The Ultimate Florence Bucket List

1. Admire David at the Accademia Museum – Michaelangelo’s infamous David’s Sculpture is housed in the Accademia Museum in Florence. Make sure to book tickets on the official website ahead of time to avoid long lines.

2. View the art in the Uffizi Gallery – This museum houses some of the world’s best art from the Italian Renaissance (i.e. La Primavera, The Birth of Venus, Ognissanti Madonna and more)

3. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio – The colorful bridge you see in many photos of Florence is very lively and lined with expensive jewelry shops.

4. Explore Pitti Palace and relax in the Boboli Gardens – The former home of the Medici royal family is full of beautiful art and grandeur decor.

5. Try the local cuisine – Enjoy a Florentine steak, heart-shaped pizza, Coccoli (fried dough with cheese and prosciutto – YUM!), Wild Boar Ragu, and Truffle pasta (mushrooms are grown locally).

6. Relax in the Boboli Gardens – Lovely gardens located inside the Pitti Palace. The perfect place to rest from a full day of sightseeing.

7. Climb the steps of the Duomo – This is the main cathedral in the center of Florence. You can admire the architecture from the ground, or climb the 463 steps for an incredible view of the city (need to make reservations to climb ahead of time). Alternate option: Climb the Bell Tower next to the Duomo (similar view and free).

8. Taste test the best Gelato in Florence – A few favorites include: Vivoli, Cantina, Grom, My Sugar, Edoardo, and Perche no!

9. Have a toast during the Aperitivo hour – La Terrazza Rooftop at the Continentale Hotel is the perfect rooftop bar to have a Bellini before dinner!

10. Shop for Souvenirs in San Lorenzo Market – A large market perfect for finding souvenirs and leather goods.

11. Rub the nose of the Fontana del Porcellino – No trip is complete without a quick stop at Florence’s famous bronzed boar statue to rub his nose for good luck!

12. Take a picture with a statue in front of Palazzo Vecchio – A high tower in a lovely Piazza Signoria filled with sculptures and cafes.

13. Watch the sunset – Hike up the hill to Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy beautiful views of Florence (don’t forget to pack a bottle of wine!).

Planning a trip to Florence, Italy?

If you’re traveling to Florence, I’ve created the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors that includes a wonderful mix of tourist sights and local favorites. This itinerary makes sure you aren’t spending wasted hours going back and forth across the city and allows you to maximize your limited time. If you’re a first-timer to Florence, this guide will help you check off the boxes for all of your must-see activities. If this is your second or even 25th visit, you’ll find great recommendations for restaurants, activities, and local favorites that will help you to pretend you’re an Italian (even if for just a little while!).