Best things to do in Florence - Design lover's travel guide
Although I'd visited other Italian cities like Venice and Rome, this was my first time in Florence and I’ll definitely be returning! The mix of Renaissance grandeur, artistic heritage and typical Italian style makes it a dream destination for design lovers.
Located in central Italy, Florence is the Tuscan capital. While it’s best known for its art and history (think Michelangelo and the Medici family), it’s also bursting with inspiration for interiors and architecture. One of the most notable things for me was the beautiful muted colour palette of the buildings with their warm terracottas, soft creams, and earthy greens - very on trend!
Like Porto and Alicante, Florence is a compact, walkable city. A collection of neighbourhoods on each side of the Arno river make up the Centro Storico (historical centre), a UNESCO world heritage site. North of the river, you'll find most of the main historical tourist attractions and to the south is the less touristy Oltrarno area with a more relaxed, artisanal feel. Below, I’ve rounded up the must-see attractions for design lovers on each side of the river — whether you’re after art, architecture, or breathtaking city views. Plus, some great places to eat and drink along the way. Oh, and a lovely day trip to beautiful Siena!
North of the Arno river
Iconic landmarks
Duomo & Cupola di Brunelleschi
Probably the most iconic of Florence's landmarks, the city's cathedral (officially named the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) is breathtaking. Most of the construction was finished in the 15th century, with the facade completing in the 19th century. Crafted from white, green and pink marble, it beautifully complements the adjacent Giotto’s Bell Tower and is adorned with intricate carvings, mosaics, and statues. You can climb 463 narrow winding steps up Brunelleschi's Dome (the cupola), with breathtaking views from the top but make sure you book tickets way in advance and be prepared to queue for quite a while! Afterwards, wander around Piazza del Duomo where local artists sell their work.
Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza della Signoria
In Florence's most famous square, you'll find several impressive sculptures, including Bandinelli's 1534 statue of Hercules and Cacus, and a replica of Michelangelo's David in the spot where the original once stood.
Originally a fortress palace, Palazzo Vecchio is now the city's town hall. Inside, you can explore the secret passageways, apartments featuring Renaissance art, and the Hall of the Five Hundred with its amazing frescoes. Climb the Arnolfo tower for more spectacular views.
Basilica di Santa Croce & Santa Maria Novella
Basilica Santa Maria Novella
If you’re arriving from the main train station, you’ll pass the Santa Maria Novella basilica on your way to the city centre - a lovely welcome to Florence! Both this building and the Basilica of Santa Croce have amazing intricate marble facades and inside you’ll find stunning frescoes, including depictions of the last supper from the 14th and 15th centuries.
Basilica di San Lorenzo
Here you can find Donatello’s pulpits, as well as the Medici Chapel which contains the Medici family’s tombs.
Ponte Vecchio
View of Ponte Vecchio from Ponte Santa Trinita
This old bridge is lined with jewellery shops and has been in use since the 14th century - the only bridge in Florence not destroyed in World War II by the retreating German army. Although the views are stunning, it can get really busy with tourists posing for selfies and I actually preferred crossing Ponte Santa Trinita (one bridge along) which is much quieter and offers the best view of the Ponte Vecchio.
Museums & Galleries
We bought a combined ticket for the Uffizi Gallery, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens which cost €40.
Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous art museums in the world and it’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting Florence. Packed with incredible Renaissance masterpieces, it includes works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, and Raphael. The interior of the building itself is stunning, with long hallways lined with sculptures and beautifully decorated ceilings. Make sure you check out the views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio from the terrace on the top floor!
Accademia Gallery
The Accademia Gallery is smaller than the Uffizi and is home to Michelangelo’s David, a true masterpiece that’s even more impressive in real life. The museum also features his unfinished Prisoners sculptures, along with a collection of Italian Renaissance paintings and historic musical instruments.
Street Levels Gallery
I loved this gallery! It's a really cool space showcasing both local and international artists, with an emphasis on urban and street art. As well as original artworks, they also sell a collection of affordable prints.
South of the Arno river
Oltrarno, which literally means 'the other side of the river,' is a quieter neighbourhood with fewer tourists and more locals.
Iconic landmarks
Piazza Santo Spirito
My favourite Florentine square! We stayed just around the corner from Piazza Santo Spirito with its many cafes, bars and restaurants. It's the perfect spot to sit with a drink and watch the world go by.
The weekly market is held every Sunday morning and sells everything from vintage homeware to food and handmade items.
