Florence, a Renaissance city in the heart of Tuscany, has some of Italy’s best museums, beautiful cathedrals and churches, and interesting streets and squares with elegant buildings and shops.

The most visited square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic center and a free open-air sculpture exhibit. Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues such as Michelangelo’s David.

Florence’s most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. The exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi’s Dome is a masterpiece of construction. Buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to the top of the bell tower. The panoramic view of the city is amazing. Please note, is not air-conditioned on the way up, so peak summer months can get very hot, so make sure and bring water.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist, from the 11th century, is one of Florence’s oldest buildings. Its exterior is made of green and white marble and has three sets of amazing bronze doors. Inside, you can see some mosaics and a marble pavement of the zodiac.

The Galleria degli Uffizi holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art but it’s also Italy’s most crowded museum. You can buy tickets ahead to avoid long lines. Better yet, if you purchase a shore excursion or are on one of our escorted tours, your group will have priority access. The Uffizi holds thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times and many antique sculptures, illuminations, and tapestries.

Florence’s Galleria dell’ Academia holds important paintings and sculptures from the 13th-16th centuries. Michelangelo’s David, probably the most famous sculpture in the world, is in the Galleria dell’ Academia as well as other sculptures by Michelangelo. You’ll also find an interesting collection of musical instruments, from the Medici family.

Florence has some of the finest shopping in Europe. Leather goods, paper goods, and jewelry as well as nice souvenirs and art productions. Florence also has a number of open air markets selling food, clothing, and antiques.