Florence

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Known for its world-class art galleries, museums, and delectable cuisine, the city of Florence is one of the most visited destinations for good reason, with many enchanting places to visit. But Florence is also within close proximity to equally enchanting spots perfect for a weekend getaway due to its location in the heart of Tuscany. Visit the medieval streets of Cortona or take a cooking class in Bologna. Admire Rome’s Colosseum or sample one of Italy’s best wines in Montalcino. Whether you're planning quick trips from Florence or looking to spend a few days away, it’s worth venturing out of the Renaissance city to enjoy one of these best weekend getaways from Florence.

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is where visionaries like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Raphael pushed the boundaries of art and creativity. Their work, with the patronage of the Medici family, turned Florence into the cradle of revolutionary art and thought. Today, visitors can experience this legacy firsthand through famous art in Florence: from the tension in David’s stance to Botticelli’s flowing grace, and Leonardo’s evocative early works, art in Florence continues to define the city’s cultural identity.

A Roman city and the epicenter of the Italian Renaissance, Florence was one of the most important cities in Europe from the 14th to 16th centuries, and as a result, it's one of the best destinations for art lovers. If you’re looking for things to do in Florence, consider exploring the city’s world-famous museums, known for Renaissance art, and grand locations like the Opera del Duomo. You’ll find masterpieces by Michelangelo inside the Accademia Gallery and classics by Raphael, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and da Vinci at the Uffizi, but that’s only touching the surface of what Florence’s museums hold inside.

For a worthy deep-dive into the best museums in Florence, you also won’t want to miss a chance to step inside a secret room filled with Michelangelo’s work, to try out da Vinci’s original designs, and to view the morbidly fascinating exhibit that is Galileo’s finger. Beyond the classics, there are offerings that followers of fashion will find perfectly cool, such as the Gucci Museum and the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum.

Florence’s best museums at a glance

Best museum for Renaissance art: Uffizi Gallery

Best museum for families: Leonardo Interactive Museum

Best museum for history: Opera del Duomo Museum

Best museum for sculpture: Bargello Museum

Best museum for a unique experience: Gucci Garden

Whether you’re an art buff, a food fanatic, or simply just after a taste of la dolce vita, Florence is almost overflowing with places to visit and sights to see. But with this in mind, you’ll need to build your list of things to do in Florence carefully. Which art galleries should you include in your itinerary? What are the must-see spots if traveling with kids? Where should you go if you want to learn about Florence’s rich culture and history? Gaze at Botticelli’s masterpieces at the unmissable Uffizi; meet Michelangelo’s David; and learn about Leonardo da Vinci’s innovations at these top 20 best places to visit in Florence.

Florence’s top places to visit at a glance

The top sights in Florence for history lovers: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Duomo.

Best places to visit in Florence with kids: Boboli Gardens, Leonardo Museum, and Gelato shops.

The best places to go for art in Florence: Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, and Bargello Museum.

Top Florence attractions for nature lovers: Giardino Bardini, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Arno River.