Introduction
Florence, or Firenze as the locals call it, is a city that needs no introduction. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s packed with some of the world’s most famous art, architecture, and history. But is Florence worth visiting? For art lovers and history buffs, it’s a dream come true, while for others, the crowds and touristy atmosphere can be a drawback. In this post, we’ll explore both the pros and cons of visiting Florence, from its awe-inspiring landmarks and incredible food to practical tips for dealing with the city’s busier side. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural escape, or just want to soak up Tuscany’s charm, here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
Pros – Reasons You Should Visit Florence
1. A Treasure Trove of Art and History
Florence is a living museum, home to masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David, Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, and countless other works housed in the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery. The city is a paradise for anyone with an interest in art or history.
Seeing David in person was a highlight of my trip. The sheer size and detail of the statue are staggering, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the greatest sculptures of all time. My tip? Book tickets to the Uffizi and Accademia in advance to avoid long queues—it’s worth the extra planning to fully enjoy these cultural icons.
2. Stunning Renaissance Architecture
Florence is synonymous with Renaissance architecture, and walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time. The Duomo, with its distinctive red dome designed by Brunelleschi, is an architectural marvel, as are the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio.
Climbing the Duomo’s dome was one of the most breathtaking experiences I’ve had in Italy. The views over the terracotta rooftops of Florence are unforgettable. For those who prefer to stay at ground level, simply wandering through Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by statues and history, is just as inspiring.
3. Tuscany’s Culinary Heart
Florence’s food scene is a love letter to Tuscan cuisine. From hearty bistecca alla Fiorentina to rustic pappa al pomodoro, the dishes here are rich in flavour and tradition. Pair them with local wines like Chianti or Brunello, and you’re in for a treat.
I’ll never forget the bistecca alla Fiorentina I had at a tiny trattoria—it was perfectly cooked and paired beautifully with a glass of Chianti Classico. For a more casual experience, visit Florence’s Mercato Centrale, where you can sample everything from fresh pasta to truffle dishes in a buzzing market atmosphere.
4. Iconic Landmarks and Views
The city is packed with iconic landmarks, from the Duomo and Campanile to the Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza Michelangelo. The latter offers one of the best panoramic views of Florence, especially at sunset.
Watching the sun set over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo is a moment I’ll always cherish. The city glows golden as the light reflects off the Arno River, and the view is nothing short of magical. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but you can always reward yourself with gelato afterward.
5. A Shopper’s Paradise
Florence is famous for its artisanal leather goods, gold jewellery, and high-end fashion. Via de’ Tornabuoni is the place to find luxury brands, while markets like San Lorenzo offer more affordable options.
I picked up a beautifully crafted leather bag at the San Lorenzo market, and it’s still one of my favourite travel souvenirs. For something truly special, visit the goldsmiths on the Ponte Vecchio, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces that reflect Florence’s craftsmanship.
6. Romantic Atmosphere
With its winding cobblestone streets, candlelit trattorias, and historic charm, Florence exudes romance. It’s an ideal destination for couples looking to celebrate an anniversary or simply enjoy a getaway together.
I spent an evening strolling along the Arno River with my partner, stopping for a glass of wine as we watched the lights of the city reflect on the water. Florence has a timeless quality that makes even the simplest moments feel special. For a romantic touch, book a rooftop dinner with a view of the Duomo.
7. Easy Access to Tuscany’s Countryside
Florence serves as a gateway to the rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns of Tuscany. Popular day trips include Siena, San Gimignano, and the Chianti wine region, all easily reachable by car or train.
I joined a wine tour to Chianti, and it was a highlight of my trip. The countryside is breathtaking, and visiting family-run vineyards gave me a deeper appreciation for Tuscan wines. If you have time, rent a car and explore the smaller towns—it’s the best way to experience the region’s charm.
8. Vibrant Artisans and Local Markets
Florence is a hub for artisans, from leatherworkers to goldsmiths. Local markets like Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio offer a chance to discover handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional Tuscan ingredients.
I loved exploring Sant’Ambrogio market in the morning. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, and it’s a great spot to pick up local olive oil, cheeses, or handmade souvenirs. Chatting with the vendors gave me a glimpse into Florentine life beyond the tourist trail.
9. Compact and Walkable
Florence is a relatively small city, and most major attractions are within walking distance of each other. This makes it easy to explore without needing to rely on public transport or taxis.
I walked everywhere during my trip and loved how every turn revealed something new—a hidden church, a charming piazza, or a tiny gelateria. Comfortable shoes are a must, though; those cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet after a full day of sightseeing.
10. A City That Feels Timeless
Florence’s beauty lies in its ability to transport you back in time. Despite being a bustling city, it retains a sense of history and tradition that feels untouched by modernity.
As I wandered through Florence’s streets, I felt a connection to the past in a way that’s hard to describe. From the sound of church bells to the smell of fresh bread wafting from a bakery, Florence captures the essence of Italy in a way few other cities can.
Cons – Things to Consider When Visiting Florence
1. Overcrowding
Florence’s popularity means it’s often crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi can feel overwhelmed with visitors, detracting from the experience.
