Firenze is more than a city – it’s a feeling. Walking through the stunning streets of Firenze is like stepping back into an era when the great Italian artists ruled the city. You’re surrounded by Renaissance architecture, the romantic Arno River, and a palpable, omnipresent energy that emanates from the city. There are so many amazing things to do in Florence, it would take a lifetime to see it all!

>>Where to stay in Florence, Italy- Click here!<<

This wasn’t our first time seeing the city of Florence. And no, that’s not a humble brag. It’s to say that this is a city to return to over and over again and still never see it all. You have to revel in the Renaissance history, bow down to Boticelli’s Venus, enjoy the flavors of the famed Florentine steak, and delight in the beauty of the Duomo.

Fast Facts

  • Airport: Florence Airport (trains also connect to Pisa, Bologna, Rome, Milan, Florence, Genoa, etc.)
  • Currency: Euro
  • Population: 382,000
  • Transportation: Metro, taxi, bus (There is no Uber in Florence)

Where to Stay

  • AirBnb: We stayed in this AirBnb that was 10 minutes walking distance to the Duomo. Our favorite neighborhood in Florence is the Oltrarno (the other side of the Arno), which has a more local feel. Santa Croce and Sant’Ambrogio are also great areas to stay in.
  • St. Regis Florence: The St. Regis Florence has a beautiful location overlooking the Arno River. Known for its grandeur and opulence, the St. Regis is a wonderful choice for a luxurious stay in Firenze. Guests can enjoy suites that overlook the Arno river and learn how to saber champagne at the Winter Garden Bar.
  • Belmond Villa San Michele: Belmond is synonymous with bespoke luxury. This five-star hotel is located outside of the city center in a former medieval monastery in the Fiesole hills.
  • Four Seasons Hotel Florence: The Four Seasons Florence is one of the most luxurious hotels in all of Italy. It’s home to the cities largest private garden, it has a Michelin-starred restaurant, and it’s steps away from the heart of Firenze.

> Where to stay in Florence, Italy <

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The views from the St. Regis Florence are the definition of La Dolce Vita!

Where to Eat

One of the best things to do in Florence Italy is to eat your way through it! You can’t go wrong with places to eat in the great city of Firenze. While we’ve barely scratched the surface of places to dine in Florence, here are a few of our favorite and in our opinion, the best restaurants in Florence:

  • La Grotta Guelfa: Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s for a great reason – it is delicious and the food is extremely affordable. We highly recommend ordering the Pici pasta (a pasta made with a minimal amount of eggs that creates a delicious al dente consistency) as well as the lasagna. If you can snag a coveted seat outside, it’s also the perfect place to people watch.
  • Gucci Osteria: If you can’t score a coveted reservation at Massimo Bottura’s three-Michelin starred Osteria Francescana, head to Gucci Osteria. This brainchild between Bottura, Gucci creative director, Alessandro Michele, and chef Karine Lopez, is a delicious dining treat in the center of Florence. After dining, you can enjoy two complimentary passes to the Gucci museum.
  • Ristorante Alla Vecchia Bettola: Known as one of the best places to dine for Florentine steak, this local favorite is a must for anyone looking to take a break from pasta and dig into this local delicacy.
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  • Osteria All’antico Vinaio: Delicious, budget friendly, and a must visit for any foodie in Florence. Osteria All’antico Vinaio creates absolutely massive sandwiches for only 5 Euro. We highly recommend ordering the Favolosa sandwich, which was the winner of the best Tuscany street food! You can eat these sandwiches right on the street outside or take it to go while you roam the romantic streets of Florence. Since there will most likely be a long line, we recommend grabbing a 2 Euro glass of wine from the stand while you wait. Yes, two Euro glass of wine – don’t you just love Italy?
  • I’Brindellone: Located on the other side of the Arno, I’Brindellone is an unassuming and absolutely delicious restaurant with a welcoming family feel. We recommend ordering the zucchini flowers, truffle pasta, Florentine steak, and a liter of house wine.
  • SE-STO: Located on the rooftop of the Westin Excelsior, Se-STO is the most idyllic place for an aperitivo. With a 360-degree view of the city of Florence and the Arno River, it’s the perfect place to enjoy an Aperol Spritz while enjoying unparalleled views of Firenze.
  • Mercato Centrale: This market is a must visit for foodies! You can buy absolutely every type of food in this bustling market.
  • Pizzeria Antica Porta: This pizzeria was recommended to us by a local and it was one of our favorite meals in all of Firenze. The Chef is Pugliese (like Coco!) and he makes the best pizza in Florence. Mark our words – this pizza is otherworldly. Plus, we didn’t see one tourist the entire time we were there (expect for ourselves of course!)

Where to Explore

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Sunset at Piazzelle Michelango

  • Uffizi Gallery: This gallery is known for its plethora of famous sculptures and paintings. You can view artwork from greats like Botticelli and Michelangelo as well as a collection of statues from the Medici family. Tip: Book your tickets in advance as the Uffizi Gallery quickly sells out.
  • Accademia Gallery Museum: If you’re an art lover, a visit to The Accademia Gallery Museum in Florence is an absolute must. It includes works from the great Renaissance artist, Michelangelo and this is where you can feast your eyes on the famed statue of David. The gallery also includes art from Botticelli, Allori, and other famous Italian artists. Tip: book your tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in line!
  • Sunset at Piazzelle Michelango: Grab your sweetheart and head over to the Piazzelle Michelango for the best sunsets in the city of Florence. While you’re there, grab a gelato, a glass of wine or a beer from a vendor, and watch the sunset on this regal Renaissance city.
  • Go Truffle Hunting: While Florence is known for its art history and Renaissance architecture, it’s also known for its truffles! Escape the city for the day and head out into the countryside of Florence (only 15-minutes away from the city) for a day of truffle hunting with Giulio the Truffle Hunter. This adventure involves heading out into the forest with Giulio and his dog, Maga, to hunt for coveted truffles. Depending on the time of year, you can find black summer truffles, black autumn truffles, black winter truffles, or even the coveted white truffle (the season for white truffles commences around mid-September). After we hunted for truffles (we found three!), we headed back to Giulio’s house for a beautiful meal filled with you guessed it – truffles! It was by far the most entertaining and authentic experience we had in Florence.
  • Visit and Climb the Duomo: The Duomo is the most iconic building in all of Florence. This cathedral is a marvel of architecture and it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1982. If you want a magnificent view of the city, climb the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo in Florence. To explore the Duomo and to climb it, book tickets in advance here.
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Truffle hunting is a must!

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Explore the architecture of the city including the Ponte Vecchio Bridge!

Five times later and we feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface. We’ve seen the “checklist” items, but there’s still so much more to see. Firenze, we love you dearly and we know we’ll see you again one day!

What are your favorite places to see and dine in Firenze? Comment below!