Florence Travelers Recommend

While there’s no lack of things to do and see in Florence, the city is well situated to allow for further Tuscan exploration on day trips to picturesque hilltop towns, vineyards, and famous monuments. Choose from any of the popular options below.

Chianti — 31 miles (50 km) away

Tuscany’s Chianti region is known the world over for its namesake wine, and day tours from Florence often include a visit to a winery or two for tastings. The area’s hilltop towns offer particularly great views over the vineyard-covered hills and are sometimes difficult to reach without a car or guided transportation. Taking a wine tour in Chianti means you get to relax while a knowledgeable local does all the navigating through Tuscany’s winding back roads.

San Gimignano — 35 miles (56 km) away

San Gimignano’s many medieval towers stand out against the surrounding Tuscan hills and give the small walled town its nickname of “Tuscany’s Manhattan.” You can climb some of the towers in the city walls for great views, browse the charming shops, or stroll the pedestrian-friendly historic center. Full-day tours to San Gimignano from Florence often include a visit to Siena or wine tasting in Chianti as well.

Siena — 45 miles (71 km) away

Siena’s historic center is focused on its multicolored hilltop Duomo and Piazza del Campo, the main square that hosts the annual Palio horse race. Popular Siena is often included on full-day tours from Florence, along with San Gimignano or the nearby Chianti wine region. The city can just as easily be the sole destination on a half-day trip.

Lucca and Pisa — 48 miles (77 km) and 51 miles (82 km) away

Pisa’s claim to fame is its eponymous leaning tower, but don’t overlook the beautiful cathedral and enormous baptistery nearby. And if you make it to tiny Lucca, check out its famous intact city walls, which are so wide that the tops used to be a road. Today, it’s a walking path around the whole town. The two cities are in the same direction from Florence, so they are often paired on day tours from the regional capital.

Tuscany in One Day Tours

If you really want to see it all, opt for a full-day tour that covers multiple destinations in Tuscany. You’ll see more places, though you won’t have as much time in each one—Tuscany is the fifth-largest region in Italy. These trips tend to be long days, covering a lot of ground and routinely running for 11 to 12 hours, with some at 14 hours or more. Itineraries can vary, but tours tend to include stops in Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, and Monteriggioni, plus wine tasting in Chianti and lunch or dinner.

Known for its artistic treasures, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and prime location in Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is a favorite destination for international travelers. That popularity often means large crowds, but by planning ahead with skip-the-line tickets and advance tour bookings, you can avoid sold-out activities and long lines at sights such as the Florence Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Accademia Gallery.

For those with time to explore the region outside Florence, you won’t want to miss a wine-tasting tour to Chianti, a day trip to the coastal villages of the Cinque Terre, or a cooking class in a Tuscan farmhouse. See below for our top picks and experiences in the Tuscan capital.

The Cinque Terre is incredibly popular among travelers to Italy, but staying overnight isn’t always an option. Luckily, you can explore and hike through the five colorful villages on a convenient day trip tour from Florence—here are your options.

Cinque Terre Day Trips

Day trips to the UNESCO–listed Cinque Terre are a great option for visitors to Florence who want to get out to the coast but don’t have the time to stay a few days. A group tour will allow you to see all the top spots and may include a guided hiking trip through the five villages, the chance to swim in the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea, free time to wander a seaside town or two, or perhaps even a boat ride so you can enjoy views of the Cinque Terre from the water.

Combo Tours to the Cinque Terre

To make the most of your time and cover more ground in one day, choose a tour from Florence that combines a visit to the Cinque Terre with another top destination in the area. After checking out the Cinque Terre with your tour guide, make a stop in Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower, or continue your exploration of the Ligurian Coast with a stop in Portovenere on what's known as the Italian Riviera.

Things to Know

• Day trips from Florence to the Cinque Terre are typically 12 to 13 hours, including transport time, whether they focus solely on the Cinque Terre or include a visit to another location.

• The Cinque Terre's five towns (Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, and Riomaggiore) are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park (Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre) and connected via a famous trail open to hiking.

• A rocky coastal area, the Cinque Terre includes trails that are quite narrow and others that are at the edge of somewhat steep cliffs. Some spots lack handrails, so wear good walking shoes to keep your footing sure.

• Bring water and sunscreen for any Cinque Terre hikes, as there's little to no shade along parts of the trails.

Two of Tuscany’s most beloved day trip destinations—Siena and San Gimignano—are easy to visit in a tour from Florence. Both have medieval structures and gorgeous scenery, with wine tasting in Chianti as an option. Here’s what you need to know.

