| Contents |
|---|
Introduction
Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a city of 364,073 inhabitants situated on both sides of the Arno River. Founded as a Roman military colony in 59 BCE, it evolved into one of Europe's most significant cultural centres during the Renaissance. The city's historic centre, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, houses an extraordinary concentration of art and architecture, including the iconic Duomo cathedral with its Brunelleschi-designed dome—still the largest brick dome in the world. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence holds approximately half of Italy's most significant art pieces within its museums, churches and palaces. The city attracts millions of tourists annually, drawn to its cultural heritage, world-class museums like the Uffizi Gallery, Renaissance architecture, and its position as a major centre for Italian fashion and Tuscan cuisine.
Interesting Facts about Florence
- Florence served as Italy's capital from 1865 to 1871 before Rome assumed the role.
- The iconic Duomo di Firenze, with the world's largest masonry dome, took 140 years to complete.
- In 1339, Florence became the first European city to pave all its streets using donations from wealthy merchants.
- Gucci was founded in Florence in 1921, with its original store still operating on Via de' Tornabuoni.
- Michelangelo's David features a disproportionately large right hand, believed to symbolise strength and power.
- Gelato was invented in Florence by 16th-century chef Bernardo Buontalenti for the Medici family.
- The city's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains around one-third of the world's most renowned art treasures.
- The Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway built for the Medici family, connects Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti.
- Florence's name derives from the Latin Florentia, meaning "blooming," reflected in its lily emblem.
- The Palazzo Pitti, initially built to rival Medici palaces, was later purchased by the Medici family as their residence.
History
Florence, originally founded by the Etruscans between the 6th and 7th centuries BCE, was later established as a Roman military colony in 59 BCE. Julius Caesar named the settlement Florentia, meaning 'flourishing', and positioned it along the Via Cassia, the main route between Rome and the north. The Romans built ports on the Arno and Mugnone rivers, constructed an aqueduct, forum, spas, and amphitheatre, and by CE 285, Florence had become the capital of the Tuscia region.
During the Middle Ages, Florence experienced periods of Ostrogoth and Byzantine rule before being conquered by the Lombards in the 6th century and later by Charlemagne in 774. The city emerged as a powerful commune by 1115 and began minting the Florin in 1235, which became a standard European currency. Florence achieved several notable firsts, including becoming the first European city to have paved streets in 1339. The city's influence grew through its powerful banking families, particularly the Medici, who ruled for 350 years and were significant patrons of Renaissance art.
The city's cultural significance continued to grow, becoming the birthplace of numerous innovations. Around 1700, Bartolomeo Cristofori invented the piano in Florence. In 1921, the first Gucci store opened in the city. Florence served as Italy's capital from 1865 to 1871, before Rome took over this role. The city's architectural crown jewel, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), took 140 years to build between 1296 and 1436, and remains one of the world's largest cathedrals. Today, Florence's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, housing approximately one-third of the world's greatest art treasures.
Main Attractions
Piazza della Signoria
The Piazza della Signoria stands as the political and historical heart of Florence, situated between the Piazza del Duomo and the Arno River. This magnificent L-shaped square, dating back to the thirteenth century, serves as an open-air museum showcasing some of Italy's most remarkable sculptures and architectural masterpieces. The square is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, with its distinctive tower built in 1310. Notable features include the elegant Loggia dei Lanzi, which houses priceless sculptures such as Cellini's Perseus and Giambologna's Rape of the Sabines, the magnificent Neptune Fountain crafted by Bartolomeo Ammannati, and a replica of Michelangelo's David standing proudly in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The piazza is also home to other significant buildings including the Palazzo Uguccioni and the Tribunale della Mercanzia, making it an essential destination for visitors seeking to experience the essence of Renaissance Florence.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Perched atop a hill in the Oltrarno district, Piazzale Michelangelo offers the most breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. This square, designed in 1869 by architect Giuseppe Poggi, is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The bronze replica of Michelangelo's David takes centre stage, surrounded by bronze copies of the allegorical statues from the Medici Chapel of San Lorenzo. For the best experience, visit at sunset when the city is bathed in golden light, casting a magical glow over the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Arno River. Several cafes and a restaurant on the square allow visitors to enjoy the view whilst sipping on a refreshing aperitivo.
