Out of all the incredible cities in Italy, Florence is one of most-visited vacation destinations. Home to Renaissance paintings and gelato galore, the capital of Tuscany has something to offer every traveler. Throughout its old-world streets, there are tons of tourist attractions in Florence to explore. With architecture, sculptures, and artwork of a past era surrounding you at every turn, just walking through its historic streets while visiting Florence is a cultural experience.

With the amount of places to visit in Florence to during your vacation in Italy, planning a trip to Florence can feel stressful! Luckily, a little preparation can set you on the right track. This guide has you covered!

Prepare the discover the best destinations and must-see attractions in Florence to fill your vacation in Italy with trips to all the classics.

10 Must-See Attractions in Florence

When you’re planning a trip to Florence, include a few of these iconic Italy attractions on your vacation itinerary for a trip you’ll always remember. Buon divertimento!

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

If there’s one symbol you’ve seen in postcards of Florence over and over again, this is it. The Cathedral of Santa Maria of the Flower, commonly referred to as the Duomo di Firenze, acts as the city’s centerpiece and one of the most famous Florence attractions. Having been the largest in the world up until 1881, visitors can reach the highest point in central Florence by climbing its 463 steps to the top!

Uffizi Gallery

Home to some of the Renaissance age’s greatest art, the Uffizi Gallery is an absolute gem to explore. Featuring extraordinary pieces such as Boticelli’s The Birth of Venus, the horseshoe-shaped gallery boasts treasures at every inch. As if the masterpieces inside aren’t enough, the building itself is gorgeous as well. Designed by Giorgio Vasari, an Italian painter, and built in the 16th century, its classical architecture and stunning decor create the perfect ambiance to gaze upon some of the world’s most beloved works.

As one of the most popular Florence museums, you may want to consider getting a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long lines. Wait times can be over an hour during peak tourist seasons.

Galleria dell’Accademia

There’s lots of impressive pieces at the Galleria dell’Accademia, but if it’s on your list, you’re probably coming for David. Carved over 500 years ago by the one and only Michaelangelo at the young age of 26 out of a single block of marble, the must-see sculpture cannot be described as anything short of magnificent.

If you’re on a tight schedule or going at busy hours, avoid waiting in the crowd by getting a skip-the-line ticket for this museum too. Most people consider the Statue of David to be a must-see in Florence, which means wait times can get long.

Piazzale Michelangelo

To get a panoramic view of the city and take in its stunning scenery from afar, Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the best places to sightsee during your Florence trip. With a bronze replica statue of David in the middle of its 19th-century piazza, you’ll be able to spot some of the most recognizable Florence tourist attractions, like the Duomo, as you gaze over the edge. Be sure to bring your camera!

Ponte Vecchio

Stretching over the Arno River, Ponto Vecchio is the most famous bridge in Florence. You can pick up lots of unique artisan goods at the shops scattered across it, and if you’re visiting Florence with your special someone, hanging padlocks on the fence surrounding the Cellini statue in the middle is a popular pastime for couples looking to externalize their love.

Mercato Centrale

When you don’t have a lot of time to spare during your Florence trip but want to taste as many regional flavors as possible, head to Mercato Centrale! Even if you do have a long vacation in Italy with plenty of time in the city, enjoying a meal or picking up some groceries at this two floor foodie paradise is a must-do.

You’ll find loads of vendors on the first floor, selling wines, poultry, cheeses, oils, and all kinds of ingredients to cook up an incredible meal. On the second level, there’s a bustling food court serving everything from fresh pastas to crisp pizzas to local meats to decadent gelato and even a truffle bar. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

If you’re a major foodie, taking a cooking class during your vacation in Italy is a great bucket list activity! There are tons of local cooking classes to choose from.

Giardino Boboli

Considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Florence, the atmosphere at Giardino Boboli provides a serene garden refuge to unwind in. Full of trees, ponds, statues, and fountains, it’s a fantastic park to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in for a bit.

The gorgeous garden grounds have been cited as the inspiration behind many famous gardens that came after, such as those seen at the Palace of Versailles. Its notable impact on architecture distinguishes it as the pinnacle of an outdoor oasis.

Giardino Bardini

While Giardino Boboli usually gets all of the attention, Giardino Bardini deserves a lot of love, too! With a 17th-century villa, fascinating museums, and a baroque staircase scattered throughout its picturesque landscaped grounds, it’s far less crowded than its neighbor and an excellent choice for a leisurely stroll or a glass of wine at its hilltop restaurant. It offers spectacular views during a Florence trip.

If you’re visiting Florence around April especially, its blooming purple wisteria arch is something you don’t want to miss!

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

Few religious attractions in Florence are as widely known as the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella. Constructed by masters of Gothic and Renaissance design, the easy-to-spot Dominican church has been standing tall in the bustling square since the 15th century. In addition to offering a gorgeous setting adorned with spectacular frescoes, dramatic arches, and glittering glass, the religious structure features many world-famous works of art.

You can purchase an entry ticket at the door when you arrive or order one online to expedite the process.

Palazzo Vecchio

Nestled in a fortified palace from the 13th century, Palazzo Vecchio is one of the older Florence attractions in the city. From the phenomenal paintings and gold detailing on the ceilings to the masterful sculptures on display in the halls, the complex boasts lavish and ornate chambers and courtyards throughout its grounds. Be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid waiting in a long queue.

Even if you don’t have time to go inside, you can still see some impeccable ceiling artwork and impressive architecture from the outside while passing through the neighborhood. You can check out Palazzo della Signoria while you’re there too, which is just steps away and hosts a famous copy of Michelangelo’s “David”.

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