7 unmissable experiences in Florence
Florence is a city that doesn’t need an introduction. The birthplace of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo’s David, and filled with world-class museums, stunning architecture, and some of the best food in Italy. This is a city of hidden corners, secret passageways, and centuries-old traditions still alive today.
If you’re heading to Florence this spring, here are seven experiences that are quite simply unmissable. Enjoy!
1 | Climb to the top of the Duomo (with a secret stop)
The view from the top of the Duomo
Everyone admires the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore from the outside, but the real experience is climbing up Brunelleschi’s Dome. The 463-step ascent takes you through narrow medieval passageways, past the incredible frescoes inside the dome, and finally onto the rooftop for one of the best views in Florence.
A little-known secret? There’s a hidden terrace about halfway up. It’s a great spot to pause, catch your breath, and take in a quieter view before continuing to the top.
2 | Visit the offbeat side of the Uffizi Gallery
Look for the quieter corners of the Uffizi
The Uffizi Gallery is a masterpiece itself, but instead of rushing straight to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, take some time to explore its quieter corners. The upper floors offer stunning views over the Arno River, and tucked-away rooms house lesser-known Renaissance gems.
For something truly special, try booking the Vasari Corridor tour if it’s open. This secret passage was built by the Medici family so they could move between the Uffizi and Pitti Palace without mingling with commoners.
3 | Experience the best Florentine steak at a local spot
Florence is famous for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick, juicy T-bone steak that’s simply grilled over a wood fire. Skip the overpriced tourist spots and head to Trattoria Sostanza or Perseus for the real deal.
Not a steak lover? Try ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup made with bread and vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection.
4 | Catch sunset at San Miniato al Monte
The Romanesque church of San Miniato al Monte
Piazzale Michelangelo is the famous viewpoint for sunset, but just 10 minutes further uphill is San Miniato al Monte, a Romanesque church with even better views and far fewer crowds.
Time your visit right, and you might hear the monks singing Gregorian chants in the late afternoon—a truly atmospheric experience as the sun sets over Florence.
5 | Explore the Artisan District of Oltrarno
View of the Oltrarno district
Cross the Ponte Vecchio (but skip the overpriced jewellery shops) and step into Oltrarno, Florence’s artisan quarter. This is where real craftspeople still make leather goods, jewellery, and artwork using techniques that date back to the Renaissance.
Wander along Via dei Serragli and Via Maggio, where you’ll find goldsmiths, bookbinders, and shoemakers at work. It’s like stepping back in time, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a master at work in their tiny workshop.
6 | Visit the Wine Windows (Buchette del Vino)
Long before social distancing, Florentines had a solution for contactless service – tiny wine windows built into the city’s walls. Originally used during the 17th-century plague, these little openings allowed people to buy wine safely without direct contact.
Today, some of them are back in use. Stop by Babae or Osteria delle Brache, knock on the tiny wooden door, and order a glass of wine—just like they did centuries ago.
7 | See Michelangelo’s David… But the Other One
Yes, the original David at the Accademia Gallery is spectacular. But if you want a different perspective on Michelangelo, visit the Bargello Museum. This lesser-known museum houses some of his early sculptures, offering a fascinating glimpse into his artistic development.
Bonus: The Bargello is much quieter than the Accademia, so you can enjoy the art without the crowds.
Your Challenge: Try the Lampredotto sandwich (and you’ll love It)
Florence’s most traditional street food is lampredotto, a sandwich made from slow-cooked tripe (cow’s stomach), served in a crispy bun with a spicy green sauce. Locals swear by it, and if you give it a chance, you might just become a fan too.
Where to try it: Head to L’Antico Trippaio or Da Nerbone in Mercato Centrale for the best version in town.
Challenge rating: 3/3 – If you’re squeamish about offal, this might push your limits. But if you can get past the idea, you’ll discover why this dish has been a Florentine favourite for centuries.
Travel Essentials: what you need to know
Getting Around: Florence is a compact, walkable city, and spring is the perfect time to explore on foot. The historic centre is mostly pedestrianised, but if you need to go further, local buses and trams are available.
Airport & Transport: Florence’s airport (Peretola) is just a 20-minute taxi ride from the city centre, or you can take the T2 tram for a budget-friendly option. If you’re arriving via train, Santa Maria Novella station is right in the heart of the city.
Language: Italian is the official language, but many people in Florence – especially in restaurants and museums – speak English.
Weather in Spring: Mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 15–22°C. It can be a bit unpredictable, so bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and the occasional spring shower.
Crowds: Florence is busy year-round, but spring offers a nice balance – fewer tourists than summer, but still lively enough to feel vibrant.
Why Spring is the perfect time to visit Florence
Spring is when Florence feels at its best. The winter chill has faded, but the peak summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. The gardens are blooming, the weather is perfect for wandering, and outdoor dining is back in full swing. Whether you’re admiring Renaissance art, sipping wine in a hidden courtyard, or catching sunset from a hilltop church, Florence in spring is a city that never fails to enchant.