Piazza Santa Croce
This beautiful square is dominated by the Basilica of Santa Croce, known as the Temple of the Italian Glories due to the many illustrious Italians buried there. The square hosts various events throughout the year, including the Calcio Storico, a traditional Florentine sport played in historical costumes. Surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants, it's an ideal spot to soak in the Florentine atmosphere.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as the Duomo, stands as Florence's most iconic landmark and one of the largest churches in Christianity. This architectural masterpiece, begun in 1296 and completed in 1436, showcases a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles with its distinctive facade covered in white, red and green marble featuring geometric patterns and stylised flowers. The cathedral's most remarkable feature is its massive dome, engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi, which remains the largest masonry dome ever constructed. The building measures 153 metres in length, 90 metres in width at the transept, and reaches 90 metres in height from floor to the base of the lantern. The name "Santa Maria del Fiore" (Lady of the Flower) pays homage to Florence's identity as the "city of flowers". Today, whilst the cathedral's main floor remains free to visit, visitors can also explore the dome, Giotto's bell tower, and the Baptistery, making it an essential stop on any Florentine itinerary.
Giotto's Bell Tower
Adjacent to the Duomo stands Giotto's Bell Tower, a prime example of 14th-century Gothic architecture. Standing 84.7 metres tall, this elegant tower is adorned with intricate sculptural decorations and multi-coloured marble panels. Ambitious visitors can climb the 414 steps to the top for panoramic views of Florence and a close-up look at the Duomo's dome. Along the way, you'll find relief sculptures and statues that once adorned the tower's exterior, now preserved inside.
Palazzo Pitti
Palazzo Pitti, Florence's largest palace complex, stands majestically on the south side of the River Arno, a short distance from the Ponte Vecchio. Originally built in 1458 for the wealthy banker Luca Pitti as a private residence, this vast Renaissance palace later became the grand ducal residence when Eleonora di Toledo, wife of Cosimo I de' Medici, purchased it in 1549. Over the centuries, the palace served as home to three powerful dynasties—the Medici, the Habsburg-Lorraine, and the Savoy families—each contributing to its expansion and splendour. Today, this magnificent complex houses several world-class museums, including the Palatine Gallery with its remarkable collection of Renaissance paintings, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. The palace complex is perhaps most famous for its stunning Boboli Gardens, a masterpiece of Italian garden design that has inspired royal gardens throughout Europe. In 1919, the palace was gifted to the Italian state and now stands as Florence's largest museum complex, offering visitors an extraordinary glimpse into centuries of Florentine power, art, and culture.
Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio, or 'Old Bridge', is Florence's most famous bridge spanning the Arno River. Built in 1345, it's the only bridge in Florence that survived World War II. The bridge is known for its distinctive structure, with overhanging shops that have housed jewellers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers for centuries. The Vasari Corridor, a private elevated passageway built for the Medici family, runs above these shops. At night, when the shops are closed and their wooden shutters are down, the bridge takes on a medieval appearance, offering a glimpse into Florence's past.
Ponte Santa Trinita
The Ponte Santa Trinita, or St. Trinity Bridge, is often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbour, but it's a masterpiece in its own right. Built between 1567 and 1569, it's considered the oldest elliptic arch bridge in the world. The bridge features four beautiful statues representing the four seasons, added in 1608. From this bridge, visitors can enjoy excellent views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. It's particularly beautiful at sunset when the light reflects off the water.
San Niccolò Tower
Built in 1324 as part of Florence's third set of walls, the San Niccolò Tower once served as a city gate. Today, it offers visitors a chance to climb to the top for panoramic views of Florence. Unlike the more popular viewpoints, the tower is less crowded, providing a more intimate experience. It's typically open to visitors from June to September.
Florence National Central Library
While visitors can't freely roam the stacks, the Florence National Central Library is worth admiring from the outside. As Italy's largest public library, it houses over 6 million volumes, including many rare and historical texts. The building itself, located along the Arno River, is an impressive sight and a testament to Florence's enduring commitment to knowledge and culture.
