Essential Tips for Visiting Florence

Florence has been a key destination on Italian itineraries since the Grand Tour days, when British and German aristocrats traveled through the peninsula to enrich their cultural knowledge and gain status. While much has changed since the 17th and 18th centuries, the Tuscan capital remains a major draw as evidenced by the thousands of people who visit the city daily.

With an abundance of world-class museums, restaurants, and architectural wonders, planning ahead is crucial to make the most out of your trip to the cradle of the Renaissance. Here are essential things you should know before arriving in Florence.

1. Add an Extra Day or Two to Your Stay

The vast majority of travelers visiting Florence only spend a couple of days in the city. While the historic center is compact, experiencing it all in such a short time can be overwhelming. Queues are common around major sights, especially during the high season (April to October). As soon as you arrive, you’ll realize that each alley, square, and building tells a story that deserves more than a hurried glance. Therefore, consider planning for four or five days to avoid rushing and to have time for spontaneous detours.

2. Getting to the City from the Airport is Easy with Public Transport

Avoid expensive taxi rides when flying into the city. Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport is well-connected to the city center thanks to the T2 tram that runs to and from the Santa Maria Novella railway station. Tickets only cost €1.70 and the trip takes approximately 25 minutes.

3. Consider Arriving in a Nearby City

When looking for the best way to reach Florence, it may be worth checking flights to other airports. Florence’s airport is relatively small and not serviced by many low-cost airlines. Pisa’s Galileo Galilei Airport sees significantly more traffic—nearly double the passengers than Florence—and offers numerous budget flight options from several European cities. Getting to Florence from Pisa takes just over an hour by regional train.

Another strategic option is to consider Bologna, located in the neighboring Emilia Romagna region, where more low-cost airlines operate. High-speed trains run between Bologna and Florence in under 40 minutes, providing another convenient travel option.

4. Bring Comfortable Shoes and Walk Everywhere

Once you reach the inner city, walking is the most effective way to get around. The UNESCO-inscribed historic center of Florence, bordered by ancient walls, covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometers, and the main attractions can be explored on foot.

Alternatives exist; two tram lines operate east and west of the city center, and bike-sharing services are available throughout. However, given the crowded, narrow streets of Florence’s historic core, walking is often more efficient and enjoyable than other forms of transport.

5. Art and History Buffs Should Check Out the Firenze Card

The Firenze Card provides access to most of Florence’s museums for 72 hours, starting from the first visit. At €85, it might not be the most economical option, but for those planning to explore many cultural institutions, it can be more convenient than buying individual tickets at each venue.

6. Make Restaurant Reservations

Popular trattorie often fill up their seats days in advance. If there are specific restaurants you intend to visit, it’s wise to call ahead for reservations. Some historic eateries—such as Trattoria Sabatino, Osteria Centopoveri, or Trattoria Mario—still operate on a “first come, first served” basis. Additionally, remember that Italians typically dine late; do not expect to find restaurants serving food before 7 PM.

7. Expect Queues to Meet David (Even with a Timed Ticket)

Tickets for the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David and other Renaissance masterpieces, can be purchased for specific time slots. However, this does not guarantee you will avoid waiting in line outside the museum. Your best chance to minimize queues and crowds is to visit first thing in the morning by booking a ticket soon after the museum opens.

8. Visit Palazzo Pitti Before 8:55 AM for a Discount

As the former residence of the Medici family, Palazzo Pitti houses an impressive collection of art, Renaissance-era furniture, period costumes, and porcelain. If you enter the museum before 8:55 AM, you’ll receive a discounted entry of €12 instead of €16—a reward for waking up early!

9. Don’t Expect All Museums to be Open at All Times

In a city known for its artistic credibility, one would assume consistent opening hours across institutions. However, this is not the case. Each museum has its own operating hours that vary depending on the day and season. For instance, the Uffizi Gallery closes on Mondays, and others may have unconventional schedules. Therefore, it’s vital to check the opening hours of each museum to avoid disappointment during your visit.

10. Florence is Safe, but Be Cautious

While Florence is generally a safe city, incidents can occur that could diminish your travel experience. Watch for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Santa Maria Novella railway station and on public transport during peak times. Keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas will help ensure you enjoy your stay without incident.

This article was last updated on April 5, 2024.