Group Tours

Booking a spot on a group tour to Siena and San Gimignano from Florence is the most budget-friendly way to see these two charming cities. Tours include transportation, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the scenery of Tuscany en route. Many of these day tours include other destinations, such as Greve in Chianti or Pisa, so you can see even more in a single day.

Private Tours

On a private tour you’ll be able to focus more on the places and sights that interest you most, with a personal tour guide to answer your questions. Some private tours can include cities in addition to Siena and San Gimignano, such as Pisa.

Things to Know

• Siena is about 47 miles (76 kilometers) from Florence.

• There is no train station in San Gimignano, which is about 33 miles (53 kilometers) from Florence, so a vehicle is the only transportation option.

• It’s roughly 30 miles (47 kilometers) between Siena and San Gimignano.

• Some tours include a meal, either lunch or dinner, and some include wine tasting in the Chianti region, but these are not standard. Read the descriptions carefully to know what’s included.

• Siena’s historic center has steep hills from one attraction to the next, so be prepared for brief climbs as you see the sights.

• Tours are typically six to eight hours, though some run between 12 and 14 hours.

There is something about sipping Chianti on a vine-covered hillside in Tuscany, and you can do just that on a wine tour from Florence. From learning what Chianti Classico means to seeing the winemaking process firsthand, here are your options.

Half-Day Tours

Usually stopping at two wineries, half-day Chianti wine tasting tours from Florence give travelers the chance to experience the Chianti region but be back in the city by dinner. Lunch, on the other hand, is often included in a rural Tuscan country farmhouse, where you’ll sip Sangiovese after touring the cellar and viewing what goes into winemaking.

Full-Day Tours

For an immersive Tuscan wine tasting experience, spend a full day exploring the wine region. Combine a visit to local vineyards with walking tours of nearby hill towns to stroll the cobbled streets and learn the history of the Tuscan countryside. Visit some of Tuscany's UNESCO World Heritage sites while also sampling olive oil, cheese, salami, and wine; stand in Siena's Piazza del Campo; check out San Gimignano, or visit the city of Pisa. All tours include meals of classic, flavorful Tuscan cuisine.

Things to Know

• Half-day tours usually last 5 to 6 hours, while full-day tours run between 10 and 12 hours.

• The Chianti area is set about 45 minutes away from Florence by road through the rolling hills.

• Some tours focus exclusively on Chianti wine tasting, while others are true sightseeing tours that also include some wine. Decide which tours work best with your level of interest in winemaking.

• Keep in mind that most tours involve a fair amount of walking through various towns.

• Your full-day Chianti wine tour will likely include free time, so bring along some extra cash for souvenir shopping.

• Choose a convenient guided tour with included roundtrip transport from central Florence so you don’t have to worry about driving after a day of wine tasting (drunk driving penalties in Italy are severe).

Florence boasts enough world-class museums and art-filled palazzos to fill a vacation, but if you want a change of pace, there are countless treasures to be found in the surrounding Tuscan countryside. From wine tasting and cooking classes in Chianti to a glimpse of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, here our top picks for day trips. 

Chianti Wine Country

For food and wine enthusiasts, a day in the world-renowned Chianti wine region is a must. Sip authentic Chianti Classico straight from the source, and learn how some of Italy's most popular wine is made on cellar tours. Gourmet experiences such as cooking classes held in villas and Tuscan farmhouses are another way to tempt your palate. 

San Gimignano

Hailed as one of the most picturesque and well-preserved Tuscan hill towns, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains relatively unchanged since the 13th century. More than a dozen of its watch towers still stand proud on a hilltop overlooking a landscape of rolling hills. Many Tuscany day trips include a stop here to stroll around and imagine the medieval way of life.

Siena

Another of Tuscany’s UNESCO-listed towns, Siena shines when the annual Palio horse race is held in its Piazza del Campo—one of Europe’s most celebrated squares—on July 2 and Aug. 16. Many combo tours make a brief stop here, though you can easily spend a whole day exploring monuments including the city’s black-and-white striped Gothic cathedral and towering Torre del Mangia.

Pisa

Come for the iconic Leaning Tower and stay to explore dozens of other medieval monuments, churches, palaces, and bridges in this Tuscan gem of a city. Outside of the busy Piazza dei Miracoli in which the tower stands, Pisa offers a welcome break from the tourist throngs of Florence. 

