Top 10 Things to Do in Florence Italy for First-Timers

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city where art, history, and culture converge in every cobblestone street and sunlit piazza. For first-time visitors, the sheer beauty and richness of this Tuscan gem can feel overwhelming—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. From awe-inspiring architecture to world-renowned masterpieces, Florence offers an unforgettable journey through time. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a deep cultural dive, this guide to the top 10 things to do in Florence Italy will help you make the most of your visit, capturing the essence of a city that has enchanted travelers for centuries.

Admire the Masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery

Few museums in the world can rival the Uffizi Gallery’s exquisite collection. Nestled in the heart of Florence, this art haven houses the very soul of the Renaissance. Expect to come face to face with Botticelli’s ethereal Birth of Venus, the haunting realism of Caravaggio’s Medusa, and the intricate detail of da Vinci’s early works. For first-time visitors, walking through its hallowed halls is like stepping into an illustrated chapter of Western art history. Time your visit early to avoid the throngs and give yourself at least two hours to wander in awe.

Climb to the Top of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

No visit to Florence is complete without ascending the cupola of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. Designed by the architectural visionary Filippo Brunelleschi, the dome is a marvel of engineering brilliance. The climb—463 steps to the summit—is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is unparalleled: a breathtaking 360-degree vista over Florence’s ochre skyline. Along the way, glimpse Giorgio Vasari’s frescoes up close, an arresting depiction of the Last Judgment painted on the inner dome. At the top, the city unfolds in an amber glow, framed by distant Tuscan hills.

Stroll Across the Historic Ponte Vecchio

Crossing the Ponte Vecchio is like stepping back in time. Spanning the Arno River with a rustic charm, this medieval bridge has endured floods, wars, and centuries of commerce. Originally home to butchers and tanners, it now hosts a glittering lineup of high-end jewelers and art dealers. As the sun dips toward the horizon, golden light floods the narrow corridor, casting reflections on the river below. Musicians play soft melodies, and couples linger, adding romance to the centuries-old stone. It’s a walk that lingers in memory long after the journey ends.

Wander Through the Boboli Gardens

Behind the stately Pitti Palace lie the verdant Boboli Gardens—a sprawling labyrinth of sculpted greenery, antique statues, and ornamental fountains. Commissioned by the Medici family, the gardens are an elegant testament to Renaissance landscaping. Meander along gravel paths beneath canopies of ancient trees, discover grottoes carved into stone, and pause by the Neptune Fountain. The garden’s elevated terraces offer peaceful vantage points over Florence, perfect for quiet contemplation. It’s a serene retreat from the city’s bustling heart.

Marvel at Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery

Carved from a single block of Carrara marble, Michelangelo’s David is more than a sculpture—it’s a declaration of human potential. Towering over admirers at 17 feet tall, David embodies the defiant spirit of Florence. The Accademia Gallery, though smaller than the Uffizi, draws art lovers worldwide for this very reason. The statue’s anatomical precision, the subtle tension in his stance, and the intense expression carved into his face reveal Michelangelo’s genius. For first-timers, the encounter is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Watch the Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo

For the quintessential Florentine panorama, ascend to Piazzale Michelangelo at golden hour. The square overlooks the city from a southern hill, offering a sweeping view of Florence’s terracotta domes, Renaissance towers, and the lazy curve of the Arno. A replica of David stands at the center, keeping watch over the city. As dusk falls, the sky ignites in pastel hues, and the city below begins to glow. Bring a bottle of Chianti, find a seat on the stone steps, and soak in one of Italy’s most enchanting sunsets.

Experience Tuscan Cuisine in a Traditional Trattoria

Florentine cuisine is rustic, robust, and utterly satisfying. Seek out a traditional trattoria for a true culinary immersion. Start with crostini di fegatini (chicken liver pâté on toast), followed by ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable stew. For the adventurous, the legendary bistecca alla Fiorentina—a thick-cut, char-grilled T-bone steak—is a must. Pair each dish with a bold local wine like Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino. The ambiance of a family-run trattoria, with its warm hospitality and simple decor, adds a layer of authenticity no upscale restaurant can replicate.

Explore the Historic Heart at Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s open-air civic stage, alive with statues, stories, and centuries of political drama. Towering above is the Palazzo Vecchio, once the seat of Florentine power. Outside, the Loggia dei Lanzi showcases mythological sculptures like Cellini’s Perseus and Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women. The piazza buzzes with life—street performers, café conversations, and the echoes of history. It’s a place where past and present intertwine seamlessly.

Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce

Often overshadowed by the Duomo, the Basilica of Santa Croce is a masterpiece in its own right. This Franciscan church is the resting place of some of Italy’s most illustrious minds—Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Rossini among them. The interior is adorned with Giotto’s frescoes and intricate tombs. The atmosphere is reverent, steeped in intellectual legacy and artistic reverence. A stroll through its cloisters offers a quiet contrast to the grandeur inside.

Shop for Artisan Goods in San Lorenzo Market

To experience Florence’s artisanal soul, visit the San Lorenzo Market. This bustling marketplace is a tapestry of sights, scents, and sounds. Here, leather goods reign supreme—hand-stitched bags, belts, and journals crafted using age-old techniques. Venture indoors to the Mercato Centrale for a feast of flavors: truffle spreads, pecorino cheeses, fresh pastas, and aged balsamic vinegars. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs or simply soaking in the local rhythm, San Lorenzo offers a sensory adventure that defines Florence beyond its museums.