Florence – The City of Flowers: 10 Must-See Tourist Spots!

When one thinks of Florence, Italy, the "City of Flowers" immediately comes to mind. True to its name, this city is filled with dazzling, elegant streetscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists. The historic center of Florence is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. In Florence, you’ll find numerous medieval churches, bridges, and other attractions. At dusk, the terracotta roofs are bathed in a warm, reddish glow, creating an unforgettable scene.

Below are 10 recommended tourist spots in Florence.

1. Giotto’s Bell Tower

Florence boasts a magnificent bell tower standing 84 meters tall—Giotto’s Bell Tower. Its sheer height is impressive, but you’ll also be astonished by the 414 steps required to reach the top. Wear comfortable shoes for the climb!

At the summit, you’ll encounter the beautiful "Apostolic Bell," bearing a 15th-century inscription. While the climb may be challenging, the panoramic view of Florence from the top is truly exceptional—a memory you won’t soon forget.

Decorated with white, green, and pink marble, the tower is eye-catching even from a distance, enhancing the vibrant streets of Florence. This is a must-visit spot when exploring Florence.

2. Santa Croce Church

Santa Croce Church in Florence is the final resting place of many great figures. Here lie the remains of Dante Alighieri, the painter and sculptor Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and the opera composer Rossini—figures who left indelible marks on history.

Tradition holds that this church was built by St. Francis of Assisi. As one of the largest Franciscan churches in the world, Santa Croce attracts visitors from across the globe. Its exterior is strikingly beautiful, and inside, you’ll find works by renowned painters central to Florence’s artistic heritage—especially Giotto’s frescoes in the Bargello Chapel. The former refectory of the monastery has now been transformed into an annex museum.

Santa Croce Church is an essential stop on any tour of Florence.

3. Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)

Famous from Puccini’s opera Gianni Schicchi, where the renowned aria "My Father’s Song" is sung, Ponte Vecchio is an ancient bridge whose name literally means "Old Bridge." Its history dates back to the 10th century. In the 15th century, Vasari’s Loggia was built on this bridge to connect the Palazzo Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti, allowing passage between the palaces without ever touching the ground.

Spanning the Arno River, the bridge has been rebuilt several times due to floods, yet it still retains its ancient charm. Ponte Vecchio, which escaped the ravages of war, is a beloved symbol of Florence’s history. Lined with historic jewelry shops, it’s a fascinating place to explore.

4. Michelangelo Square (Piazzale Michelangelo)

Offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence, Michelangelo Square is a popular spot to admire the city. Situated on a gentle hill, the square provides a sweeping vista of Florence, with the Arno River gently flowing below and the historic Ponte Vecchio visible in the distance. At the center stands a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David, modeled after the marble statue housed in the Accademia Gallery. Today, this square is a beloved landmark for locals and tourists alike.

Especially enchanting at night, the view of Florence lit up below makes this square a favorite date spot. Since it’s about a 30-minute walk from the city center, consider taking a bus or taxi if you prefer.

5. Accademia Gallery

If you’re visiting Florence, the Accademia Gallery is a must-see—officially recommended as the next stop after the Uffizi Gallery. Opened in the 19th century, the museum is also home to an art academy that has attracted aspiring artists from around the world.

The gallery’s most famous exhibit is Michelangelo’s David, a 5.17-meter tall marble masterpiece. Originally installed in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, the statue was moved to the Accademia Gallery in 1873. Countless visitors flock here to catch a glimpse of this iconic sculpture. Due to its immense popularity, the gallery can be crowded, so it’s advisable to book a ticket in advance via phone or the web.

6. Palazzo Vecchio

Once the central hub of the flourishing Florentine Republic from the 14th to the 16th centuries, Palazzo Vecchio served as the seat of government and later as the residence of the Medici family. This UNESCO World Heritage Site now serves as Florence’s City Hall. Many know Palazzo Vecchio as a key setting in the film Inferno, which was inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy.

Inside, stunning frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and his pupils adorn the ceilings and floors. The Hall of the Five Hundred, where the citizen council once met, was revealed in a 2007 study to contain hidden works by Leonardo da Vinci.

Interestingly, the "Crimson Hall" in Palazzo Vecchio can even be rented for weddings—an experience that offers a taste of traditional Florentine style and results in a marriage certificate issued by the city.

7. San Lorenzo Church

San Lorenzo Church is the burial site of the influential Medici family, who were the de facto rulers of Florence during the Republic and later the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. At first glance, this modest stone church may appear simple, but its façade remains unfinished—a testament to its storied past. Inside, the decor is unified by tones of white, gray, and golden accents on the ceiling, creating a serene atmosphere. The altar features paintings crafted from marble of various colors.

Within the same complex, the Medici Chapels feature a New Sacrament Room designed and built by Michelangelo, which houses four famous sculptures known as "Night," "Day," "Dusk," and "Dawn." Additionally, the Laurentian Library, also overseen by Michelangelo, holds a collection of books amassed by successive generations of the Medici family.

San Lorenzo Church is located about a 10-minute walk from the center of Florence—a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility.

8. Boboli Gardens

Just across the Ponte Vecchio and a few minutes away from the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens offer a stunning example of Italian garden design and are registered as part of the World Heritage Site.

Originally designed as the prototype for Italian gardens, Boboli Gardens feature a collection of sculptures by renowned Florentine artists. One of the highlights is the Neptune Fountain, created by Annibale Ammannati, located in the Piazza de' Pitti.

Covering approximately 45,000 square meters, the gardens’ varied topography provides different scenic views at various points, making it a delight for any visitor who loves beautiful landscapes.

9. Uffizi Gallery

Located about a 5-minute walk from the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery is housed in the historic Uffizi Palace and is one of the largest art museums in Italy. It holds an exceptional collection of artworks from the Medici dynasty, including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and many other luminaries of the Italian Renaissance. One of its must-see works is Leonardo da Vinci’s "Annunciation"—an encounter with a piece you might have only seen in textbooks is truly special.

Given its popularity, it is advisable to book your visit in advance to avoid long queues.

10. Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo)

Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, arguably the symbol of Florence, captivates visitors with its rounded terracotta dome and pristine white walls. The cathedral’s name translates to “Saint Mary of the Flower,” which is fitting for the City of Flowers.

Constructed over many years by numerous architects, its most iconic feature is the dome (cupola) designed by Brunelleschi, selected through a public competition. Climbing the dome often involves waiting in line, but the view from above—overlooking Florence with its terracotta roofs—is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. In fact, this romantic panorama has even been chosen as the reunion spot for lovers in a famous novel.

If you visit the City of Flowers, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is an essential destination.

◎ Summary

Florence truly lives up to its name as the "City of Flowers," with its picturesque streetscapes and a wealth of attractions to explore. From medieval churches and Renaissance masterpieces to charming bridges and stunning gardens, Florence offers endless beauty and history. Whether you’re wandering under the warm glow of sunset or immersing yourself in world-class art and architecture, a visit to Florence promises unforgettable travel memories. Why not plan a trip to the City of Flowers and experience its enchanting stories for yourself?

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Florence – The City of Flowers: 10 Must-See Tourist Spots!