Cinque Terre

Venture a bit further to the Ligurian coast and one of Italy’s most photogenic destinations—the five villages of Cinque Terre. Perched on the Italian Riviera, these small coastal towns spill down rocky cliffs and into the sea in a riot of color. Most tours from Florence include transportation to the coast and between villages by way of train and boat, so you can view the romantic landscape from the water.

Florence is fabulous any time of year, but summertime means balmy weather, Tuscan sunshine, and plenty of opportunities to eat, drink, and explore the Renaissance capital. Here are some of our favorite ways to experience Florence’s attractions and culture this summer.

• Use the heat as an excuse to eat as much gelato as you can stand, and even learn how to make your own at a cooking class.
• Enjoy cooler weather and admire illuminated landmarks on a nighttime walking tour or bike tour.
• Cruise through the hills outside the city on a Vespa adventure.
• Take a boat ride on the Arno River for another perspective on Florentine architecture.
• Enjoy refreshing cocktails and Italian snacks on an aperitivo tour.
• Rise above the picturesque countryside on a hot-air-balloon ride.
• Discover Chianti wine on a Tuscany wine tour.
• Breathe in the fresh air above the hot pavement on a tour of the Duomo’s exclusive skywalk terraces.
• Head to the coast on a Cinque Terre day trip to beat the heat and explore these exquisite Ligurian villages.

Florence is an ideal base for day trips into Tuscany, and the most popular destination by far is nearby Pisa, home of the iconic leaning tower and a number of lesser-known sights worth seeing. Here are your options for visiting Pisa from Florence.

Half-Day Tours

Since Pisa is so close to Florence, it’s easy to visit on a half-day tour—an especially appealing idea if you’ve got limited time in Florence and want to spend as much time as possible there. See Pisa’s highlights—the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the cathedral, and the baptistery included—in just a few hours. Upgrade to add a skip-the-line ticket to climb the iconic tower.

Combo Full-Day Tours

When transportation is organized for you and you’ve got a helpful tour guide on hand, it’s easy to combine a visit to Pisa with a stop in another destination on a full-day tour. Explore the heavy hitters of Tuscany with a day trip to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano; spend the day in the charming walled town of Lucca after a stop in Pisa; or visit Pisa and then head all the way to the Ligurian coast to see the Cinque Terre.

Things to Know

• Pisa is just under 52 miles (83 kilometers) from Florence; it takes about an hour to get there by road and slightly less time by train.

• Half-day tours typically last five to six hours, while full-day options are usually eight to nine hours long, with some of the more jam-packed trips coming in at 13 or 14 hours.

• Be prepared to walk quite a bit on your day trip. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated when it’s hot out.

• If you’re afraid of heights or can get claustrophobic, climbing the leaning tower might not be the right option for you.

Florence isn’t just the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance: this UNESCO-listed city is also the capital of Tuscany, surrounded by the region’s beautiful countryside. With three days to explore, here’s how to enjoy Florence’s artistic and architectural masterpieces and also take a day trip beyond the city limits to the Tuscan hills.

Day 1: Marvelous Marble

One of Florence’s most iconic works of art is Michelangelo’s David, an image that graces everything from T-shirts to calendars at souvenir shops throughout the city. Savor this soaring statue with an early access tour first thing in the morning, taking in the beauty of the work before the crowds arrive. Afterward, continue on to discover Florence’s other famous marble masterpiece: the Duomo. Opt for a tour with skip-the-line access to the complex, or you will spend precious hours waiting to enter the church, baptistery, bell tower, dome, and museum. Once you’ve explored two of the city’s most important cultural treasures, take the rest of the day to get to know its Renaissance center. Hop-on hop-off tours are a convenient way to get a feel for the city, or guided Florence walking, bike, or Vespa scooter tours generally include highlights like Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria.

Day 2: Culture and Cuisine

The Uffizi is one of the most popular museums in Italy and attracts millions of visitors each year. The best way to enjoy important works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo—without being overwhelmed by the size of the collection and the crowds—is to opt for a guided tour that includes early entry before the galleries open to the general public. After you’ve had your fill of art, it’s time for gastronomic delights. Florence is known for its excellent cuisine, and you can sample some of its best food and wine on a gourmet tour of the city or by joining a cooking class. Food and wine tours often stop at the city’s outdoor markets, street food stands, restaurants, wine bars; during a cooking class, you can delve even deeper and discover the secret to preparing Florentine dishes before sitting down to enjoy them during an informal meal.

