Florence, Italy

Italy

Florence

The Renaissance, still happening in real time.

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Everything for Florence

From the archivist

What to know before you go

Book the Uffizi and Accademia (David) online — walk-up queues are 2+ hours

The Duomo dome climb is free with the combined ticket — go early

Oltrarno, south of the Arno, has better food and fewer tourists

Pisa is 60 minutes by train — worth an afternoon if you have not been

Best for

Art and Renaissance historyFood and Tuscan wineArchitecture loversDay trips into TuscanyRomantic city breaks
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Getting around Florence

Florence's historic centre is entirely walkable — most sights are within 20 minutes of each other on foot. The centre is largely closed to private cars (ZTL zone). Trains connect Florence to Rome (1h30m), Venice (2h), and Pisa (1h). The Santa Maria Novella train station is well-connected and centrally located.

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Best time to visit

April, May, September and October are ideal — mild temperatures, manageable crowds, and good light. July and August are very hot and packed. Winter is quiet, cheap, and atmospheric.

Apr – MayPeak
Sep – OctShoulder
Nov – FebLow

Frequently asked questions about Florence

When is the best time to visit Florence?

April, May, September and October are ideal — mild temperatures, manageable crowds, and good light for photography. July and August are very hot (often 35°C+) and extremely crowded. Winter is quiet and cheap but some outdoor elements are less enjoyable in rain.

What are the top things to do in Florence?

The Uffizi Gallery and Accademia (home of the David) require advance booking — walk-up queues can be hours. The Duomo complex is breathtaking and the dome climb is free with the combined ticket. Ponte Vecchio and the Boboli Gardens. Day trips to Siena, San Gimignano, or the Chianti wine region.

What food should I try in Florence?

Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine T-bone steak) is the city's signature dish — ideally eaten at a trattoria in Oltrarno. Lampredotto (tripe sandwich) from a street stall is the local fast food. Ribollita (hearty bean soup), schiacciata (flatbread), and gelato from a reputable gelateria.

How do I get around Florence?

The historic centre is entirely walkable — most major sights are within 20 minutes of each other on foot. The centre is largely closed to private cars (ZTL zone). Trains connect Florence to Rome (1h30m), Venice (2h), and Pisa (1h). Florence has two airports: Peretola (FLR, 5km from centre) and Pisa (80km away).

Is Florence worth visiting for a weekend?

Absolutely — Florence is one of the world's great art cities in a compact, walkable package. A weekend is enough to cover the Uffizi, the Duomo, and the key neighbourhoods. Three to four days allows for a day trip to Tuscany or Siena.

From the journal

Worth reading before you book

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