Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Florence
Milan is a dynamic city known for its stylish atmosphere and rich cultural scene, making it ideal for holidaymakers and backpackers. With a range of affordable accommodations, diverse dining options, and excellent public transportation, exploring the city is convenient and budget-friendly. Milan’s vibrant neighbourhoods, fashionable streets, and welcoming ambiance create an exciting environment for visitors to experience the pulse of Italian life and design.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
0 – 35°C
32 – 95°F
Florence’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Discover the Bargello Museum | Visit the Bargello Museum, a former prison turned museum that houses an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, including works by Donatello and Michelangelo. |
| Explore the Palazzo Vecchio | Visit Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall and a symbol of the city’s political power. Explore its grand rooms, historic art, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. |
| Explore the Uffizi Galleries | Discover Renaissance art at the Uffizi Galleries, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. It’s one of the most important art museums in the world. |
| Relax in the Boboli Gardens | Relax in the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling Renaissance garden behind the Pitti Palace. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds, sculptures, and stunning views of Florence. |
| Shop in the San Lorenzo Market | Shop for leather goods, souvenirs, and local food products at the San Lorenzo Market. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique items. |
| Stroll across Ponte Vecchio | Walk across Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge. Lined with jewelry shops, it offers picturesque views of the Arno River and the city’s skyline. |
| Take in the Views from Piazzale Michelangelo | Enjoy panoramic views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, a popular lookout spot. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Arno River. |
| Visit Florence Cathedral (Duomo) | Explore the Florence Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with a stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city. |
| Visit the Accademia Gallery | See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, a must-visit for art lovers. This iconic sculpture is one of the most famous works of art in the world. |
| Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce | Explore the Basilica of Santa Croce, the burial place of notable Italians like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The church is also famous for its beautiful frescoes and artwork. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Florence is a compact city best explored on foot, but public buses and trams are available for longer distances. Taxis can be hailed or found at designated stands. For ride-hailing, apps like Uber and Free Now are used, though local taxis remain the more common choice for quick rides.
Seasonality and Weather
Florence experiences a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) can be hot, with temperatures averaging 20-35°C (68-95°F), often accompanied by high humidity. Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures between 10-20°C (50-68°F), bringing beautiful fall colors. Winter (December to February) is cool and damp, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). The best time to visit Florence is during spring and Autumn when the weather is comfortable and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Where to stay
Centro Storico: The historic center offers easy access to major attractions, luxury hotels, and charming guesthouses, perfect for first-time visitors.
Oltrarno: Known for its artistic vibe and local atmosphere, this area features boutique accommodations, artisan shops, and traditional trattorias.
Santa Croce: A vibrant neighborhood with a mix of budget-friendly hostels and hotels, it’s close to lively markets and cultural sites.
San Lorenzo: Famous for its leather markets, this area offers a variety of accommodations and is well-connected to public transport.
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