Day 3: Head for the Hills

For much of the year, Florence is packed with tourists drawn by the importance of its art and beauty of its center. For a respite from the crowds, take a day to explore the quiet countryside or smaller towns in the surrounding region of Tuscany. Popular Tuscan towns include elegant Pisa, medieval Siena, and charming San Gimignano; if you’d like to relax on the coast, opt for a day trip to the five fishing villages of the Cinque Terre in the neighboring region of Liguria. Another popular option is to explore the rolling hills of Chianti: Tuscan wine and food tours are perfect for foodies, or the more adventurous can choose to explore the countryside on a horseback ride, by vintage Fiat 500, or by joining a bike tour. For a truly unforgettable view of Tuscany, take a hot air balloon ride over its postcard-perfect landscape.

As the days get longer, Florence and the Tuscan countryside are in full bloom. Just-right weather makes spring the ideal time to explore vineyards and medieval hill towns, while market stalls and restaurant menus brighten with fresh seasonal produce. Here are some ways to catch spring fever in Florence.

• Buy what’s in season at the Central Market, and then turn your purchases into Florentine dishes with a hands-on cooking class.

• Zip through Florentine hills covered with spring wildflowers on a vintage Vespa.

• Enjoy the Tuscan countryside without the heat on a Chianti wine tour.

• Climb to the top of the duomo for the best views in Florence.

• Visit Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano to soak up fresh air and Tuscan history.

• Get inspired by Michelangelo and Botticelli at the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries.

• Roll down the windows as you drive a classic Fiat 500 to a medieval Tuscan villa.

• Learn to make two Italian favorites with a pizza and gelato workshop.

• Pair art and architecture on a city tour that includes top museums and monuments like the Ponte Vecchio and Duomo.

• Take a day trip to the Italian Riviera to hike between the colorful fishing villages of the Cinque Terre.

Fall in Florence brings a welcome drop in daytime temperatures and in the size of tourist crowds. It’s also a chance to savor the bounty of Tuscany’s harvest season, when olives and grapes are ripe for the picking. Enjoy a Florentine-style autumn with these ideas.

• Marvel at Michelangelo’s David statue in relative peace with smaller crowds at the Accademia Gallery.

• Soak up crisp fall weather and colorful foliage on a day trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and other medieval Tuscan towns.

• Celebrate harvest season with a small-group wine tour through the famed Chianti wine region.

• Skip the line to climb the Leaning Tower on a day trip to Pisa.

• Explore the scenic backroads of Tuscany on a 4-wheel-drive wine- and olive oil-tasting tour.

• Whip up regional recipes with a cooking class at a Tuscan farmhouse.

• Browse seasonal Tuscan produce at the San Lorenzo Market on a Florence food tour.

• Take advantage of less crowded streets crowds on a walking tour of Florentine highlights like the duomo and Ponte Vecchio.

• Admire The Birth of Venus and other Renaissance masterpieces without the wait using skip-the-line tickets to the Uffizi Gallery.

Capital of Tuscany and known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence and its UNESCO-listed historic center are home to some of the world's greatest artistic and architectural masterpieces. If you only have one day to explore this iconic destination, here's how to see the main highlights.

Morning: It's All About Art Florence is home to three of the most important cultural institutions in Italy: the Uffizi Galleries, the Accademia Gallery, and the Florence Duomo. To enjoy works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo along with the soaring architecture of Brunelleschi and Giotto, time is of the essence. Join a guided tour that focuses on these landmarks and includes skip-the-line access so you don't waste precious hours waiting to enter. If visits to all three sounds overwhelming for a single morning, opt for an in-depth tour of just one and combine it with a more general Florence walking, Segway, or hop-on hop-off bus tour to see other sights such as the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria.

Afternoon: Florence for Foodies Florence masterpieces aren't confined to the city's museums and churches—you can find veritable works of art in its kitchens, as well. Dedicate the afternoon to discovering the excellent local cuisine with a food and wine tour, stopping at the city's bustling outdoor markets, landmark street food stands, and historic eateries and wine bars. If you'd like to learn how to re-create some of Florence's most famous dishes at home, join a cooking class where you can prepare local specialties like fresh pasta, pizza, and gelato before sitting down to enjoy your handiwork during a relaxing meal.

Night: A Romantic End

Italian cities are delightfully romantic, and Florence is no exception. The setting sun casts a golden light over the center, and the picturesque lanterns lining Arno river and city streets make for a postcard-perfect end to the day. Piazzale Michelangelo and the waters of the Arno river are two of the best spots to watch sunset. Reach the panoramic square on a walking, biking, or hop-on hop-off bus tour from the city center or opt for a sunset Arno river cruise for an unforgettable end to your day of Florentine culture and cuisine.

