When planning our trip to Italy, we knew Florence would be on the itinerary, but we had no idea it would completely steal our hearts. Out of every destination we visited on our family trip (following our unforgettable stops in Rome and Tuscany), Florence was our absolute favorite.
The incredible cuisine, world-class shopping, rich history, and stunning architecture came together to create a place we wished we had spent far more time exploring. In fact, after our first day, we loved it so much that we completely changed our plans and came back for a second day!
If you are planning your own Italian getaway, here are the top sights to see, local dining experiences, and best things to do in Florence, Italy. Plus my top tips to make your travels easier!
1. Avoid the ZTL: Crucial Florence Driving & Parking Tip
Before diving into the sights, here is a warning that will save you an expensive headache.
We almost made a major mistake before our Florence adventure even began. Like many visitors exploring Italy by car, we drove into Florence’s historic center looking for parking, unaware that much of the city is a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato or Limited Traffic Zone). These zones are restricted to authorized vehicles, and unsuspecting tourists who drive into them receive heavy fines months after returning home.
Always double-check your parking garage location outside the ZTL boundary or ensure your garage registers your license plate upon arrival.
2. Indulge in Authentic Florentine Cuisine & Historic Dining
For our first evening, we booked a table at a historic restaurant dating back to the 1600s called Buca Mario that is recognized by the Michelin Guide. Watching the staff present and slice the steak tableside was an unforgettable culinary performance. Because the steak is served so thick, it continues cooking from its own residual heat right on your plate, meaning every bite offers a subtle, delicious variation in flavor.
If Florence is famous for one culinary staple, it is Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive, thick-cut T-bone steak traditionally cooked rare and served by weight.
Coupled with fresh handmade pasta, pillowy gnocchi, and exceptional Tuscan wine, it was a highlight of our trip! And yes, even the kids were completely blown away.
3. Grab Lunch at Local Delis and Mercato Centrale
While historic fine dining is a must, some of the best food in Florence is fast, fresh, and casual.
- Neighborhood Panini Shops: On our second day, we grabbed lunch at a tiny neighborhood deli where sandwiches were made fresh to order with regional cured meats, fresh mozzarella, and local olive oil. Simple, fresh, and perfection.
We chose La Saletta di Giuliano Firenze for the most delicious lunch offerings.
- Mercato Centrale: Imagine New York City’s Chelsea Market, but larger and completely dedicated to Italian gastronomy. Located in the San Lorenzo neighborhood, this multi-story market features vendors serving everything from wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta to fresh seafood, arancini, and cannoli. It is the ideal lunch stop for families or groups, as everyone can order from a different counter and sit together.
4. Explore the Historic Center, Viewpoints, and Renaissance Art
Florence is essentially an open-air museum. Wandering through the cobblestone streets leads you past stunning architecture, bustling piazzas, and incredible artwork at every turn.
- Piazzale Michelangelo & San Miniato: For sweeping, panoramic views of the city skyline, including the iconic Duomo, head up to the elevated terraces overlooking the city. It offers the best photo backdrop in all of Florence.
This is the front entry to the Duomo AKA Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Home to the largest masonry dome ever built.
- Stop by historic landmarks:
While marveling at the Renaissance masterpieces throughout the city, our kids offered a memorable review: “Too many naked statues!” They officially declared they had seen enough marble anatomy for one vacation, but the stunning surrounding architecture made it worthwhile for all of us. At least that is what we felt during our visit at
Palazza Piti was on the list of historic places to visit. Among its grandeur as a palace, you will find so much ornate detailing throughout. And, of course, what visit to a palace is complete without some over the top portraits!
I loved our stop at Santa Maria del Fiore, a cathedral central to the city of Florence. It is absolutely stunning inside! The architecture and ornate details totally appeal to my creativity!
- Family Travel Secret: Many state-run museums and historic sites in Italy offer free or heavily discounted admission for children under 18. Be sure to check ticket requirements online before booking.
5. Walk Across Ponte Vecchio & Shop for Italian Treasures
No trip to Florence is complete without strolling across the Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval stone bridge lined with historic jewelry shops. Goldsmiths and jewelers have worked on this bridge for centuries, making it one of the premier places in Europe to acquire fine jewelry and handcrafted heirlooms.
Here we are just in front of the beautiful and iconic Bridge of Gold.
This is where I picked up a set of beautiful, traditional Italian cameo rings that I will treasure forever.
While I browsed the fine jewelry, the rest of the family explored neighboring boutiques, ranging from local clothing shops to the flagship LEGO store nearby.
6. Discover Local Artists and the Famous Leather District
Florence’s tradition of craftsmanship extends far beyond jewelry to fine art and genuine leather goods.
- Street Artists: As we wandered the side streets, we met a local painter selling his original work. We purchased a gorgeous painting, chatted with him about his craft, and took photos together. Instead of standard business cards, he handed out miniature cards featuring prints of his artwork which is truly perfect reflection of Florence’s creative spirit.
- The Leather District (Santa Croce): Located behind the Basilica of Santa Croce is Florence’s renowned leather district, home to artisan workshops and the famous Scuola del Cuoio (Leather School). While genuine Florentine leather is an investment, the quality is unmatched. We brought home handcrafted leather jackets, a durable leather backpack, and several accessories that we will use for decades.
7. End Every Day with Authentic Gelato
We sampled gelato across several regions of Italy, but Florence served up some of our absolute favorites. Grabbing a cup or cone quickly became our non-negotiable daily routine while strolling through the illuminated piazzas after dinner. Look for gelaterias that store their gelato in covered metal tubs (pozzetti) for the freshest, highest-quality treat.
Final Thoughts: Why Florence is a Must-Visit
If I had to recommend just one city to visit in Italy, Florence would sit at the very top of the list. It manages to feel grand yet warm and welcoming. The scale is walkable, the food is unmatched, and the shopping spans from world-class artisan treasures to local market finds.
We spent two days here, but we easily could have stayed for a week without running out of things to see. It is the kind of destination that immediately makes you start planning your return trip the moment you leave.
Planning a trip to Italy? Don’t miss the earlier stops on our family adventure:
Final Thouhgts
Florence was an absolute surprise and dream! But overall navigating Italy as a family came with a bit of a learning curve. To help guide you as you plan your travels, I’ve put together a cheat sheet of ‘Italy Essentials.’ Valuable tips and tricks we picked up during our trip and really apply to every city we visited in Italy. Here you go!
Quick Tips for Your Italy Trip
- Bring Cash (Euros): You’ll need it for tolls and parking! Many places we visited did not accept cards.
- European Adapters: Don’t forget a charger compatible with European standards.
- Passport Safety: Keep a photocopy of your passport at home or in your email as a backup.
- Language: Have Google Translate ready; many locals do not speak English.
- Breakfast & Coffee: Breakfast is light in Italy (usually just pastries). Look at the restaurants ahead of time to see when they will be open. Many aren’t open for dinner until 7pm so you may be hungry if you’re used to eating dinner before then.
- The Pizza Rule: Interestingly, I don’t recommend the pizza! Many places add toppings after the crust is baked, leaving you with cold toppings on a warm crust. Proceed with caution!
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