The compact city center of Florence is best explored on foot. Whether you’re staying in the Oltrarno neighborhoods or near to Piazza Santo Spirito, walking is the best way to explore the historic streets lined with medieval and Renaissance palaces and renowned museums.
It’s important to remember that Florence is a popular tourist destination and you will most likely encounter large tour groups, cruise excursions, and independent day-trippers. This is especially true during the peak season of July and August.
Budget
In a city as rich and famous as Florence, prices can be quite high. But if you plan ahead and choose to visit during off-season or during the week, you can find some great deals. This may mean staying at a less-desirable hotel or spending a little more on food, but it will be worth the savings.
The easiest way to save money on your trip to Florence is by purchasing tickets online or in advance. The city’s most popular attractions tend to sell out quickly and you can avoid the long lines by booking your tickets ahead of time. It’s also a good idea to check the opening hours of each attraction as they may change during different times of year.
Aside from avoiding tourist traps, another budget-friendly activity to try is visiting the local markets. These outdoor markets are a big part of Italian culture and offer plenty of fresh food, charming antiques, and practical housewares. You can also find many artisan-made products here at reasonable prices.
While some of these local markets can be very crowded, you should still take the time to browse. Just be sure to keep your belongings close to you and never leave your bags unattended. Florence has a high rate of petty crimes like purse snatching and pickpocketing, so it’s important to be extra vigilant while exploring the city. Also, make sure to only use ATMs located in banks and not in shops or restaurants.
Besides visiting the museums, you should also check out the quaint streets of Florence to get a real taste of Italian life. You’ll find charming bakeries, small piazzas centered around tiny fountains, and young locals hanging out at the plazas during the day. You can also check out some of the Medici villas and gardens that are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Medici Villas at Boboli and the 14th-century Fortress of Belvedere are both excellent examples of Renaissance architecture.
It is impossible to get acquainted with the sights of Italy in one day, as well as in a week, but you can see the maximum number of new places with the help of a rented car at one of the country's airports. For example, in Bergamo you can rent a car from 25 euros per day, in Florence - from 23 euros per day.
Safety
Florence is an incredibly beautiful city, filled with incredible artwork, exquisite ancient architecture, and delectable food. However, it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors.
Fortunately, there are some tips that will help you plan the perfect trip to Florence. By following these tips, you will be able to see all of the most famous attractions without feeling overwhelmed or overcrowded.
The best time of year to visit Florence is during the spring, from March to May. This is when the weather is mild and pleasantly warm, making it perfect for walking around the Boboli Gardens and exploring the historic center of Florence. In addition, it is also a great time to visit Florence’s museums, as there are fewer crowds and the prices are much more affordable than during the summer months.
However, if you are planning to attend any events, such as an opera, or want to climb the Duomo, then it is best to visit during the summer, from June to August. This is when the theaters reopen and there are many performances to choose from.
Florence has a high rate of petty crime, so it is important to be vigilant and take extra precautions. Always carry a small pouch in which you can stash your passport and credit cards, and keep an eye on your bag. Be particularly careful near crowded tourist attractions, and don’t leave your bag unattended at restaurants or other public places.
It is also a good idea to bring cash, as some businesses still do not accept cards. This is especially true for smaller shops and markets, so it is a good idea to have some extra euros on hand. Also, remember to be respectful when visiting churches; silence your phone and speak in a soft voice, and do not bring food inside.
Finally, be sure to avoid traveling during holidays and special events, as these can draw large crowds. In addition, it is important to plan your itinerary and book tickets ahead of time to ensure that you can get into popular attractions without waiting in long lines.
Public transport
As a pedestrian-friendly city, Florence is easy to explore on foot. But if you want to get beyond the walkable realms, an efficient bus and tram system connects the UNESCO-listed center and points of interest scattered across the city’s green fringes.
If you plan to visit the main sights in Florence, book your accommodation in a neighborhood within walking distance of most attractions. That way you can enjoy the city at a relaxed pace and also save money on transportation expenses. However, if you are laden down with lots of luggage, taking a taxi – always metered in Florence – might be a more practical option. There are dozens of taxi stands around town, including outside the Santa Maria Novella train station, in Piazza Sante Croce and on Piazza del Duomo.
Cars and Florence don’t mix well. The city’s narrow one-way streets, pedestrian areas and lack of parking spaces make driving a real nightmare. Plus, the historical city center is restricted to authorized traffic (marked by a sign with ZTL - Zona a Traffico Limitato). Unless you have a special permit, it’s best to park your vehicle on the outskirts and take a bus or taxi in to town.
The most popular and most accessible public transport method in Florence is the ATAF bus network. The city has over 100 bus lines and a dedicated night service. But keep in mind that buses can be packed during rush hour and are not the best option for long journeys.
Another popular option for traveling around Florence is to rent a bike. You can easily find a rental service from an app such as RideMovi or even a bicycle kiosk at the main train station. Bike rentals are available for short or longer periods of time and there are several safe bike routes that connect the city’s top attractions.
If you’re weighed down by all the wonderful souvenirs you’ve bought, use a luggage storage service to free up your hands. The most popular ones are located in the central area near the Santa Maria Novella train station, as well as a few places close to the famous landmarks such as the il Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery.
Food
The city of Florence has many fun things to do, from visiting the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge to trying out lampredotto, a dish made from tripe and veal that is popular in Florence. There are also a variety of other festivals and events that take place in the city throughout the year. These events are often based on religion or ancient pagan traditions and are a great way to experience the culture of the city.
There are plenty of restaurants in Florence that serve traditional Italian food at reasonable prices. However, if you’re on a budget it can be helpful to eat outside of the tourist areas. You’ll find that prices are much lower in these places, and the food is just as good.
One of the best ways to save money on food is to visit the Mercato Centrale. Here, you’ll find a large variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at low prices. You can also get some great wine and other grocery items for a fraction of the cost that you’d pay in supermarkets. Another option is to look for a farmer’s market near your hotel.
Florence is a great city for travelers on a budget, but it can be expensive to see all of the city’s top attractions. To avoid paying more than you should, make sure to book tickets for the big sights in advance online. This will help you avoid long lines and save money on entrance fees.
A great place to stay in Florence is the Hotel La Menagere, which is located in the heart of the historic center. Its rooms are beautiful and feature nooks and crannies for privacy. The restaurant also offers a delicious continental breakfast. Try the Florentine steak (bistecca alla Fiorentina) or the chicken breast in butter for an amazing meal.
Another thing to do while in Florence is to visit the Boboli Gardens and Palazzo Pitti. This palace was once the home of the wealthy Medici family, and it now houses some of the most famous paintings in the world. It is also home to a number of temporary exhibits that focus on modern art, fashion, and history. The Accademia Museum is another must-see for visitors to Florence. This museum features some of the greatest works by the great artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is a great way to learn about the life of this influential man.