Imagine days spent sipping Chianti and biking through olive groves, or strolling festive market stalls in search of the perfect tomato. To experience Tuscany’s flavorful cuisine, here are some of the best ways to dine and drink around Florence.

Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

Aside from the famously red-tiled buildings and fantastic abundance of art, Florence is known as a place where you visit to eat, drink, and be merry. Nibble on chunks of pecorino, a cheese from the village of Pienza, and pair it with slices of thinly cut salumi and a glass of Chianti wine. Learn what makes a Chianti Classico, and don’t leave Florence without also sampling some pizza, pasta, and gelato.

Must-Do Experiences

• Learn about different Tuscan reds on a 6-hour wine tasting tour.

• Try your hand at making homemade pasta from a professional Florentine chef.

• Take a small-group tour to nearby villages and sample their tasty specialties.

• Get hands-on experience with a cooking class in a Tuscan farmhouse or villa.

• Pedal through vineyards and olive groves that spring from Tuscan hillsides.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the most iconic artistic and architectural masterpieces in the world, is a must-see when visiting Italy. Here's how to explore the city's main highlights and discover a few little-known gems with two full days in the Tuscan capital.

Day 1: The Greatest Hits **Morning:**Begin by getting to know Florence's most famous landmark from top to bottom: the Florence Duomo. Tackle this popular sight first thing to beat the crowds, and book a tour with skip-the-line access to avoid spending the bulk of your morning waiting to enter the church, baptistery, bell tower, dome, and museum. 

**Afternoon:**Following Florence's famous architecture, it's time to move on to its impressive art. Join a combo tour that visits both the Uffizi and Accademia galleries to touch on the highlights of both these museums without feeling overwhelmed. Skip-the-line tours are a must for these attractions, which draw millions of visitors each year.

**Night:**You've had an intense day of culture, so now unwind while sampling some of the excellent wines produced in the Chianti hills outside of Florence—perhaps paired with some of the region's cheeses, meats, and olive oils—during a food or wine-tasting tour.

Day 2: Bridges, Squares, and Back Lanes **Morning:**Now that you've crossed the Duomo, Uffizi, and Accademia off your list, explore the sights of Florence's city center from the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria to the quiet lanes of the Oltrarno. Hop-on hop-off bus tours are a perfect way to get an overview of the city, while guided walking, biking, and Segway tours offer up-close experiences.

**Afternoon:**Dive deep into Florence's traditional cuisine by learning how to prepare some of its most famous dishes during a cooking class. Discover the secret to making pasta, pizza, and other specialties, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor during an informal meal at the end of the class.

**Night:**You will soon say goodbye to Florence, so make your final evening special by watching the sun set over the city. Book an Arno river cruise or head to the Piazzale Michelangelo on foot, bike, or hop-on hop-off bus tour to watch the sun set over the water.

The Renaissance nature of Florence lends a timeless enchantment to evening strolls along the Arno, candle-lit dinners in tiny trattorias, and stolen kisses at sunset from Ponte Vecchio. If you’re lucky enough to visit with your sweetheart, here are a few suggestions to add a romantic twist.

See the City from Above

Dominated by Brunelleschi’s famous dome, the skyline of Florence is one of the most unique in Italy and especially captivating when seen from above. Take a panoramic tour of the city by Vespa that includes stops at scenic overlooks, gaze out over the rooftops from the Duomo’s rooftop terraces, or savor a bird’s-eye view of the city and Tuscan countryside on a hot-air balloon ride.

Float down the Arno River

For a different view of the city, join a river cruise by traditional wooden boat and float down the placid waters of the Arno. You travel through the heart of Florence, passing under the Ponte Vecchio and along the pastel-tinged palazzi lining the river banks in the historic center, all while sip a glass of prosecco.

Admire David in Peace

Michelangelo’s David is one of the biggest draws in Florence, and the throngs of visitors that fill the Accademia each day make it hard to enjoy its majesty. Join an exclusive early access tour and stand serenely in front of this masterpiece before the crowds arrive.

Fall in Love...with Tuscan Food and Wine

Tuscan cuisine is among the most beloved in the world, and a sunset food or wine tour is ideal for romantic gourmands who want to explore its classic dishes and labels. For a special evening, opt for dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking Florence or a traditional Tuscan dinner followed by an opera performance.

