Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city brimming with history, art, and breathtaking architecture. While many visitors focus on top attractions in Florence like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, the city has much more to offer beyond its famous landmarks. Whether it’s exploring hidden museums, discovering artisan shops, or sipping wine through a historic “wine window,” there are countless things to do in Florence Italy that will give you an authentic and unforgettable experience.
If you’re wondering what to do in Florence Italy beyond the usual tourist spots, this guide is packed with unique activities that will let you experience the city like a local.
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1. Discover the Bargello Museum
While the Uffizi Gallery steals most of the attention, the Bargello Museum is one of Florence’s hidden gems. Housed in a 13th-century palace, this museum showcases an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, featuring works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Cellini. Unlike other top attractions in Florence, the Bargello is less crowded, allowing you to admire exquisite art in a peaceful setting.
📍 Location: Via del Proconsolo, 4, Florence
2. Step Back in Time at Stibbert Museum
One of the lesser-known Florence things to see is the Stibbert Museum, a private collection that became a museum after the death of its owner, Frederick Stibbert. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of armor, weapons, antique furniture, and historic artifacts. The museum’s elegant gardens are also worth a stroll.
📍 Location: Via Federico Stibbert, 26, Florence
3. Visit the Laurentian Library
Commissioned by the powerful Medici family, the Laurentian Library is a masterpiece designed by Michelangelo. It houses thousands of rare manuscripts, making it a must-visit for book lovers and history enthusiasts. The stunning staircase and reading room are architectural wonders that shouldn’t be missed.
📍 Location: Piazza San Lorenzo, Florence
4. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (The Duomo)
One of the top attractions in Florence, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply the Duomo, is impossible to miss. This 15th-century architectural marvel was once the largest church in the world and remains the third biggest in Europe today.
A climb up the 463 steps to the top of its dome rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence’s terracotta rooftops. As one of the must-visit things to do in Florence Italy, the Duomo offers much more than its stunning exterior. Your ticket allows access over three days, giving you time to explore the magnificent cathedral, climb the bell tower, and descend underground to the ancient church beneath it.
💡 Insider tip: Pace yourself—seeing everything in one day can be overwhelming!
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5. Uffizi Gallery – A Renaissance Masterpiece
One of the things to do in Florence Italy that no visitor should miss is the Uffizi Gallery, the city’s most renowned art museum. Even if Renaissance art isn’t your passion, the gallery’s stunning collection will captivate you. It houses masterpieces like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, along with works by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Beyond its incredible art, the building itself is a masterpiece, designed by Giorgio Vasari. If you’re wondering what to do in Florence Italy, arriving early at the Uffizi ensures a quieter experience.
💡 Insider tip: The museum can feel overwhelming, so begin on the top floor where the most famous works are located and take your time exploring without rushing through every room.
6. Palazzo Vecchio – A Historic Icon of Florence
One of the most fascinating things to do in Florence Italy, Palazzo Vecchio is the city’s historic town hall, standing proudly in Piazza della Signoria. Its name, meaning “Old Palace,” was given after the Medici family moved to the newer Palazzo Pitti across the river.
Inside, you’ll find spectacular frescoed rooms, intricate artwork, and even Dante’s death mask. For a unique experience, take a guided tour through the secret passageways hidden within the palace. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower—on your way up, you’ll see prison cells where the infamous Savonarola was held before his execution in the square below.
💡 Insider tip: If you’re short on time, a quick visit to the atrium will reveal magnificent Medici symbolism, towering columns, and beautifully painted frescoes.
7. Galleria dell’Accademia
One of the top attractions in Florence, the Galleria dell’Accademia is best known for housing Michelangelo’s world-famous David. This iconic sculpture, carved from a single block of marble over 500 years ago when Michelangelo was just 26, is a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
While the museum contains other historical artworks, David remains the star attraction. Even if you’re not an art enthusiast, seeing the intricate details—from the lifelike veins in his arms to the determined expression—is unforgettable. Expect a wait, but capturing a selfie with David is well worth it!
8. Vasari Corridor
If you’re wondering what to do in Florence Italy beyond the usual sights, the Vasari Corridor is a must-visit. This secret 16th-century passage, commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici in 1565, stretches 750 meters from the Uffizi Gallery, crossing the Ponte Vecchio before emerging in the Boboli Gardens. Originally built as a private escape route to protect the Duke from potential uprisings, it offers unique views of Florence through small portholes.
After an extensive eight-year renovation, the corridor reopened in December 2024. Tickets can be purchased as an add-on to the Uffizi Gallery, with timed entry to manage visitor numbers efficiently.
9. Piazzale Michelangelo
If you’re searching for what to do in Florence Italy that offers stunning city views, Piazzale Michelangelo is the place to go. This hilltop square provides an unbeatable panorama of Florence, stretching from the ancient city walls to the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio’s Arnolfo Tower, and the Uffizi Gallery.
Souvenir stalls and street performers add to the lively atmosphere, but the real highlight is witnessing the breathtaking sunset. As the sky turns golden, crowds gather to admire the sea of terracotta rooftops below. A visit to this iconic viewpoint is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Florence Italy, offering a moment of pure magic in the heart of Tuscany.
10. Caffé Gilli – A Taste of Florence’s History
For a truly authentic Italian café experience, Caffé Gilli is one of the best things to do in Florence Italy. Established in 1733, it remains one of the city’s oldest and most elegant coffee houses, located in the bustling Piazza della Repubblica.
If you’re wondering what to do in Florence Italy that captures local traditions, sip an espresso at the marble counter, just as Florentines do. Be sure to order and pay at the register first, then hand your receipt to the barista. Whether you choose a classic un caffè (espresso) or a macchiato, standing at the bar is the true Italian way. Table service is available at an extra charge, but most locals enjoy their coffee quickly before heading off to explore.
11. Fiesole Hills – A Scenic Escape from Florence
For those looking for Florence things to see beyond the bustling city, a trip to Fiesole Hills offers a glimpse of Tuscany’s peaceful countryside. Just a short ride on public bus No. 7, this charming hilltop town provides breathtaking views over Florence’s valley.
Fiesole’s main piazza is home to fascinating historical sites, including a well-preserved Roman theatre and the San Francesco Convent, where visitors can explore the monks’ quarters. If you prefer nature, venture into the Monte Ceceri hiking trails, where Leonardo da Vinci once tested his flying machines.
This tranquil retreat is the perfect way to experience the region’s natural beauty while still enjoying remarkable things to do in Florence Italy, making it an ideal half-day getaway for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
12. Babae Wine Window – A Revived Florentine Tradition
In Florence’s Santo Spirito neighborhood, you can enjoy wine in a uniquely historic way—served through a tiny wine window. These buchette del vino were common in Renaissance palaces after Cosimo de’ Medici decreed in 1559 that noble families could sell wine directly from their estates. Customers would knock on the small wooden window, hand over payment, and receive a freshly filled bottle from the cellar.
As noble palaces were converted into hotels and apartments, most wine windows were sealed, making this tradition a memory of the past. However, Babae has revived it. Every evening from 7 to 8 PM, they host L’ora della Buchetta, serving wine through their window just as centuries ago. Even outside these hours, visitors can peek inside, witnessing a nearly forgotten piece of Florence’s history, now thriving once again.
