Florence

Figuring out what to do in Florence is tough: this is a city packed with so much world class art and gorgeous sights it can be hard to choose. But we’ve narrowed down the top Florence attractions to a manageable list of 5 of the best things to do in this stunning Italian city. In between visiting the major sights, treat yourself to a Florentine pizza and gelato along the way. After all, mixing food with sightseeing is what a vacation in Italy is all about.


Ponder Il Duomo’s Spectacular Details

Il Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is by far one of the most popular of all Florence attractions. The elaborate Gothic revival exterior and the beautiful polychrome pink, green and white panels are extraordinary. The inside is simpler but includes an impressive fresco of The Last Judgment. We recommend walking up the 400+ steps to the top of the dome for a sweeping view of Florence. www.duomofirenze.it


Embrace Renaissance Art at Galleria degli Uffizi (Uffizi Gallery)

This isn’t just of the top Florence attractions, this is one of the most famous museums in Italy. Why? All the big name artists from the Renaissance are represented at this museum: Botticelli, da Vinci, Raphael and Caravaggio are just a few to mention. Tip: This museum gets very crowded so be sure to book your ticket to the UffiziGallery in advance. One reliable place to book online is B Ticket: www.b-ticket.com/b-ticket/uffizi. For additional details about the Uffizi visit the official website at www.uffizi.com.


Hang Out at Piazzi della Signoria

Florence’s most popular square is Piazzi della Signoria. A number of striking renaissance statues pepper the square and one side is lined with the Florence City Hall, better known as Palazzo Vecchio. But the main reason to go to the square it to experience the Florentine atmosphere. It is a lively spot any time of day and evening and worth pausing in to people watch and get into the local spirit. Fterl, one of the most enjoyable way to experience Florence attractions is to embrace the culture and life of this Italian city.


See Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell' Academia

Even if you are feeling museum burnout after the Uffizi, be sure to persevere a bit longer because you can’t miss this statue. Michelangelo’s David stands more than double the size of an average adult male. The Renaissance piece was created between 1501 and 1504. He is made of Carrara white marble, which was given a thorough cleaning in 2003-2004 restoring the statue to his vibrant self. He’ s an arresting sight and it’s no wonder why he is considered one of the top Florence attractions. The official website for this museum is www.uffizi.firenze.it/en/musei/index.php?m=accademia. Due to the crowds and long line, we also recommend booking tickets in advance for this museum at www.b-ticket.com/b-ticket/uffizi


Stroll Around Boboli Gardens

After seeing Florence’s lovely art and sculptures, the stunning cathedral and square, take a moment and venture into Boboli Gardens, Florence’s Italian style park and one of its top attractions. Of course, this is still Florence and the park is filled with impressive renaissance statues dotting the greenery. In fact, wandering around the stately, manicured gardens is like being in an open-air museum. Don’t miss the sections with densely planted shrubs and bushes so think they create tunnel-like paths, named ragnaie (spiders' lanes). http://www.museumsinflorence.com/musei/boboli_garden.html