The Tuscan hills around Florence are meant for driving, especially in a vintage Fiat 500 or classic Vespa scooter. Go wine tasting, sample local food, or explore Tuscany’s scenic back roads behind the wheel—here’s how to schedule a driving tour.

Vespas and Fiats

Zip through the hills on the back of a classic Primavera Vespa 125, a scooter you still see on the roads in Italy. If cars are more your thing, the vintage Fiat 500—an iconic Italian symbol—is just the vehicle to make you feel like a local. Stop for photos, learn about Florence, and return to the Renaissance capital with an expanded sense of the city.

Self-Driving Tours

Climb into the driver’s seat of a vintage Vespa or Fiat 500 and wind your way through the countryside surrounding Florence. A guide leads the way, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost, and you’ll travel in a convoy with your tour group. Tours range from 2.5 hours to full-day tours, and can include stops at local wineries or rural restaurants for wine tastings or lunch.

Guided Tours

You don’t have to be the driver to experience the back roads of Tuscany. Choose a Vespa or Fiat 500 tour in which your tour guide takes the wheel and you relax and enjoy the views from the passenger seat while cruising out of central Florence and leaving the crowds behind. With a knowledgeable local navigating the streets, you’ll get to escape the busy city center without having to worry about operating an unfamiliar vehicle.

Florence's Uffizi Gallery contains one of the world’s top collections of Italian Renaissance art, with masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo. Here's how to get skip-the-line entry and avoid wasting time in the hours-long queue.

Guided Skip-the-Line Tours

Reserving a space on a guided skip-the-line tour of the Uffizi Gallery comes with several perks: your guide will have your ticket ready for you upon arrival, you'll bypass the long entry line to go through the tour group entrance, and you'll have a knowledgeable guide on hand to explain the works of art in the museum. Guided Uffizi tours last between 1.5 and 3 hours, with some also including a tour of the Vasari Corridor—a spot only accessible with a guide—and others ending inside the museum, leaving you to revisit the art if you wish.

Skip-the-Line Tickets

If you'd like to explore the vast collection beyond the highlights and at your own pace, choose skip-the-line tickets to the Uffizi Gallery without the guided tour component. Take a break at the museum's rooftop café, where you can look out to the dome of the nearby Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria dei Fiori).

Early-Entry Tours

Enhance your Uffizi experience by getting in before the doors open to the public. You'll not only avoid waiting in long entrance lines, you'll also get to enjoy the artwork without fighting the usual crowds hovering around each painting. Some early-access tours end inside the Uffizi, so you can go back and explore more of the collection on your own.

Florence is the epicenter of Tuscan cuisine, among the most beloved in Italy and based on ingredients sourced from the lush woods and fertile farmland encircling the city. Sample the region’s heirloom pork and beef, fresh vegetables and legumes, handmade pasta, and extra-virgin olive oil in these must-try dishes.

Crostini

Most traditional meals in Florence kick off with a plate of crostini, slices of toasted bread spread with favorites such as chicken-liver paté, local cured salami and capocollo, artisan pecorino sheep-milk cheese, cannellini and fava-bean spreads, or simply a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Pici al Ragù

One of the quintessential fresh pastas in Florence is pici, thick strands of spaghetti-like noodles tossed with a savory sauce. Perhaps the best pairing is ragù made from Cinta Senese, pork from an heirloom breed of pig raised in the hills between Florence and Siena and prized for its flavorful meat.

Ribollita

Italians love a good vegetable soup—minestrone is one of the country’s most ubiquitous culinary exports—and the Florentine version of this hearty crowd-pleaser is ribollita. Made with seasonal vegetables and beans and thickened with a slice of leftover Tuscan bread, this traditional potage is uniquely satisfying.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Florentines don’t shy away from meat, and there is nothing meatier than the city’s iconic steak, a slab of heirloom Chianina beef traditionally sliced “four fingers thick” and grilled briefly on each side. This daunting treat is for died-in-the-wool carnivores who don’t shrink from very rare beef.

Lampredotto

Not only can a Florentine put away a steak weighing an average of 2 pounds (0.9 kilograms) in one sitting, but the city’s most beloved street food is lampredotto, a sandwich of thinly sliced tripe braised in a savory broth and served with a green sauce (parsley, hard-boiled egg, and capers) or a spicy tomato sauce. Grab a sandwich from one of the city’s street vendors if you’re feeling adventurous.

Schiacciata alla Fiorentina

Originally served during Carnival, this soft sponge cake is dusted with powdered sugar and finished with a large fleur-de-lis stenciled in cocoa powder on top to symbolize the city. Today the rectangular dessert can be enjoyed all year round, and updated versions include a layer of custard or whipped cream in the middle.

