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Why visit Florence
Churches
The churches in Florence are equal parts beautiful and historic. From the elaborate frescoes painted by the likes of Michelangelo, to ornately marbled cathedral floors, the churches found here are a sight to behold.
Santa Maria Novella
Visit one of Florence’s most prized churches, the Santa Maria Novella. This Dominican church is filled with impressive religious artwork by Brunelleschi, Masaccio, Giotto, and Domenico Ghirlandaio. Even the church’s distinctive shape is worth noting; the architecture is the result of an intentional blend of Romanesque-Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Head to the historic Piazza del Duomo to see this impressive Gothic church that towers over Florence’s skyline. Inside the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, you’ll find beautiful frescoes representing the Last Judgment. This site is often a cool reprieve if you’re visiting Florence during the warmer months.
Baptistery of St. John
Your local expert may reveal to you that the St. John Baptistery is the oldest and most symbolic sacred monument in Florence. Marvel at the gothic aesthetic found throughout the octagonal interior, walk through the bronze Gates of Paradise, and learn of the famous figures that were baptized here, including Italian poet Dante.
Santa Croce
In addition to possessing beautiful frescos and storied artifacts, the church is the burial place of famous Florentine figures Michelangelo and Galileo. After walking through the church, consider a visit to the Scuola del Cuoio, where you can see monks train students in the art of the fine leatherwork.
Museums
From the grand Uffizi to the sartorially focused Gucci Museum, Florence has an exceptional cultural scene. We’ve revealed a few of our favorite museums and galleries we enjoy in Florence.
Uffizi
Akin to the Louvre in Paris, Florence’s Uffizi Museum is a massive structure housing some of the most important and priceless artistic works known to man. Peruse works by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Michelangelo as you learn the building’s importance to the historic Medici family. If you plan to visit this museum in your free time, we can help you purchase tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in a long line.
Galleria dell’Accademia
Most of our guests hope to get a glimpse of at least one of Michelangelo’s artistic works while in Italy. At this gallery, you can see his most famous masterpiece: the statue of David. As this museum is only a fraction of the size of the Uffizi, we recommend you start your day of cultural exploration here.
Gucci Museum
Fashion-focused travelers will enjoy a tour of the museum celebrating the legacy of Guccio Gucci, the famed designer and Florence native. See how Gucci made his mark on the retail industry as you discover the evolution of the Gucci brand over several decades.
Museo di Galileo Galilei
Stargazers and number crunchers alike will be intrigued by the museum dedicated to the famed astronomer and mathematician, Galileo. View several instruments that were invented by his hand and discover how his formative work changed the way we view the universe. Guests enjoy that this museum is conveniently located between the Uffizi and the Arno River.
Fashion
In addition to Milan, Florence is known for being at the forefront of Italy’s fashion scene. The birthplace of Guccio Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo, the city features haute couture alongside specialized boutiques and local artisans. Our tours are outfitted with local experts who can show you the way to a few of these sartorial highlights.
Leather School in Santa Croce
Florence is known for its manufacturing of fine leather goods. Head to this nearby school to learn how leather is selected, carefully dyed, and hand-sewn to create luxurious wares. Our local experts say a stop here will give you a better understanding of how fine Italian leather goods are produced.
Via de’ Tornabuoni
Take a stroll down this famous street and discover the finest in fashion. See the first property Salvatore Ferragamo purchased as you browse through luxurious garments. Head downstairs to get a bit of history on Ferragamo’s humble beginnings and see how he got his start in nearby Naples. After a visit here, take a stroll further along Via de’ Tornabuoni to see more high-end clothing and accessories from the likes of Pucci, Cartier, and Hermes.
San Lorenzo Market
From fine leather jackets to keepsake souvenirs, San Lorenzo Market has plenty of shopping at a reasonable price. Celebrate a successful day of shopping by watching the sunset at the nearby Holy Trinity Bridge.
Via Santo Spirito
For fine-crafted local clothing and wares, we suggest visiting the Via Santo Spirito. Our guests love exploring the Oltrarno to get a different perspective of Florence and bring home something truly unique.
