Our Florence Favorites
A list of our favorite places to experience when we visit Florence
= must see
Food and Drink
Sandwichic – A beloved local spot known for fresh ingredients and perfectly crafted Italian sandwiches. The best Italian sandwich you can get.
Panini Toscani – Famous for its flavorful Tuscan panini made with high-quality meats, cheeses, and traditional recipes, just steps from the Duomo. A close runner-up to Sandwichic
Trattoria ZaZa – A lively Florentine classic offering comforting Tuscan dishes in a warm, bustling atmosphere. Very affordable.
Mercato Centrale – a historic iron-and-glass market hall, originally built in the 1870s, that houses a traditional ground-floor food market with fresh produce and meats, and an upstairs gourmet food court with artisan stalls, regional specialties, and seating for dining, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to shop and eat. Right next to the leather market.
Gucci Garden – A curated blend of fashion, art, and history celebrating Florence’s legendary fashion house. Seated outside in the beautiful Piaza della Signoria, you can enjoy excellent drinks, small bites, ancient sculptures, and magnificent architecture.
Art and Museums
The Uffizi Gallery – One of the world’s most celebrated art museums, home to Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Michelangelo’s David (Accademia Gallery) – A stunning symbol of Renaissance artistry and the genius of Michelangelo; one of the most iconic sculptures in the world.
The Bargello Museum – A stunning former palace showcasing an exceptional collection of Renaissance sculpture, including Raphael’s interpretation of David
Opera del Duomo Museum – An extraordinary museum housing original works and sculptures from the Duomo complex. If you are interested in the history, construction, and significance of the Duomo, this is a must see.
Historic Landmarks & Architecture
Climbing the Duomo – A once-in-a-lifetime experience offering the best views of Florence and surrounding landscape, after an unforgettable climb inside Brunelleschi’s iconic dome.
Inside the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) – Step inside Florence’s iconic cathedral to experience its scale, artistry, and spiritual significance. English Mass is offered on Sundays. Mass is free to attend, otherwise there is a ticket price to enter the cathedral.
Pitti Palace – A grand Renaissance palace once home to the Medici family, now housing several important museums. Home to the magnificent Boboli Gardens
Medici Chapel – A remarkable site featuring Michelangelo’s sculptures and honoring Florence’s most powerful family, the Medici. Truly jaw-dropping — words nor pictures do it justice.
Piazza della Signoria – Florence’s historic civic heart, surrounded by statues, palaces, and centuries of history.
Piazza della Repubblica – A grand, lively square known for its cafés, historic arcades, and vibrant atmosphere at the heart of Florence.
Ponte Vecchio – Florence’s most famous bridge, lined with historic shops and spanning the Arno River.
The Leather Markets (San Lorenzo) – A lively market known for Florentine leather goods and classic Italian craftsmanship.
Views & Outdoor Beauty
San Miniato al Monte (Where Sam proposed to Caroline) – A beautiful hilltop church offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Florence. A short trip down the hill leads to Piazzale Michelangelo: another amazing view of Florence but tends to be more crowded.
Boboli Gardens – Elegant historic gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, and scenic paths behind the Pitti Palace. If you go, you must see Cypress Lane and the medicinal garden overlook.
Send us pictures of the places you visit and sights you see!