quiet, sacred atmosphere and the magnificent panorama offer visitors a unique experience.
The carousel in the heart of Piazza della Repubblica is not just a fun game, it’s a real journey through time. The beautiful, antique-style carriages and the music that wafts through the air create a magical atmosphere, as if transporting you back to the past, to the atmosphere of old Florence. As the colourful carriages whirl, you are surrounded by the lively bustle of the square’s cafés and shops, making every moment a special experience. So the carousel is the perfect place to relax, not just for children, but also for adults looking for the magic of the city.
The „buchette del vino”, or wine windows, became widespread in Florence and other cities in Tuscany from the 16th century onwards. These small, arched openings were built into the walls of palaces so that wineries could sell their wines directly to customers, avoiding middlemen and taxes. They were particularly useful during plague epidemics, as they allowed contact-free trade. Although many wine windows have been forgotten or bricked up over time, some have recently been reopened and still serve wine and other drinks in Florence.
If you’re in Florence, don’t miss the chance to sit down in a local café and enjoy the city’s coffee tradition. Caffè Gilli, for example, is a truly historic institution where locals and visitors have been drinking coffee for over two centuries, while sipping a cup of espresso in the beautiful, classic interior. Famed Italian pastry chef Iginio Massari entices coffee lovers with his sweet masterpieces, where they can enjoy delicious desserts alongside their coffee. And Caffè Paskovsky is another elegant place where coffee becomes a true art, while the fabulous flavours of Italian sweets add an extra experience to your coffee. In a place like this, you can experience a truly special moment, experiencing the culture of Florentine coffee.
The Florence region is truly magical, full of historic towns, beautiful landscapes and famous wine regions. One of the most famous areas is Chianti, a wine region in the south of the city, only about an hour’s drive from Florence. Chianti is famous for its wines, which are produced in vineyards spread over picturesque hills. As well as visiting wine festivals and wineries, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, country wineries and authentic Tuscan restaurants.
Siena, which is just 1.5 hours from Florence, is another wonderful city, justly famous for its medieval atmosphere and the famous Piazza del Campo. It is the venue of the bi-annual Palio di Siena horse race, the city’s biggest event. The city’s narrow, winding streets, beautiful cathedral and Renaissance art can also be seen here.
San Gimignano, just 45 minutes from Florence, is known as the „city of towers”, famous for its medieval tower houses. The town centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visitors can enjoy the medieval atmosphere as well as local wines and delicacies.
Lucca, an hour’s drive from Florence, is a beautiful Renaissance town famous for its well-preserved city walls. The city is unique in that the old town is completely surrounded by a circular city wall open to pedestrian traffic, which visitors can explore by bicycle or on foot.
Volterra is also just an hour’s drive from Florence. The city is famous for its Etruscan and Roman heritage and for its alabaster craft. Volterra is one of the oldest towns in Tuscany and offers fabulous views of the surrounding mountains.
The Val d’Orcia region, which gives the famous Tuscan landscape, is also a little further away from Florence, but offers an unforgettable experience. This region, with its landscape of hills, cypress trees and vineyards, is a true example of Tuscan rural life. In the surrounding area you will find Pienza, a Renaissance town famous for its cheeses, and Montalcino, famous for its Brunello di Montalcino wines
All these towns and landscapes are within easy reach of Florence and offer visitors the chance to discover Tuscan countryside, historical heritage and stunning scenery. A car trip is a great way for visitors to really immerse themselves in Tuscan culture and landscape.
Florence is a city that appeals to all our senses. Whether it’s art masterpieces, historical sites or gastronomic experiences, this place leaves an unforgettable impression on everyone. Once you visit, you’re sure to want to come back, because the spirit of Florence will stay with you forever.