Piazza Santo Spirito
Located in the charming Oltrarno district, Piazza Santo Spirito offers a more authentic Florentine experience away from the tourist crowds. The square is dominated by the Basilica of Santo Spirito, designed by Brunelleschi. By day, the square hosts a local market, while in the evenings, it comes alive with locals enjoying aperitivos at the many cafes and bars that line the square. It's an excellent place to experience everyday Florentine life.
Palazzo Davanzati
This 14th-century palace offers a glimpse into the domestic life of a wealthy Florentine family during the Renaissance. The palace has been beautifully preserved and furnished to represent a typical Florentine home of the period. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including bedrooms, kitchens, and reception halls, gaining insight into daily life in Renaissance Florence.
Brancacci Chapel
Often referred to as the 'Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance', the Brancacci Chapel in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine houses remarkable frescoes by Masaccio, Masolino, and Filippino Lippi. These frescoes, depicting scenes from the life of St. Peter, were highly influential in the development of Renaissance art.
Top Museums
Florence's museums represent an unparalleled treasury of art, science, and cultural heritage, offering visitors a journey through centuries of human achievement.
Major Art Museums
Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery, situated in the heart of Florence, stands as one of the world's oldest and most prestigious art museums. Originally commissioned by Cosimo I de Medici in 1560 as administrative offices, this magnificent structure was designed by Giorgio Vasari and completed in 1581. The gallery houses an unparalleled collection of ancient sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the Modern period, including masterpieces by Renaissance giants such as Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Caravaggio. The museum spans two floors of the vast building, encompassing 101 rooms that showcase priceless artworks from the Medici family collection. Today, the Uffizi welcomes over four million visitors annually who come to marvel at its extensive collection of Western art, particularly its outstanding assemblage of Italian Renaissance paintings from the Florentine school. The gallery's strategic location near Piazza della Signoria and its architectural grandeur, complete with long corridors adorned with Roman sculptures, make it an essential destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Accademia Gallery
The Galleria dell'Accademia in Florence stands as one of Italy's most prestigious art museums, renowned worldwide as the home of Michelangelo's masterpiece, the David. Founded in 1784 by Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo of Tuscany, the gallery initially served as a teaching facility for art students. Today, it houses an exceptional collection of artworks spanning from the 13th to 16th centuries, including the largest assemblage of Michelangelo's sculptures in the world. Beyond the iconic David, visitors can marvel at Michelangelo's unfinished Prisoners, an extensive collection of medieval gold-background panel paintings, and works by celebrated Italian masters such as Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Pontormo. The museum also features a fascinating collection of historical musical instruments, including rare pieces by Stradivari and Bartolomeo Cristofori, the inventor of the piano. Located near the Piazza San Marco in Florence's historic centre, the Accademia welcomes over 1.2 million visitors annually, making it the second most visited art museum in Italy after the Uffizi.
Specialized Collections
Bargello National Museum
Housed in Florence's oldest public building, the Bargello's collection illuminates the development of Renaissance sculpture. The Donatello rooms showcase the artist's evolution from his early Gothic-influenced works to revolutionary pieces like the bronze David. The museum's bronzes collection includes masterpieces by Cellini and Giambologna. The Ivory Room displays intricate carvings from the Byzantine era through the Baroque period. The museum's collection of maiolica ceramics represents the finest examples of this distinctly Italian art form.
Museo Galileo
Beyond Galileo's instruments, this museum presents the evolution of scientific thought. The Medici collection includes elaborate astronomical devices, while the Lorraine collection features early electrical and pneumatic instruments. The museum's library houses rare scientific manuscripts and early printed books. Interactive exhibits demonstrate historical scientific principles, making complex concepts accessible to modern visitors.
Archaeological Museum
The museum's Etruscan collection illuminates this mysterious civilization through artifacts, jewelry, and tomb goods. The Egyptian section, second in Italy only to Turin's collection, includes a reconstructed temple and rare examples of ancient textiles. The Greek collection features exceptional ceramics, while the Roman section includes portraits and domestic items from nearby excavations.
Contemporary and Historic Museums
Museo Novecento
This museum traces Italy's artistic development through the 20th century. The collection includes important works of Italian Futurism, metaphysical painting, and post-war abstraction. Multi-media installations and video art represent contemporary artistic practices. The museum's research center maintains archives of 20th-century Italian artists.
