Every traveller should put Florence on their bucket list. Florence is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, and it’s eager to welcome inquiring tourists. To make the most of your time in Florence, we’ve compiled a list of must-see attractions. To make it easier to get about Florence, check out RentalPort’s vehicle rental offers.
Saint Mary’s Basilica in Florence
In Florence, you must see the Cathedral. Built by some of the greatest architects of the period (Giotto, Brunelleschi, Vasari, Lorenzo Ghiberti…), the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a remarkable treasure.
Climbing the iconic Cpola di Brunelleschi is an experience not to be missed (be careful, 436 steps await you). The cathedral’s dome, designed by Brunelleschi, has a cross atop it.
At the time when its completed, it was the world’s biggest dome. With an inside diameter of 45.5 metres, it is still the biggest brick dome ever erected. This is one of Philip Brunelleschi’s finest works. If you haven’t already, this destination should be on your itinerary!
Uffizi
There can be no question that the Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the most stunning museum complexes in the world. There are tens of thousands of visitors each year because of the museum’s impressive art collection.
Near Piazza Della Signoria, Giorgio Vasari designed the Uffizi, which is housed in the Vasari building. A variety of historical periods and artists are represented, including works by Botticelli’s Venus in the Garden of Urbino, Titian’s The Urbina Venus, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Annunciation, and others such as Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement.
The bell tower of Giotto
Check see Florence from the top of Giotto’s Bell Tower! At over 85 metres, it is the outstanding example of Florentine Gothic architecture from the fourteenth century. Beautiful white, red, and green marble covers the tower’s façade, and many consider it Italy’s most beautiful bell tower.
Giotto started the project in 1334, but he died before it was finished. When he died in 1337, just the first phase of the project had been finished. Andrea Pisani, following Giotto’s directions, built the structure. After 400 stairs, you’ll reach a wide terrace from where you may enjoy a stunning view of the city.
San Giovanni’s Baptistery
Another one of Florence’s oldest churches, it is situated in Piazza Duomo, just in front of the Cathedral. To distinguish it from the Cathedral and the Bell Tower is simple: its floor plan is octagonal, but its exterior is covered in the same stunning tiles. A pagan temple that was converted into a church was expanded and rebuilt, and what we see now is the product of this process.
National Bargello Museum
First Italian museum devoted to mediaeval and renaissance art, together with the world’s most significant collection of Renaissance sculptures, was established in 1865 by The Royal Decree. An old Florentine palace is where you’ll find this museum; it’s situated near the city’s Piazza del Signoria.
In all, the museum has three stories. From the courtyard, you may access the first and second levels of the building. The Sala di Michelangelo and the Sala di Donatello, both furnished with paintings by these two painters, are two of the most stunning halls in the museum! Also included on your itinerary are visits to such notable sites as the Sala degli Avori, the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, and many more.
Church of St. Croce
The cathedrals of Florence are among the most magnificent in the world. Santa Croce Basilica is a must-see for visitors to old Rome’s eastern section. In terms of Franciscan architecture, it is one of the most significant basilicas ever erected in Italy.
Arriving at Santa Croce Square, you’re instantly struck by the Basilica’s stunning facade. On the way, you might stop at the Dante Alighieri Monument as well. At its heart lies Michelangelo’s Tomb, encircled by three statues that symbolise the three arts of painting, sculpting, and architecture.
Saint Mary of the Novellas Basilica
The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, situated near the Florence Santa Maria Novella Station in the western section of the old city, is another worthwhile stop. I think it is one of the city’s most beautiful and significant churches. This Dominican church, built in the 15th century and situated on the same plaza, is one of the oldest in the city. Leon Battista Alberti designed the building’s white and green marble facade.
The Central Market is a bonus
The Central Market, which dates back to the nineteenth century, is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Food and wine of exceptional quality may be found on the bottom level of the market, which is stretched over two levels of market space. You may have an inexpensive brunch or aperitif on the top level at one of the neighbourhood pubs or clubs.
La Carraia is probably one of the greatest ice cream parlours in Florence, where you can pick from a broad variety of flavours to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What’s the best way to see Florence
Renting a Vespa in Florence is a unique way to see the city. However, if you want to get more of the area, we suggest that you pick up a vehicle rental in Florence. You won’t have to stick to a strict bus timetable this way, and you’ll be able to start and stop whenever you like. If you’re coming from Florence, Bologna is about two hours away and from there you can go to San Marino.