With these top tips for a trip to Florence, María Castellarosa helps you prepare for the holiday of a lifetime in one of Northern Italy’s most beloved cities.
Florence is often called the ‘golden age city’ – and for good reason. What makes it my favourite is its stunning Renaissance cathedrals, elegant buildings, and charming winding streets.
If you’re an art lover (like me), the museums and galleries alone will keep you captivated for days.
For many visitors, the incredible cuisine, world-class wine, and lively music scene are the biggest draws.
Simply put, Florence is the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday.
6 tips for your next trip to Florence:
1. Know the basics
Don’t go to Florence without doing a little homework first. It’s important to know the essentials – like weather, language, currency, and costs – before you go.
Florence experiences scorching summers and freezing winters, which can be challenging for first-time visitors.
The best time to visit is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
At these times, the weather is mild, the city is at its most picturesque, and the crowds are thinner.
2. Choose the right accommodation
As a major tourist destination, Florence offers accommodation for every budget and style.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy guesthouse or a luxury hotel, you’ll find a place that suits you.
Many hotels and apartments provide charming rooms, free Wi-Fi, delicious breakfasts, and even live music.
Some even offer breathtaking views over the city – worth considering for an extra-special experience.
3. Explore Florence’s streetside art
If you don’t have time to visit museums and galleries, don’t worry; Florence itself is a living gallery.
Walking through the city, you’ll come across impressive street art, hidden sculptures, and artistic shopfronts.
Many churches, gardens, and fountains are also adorned with incredible artwork, so you’ll still get your culture fix without setting foot in a gallery.
4. Find the best gelato
You may have had gelato before, but nothing compares to tasting it in Florence.
One tip to finding the best gelato: avoid places where the gelato is piled high in unnatural colours.
The freshest, most authentic gelato melts quickly because it’s made without artificial additives.
Trust me; once you’ve had real Florentine gelato, you’ll never look at it the same way again.
5. Don’t drive, walk
The best way to experience Florence is on foot. Don’t waste time and money on taxis or tours – just walk.
As you wander, you’ll stumble upon charming shops, medieval vineyards, and stunning riverside views.
Florence’s beauty is best appreciated up close, at your own pace.
6. Include a Duomo visit in your Florence trip
One word comes to mind when you see Florence’s iconic Duomo: incredible.
Climbing to the top takes over 500 steps, but the view is more than worth it. Once you reach the summit, you might just wish you could stay there forever.
Find more tips and inspiration for your trip to Florence in our A-Z of Florence
Words by María Castellarosa