Casa Buonarroti
This museum, once Michelangelo's property, houses early works including his Madonna of the Stairs relief. The building itself represents several periods of architectural history, with rooms decorated by later Buonarroti family members. The library contains important documents related to Michelangelo's life and work.
Horne Museum
Housed in a restored Renaissance palazzo, this museum recreates the atmosphere of a 15th-century Florentine home. The collection includes furniture, utensils, and artworks arranged as they would have been used. The museum provides unique insights into daily life during Florence's golden age.
Religious Art Collections
Opera del Duomo Museum
Recently renovated, this museum presents the artistic heritage of Florence's cathedral complex. The highlight is a full-scale recreation of the cathedral's original façade, assembled from surviving statues. The museum houses Lorenzo Ghiberti's original Gates of Paradise from the Baptistery. The collection includes Donatello's haunting Mary Magdalene and Michelangelo's final Pietà.
Basilica of Santa Croce Museum
This museum complex preserves masterpieces of Florentine art in their original religious context. The Pazzi Chapel represents Brunelleschi's architectural genius, while the refectory houses Taddeo Gaddi's Tree of Life fresco. The museum's collection includes important works by Cimabue and Donatello.
Specialized Craft Museums
Opificio delle Pietre Dure Museum
Beyond displaying finished works, this museum documents the complex techniques of Florentine stone inlay. Historical designs and pattern books reveal the planning process, while tool displays demonstrate the technical challenges of the craft. The museum continues to serve as an important conservation institute.
Ferragamo Museum
Located in the historic Palazzo Spini Feroni, this museum chronicles the evolution of shoe design and fashion. The collection includes shoes created for celebrities and innovative designs that revolutionized footwear. The museum contextualizes Ferragamo's work within broader fashion history.
Stibbert Museum
This eclectic collection showcases arms and armor from Europe and the Islamic world. The museum's dramatic displays include fully equipped cavalry formations. The collection extends to costumes, paintings, and decorative arts, reflecting Frederick Stibbert's wide-ranging interests.
This comprehensive museum landscape makes Florence a living encyclopedia of art, science, and cultural history, offering insights into every aspect of human creativity and achievement.
Local Cuisine
Florence's culinary heritage reflects a fascinating blend of rustic traditions and noble influences, deeply rooted in the city's medieval and Renaissance history. The local cuisine emphasises simplicity and quality ingredients, with dishes ranging from hearty peasant fare to luxurious delicacies. At the heart of Florentine gastronomy is the renowned bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive T-bone steak from local Chianina cattle, traditionally grilled over chestnut wood. The city's street food culture thrives with specialities like lampredotto, a tripe sandwich that divides opinion but remains a beloved local staple. Traditional soups such as ribollita and pappa al pomodoro showcase the Tuscan knack for transforming humble ingredients like stale bread and seasonal vegetables into comforting dishes. The region's pastoral heritage is evident in dishes featuring wild boar, porcini mushrooms, and truffles, whilst the unsalted Tuscan bread, a remnant of historical salt trade disputes, remains an essential accompaniment to meals. For pudding, Florence boasts some of Italy's finest artisanal gelato, with small-batch producers creating authentic flavours that put mass-produced varieties to shame.
Shopping
Florence stands as one of Italy's premier shopping destinations, offering an exquisite blend of luxury boutiques, artisanal workshops, and bustling markets throughout its historic centre. Via Tornabuoni serves as the city's luxury shopping hub, housing prestigious brands like Gucci, Prada, and Ferragamo, whilst the iconic Ponte Vecchio dazzles with its traditional jewellery shops and goldsmith workshops. For leather goods, the San Lorenzo and Santa Croce districts showcase Florence's centuries-old leather-crafting tradition, featuring numerous workshops and the renowned Scuola del Cuoio. The Oltrarno district delights visitors with unique artisanal boutiques specialising in handmade crafts, from bookbinding to bespoke shoes. Budget-conscious shoppers can explore the lively Cascine Market, held every Tuesday morning along the Arno River, or visit high-street retailers along Via Roma and Via dei Calzaiuoli. For gourmet purchases, the Mercato Centrale offers the finest Italian delicacies, whilst the surrounding San Lorenzo market area provides an array of souvenirs and leather goods.
