Florence
Florence is basically an open-air museum — you'll trip over Renaissance masterpieces just walking to get coffee. The entire historic center is walkable in about 30 minutes end-to-end, but you'll stop every 50 meters because something beautiful catches your eye. Book the Uffizi online weeks in advance or you'll wait 3+ hours in line. A plate of ribollita or bistecca alla fiorentina at a trattoria will run you €12–25, and the best gelato in the world costs about €3. The Oltrarno neighborhood across the river is where the locals actually hang out — fewer tourists, better prices, amazing artisan workshops.
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Florence travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Florence?
3 days is the sweet spot. Day 1: Duomo (climb the 463 steps for the view — book the €30 combo ticket online), Baptistery, then wander to Piazza della Signoria. Day 2: Uffizi in the morning (go right when it opens at 8:15), Ponte Vecchio, then cross to Oltrarno for lunch and Palazzo Pitti in the afternoon. Day 3: Accademia Gallery to see David (15 minutes is honestly enough), San Lorenzo Market for leather goods (haggle!), then Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset — the view of the entire city is free and absolutely stunning. Add a day if you want a Tuscan wine country day trip to Chianti.
Which museums should I prioritize in Florence?
Uffizi is non-negotiable — it has Botticelli's Birth of Venus, works by Leonardo, Raphael, Caravaggio. Budget 3–4 hours minimum. The Accademia is really just about Michelangelo's David (worth it, but don't expect a full day). Palazzo Pitti is underrated — the Palatine Gallery has amazing Raphaels and Titians, and the Boboli Gardens behind it are lovely. Hot tip: the Bargello Museum has incredible sculptures with almost no crowds. Skip the Leonardo Museum (tourist trap). All major museums are closed on Mondays. First Sunday of each month = free entry to state museums, but the lines are insane.
Where can I find the best gelato in Florence?
The golden rule: if the gelato is piled up in bright neon mountains, walk away — real gelato is stored in covered metal tins and the colors look natural. Top spots: Vivoli (oldest gelateria in the city, since 1930), La Sorbettiera in Oltrarno (small, always a line, incredible fruit flavors), and Gelateria della Passera (tiny shop, amazing pistachio). My Sua is a hidden gem near Santa Croce. Avoid anything on Ponte Vecchio or right next to the Duomo — overpriced tourist gelato. A proper artisanal cone is €2.50–3.50 for 2 flavors. They usually also charge €1 for whipped cream (panna) on top — it's worth it.