9 Most Iconic Places to Visit in Florence On Your Next Visit

Florence is a city that whispers tales of Renaissance brilliance, artistic masterpieces and centuries of captivating history. For first-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, art lovers and history buffs alike, a journey to Florence feels like stepping into a living museum. In 2026, the Cradle of the Renaissance continues to enchant, offering an unparalleled blend of iconic sights and secluded treasures waiting to be discovered. In this blog, let’s unveil the most beautiful places to visit in Florence and practical tips to ensure your Florentine adventure is nothing short of magical. Read on...

Here's Where to Go for Your Trip to Florence

1. The Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore)

No visit to Florence is complete without gazing upon the magnificent Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo. Its colossal dome, engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi, remains an architectural marvel centuries later. Ascend to the top of Brunelleschi's Dome for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Don't forget to climb Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto) for another incredible perspective or explore the intricate details of the Baptistery's bronze doors.

Visiting Hours: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM (Closed on Sunday)

Insider Tips:

• Pre-booking tickets for Dome Climb is essential, often months in advance
• Large bags are not allowed inside the church

2. Uffizi Gallery

Home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces, the Uffizi Gallery is a pilgrimage site for art lovers. Marvel at Botticelli's ‘Birth of Venus’ and ‘Primavera’, Leonardo da Vinci's ‘Annunciation’ and works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio.

Visiting Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday - 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
• Monday - Closed

Insider Tips:

• Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to properly explore this vast museum
• The first Sunday of each month offers free entry but advance booking is required
• The gallery gets particularly packed between 10 AM and noon

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3. Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio, or "Old Bridge," is arguably the most picturesque bridge in the world, renowned for its charming shops built directly along its sides. Originally home to butchers and tanners, it now gleams with jewelers' stores, especially enchanting at sunset. Stroll across, admire the Arno River, and imagine centuries of Florentine life unfolding on its stones.

4. Accademia Gallery

Stand in awe before Michelangelo's ‘David’ at the Accademia Gallery. This colossal marble statue is a symbol of Florentine strength and artistic genius, perfectly sculpted and radiating power. Beyond David, the gallery also houses other unfinished Michelangelo sculptures, musical instruments and a collection of Florentine paintings. Witnessing David in person is an unforgettable moment.

Visiting Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (Last admission at 6:20 PM)

Insider Tips:

• Visit during off-season (November to March) or enter right at 8:15 AM or after 5 PM
• A typical visit to the gallery takes about 1 to 2 hours

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5. Palazzo Pitti

Cross the Arno to the Oltrarno district to discover the immense Palazzo Pitti, once the residence of the powerful Medici family. This sprawling palace houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery with works by Raphael and Titian and the Gallery of Modern Art. Behind the palace lie the spectacular Boboli Gardens, a prime example of Italian garden design, offering fountains, sculptures and panoramic views.

Visiting Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday - 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
• Monday - Closed

6. Piazzale Michelangelo

For the quintessential panoramic view of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, it offers an unrivaled vista of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and the meandering Arno. It’s particularly magical at sunset, though it can get crowded.

Visiting Hours: 24/7

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7. Bargello Museum

Often overlooked in favor of the Uffizi and Accademia, the Bargello Museum houses an exceptional collection of Renaissance sculpture. Here you'll find Donatello's ‘David’ (in bronze), Verrocchio's ‘David’ and works by Michelangelo, Giambologna, and Cellini. It's an excellent stop for those who appreciate detailed artistry and fewer crowds.

Visiting Hours:

• Monday to Saturday - 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM
• Sunday - 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM

8. Palazzo Vecchio

Dominating Piazza della Signoria, the Palazzo Vecchio has served as Florence's town hall for centuries. Its imposing architecture and magnificent interior courtyards, frescoes and secret passages offer a fascinating glimpse into Florentine civic life and power. Climb the Arnolfo Tower for unique views of the piazza and Duomo.

Visiting Hours:

• Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday - 9 AM to 7 PM
• Thursday - 9 AM to 2 PM

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9. Basilica di Santa Croce

Known as the ‘Temple of Italian Glories’, the Basilica di Santa Croce is the burial place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Niccolò Machiavelli and Gioachino Rossini. Beyond its significant tombs, the basilica boasts beautiful frescoes by Giotto and a serene cloister.

Visiting Hours:

• Monday to Saturday - 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry 5 PM)
• Sunday and Public Holidays - 12:30 PM to 5:45 PM

Entry Tickets: €8 to €10 for adults, with discounts for children

Insider Tips:

• Tickets generally include access to the Basilica, the Pazzi Chapel, the Cloisters and the Museum
• No entry for tourists during religious services (6 PM on weekdays and 11 AM/6 PM on Sunday)

Other Information for Your Florence Visit

Best Time to Visit Florence

• Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, but increasingly crowded. Book everything in advance
• Fall (September-October): Ideal temperatures, grape harvests and fewer crowds than summer
• Summer (June-August): Hot, humid and very crowded. Prices are at their peak
• Winter (November-March): Colder, but fewer tourists and lower prices. Great for museum visits without the queues, though some attractions may have reduced hours

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Getting Around Florence

Florence is a highly walkable city. Most major attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other.

• On Foot: The best way to explore and discover hidden gems.
• Buses: ATAF buses cover longer distances. Tickets can be purchased at tabacchi shops or on board (with a surcharge).
• Trams: Limited routes, mainly connecting the city center to outer areas like Scandicci.
• Taxis: Readily available at taxi stands or by calling. They can be expensive.
• ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone): Be aware that much of the historic center is a ZTL, restricted to authorized vehicles. Do not drive into it unless your accommodation has arranged for your license plate to be registered.

Travel Tips for Your Visit to Florence

• Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak seasons
• Dress modestly while visiting churches and religious sites
• Learn local phrases like "Buongiorno" (good morning/day) or "Buonasera" (good evening)
• A small tip (a few euros) for excellent service is appreciated but not mandatory

Florence truly is a city that touches the soul, a place where history breathes and art inspires at every turn. From the majestic Duomo dominating the skyline to the intimate whispers of artisan workshops in Oltrarno, the diverse array of places to visit in Florence offers a journey back in time and celebrates human achievements. Whether you're chasing Renaissance masterpieces or seeking authentic culinary experiences, Florence promises an unforgettable journey. Plan your ultimate adventure with one of our Italy tour packages and let the timeless beauty of Florence captivate your heart.

FAQs - Places to Visit in Florence