15 Incredible why Reasons why visit Florence, Italy

Celebrated as the cradle land of the Renaissance, there are a bunch of reasons why visit Florence. First, it’s a unique Italian city that attracts all the beautiful peninsula’s best. Second, Florence is where you can immerse yourself in history, explore the fascinating culture and admire the architecture.

The cobble-stoned streets of this old city are jam-packed with world-class museums, charming piazzas where you can enjoy shopping, and loads of restaurants, as well as eateries where you can sample the Tuscan culinary scene.

However, the biggest draw to Florence is probably art, with millions of tourists flocking the streets of this Tuscan city every year to marvel at renowned art pieces created by historical artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.

These and more other answers to why visit Florence? Discover the unique amazing things we have done while exploring the Centre Italy city in summer.

• Italian Vibes
• Birthplace of Italian Language
• Filled with culture
• Walkable city
• Most Famous Galleries in the world | Uffizi Gallery
• Incredible photo spots
• Unique hidden gems
• Open-air Museum
• Creativity everywhere (Street artists)
• Best Day trips in Italy
• Delicious Food
• Sip wine on the hills
• Fashion streets
• Romantic City
• Ideal Europe Getaway

Where is Florence?

Florence is in Tuscany, a central region on the Italian Peninsula. The location of Florence was strategic in the past as a gateway from South and North. Florence was the capital of Italy, primarily because of its position, about 145 miles away from Rome and one hour by train from Milan.

The city is nestled into beautiful surroundings, with gently rolling hills that show you some of the best valleys in the country. From Florence, you can easily reach the picturesque Cinque Terre or stay around enjoying the countryside villas of Tuscany.

As one of the most famous cities in Italy, it can be challenging to prepare for your visit to Florence, especially if you want to eschew the crowds while still enjoying nice warm weather.

To appreciate a little bit of both, the best time to visit Florence is March to April or September to October when you are likely to find fewer crowds, and the weather is still fair.

The high season in Florence kicks in during summer – late June until the end of August. Prices during the peak season skyrocket, making Florence non-enjoyable but still worth it.

Florence has its international airport, widely known by the locals as “Peretola” (AMERIGO VESPUCCI AIRPORT). Still, it’s also easily reachable via Pisa Airport, approximately 43 miles from the city centre. 

Bologna, Perugia, Genoa, Rome, and Milan are also feasible options, especially if you’re flying in from Canada or the US. That’s one of the reasons why North American Tourists must visit Florence.

From the airport of Florence, you can take an airport shuttle bus, taxi, or train, depending on which airport you’ve flown into. To get around Florence, instead, the best thing is to get a city card, which includes transport and discounts on some attractions.

This city is located on the main Autostrade (Italian motorway), the A1, which connects Italy from North to South, Naples to Milan. 

The Renaissance city is a hub for the high-speed railway, which means you can easily take a train from major cities in the country, including Milan and Rome.

The railway leads to Santa Maria Novella, the city’s main railway station, conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from the city centre.

When visit Florence

Take this advice very seriously, as Italian; we have been visiting Florence more than once and at different periods. Of course, the beautiful Tuscany city is always lovely to discover; however, most of the reason you prefer one month more than another is the number of tourists you will find.

That said, Florence is always overcrowded, but you should consider visiting the city in April, May, September or October (Italy in Spring is beautiful, check our guide). These are the perfect times to find a balanced amount of tourists and good weather. Then, of course, you should consider Florence in the summer. From May to September, the city is filled with warm sun, perfect Italian sunshine, impressive outdoor spaces open for a drink, art festivals, and galleries.

All that comes to a price that is too crowded. Florence in winter is the key to finding fewer tourists, having placed all for you and finding real bargains for accommodations. Avoid visiting Florence in January, the coldest month in Tuscany and awful with rain and wind.

Situated at the heart of the Tuscan region, Florence once served as a Roman city, which later evolved into a blooming medieval community. 

Today, the city has become a significant tourist hub, and it’s famed as one of the most historically and culturally rich destinations in the world.

Besides being home to Italy’s most renowned icons, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence is also famous for its natural beauty and historical architecture.

If you’re still standing over the edge, wondering why to go to Florence, check out the following activities and attractions that make this city unique.

• Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral)
• Uffizi Gallery
• Galleria dell’Accademia (Original David of Donatello)
• Florence Central Market (Mercato Centrale)
• Palazzo Vecchio (Hall of Five Hundreds)
• Piazza della Signoria
• Fiesole Hill
• Lungarno (Arno River Banks)
• Boboli Gardens
• Giotto Bell Tower
• Brunelleschi Dome
• Piazzale Michelangelo
• Giardino Bardini
• Santo Spirito Market
• Ponte Vecchio
• Basilica di Santa Croce
• Baptistery of St. John
• Basilica di San Lorenzo
• Strozzi’s Palace
• Piazza della Signoria
• Palazzo Pitti
• Church of Santa Maria Novella
• Church of San Miniato al Monte (Hidden gems of Florence)
• Vasari Corridor
• Hog statue

We have explored Florence many times, and it is always beautiful to discover new hidden corners of the city. Despite there being no particular number of days you need to explore Florence, we wrote a few fantastic guides that might help you plan this trip. Two days in Florence should be enough to let you explore the most significant places; however, it might not be enough to enjoy the outdoor areas. The first time we were in Florence was in summer, and we had to wake up very early to visit the city without many tourists around. If you are visiting Florence in winter, this will be easy, and you can even think of staying in the city for one day. Check our guide to one day in Florence.

Why visit Florence

Italian Vibes

In 1904, Mark Twain defined Florence as a “City of dreams”, and this is only one of the many quotes about Florence. Despite being a popular tourist destination, Florence still oozes a small-town ambience with a city vibrancy trickle.

With captivating views in every corner, excellent restaurants where you can enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine, and the beautiful cobblestone streets where you can put Dolce Far Niente (sit and do nothing) culture into practice, Florence is one of the best places to take in the Italian vibes.

Birthplace of the Italian Language

Tuscan dialect became the official Italian language in the late 18th century during the country’s unification.

It’s believed that Dante, a Florence local and poet, wrote his poems in Florentine and as he became known throughout the country, so did Florentine, which soon became the most widely acknowledged dialect in Italy. If you are into learning a language, you should place Florence on your Italy bucket list and discover some local sayings before your trip.

Florence is a walkable city

The best part of our guide on why you should consider Florence for your next trip to Italy is yet to come. The entire Renaissance old town is accessible on foot. The narrow streets of Florence welcome millions of tourists every year and close the momentous cobblestone roads to traffic to make it more accessible. It’s beautiful to roam around the narrow streets of Florence’s old town, making the Italian city one of the world’s most walkable cities.

In about two hours, you will be able to walk around the main sights on your own. Alternatively, we suggest you book a FREE walking tour of Florence, which will give you a hint about the famous places. Book your Florence free walking tour.

We can assure you that it is possible to traverse the entire old town in 30 minutes or so, passing by the two sides of the Arno River, on the beautiful Ponte Vecchio.

Most Famous Galleries in the world | Uffizi Gallery

Florence is almost synonymous with art – especially art from the Renaissance. 

The city is home to one of the most famed art museums in the world, Uffizi Gallery, which hosts loads of artworks from great Italian artists such as Giotto, Botticelli, and Michelangelo.

The World-Class gallery was designed by Giorgio Vasari, a well-known artist and architect. The Uffizi Gallery was constructed over 20 years between 1560 and 1580 and today occupies the first and second floor of a large building on the river banks.

The rooms guard precious monuments, sculptures, and paintings dating back to the Middle Ages and the modern period. The Uffizi Gallery of Florence is a place to visit while exploring the city. The queue is always very long, and we suggest booking a skip the line ticket in advance.

Incredible photo spots

Following our blog, you might have understood that we are obsessed with photo spots, collecting our postcards from the locations we visit. We want our mark on every place; this will bring back memories and start conversations with our friends.

Places on your reasons to visit Florence, the presence of incredible photo spots. From the hilltop of Piazzale Michelangelo, you can see the whole city below your feet. Not only early in the morning, without many people around, but you can also take the best pictures of Ponte Vecchio, from the nearby bridge with the river flooding under it, or simply walking through the cobblestone street steeped in stories and legends.

Unique hidden gems in Florence

Same as above, we love to get lost. Florence is easy to navigate, and you can get lost in the narrow streets at the same pace. Discover hidden gems of Florence or just hang around the riverside to spot the best sunset spot.

We suggest you take it slow in Florence and live life like a local. Sip an aperitif at the local bar, or enjoy the best of the outdoor spaces. Among the other hidden gems in Florence, check out Via Toscanella for the best of the local street art. In Piazza Ciompi, there is the most authentic Florence Flea Market. Check out the stands and find a bargain through second-hand stuff and antique decor.

Step into Palazzo Vecchio, which is free in Florence, and home of the local council. At the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio, you can enjoy the sculpture of Benvenuto Cellini, “Perseus with the head of Medusa”. The secret spot of the city is the Boboli Garden, worth visiting in Florence in the Spring.

Openair Museum

As stated above, Florence, with pieces of art and culture reflected in every corner, is an open-air museum. You don’t even need a complex itinerary to follow. All you need is to step out of your hotel, and you’re in for a treat with beautiful history, exquisite exhibits, and stunning architecture.

Our hint to see most of Florence without spending a penny is to check out Piazza Della Signoria. The whole square is full of beautiful buildings, statues and fountains.

