Florence has been considered one of the most beautiful and culturally fasting destination son the planet by anyone who has been there before. A trip to this city is like a journey to a city trapped in the Renaissance. The impeccably preserved architecture, art and surroundings await at every turn and the glory of days past still lives in her streets and buildings. The most recommended way to visit this city is with a private day tour guide who will delve deeper into the rich history of the landmarks below.
Things to Do in the Beautiful City of Florence Photo Gallery
1. The Duomo
When you look at the skyline of Florence, the is one building that casts its graceful domes and arches overall else, the Cathedral de Santa Maria del Fiore, more affectionately known as the “Duomo. Construction of this Gothic cathedral in 1296 and the building was fully completed in 1436. Inside the famous Brunelleschi’s Dome lives one of the most exquisite pieces of art in Italy. Get ready to climb to the top for one of the most impressive pieces of work you can see up close.
2. Uffizi Gallery
Some of the finest collections of Renaissance style art is held in the Uffizi gallery. If you want to avoid a very long line to enter, it is essential to purchase your ticket online. Once inside you will see works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Giotto, Botticelli and Da Vinci.
3. Accademia Gallery
For a glimpse at what is arguably the most famous statue in existence, the David by Michelangelo, Florence’s Galleria dell’ Academia has this and many more fascinating exhibits. Don’t miss the collection of musical instruments. The value of the trip is high and you will want to get in with a pre-purchased ticket rather than stand in line to the spectacle.
4. Boboli Garden
Giardino di Boboli, located in the far end of the giver, is an exquisite English style garden complete with rose bushes, walkways and more. The gardens sit on a lovely hillside outside the Pitti Palace. This is the perfect spot to enjoy the greenery in a marble and terracotta city.
5. Palazzo Pitti
The Pitti Palace is the largest Palazzo in Florence and once belonged to the famous Medici Family that governed Florence during the Renaissance. There is a total of 8 different galleries and the trip between them can tire you out, this could be a visit for two days.
6. Piazza della Signoria
Here is the historic and political hotspot of Florence. Right near the banks of the Arno River and the Uffizi Gallery. You can find a stunning replica of the statue of David here as well as the beautiful Fountain of Neptune.
7. La Basilica di Santa Croce
Standing before the exquisite facades of the Basilica, is a statue of Dante. This basilica was built for the common people of the Renaissance era. While the Basilica di Santa Croce is not nearly as grand and impressive as the Duomo just a 15- minute walks away, here you can find the tombs of Michelangelo, Rossini, Foscolo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Gentile. For this reason, the Basilica has also been called the Tempio dell’Itale Glorie (Temple of the Italian Glories ).
The tomb of Dante has still not been filled and it is kept this in the hopes that the bones his will be returned to this city. Dante had died in exile in the city of Ravenna and was entombed there.
8. Piazzale Michelangelo
There is no better way to end a day in the city of Florence than watching the sun slowly dip behind the city’s skyline. The best place to do this is in the Piazzale Michelangelo. This is the most iconic spot in Florence and graces the postcards and posters of the area. Here you will find a replica of the statue of David that people believe safeguards this famous city.
9. The Ponte Vecchio
Line with shops that specialize in selling gold and silver craftsmanship, the Ponte Vecchio is the first bridge to cross the Arno River and the last surviving bridge built in the Medieval age. This bridge is another romantic and iconic symbol of the city and at night is lit beautifully offering a great view of the city on the banks of the Arno River.
10. The Bargello
The national Sculpture museum in Rome is located in Florence and resemble a beautiful castle built between 1255 and 1350. The best collection of Renaissance sculptures is found here and long with one of the greatest collections of Donatello’s work.
