The Perfect Walking Guide To Florence Italy

Florence is, arguably, one of the most amazing cities in the world, and the perfect way to visit it is by walking down its narrow streets and discover its magnificent Medieval architecture, cool neighbourhoods and lovely green spots.

Want to discover Florence on foot? Book Culture Trip’s 10-day tour of Northern Italy, where you’ll be led by an expert guide through this romantic city.

1. Piazzale Michelangelo

Architectural Landmark

Two women admiring the panoramic view from the square Piazzale Michelangelo to the historic heart of Florence with the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore...

You can begin your walk in the most famous Italian belvedere, Piazzale Michelangelo. From this big square, you can admire one of the most spectacular panoramas you will see in your life. This is the perfect spot to see (from the top) the beauty of Florence and the most spectacular buildings that make the city one of the greatest destinations in the world – and take amazing pictures, of course.

2. Bardini Garden

Park

The Bardini Garden, Florence (Firenze), Tuscany, Italy, Europe

From Piazzale Michelangelo, walk down to the Arno River, and reach the neighbourhood of San Niccolò. This is one of the coolest areas of Florence, full of pubs and bars frequented mostly by locals. In this neighbourhood, there is the Bardini Garden, less famous and smaller than Boboli, but magnificent. The garden, which is a lovely spot to enjoy a beautiful time in the city, hosts many flowers and trees, including a big area of lovely wisteria that, every spring, blossoms and colours everything.

4. Santa Croce

Church

The Basilica di Santa Croce is home to the tombs of some of Florence’s most famous inhabitants

Be sure to continue to the Santa Croce neighbourhood for a free glimpse at one of the most spectacular buildings in town, the Basilica of Santa Croce. A visit inside is a must, too, because many of the most influential men of all times, such as popes, artists, writers and painters, are buried here. There is an entrance fee.

5. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Cathedral, Church

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Duomo in Florence. Tuscany, Italy

It’s time for a climb: reach the top of the dome of the Cathedral of Florence for breathtaking views over the city. The climb is tough (463 steps in total), and, if you are claustrophobic, it could be really hard. The vistas from the top are well worth the effort, though.

6. Central Market

Market, Italian, Vegetarian

After that climb, you really deserve a rest. The best place to get that is the Central Market in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood, only a three-minute walk from the cathedral. This is the main market in Florence where locals come to buy food, but it is also a good spot for a quick breakfast or lunch. A large selection of bars and restaurants is located on the first floor of the market.

7. Santa Maria Novella

Church

This church is still underrated by the tourists simply because it is near the central station, and many don’t even know it exists. But the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest churches in Florence and has a fabulous façade and a beautiful cloister. It also holds extraordinary works of art, including Masaccio’s Trinità, Giotto’s Crucifix and a fresco by Ghirlandaio.

8. Repubblica Square

Architectural Landmark

Piazza della Repubblica, Firenze Italia Florence Italy

Piazza della Repubblica, the main square in Florence, is the central point of the city. The ancient Romans used this place to calculate the distances of the town. Every tourist will cross this square during his or her tour of Florence at some point, so you will not miss it. This big square is surrounded by the most famous and elegant cafes in town and is the perfect spot for sipping an espresso before continuing your visits around the city.

9. Santo Spirito Neighbourhood

Historical Landmark

It’s time to cross the Arno River and stroll in the narrow streets of Oltrarno, the coolest neighbourhood in town. This area is full of boutiques, bars, restaurants, designers shops and nice squares mostly frequented by locals. The main one is Santo Spirito, a beautiful square with a big fountain, perfect for spending summer nights in town, drinking fresh cocktails at one of the local bars.

10. Boboli Garden & Palazzo Pitti

Park

Boboli Gardens, Florence, Tuscany, Italy.

There is no better way to end your walking tour of Florence than with a visit to Boboli Garden. This big garden is hidden behind the magnificent Palazzo Pitti, the former residence of the Medici family, and is one of the most famous gardens in the world. It’s like an open-air museum with statues, fountains, caves and natural labyrinths that will keep you occupied for hours. For those who want to visit a real museum, there are plenty of options. Palazzo Pitti, indeed, includes seven museums, but the most important is, no doubt, the Galleria del Costume, a fashion art gallery that explains the history of fashion in Florence – the city where Made in Italy was born.

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