5 Things to See in Florence

Florence comes with a reputation for being one of the most culturally, architecturally and historically significant cities on earth.

Undoubtedly, with so much to see it can be hard to know where to begin.

Therefore, we’ve compiled some of our favourite sights in the hopes that it makes your trip to Florence somewhat easier to plan.

These are:

• Duomo di Firenze
• Piazzale Michelangelo
• Mercato Centrale
• Ponte Vecchio
• Uffizi Gallery

Read on to discover more about these fascinating and unique sights in Florence.

1. Duomo di Firenze

Unquestionably the centrepiece of the city, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower is better known as the Duomo.

The world-famous dome was the largest in the world until 1881. The lantern at the tip of the building is the tallest point in central Florence and affords spectacular views of the city. Undeniably, it’s not just the exterior that is impressive. In taking a tour of the baptistry, bell tower, cathedral or museum you will see some incredible masterpieces by the likes of Ghiberti, Donatello, and Michelangelo.

Did you know: The Duomo is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. It's only trumped by those in London, Rome and Milan.

2. Piazzale Michelangelo

This is one of the few places in Florence from which you can see the entirety of the city in one go. High up a hill and surrounded by peace, the Duomo treats visitors to an unmissable view over the River Arno.

With a sea of terracotta roofs stretching out in front of you, backdropped by the rolling Florentine hills and further punctuated by incredible landmarks like the Duomo populating the horizon, this is a vista that you won’t ever forget.

If you’re really lucky, you might even get an authentic street musician playing nearby to set the mood.

3. Mercato Centrale

The nineteenth-century Mercato Centrale is the perfect place to visit if you want to surround yourself in traditional culinary delights.

This incredible two-tiered market has been a favourite haunt of both locals and tourists alike for centuries. The market is packed full of delectable flavours, fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, wines and spices.

In addition, discover a plethora of delightful street food offerings to keep you going as you explore. There really is so much going on that you could spend hours in here just walking around.

Mercato Centrale is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and spectacle of an authentic Italian market. 

Top Tip: Florence is well known for its truffles. Stop by II Tartufo and enjoy the local delicacy in all its glory.

4. Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio bridge is perhaps the most recognisable Florentine icon. It was erected during the Roman era.

Today it stands as a timeless sign of Florence’s extraordinarily rich history. Unsurprisingly, Ponte Vecchio is one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

Stretching across the River Arno and characterised by its famous arches and "botteghe", or shops, that line the walkway, whether you’re looking at the bridge itself or standing on it looking out, the view is simply breathtaking.

Did you know: This is the only bridge that survived when the Germans fled the area during WW2.

5. Uffizi Gallery

Even the world’s most discerning art experts would struggle to contest the Uffizi’s status among the world’s most impressive art museums.

Its collection has incredible diversity and boasts unmissable classics from the likes of:

• Botticelli
• da Vinci
• Michelangelo and
• Caravaggio

Even the building itself is artistically and architecturally stunning with extending colonnades, linear columns and traditional pediments all contributing to the classical 16th century design.

This was just a short list of some of our top tips. But, for such a small destination, there's an astounding amount waiting to be discovered in Florence.

The city is a staggering showcase of Italian Renaissance style and sensibility. Any one of Florence’s miraculous churches and landmarks would comfortably be the jewel in the crown of most cities in the world. So what are you waiting for?