Piazzale Michelangelo
It's quite a steep climb to reach Piazzale Michelangelo at the top of the hill but it's definitely worth it! With stunning views of the Tuscan hills on one side and Florence's beautiful cityscape on the other, this is one of the best places to watch the sunset.
Galleries & Museums
Palazzo Pitti
Once the main residence of the Medici family, the Pitti Palace is really impressive. It houses several museums and galleries but the definite highlight for me was the Royal Apartments - the private living quarters of the ruling family. From original mosaic floors to intricately carved doorframes and elaborate wall murals, the interiors are a stunning display of Renaissance luxury.
Boboli Gardens
Featuring sculptures, fountains and paths, this is the perfect place to escape the bustling city and relax for a while in some green space. The gardens are located behind the Pitti Palace and have stunning views of Florence.
Eat and Drink
Don’t forget to look up! One of the best things about Florence’s eateries is their ancient ceilings! Here are just a few.
Mercato Centrale (San Lorenzo) - Housed in a 19th century iron and glass structure, the buzzing, two-level central market is packed with fresh local produce. Downstairs, you’ll find traditional market stalls selling everything from truffle oil to fresh seafood. Upstairs, there’s a modern food hall where you can grab a plate of freshly made pasta, a wood-fired pizza, delicious ice cream or a glass of Tuscan wine. It’s the perfect spot to taste authentic Florentine flavours and soak up the lively atmosphere. You could easily spend a whole day in here!
La Ménagère (San Lorenzo) - a lovely cafe, restaurant, florist and homeware shop. The interior is beautifully rustic with an industrial touch, featuring traditional faded wallpaper, exposed brick walls and lush greenery. It has a wonderfully eclectic, vintage feel.
Ristorante Buca Mario (Santa Maria Novella) - serving traditional Florentine cuisine, this authentic Tuscan restaurant first opened its doors in 1886, making it one of Florence’s oldest restaurants. It has a warm, rustic atmosphere with traditional charm, featuring stone walls, wooden beams and classic furnishings. While it’s not the cheapest restaurant, it’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you want to sample Florentine specialties like bistecca alla Fiorentina (the famous T-bone steak) and other classic Tuscan dishes. It gets super busy so make sure you book in advance.
Lunetta Cafe (Oltrarno) - Fantastic breakfasts and lunches at affordable prices.
Loggia roof bar at Hotel Palazzo Guadagni (Oltrarno) - If you’re looking for a relaxing drink in a stunning setting with an incredible view, this is the place for you. Overlooking Piazza Santo Spirito, with picturesque views of the city and the rolling Tuscan hills, it offers a more laid-back, less touristy atmosphere than other rooftop bars. The decor is full of rustic charm and the staff are really friendly too!
Gusta Panino Trattoria (Oltrarno) - a down to earth, friendly restaurant located in the lively Piazza Santo Spirito. Perfect for lunch or dinner - we loved it here. It’s part of the 'Gusta' group of eateries, which also includes Gusta Osteria and Gusta Pizza, where there were queues out the door the whole time we were there!
Signorvino wine store & restaurant (Oltrarno) - with fantastic views of the Ponte Vecchio, enjoy a selection of local wines paired with delicious Tuscan dishes. I can definitely recommend their cheese boards!
The view from Signorvino
Wine windows - I just love the story behind these! Florence’s wine windows (buchette del vino) are small openings carved into the walls of buildings, dating back to the 17th century. They allowed vineyard owners to sell their wine directly to customers without going through taverns, avoiding taxes and the plague by minimising contact. Lots of these lovely little windows have reopened, some during the Covid pandemic as a way of minimising social distancing! Keep an eye out for them while strolling through the city.
An Amazing Day Trip to Siena
Our day trip options included Pisa, Lucca and San Gimignano but we eventually decided on Siena and I’m so glad we did. This medieval city is stunning. The bus journey from Florence took about an hour and we spent most of the day wandering the narrow streets and admiring the gothic buildings.
Palazzo Pubblico
View of the Torre del Mangia
Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral)
We stopped off at Trattoria i Barberi for a lovely lunch.
Our day ended with a visit to Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena (the Botanical Garden of Siena). It really is a hidden gem - like a secret garden in the heart of the city with amazing views of the Sant'Agostino valley. I highly recommend a visit!
And that’s my review of our beautiful city break in Florence! A fantastic destination if you want to experience rich history, amazing architecture and delicious food. If you’re visiting soon, you’re really in for a treat - let me know in the comments if you have any of your own tips or recommendations for the next time I visit!
