15 Florence Experiences You’ll Want To Linger In

Florence hums with quiet beauty, where art and daily life meet in the most unexpected ways. Around each bend lies something worth pausing for—sometimes grand, sometimes subtle. The city doesn’t rush, and neither should you. These are 15 excellent ways to experience Florence.

Climb The Dome At Florence Cathedral

Walking up the 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome is a workout, but the view over Florence is unbeatable. Along the way, you’ll pass close to Vasari’s frescoes on the inside of the dome, which stretch across the ceiling in vivid, swirling scenes from the Last Judgment.

Stroll Through The Uffizi Gallery

Paintings by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Caravaggio hang inside one of the most celebrated art museums in the world. The Uffizi isn’t just about masterpieces, though—its long, arched corridors and city views from the windows are part of the experience, especially if you catch them at golden hour.

Watch The Sunset From Piazzale Michelangelo

A steep walk or quick bus ride brings you to one of the best spots to see Florence glow in the evening. From here, the skyline stretches out with the Duomo rising in the distance while rooftops and towers unfold toward the Arno. It’s popular, but the magic never wears off.

Browse Leather Goods At San Lorenzo Market

Leather jackets, handmade bags, belts, and wallets in every shade fill this open-air market near the church of San Lorenzo. Vendors call out prices, the smell of Italian street food drifts in, and shoppers sift through rows of goods, hoping to find something special to take home.

Snap A Photo On Ponte Vecchio

This medieval bridge, arched over the Arno River, has been home to jewelry shops and goldsmiths for centuries. It is an ideal photo spot and hides a bit of history. Overhead, the Vasari Corridor quietly connects Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti.

Visit The Accademia To See David

Nothing quite prepares you for how massive Michelangelo’s David is until you see it up close. Standing under the gallery’s skylight, the marble statue looks alive. There’s also more to consider; Michelangelo’s unfinished “Prisoners” appear mid-struggle, half-formed within their marble confines.

Admire The Frescoes At Palazzo Vecchio

This fortress-like town hall houses Renaissance-era rooms covered in intricate frescoes, including some by Giorgio Vasari. The Hall of the Five Hundred is highlighted, with soaring ceilings and giant murals. Also, don’t miss the secret staircases and hidden rooms throughout the upper levels.

Explore The Boboli Gardens

Sprawling behind the Pitti Palace, these gardens are filled with grottos, fountains, and sculpted hedges. One path leads to a hilltop overlook, while others wind past old Roman-style statues and shady trees. It’s a peaceful break from the city’s narrow streets and buzzing piazzas.

Order A Lampredotto Sandwich

Locals line up at food carts for this traditional Florentine street food. Made from the cow’s fourth stomach and slow-cooked in broth, it’s served on a crusty roll and often topped with green sauce or spicy oil. You’ll find it around Mercato Centrale and other busy corners.

Step Inside Santa Croce Basilica

Beyond its striking white-and-green marble facade lies Galileo’s final resting place, with nearby tombs honoring figures like Michelangelo and Machiavelli. The church holds stunning frescoes and shaded cloisters, but what makes it memorable is the reverence that seems to linger through its vast, vaulted spaces.

Walk The Historical Streets Of Oltrarno

Cross the river and explore this quieter side of Florence, where artisans work in open studios. The alleys here feel less polished and more lived-in, with a quiet charm that speaks to the area’s deep roots. Stop by a small cafe, wander through a pottery workshop, or soak up the slower pace.

Catch A Performance At Teatro Della Pergola

One of Italy’s oldest theaters still in operation, this grand venue first opened its doors in 1656. Walk through the doors to get enveloped by velvet seats, gold trim, painted ceilings, and that distinct old-theater hush. Whether it’s opera or a modern play, the experience feels elegant and unmistakably local.

Browse The Stalls At Mercato Centrale

At the heart of this bustling market, you’ll find everything from truffle oils and aged cheeses to hand-rolled pasta and rich espresso. The upstairs food court buzzes with locals grabbing a quick lunch or sharing bites with friends. It’s a good spot to try regional specialties without sitting down for a formal meal.

Sample Gelato The Florentine Way

Not all gelato is created equal. The best spots in Florence avoid bright colors and stick to stainless steel tubs with lids. Go for classic flavors like pistachio or hazelnut, and eat slowly while walking cobblestone streets. It’s dessert, yes, but also an extremely local ritual.

Take A Day Trip To Fiesole

A quick bus ride takes you into the hills where this ancient town overlooks Florence. The pace feels gentler, shaped by quiet ruins and winding paths that lead to views from shaded terraces. On a clear day, the city unfolds below, with the Duomo rising at its heart.