Mercato Centrale
The Mercato Centrale, or Central Market, is a two-storey food lover's paradise in the San Lorenzo area. The ground floor hosts traditional vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialities. The upper floor, renovated in 2014, is a modern food court featuring various eateries and cafes serving everything from pizza and pasta to sushi and vegan options. It's an excellent place to sample Tuscan cuisine and pick up gourmet souvenirs.
San Lorenzo Market
Surrounding the Mercato Centrale, the outdoor San Lorenzo Market is a bustling array of stalls selling leather goods, clothing, souvenirs, and various other items. It's an excellent place to practice your bargaining skills and pick up gifts. The market stretches along several streets around the Mercato Centrale, creating a lively atmosphere in the area.
Santo Spirito Market
Every morning except Sundays, Piazza Santo Spirito hosts a local market selling fresh produce, flowers, and household items. On the second Sunday of each month, the square transforms into an antique market where visitors can browse vintage items, artisanal crafts, and second-hand goods.
Nature in and around Florence
Florence and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Within the city, the sprawling Cascine Park serves as Florence's largest green space, perfect for morning runs and peaceful nature walks. Just beyond the city limits, several magnificent natural areas await exploration. The Casentino Forests National Park, a mere 38 kilometres from Florence, boasts over 600 kilometres of trails through pristine forests that showcase spectacular seasonal changes. The dramatic ochre-coloured pinnacles of the Balze in Valdarno provide a unique backdrop for hiking and cycling, whilst the ancient forest of Mount Senario offers therapeutic forest bathing experiences. Nature lovers can also venture to the Riserva naturale Tomboli di Cecina, featuring one of Italy's most beautiful forests and rich biodiversity, or explore the dynamic landscape of Parco Alpi Apuane with its impressive mountain ranges, small lakes and extensive cave systems.
Bardini Gardens
The Bardini Gardens are a hidden gem in Florence, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city centre. These restored gardens feature a stunning wisteria tunnel that blooms spectacularly between April and October. Visitors can climb the garden's medieval staircase for magnificent views of Florence. The gardens also include a Baroque staircase, an English wood, and various sculptures and fountains. With fewer tourists than the nearby Boboli Gardens, Bardini offers a tranquil space to relax and enjoy nature.
Boboli Gardens
While technically part of the Pitti Palace museum complex, the Boboli Gardens deserve a mention for their historical significance and beauty. These extensive gardens, which cover 45,000 square metres, were designed for the Medici family in the 16th century and served as inspiration for many European courts. The gardens feature long avenues, grottos, fountains, and ancient and Renaissance statues. The Amphitheatre, carved into the hillside behind Palazzo Pitti, is particularly impressive.
Rose Garden
Located below Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence's Rose Garden is a romantic spot offering beautiful views of the city. The garden features about 1,000 varieties of roses and other plants, as well as a Japanese Shorai oasis. It's particularly stunning in May and June when the roses are in full bloom, but it's open year-round and offers free entry.
Getting There & Around
Getting to and around Florence is straightforward and convenient, with multiple transport options available. Florence’s main train station, Santa Maria Novella, provides excellent connections to other Italian cities, while the T2 tram line offers a quick and affordable route from Peretola Airport to the city centre. Once in Florence, walking is the best way to explore the compact historic centre, but buses and trams are ideal for reaching attractions further afield, such as Piazzale Michelangelo or Fiesole. The tram system, with lines T1 and T2, is modern and efficient, connecting key areas like Scandicci and Careggi. Tickets for buses and trams cost €1.50 for 90 minutes and must be purchased in advance from vending machines, newsstands, or tobacco shops. For day trips to nearby towns like Siena, suburban buses are a reliable option. If you’re driving into Florence, consider parking at Villa Costanza and taking the tram to avoid the city’s restricted traffic zones.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Florence is during the shoulder seasons, which fall between April and June and September to October. These periods offer pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Spring brings vibrant flowers and greenery, while autumn is characterised by a magical atmosphere with the changing foliage. Both seasons are ideal for sightseeing, enjoying outdoor events, and exploring the city's renowned landmarks such as the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. For those seeking a more relaxed experience with lower prices, visiting during the winter months can be beneficial, although it may require packing warmer clothing. Overall, Florence is a year-round destination, but the spring and autumn seasons provide the perfect balance of weather and crowd levels.