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FLORENCE
SOMMAIRE
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, proudly showcases its treasures of art, architecture, heritage, science, and history.
The city is one of Italy’s iconic destinations, with its narrow cobbled streets, countless churches, and red-tiled roofs. The facades of its monuments, its role in the country’s history, its former status as a capital, its scientific geniuses, and its influence on art and architecture make it a cultural powerhouse.
It is no surprise that Florence is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stendhal, the famous French writer, fell so deeply in love with the city that he made himself ill. His condition later became a recognized psychological syndrome known as the "Stendhal Syndrome" or "Florence Syndrome."
Before you go ...
Language : Italian
Currency : Euro
Flight time (from Paris) : approx. 1h45
Time difference (from Paris) : none
Documents (from France) : From within Europe, an ID card is sufficient / Outside the EU, a valid passport is required.
Basic Vocabulary :
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Hello ...................... Buongiorno
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Thank you .............. Grazie
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Yes .......................... Si
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No .......................... No
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Good bye .............. Ciao
THE PIAZZA DEL DUOMO
The Piazza del Duomo is undoubtedly the place where Florence’s most iconic monuments are concentrated—some of the most famous in all of Italy. Skipping it would almost feel like a deliberate act.
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Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
Florence’s cathedral dominates the square, topped with its massive red-tiled dome, a masterpiece designed by Brunelleschi. The intricate exterior paintings offer just a glimpse of what lies inside. At the top sits one of the city's true masterpieces: Brunelleschi’s dome, with a fresco depicting Dante’s vision of Hell.
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Giotto’s Bell Tower
This structure is less famous but just as elegant. It offers a breathtaking view over the square and its monuments—a reward after climbing its 414 steps.
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The Baptistery of Saint John
This small Romanesque octagon once hosted major ceremonies, such as the knighting of noblemen and the baptisms of great figures like Dante. The entrance is through the famous “Gates of Paradise”, a magnificent piece sculpted by Lorenzo Ghiberti over nearly 26 years.
You can buy the "Brunelleschi Pass" at 30€ to visit all the monuments on the square over 3 days—perfect for planning your visits around peak times.
THE PIAZZA DELLA REPUBLICA
This charming square is surrounded by columned arcades and features a small musical carousel at its center. Passersby are often seen heading toward the famous little golden pig, a good luck symbol of the Mercato del Porcellino.
THE PONTE VECCHIO
This picturesque little bridge, with houses clinging to it like seashells on a rock, is a true symbol of the city. Once home to prosperous jewelers and watchmakers, it is now one of Florence’s most visited tourist attractions. Its warm-toned palette, seen along the banks of the Arno River, connects the Lungarno (historic city side) to the Oltrarno (literally “the other side”).
UFFIZI GALLERY
This beautiful almond-colored Florentine palace houses the Uffizi Museum, an 8,000 m² space dedicated to classical art, mainly Italian and European (ticket €34). Inside, you’ll find masterpieces such as The Birth of Venus by Botticelli, the Vasari Corridor, and many more wonders. One hidden gem: a tiny secret window offers a charming view of the Ponte Vecchio. On the roof, a café offers a panoramic view of Piazza della Signoria.
THE SANTA CROCE BASILICA
Italy in general, and Florence in particular, is full of churches, chapels, and basilicas—making it nearly impossible to choose the most beautiful. This religious complex is currently the largest Franciscan church in the world. Deeply tied to Florence’s history, it has served multiple roles: a religious hub for powerful Florentine families, an artistic workshop, and the pantheon of Italian legends. The basilica’s cloister offers a peaceful escape.
Just nearby, treat your senses at the Aquaflor boutique. This shop is a delight for your nose and a perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir.
THE PIAZZA DELLA SIGNORIA
Just like the Piazza del Duomo, the Piazza della Signoria is home to many of Florence’s iconic landmarks. Here you’ll find the Palazzo Vecchio, whose inner courtyard is freely accessible via the gate across from the Fountain of Neptune. On the square, under a colonnaded arcade, the Loggia dei Lanzi displays an impressive collection of outdoor sculptures. It’s a very busy area, so for a peaceful experience, come early.
THE SAN MINIATO BASILICA
If you’re up for the climb, the ascent to San Miniato al Monte begins at Ponte Grazie. While the path isn’t particularly scenic, the view from the top is stunning. Beside the basilica is the Cemetery of Porte Sante, a tranquil haven with panoramic views in a natural setting.
THE MICHAELANGELO ESPLANADE
Descending from the basilica and cemetery, the path leads to the Piazzale Michelangelo. This large terrace is a spectacular viewpoint over Florence’s burnt-orange rooftops. The view is especially magical at dusk.
THE BOBOLI GARDENS
Located next to the Pitti Palace, former residence of the Medici family, the Boboli Gardens stretch out above the city and feature a variety of landscaped spaces. Exploring the entire park could take half a day, so take your time wandering along cypress-lined paths, past the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Ocean. This serene, sculpture-dotted stroll is well worth the slight uphill walk.
LEONARDO DA VINCI MUSEUM
This small museum is filled with curious machines born from the imagination of the legendary inventor (ticket €8). You'll find models of all shapes and sizes, hanging, suspended, or placed on the floor and ceiling. It’s a fun, non-traditional museum, perfect for kids, with hands-on interactive exhibits.
THE PIAZZA DELLE MURATE
Far from the crowds, these peaceful little streets are perfect for a quiet stroll. Take a break in the heart of the neighborhood at Café Literario, where you can sip lemonade while lounging on swings.
Go in the morning to enjoy the Sant’Ambrogio Market (Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti).
Just around the corner, slip into another era at Contempo Records, a small vinyl shop offering a musical escape. Here you can find large choice of music.
To go further ...
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Galleria dell’Accademia : to see Michelangelo’s David
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Bardini Gardens : for its stunning wisteria arch
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Pitti Palace : to learn more about the life of the Medici family
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Santa Maria Novella Basilica : for its fresco that inspired a novel
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PISA City : for its famous Leaning Tower, just 50 minutes by train
TO EAT & DRINK
1. La Ménagère, Via de' Ginori, 8/R, 50123 Firenze
A charming and refined restaurant that feels like a flower shop, described as a harmonious blend of spaces. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, a drink, or simply a tea in a cozy, botanical-themed setting.
2. Il Granaio, Via dei Tavolini, 14/r, 50122 Firenze
This small, traditional trattoria serves excellent Italian pasta dishes. The wine list is curated to pair with the food. In the evening, soft lighting and candles set the mood for a romantic dinner.
3. Prosciutteria, Via dei Neri, 54/R, 50122 Firenze
This little spot is easy to miss. Once inside, you order at the counter, where a mouthwatering display of cold cuts awaits. Indoor seating is limited, but you can take away gourmet sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.
4. Enoteca Strozzi, Piazza degli Strozzi, 12r, 50123, Firenze
For wine lovers, this wine bar features around 2,000 bottles in the owner's collection. You can also enjoy lunch on site.
5. La Boîte, Via dei Neri, 54/R, 50122 Firenze
This discreet and intimate neighborhood bar serves coffee in the morning and excellent house cocktails in the evening. The atmosphere is relaxed, and snacks are available throughout the day.
TO SLEEP
1. Airbnb, Via Palazzuolo, 66r, 50123 Firenze (145€/night)
This apartment is perfectly located for exploring the city, right next to the historic center. The train station is just a few minutes' walk away—great for day trips outside Florence. The accommodation is elegant, well-equipped, and features a large private terrace ideal for breakfast or evening drinks with a rooftop view of the city.