The Medici family's powerful presence as rulers of Florence during the Renaissance stemmed from their wealth and influence, which shaped politics and art in the city and beyond. Here's how to best experience the legacy left behind by the Medicis.

Palazzo Vecchio

This extravagant palace is the former estate of the Medici family. Tours explain the history and significance of the dynasty that ruled Florence for three centuries.

How to Visit

The Palazzo can be viewed on both small-group and private tours, or as part of a Florence city walking tour.

Uffizi Gallery

As the finest collection of Florentine art and one of the most important museums in the world, Uffizi Gallery is a must-see site in Florence. The Medici family oversaw its construction in the 16th century.

How to Visit

Tours range from about one to three hours in length, with a variety of group size options. Due to the museum's popularity, it's recommended that you choose a tour with skip-the-line privileges.

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

Another former home of the Medicis, Pitti Palace now holds an important collection of Renaissance art and hosts an extensive green space in the Boboli Gardens.

How to Visit

Choose a tour that combines the palace and the gardens, or opt for a palace-only tour for an in-depth look at the Pitti Palace's Palatine Gallery.

Medici Riccardi Palace

Designed by Michelozzo for the Medicis, this palace was later sold to the Riccardi family before being obtained by the Italian state to form a large part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center of Florence.

How to Visit

A visit to the palace is included in Renaissance-focused walking tours of Florence.

Basilica of San Lorenzo

Aside from its ties to Michelangelo, this massive church is also known as the final resting place of the Medici family. Their tombs are marked by sculptures from Michelangelo himself.

How to Visit

The Basilica is a stop on most Florence walking tours. Long lines are common, so consider a skip-the-line option to bypass the crowds.

Florence is a city for art lovers, with a number of museums in the compact city center that contain world-famous masterpieces. It's a good idea to plan ahead for your visit to avoid crowds and long lines. Here are our top museum picks in Florence.

Uffizi Gallery

Arguably the most famous museum in Florence, the Uffizi Gallery has an incredible collection of Italian Renaissance paintings. Artists include Botticelli, Raphael, Caravaggio, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

**How to Visit:**Lines outside the Uffizi can be hours long, especially in summer. Avoid the wait with a skip-the-line tour.

Accademia Gallery

The main draw at the Accademia Gallery is Michelangelo's exquisite sculpture of David, the symbol of Florence. The museum also has several unfinished Michelangelo sculptures and a small collection of paintings.

**How to Visit:**Choose a skip-the-line tour to avoid the queue outside the Accademia, or a combo tour that also takes you to other Florence sites.

Pitti Palace

The powerful Medici family once lived in the large Pitti Palace. Today, the Pitti houses several museums, including a collection of Renaissance paintings, a Silver Museum, and the former Medici royal apartments.

**How to Visit:**Skip-the-line tours available for the Palatine Gallery and the Modern Art Gallery, with private tours available for personalized attention. Many visitors also make time to explore the Boboli Gardens behind the palace.

Bargello Museum (Museo Nazionale del Bargello)

The Bargello Museum is housed in the city's former jail, and the main draw is the collection of sculptures—including some of Michelangelo's first works.

**How to Visit:**Lines for the Bargello aren't as long as they are for the Uffizi, but a skip-the-line ticket assures you won't wait. Private tours offer context for the collection and the building's history.

Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

The magnificent Duomo's interior is sparsely decorated, with most of the artwork that was once inside the church now on display in the Duomo's museum. It also features Ghiberti's original Baptistery doors and a pieta by Michelangelo.

**How to Visit:**Tours that combine the Duomo, Baptistery, and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo provide a full picture of the art and history of the complex, while private skip-the-line tours allow you to bypass the queue and gain insights into the displays.

Each year, more than 1 million people from around the world visit the Accademia Gallery—the Florence art museum housing Michelangelo’s “David” and a number of other masterpieces. Here’s what you need to know about avoiding crowds with a skip-the-line tour.

Priority Entrance Tickets

Those looking to visit the museum independently can purchase a priority entrance ticket to expedite entry. Within minutes of arriving, you’ll be strolling halls full of Botticelli paintings and and heading to see “David,” sculpted by a young Michelangelo when he was in his 20s during the Renaissance.

Combo Skip-the-Line Tours

If you’re short on time in Florence, opt for a city combo tour that allows you to visit the Uffizi, Accademia, and Duomo all in a single day thanks to skip-the-line privileges. You might also pair your skip-the-line Accademia entry with a walking tour to stroll the cobbled streets of Florence and view more of its famous sights.