I visited in July, and the crowds in Piazza della Signoria made it hard to fully appreciate its beauty. If possible, plan your trip for the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn offer better weather and fewer tourists. Booking tickets in advance is also crucial for major attractions.
2. Expensive Accommodation
As one of Italy’s top destinations, Florence can be pricey, especially when it comes to accommodation in the city centre. Budget travellers may need to look for options further out or sacrifice some amenities.
I stayed in an Airbnb just outside the city centre to save money, which worked well thanks to Florence’s walkability. If you’re set on staying centrally, book early to secure a better deal, particularly during high season.
3. Limited Nightlife
While Florence has plenty of wine bars and cosy trattorias, its nightlife is quieter compared to larger cities like Rome or Milan. Late-night options are limited, focusing more on relaxed evenings than vibrant parties.
As someone who enjoys quieter evenings, this wasn’t an issue for me. However, if you’re looking for a buzzing nightlife scene, you might find Florence’s offerings underwhelming. That said, sipping wine in a dimly lit bar overlooking the Arno is its own kind of magic.
4. Crowded Restaurants and Long Wait Times
Florence’s famous trattorias and osterias often have long lines, particularly during lunch and dinner hours. Popular spots like Trattoria Mario or All’Antico Vinaio can require patience.
I waited over an hour for a table at a popular trattoria, and while the food was worth it, I’d recommend making reservations whenever possible. For a quicker bite, explore smaller, lesser-known restaurants off the main tourist routes.
5. Tourist-Centric Atmosphere
With its global reputation, parts of Florence can feel overly touristy. Souvenir shops and crowded piazzas sometimes make it challenging to experience the city’s authentic side.
Venturing into less-touristy neighbourhoods like Oltrarno helped me escape the hustle and bustle. Here, I discovered artisan workshops and local cafes that felt refreshingly authentic. Taking the time to explore beyond the main attractions can make all the difference.
When to Visit Florence
The best times to visit Florence are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is warm and ideal for wandering the city’s historic streets, piazzas, and gardens. These seasons also bring fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, making it easier to enjoy Florence’s world-famous art and architecture. Summer (July and August) can be very hot and busy, though early mornings and late evenings remain pleasant. Winter (November to February) is quieter and cooler, perfect for exploring Florence’s indoor treasures, such as the Uffizi Gallery, without the tourist rush.
How to Get to Florence
Florence Airport (FLR), also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, is just 8 kilometres from the city centre, with regular flights from major European cities via airlines like Lufthansa, KLM, and Vueling. From the airport, the T2 tram line connects directly to Florence’s main train station, Santa Maria Novella, in around 20 minutes. For long-haul flights, Pisa International Airport (PSA) is a larger option, located about an hour away, with convenient train and bus connections to Florence. Florence is also well-served by high-speed trains like Trenitalia and Italo, linking it to Rome, Milan, and Venice in just a few hours.
Where to Stay in Florence
Florence offers a variety of neighbourhoods to suit different tastes and budgets:
- Luxury: Santa Maria Novella – Stay close to the train station and iconic landmarks. Options like The St. Regis Florence and Hotel Brunelleschi offer refined elegance with stunning views of the Duomo or the Arno River.
- Mid-range: Oltrarno – This bohemian area south of the river is known for artisan workshops and authentic charm. Consider Hotel La Scaletta or Palazzo Guadagni, which combine comfort and local character.
- Budget: San Lorenzo – Near Florence’s central market and major attractions, this area offers affordable yet convenient stays like Hotel Machiavelli Palace and Ostello Bello Firenze, a popular hostel with excellent amenities.
Getting Around Florence
Florence is compact and best explored on foot, especially in the historic centre where most attractions, like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Pitti, are within walking distance. For longer distances or trips outside the centre, the ATAF bus network provides affordable transport, with single tickets or day passes available. While there’s no official bike-sharing scheme, rentals are widely available and a great way to explore parks like Piazzale Michelangelo or cycle along the Arno River. Taxis are available but can be costly, and driving in the city centre is restricted, so public transport and walking are your best bets.
How Long to Spend in Florence
Three to four days is ideal for experiencing Florence’s highlights, including the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Duomo, and Boboli Gardens. This timeframe allows you to dive into the city’s rich Renaissance history, enjoy its vibrant culinary scene, and take in the stunning views from Piazzale Michelangelo. With an extra day, consider a day trip to nearby Chianti for wine tasting or to charming Tuscan towns like Siena or San Gimignano. Florence’s artistic treasures and cultural richness make it a city you’ll want to savour at a leisurely pace.
Conclusion
So, is Florence worth visiting? Absolutely. Its rich history, breathtaking art, and culinary delights make it one of the most iconic cities in the world. While it can be crowded and pricey, the charm of walking through its cobblestone streets, marvelling at Renaissance masterpieces, and indulging in Tuscan flavours makes Florence an unforgettable experience. With thoughtful planning—like visiting in the off-season and exploring lesser-known corners—you’ll fall in love with this timeless city. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Florence is a city that truly deserves its place in the spotlight.