We visited Piazza Della Signoria at sunrise; nobody was around, even though it was June. Early birds can enjoy the Loggia dei Lanzi in all its beauty, step into Palazzo Vecchio, the 16th-century Fountain of Neptune and the David at the entrance of the council palace.

Creativity everywhere (Street artists)

For years, Florence has been a meeting point for local and international street artists keen to flaunt their talents everywhere in the city. 

Delicious Food in Florence

If you’re a foodie or simply a traveller with a curious palate, the Florence cuisine, which boasts an enthralling mix of culture and flavours, will leave you amazed. 

The local Florentine food is packed with the freshest ingredients found within the borders of the Tuscan region. Write down “Schiaccia”, this is a focaccia-panino filled with all the best ingredients from Regional tradition. Antico Vinaio is, of course, the most famous place in Florence to go; however, as we aim to give you local hints, you should go to “La Cantinetta” and “Lo Schiacciavino“. Tell us in the comments if you like it!

Explore Florence’s local markets

Whether you’re strolling around to find the perfect piece of souvenir, buy the Tuscan produce, or just take in the views and atmosphere of the vintage markets, wandering through these bustling places in Florence is a must-do.

The most famous market in Florence is “San Lorenzo outdoor Market“, this is a proper bazaar where you can find the best of local production. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find genuine products and distinguish them from counterfeit ones. Consider visiting Florence Central Market in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood for more local vibes.

The 19th-century indoor market hall has everything when it comes to food. Write down also the Mercato Nuovo, or as many locals refer to it, Mercato Porcellino, because of near the famous sightseeing. The market is similar to San Lorenzo, mainly selling leather products, jackets, bags, and belts.

Learn how to make pasta in Florence.

For an authentic Italian Experience, you should book a pasta-making class in Florence. The exciting activity will reveal the secrets of how to prepare delicious and original Tuscan meals.

Starting from a visit to the local market, the chef will teach you how to choose the best fresh products. A top-notch culinary lesson to prepare your dish and impress your guests back home with some Italian dishes. Check out the superb cooking class in Florence.

Fashion streets

It’s a foregone conclusion that Florence is a mecca for fashion lovers looking to add Italy’s world-famed craftsmanship and leather goods to their fashion collection. 

Some of the best shopping streets in Florence include Via de’ Tornabuoni, Via del Parione, Via dei Calzaiuoli, and Mercato di San Lorenzo.

Like many other Italian cities, Florence is very stylish. I was lucky to explore the city many times, visiting the fashion show that takes place every year in Palazzo Pitti. So start your trip by sourcing the best dresses in your wardrobe, or go shopping in Italy.

Romantic City

The charming architectural designs that date back hundreds of years, coupled with the laidback Italian vibe, make Florence one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Whether you choose to stroll around Bardini gardens (Perfect in spring in Florence, for the presence of Listeria passages) or watch a magical sunset from the banks of the River Arno, this city is an excellent destination for lovebirds. Check our guide to the best romantic cities in Italy.

Ideal Europe Getaway

One of the main reasons why visit Florence at least once in your lifetime is because it’s Europe’s Jewel. Every street, alley, and building in Florence makes the city look like a living museum – every part is full of history.

It also hosts some of the finest hotels in the world. But that’s not all; this Tuscan city is also a hub for art, incredible food, and fantastic culture. The central position in the peninsula makes Florence the perfect place for a vacation in Italy. Consider visiting the city itself or making part of a road trip through other incredible towns, such as Rome, Milan, Bologna, or Cinque Terre.

Explore Tuscany’s best cities

PISA | It’s mostly known thanks to the Leaning Tower, but you’ll find alluring bridges across the Arno, historic churches, as well as medieval palaces.

LUCCA | This city is mainly adored for its history and great medieval city walls. Lucca is still one of the most underrated cities in Europe, but definitely worth a visit to explore Tuscany and the Florence countryside.

SIENA | Along with its deep, steeped history, Siena is famed for its gastronomic scene and fascinating medieval cityscape. Explore the city as a day trip from Florence and spot the differences.

Best area to stay in Florence

Despite being compact, Florence boasts several districts with different vibes and flavours. You can find many fabulous hotels right at the heart of the city centre, from where you can explore the city’s main attractions.

If you’d rather stay in a mid-range or budget hotel, Santo Spirito, San Frediano, and San Lorenzo might be your best bet.

Florence or Rome?

We can’t say which is the best. While Rome is vast and impossible to visit in a couple of days, Florence is more compact and walkable, making it ideal for two days in Italy. Both cities are beautiful and completely different. Rome will make you step back in time, to when Romans were ruling the continent, while Florence instead is in some ways more poetic and romantic, with a lovely walk along the river, top-notch galleries and a walkable self-contained old town.

FAQ | Is Florence worth visiting?