Early-Access Tours

If you really want to beat the crowds at the Accademia Gallery, consider an early-access tour. You’ll get to stroll the art museum’s hallowed halls with just a small group before they’re open to the general public and you won’t struggle to hear your guide. Some early-access tours conclude with breakfast at a local cafe where you can go over your favorite parts of the visit.

Home to some of the world’s most treasured medieval and Renaissance art, Florence is a dream destination for art-history enthusiasts. From paintings and frescoes to the statue of a certain naked man, the city is chock-full of art. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few of the can’t-miss sites.

Uffizi Gallery (Gallerie Degli Uffizi)

Located on the northern side of the Arno River in central Florence, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, da Vinci, and Botticelli (including The Birth of Venus ), to name just a few. Ancient statues and other works from the collection of Florence’s Medici family are also on display. An absolute must for those interested in Renaissance art, it’s one of the top museums in Italy, if not Europe—a skip-the-line ticket is highly recommended.

Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia)

Often visited in combination with the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery is Florence’s other major art museum. A 15-minute walk north of the Uffizi, on the other side of the cathedral (Duomo), the Accademia is best-known as the home of Michaelangelo’s David, an icon of Renaissance art. The gallery’s collection of 13th- to 16th-century paintings by mostly Italian artists is a must-see for art-history buffs. Skip-the-line tickets are advisable here, too.

Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti) and Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli)

A former home of the city’s ruling Medicis, Florence’s largest museum complex sits just across the Ponte Vecchio on the south side of the Arno. Various museums and galleries are housed within the grounds, and Renaissance statues dot the landscaped Boboli Gardens behind the palace. Old masters such as Raphael, Titian, and Rubens are on display, but you can also see more-modern works of art from the 18th to 20th century.

Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

Located in Piazza del Duomo, just behind the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo features original artwork and other items from the cathedral. For those interested in learning more about the Duomo or who just want to see more art, visiting the museum after you visit the Duomo provides additional insight into the city’s most significant landmark. Works include Michelangelo’s mysterious Florence Pietà (aka The Deposition) and Donatello’s Penitent Magdalene.

With mild weather and a lull in visitors, wintertime in Florence offers a chance to explore the birthplace of the Renaissance in peace. Decorated churches sparkle with Italian holiday spirit, while comforting Tuscan cuisine and cappuccino are just a café away on chilly days. Here’s how to celebrate the season.

• Capture the city’s festive holiday lights on a wintertime photo walk.

• Check out the elaborate nativity scenes and Christmas decorations of medieval churches.

• Shop for handmade holiday gifts among Florence’s Oltrarno craft workshops.

• For Renaissance-style festivities, follow the medieval Procession of the Magi parade route.

• Ring in the New Year with a Tuscan dinner and gala concert featuring Italian arias.

• For a more intimate affair, celebrate New Year’s Eve with a small-group chef’s dinner and Champagne toast on the romantic Ponte Vecchio.

• Indulge in Italian comfort food at a Tuscan pasta-making class.

• Snag early access to the Uffizi Gallery for a peaceful morning admiring Renaissance art.

• Warm up by a wood-fired oven while making authentic pizza.

• See the city’s major sights in comfort on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Not just famous as the home of da Vinci and Michelangelo, Florence also once hosted Galileo Galilei, whose contributions to physics and astronomy changed the world. Here are a few sites in Florence that pay homage to this influential scientist.

Galileo Museum (Museo Galileo)

Dedicated to the life and discoveries of Galileo, this site includes two important early telescopes and other historic scientific tools. Don't miss viewing Galileo's preserved fingers, which have been on display at the museum since 2010.

How to Visit

Take a science tour of Florence to get an in-depth look at the city's scientific history.

Santa Croce Basilica

This Franciscan church is the final resting place of so many important Italian figures that it has earned the nickname "Temple of the Glories of Italy." The tombs of Galileo, Michelangelo, and Dante can be seen here.

How to Visit

A guided tour of the mausoleum includes commentary on the lives of those buried there, as well as a look at the ornate church and its masterful artwork by Giotto, Brunelleschi, and Donatello.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Galileo hails from Pisa, home of the famous Leaning Tower. It's said that Galileo formed some of his experiments around gravity with plans to drop objects from the tower.

How to Visit

Join a half-day tour of Pisa from Florence and gain priority access to the Leaning Tower.