15 Free Activities to Enjoy in Florence with GoTravelDaily
Don’t be deceived by the opulent Renaissance palaces, the gold jewelry shining from Ponte Vecchio’s storefronts, and the high-end brands lined up on Via Tornabuoni – Florence doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The art-filled capital of Tuscany may be brimming with treasures from the past, but there are no shortage of experiences that come without a price tag.
From meandering through Renaissance architecture to seeking the best viewpoints to admire Brunelleschi’s Duomo, there are numerous opportunities to experience the rich cultural heritage of Florence without spending a dime. Moreover, the free things to do in Florence are often the most neglected by short-term visitors, who tend to gather in and around the major attractions.
1. Step into the Duomo
One of Florence’s best-known landmarks, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo, can be visited without a ticket, at least in part. Queue up in Piazza del Duomo to access the cathedral’s sparsely decorated main nave from the portal carved into its 19th-century neo-Gothic facade.
Entering without a ticket will only allow you to explore the ground floor of the cathedral. If you want to climb the cupola and get a close look at Giudizio Universale, the fresco by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, you’ll need a ticket.
2. Stand under Giotto’s Crocifisso di Ognissanti
Medieval master Giotto is a significant figure in Florentine pre-Renaissance art. Most Gothic artworks are exhibited in ticketed museums, but you can admire one of Giotto’s gilded crucifixes for free in the Chiesa di Ognissanti.
Believed to have been produced around 1315, Crocifisso di Ognissanti is over 4.5m (14.8ft) tall and can be found near the altar. The church is also home to Botticelli’s painting Sant’Agostino nello Studio, where the artist chose to be buried.
3. Climb the Rampe del Poggi to Piazzale Michelangelo
Offering one of the most stunning views of the city, the terrace known as Piazzale Michelangelo was built as part of Florence’s redevelopment in the late 19th century. The uphill walk begins at Porta San Niccolò, one of the few medieval remnants in this part of the city.
4. Find the “Other” Davids
At Piazzale Michelangelo, you’ll spot a life-size copy of Michelangelo’s David. The original is housed inside Galleria dell’Accademia, but a second copy stands in Piazza della Signoria, right in front of the entrance to Palazzo Vecchio.
5. Take a close look at the statues of the Loggia dei Lanzi
The Loggia dei Lanzi serves as an open-air museum, featuring an impressive collection of Roman and Renaissance statues. Among them are Giambologna’s Ratto delle Sabine (Rape of the Sabine Women) and the bronze Perseo by Benvenuto Cellini.
6. Spot Michelangelo’s graffiti
A carved figure etched in the front wall of Palazzo Vecchio has been the subject of speculation for centuries. This line portrait, known as L’Importuno, is said to have been created by Michelangelo himself, although clear evidence remains elusive.
7. Notice Clet’s altered street signs
As you wander through the city, keep an eye out for altered street signs that have become humorous artistic statements. Clet, the artist behind these alterations, has spent the last two decades enhancing Florence’s urban landscape through his creative interventions.
8. Admire Andrea del Sarto’s monochrome frescoes at Chiostro dello Scalzo
Home to one of the most impressive cycles of monochrome paintings, the cloister of the Chiostro dello Scalzo tells the story of John the Baptist through 10 exquisite scenes. This hidden gem is free to visit but has limited opening hours.
9. Visit one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe
The Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, operating since 1221. You can enter through its floral doorway to explore the scented rooms filled with historical ointments and fragrances.
10. Cross Ponte Vecchio
Built in 1345, Florence’s Ponte Vecchio is one of the city’s architectural wonders. The bridge features 48 shops and remains populous with luxurious stores showcasing exquisite jewelry and watches.
11. Count the uncountable bees behind Ferdinando I
In Piazza Santissima Annunziata, you will find an equestrian statue of Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici. According to local legend, the bees embossed on its pedestal are impossible to count from a distance, providing a fun challenge for onlookers.
12. Admire Andrea del Castagno’s Last Supper
The Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia hosts a stunning fresco of the Last Supper, painted by Andrea del Castagno in 1447. This extensive artwork is surrounded by fading biblical scenes, adding to the atmosphere of the monastery.
13. Stroll the markets
The bustling San Lorenzo neighborhood is home to historic leather markets and the famous Mercato Centrale. These markets are ideal for anyone looking to experience local flavors and vibrant cultures.
14. Gaze at colorful Florentine mosaics
If you’re paying a visit to the Uffizi, don’t miss out on the Odeon di Pietre Dure. This small museum on Via degli Alfani showcases artworks created using the Florentine mosaic technique, a rare and beautiful craft.
15. Explore the hidden baroque ceiling frescoes
Once the headquarters of the Vanchetoni Congregation, the Oratorio dei Vanchetoni houses a stunning ceiling decorated with baroque frescoes. It is open to the public on Saturdays, and it’s one of Florence’s best-kept secrets.
Florence offers a treasure trove of experiences that don’t require a hefty budget. Therefore, embrace the beauty and culture of this magnificent city without worry and explore to your heart’s content.
