Florence: how to get to the city and what to visit

Florence is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, rich in culture, art and history. This town offers a unique atmosphere and stunning views of the Arno, the river that flows through the city.

Florence has much to offer if you are an art lover or interested in other things, such as eating and drinking good wine. Moreover, Florence is easy to explore by walking. In this way, you can admire the incredible sights around every corner.

Here are some tips to make your trip to Florence an unforgettable experience.

How to get to Florence

Florence is well-connected to other European and Italian cities by high-speed trains and flights to various international destinations. Florence airport mainly offers seasonal flights, but many travellers choose to land in Pisa. This one, in fact, is less crowded and also well-served by numerous low-cost airlines. Getting to Florence is easy: from Pisa’s Galileo Galilei airport, there is a comfortable and convenient bus service that runs both day and night. You can reach Florence in about an hour and buy your tickets online.

Once in the city, you can get around on foot, rent a bicycle or electric scooter, or take the city buses that connect the centre with the suburbs.

Things not to be missed in Florence

Choosing what to see in Florence is tricky, as the city is rich in attractions. There are, however, some absolute must-sees when visiting the city.

A tour of Florence can begin in Piazza della Signoria, one of the city’s most popular meeting places: you can admire a copy of Michelangelo’s famous David statue and many impressive ancient buildings. You can continue to the Uffizi Gallery. That’s a must, and the building is a work of art in itself: it is home to some of the most important artworks of the Italian Renaissance.

Walking through the medieval streets, you can reach the stunning Ponte Vecchio, the only one not to be destroyed by the Nazis during the Second World War. There are many jewellery shops, and you can enjoy picturesque views over the river Arno.

Heading north, crossing a street full of shops and boutiques, you will arrive at the Porcellino Fountain. According to a legend, whoever touches the snout of this fountain is sure to return to the city.

Keep walking, you will reach the Duomo, an imposing structure with the largest masonry dome in the world, and the city’s defining symbol. Giotto’s Campanile is a Gothic-style tower decorated with white, green and red marble: climb to the top to see a magnificent view of the whole city.

If you like shopping, you can visit the stalls in the San Lorenzo market: you can find good-value leather goods, such as jackets, bags, and accessories. About 30 minutes from the centre is Florence Mall, a large outlet store where you can find the best-branded clothes at affordable prices.

Eating out in Florence to taste local delicacies

Florence also has a lot to offer when it comes to gastronomy. After a long day wandering around, there is nothing better than to stop and taste the delicious ‘schiacciate’, savoury flatbreads stuffed with salami and cheese, accompanied by an excellent glass of Tuscan wine, such as ‘Chianti Classico’, a typical one. If you fancy something traditional and filling, try ‘Lampredotto’, Florentine street food made from a cow’s stomach seasoned with tasty sauces.

For a quick break, enjoy a great cappuccino, a slice of cake, an ice cream or a drink in one of the many cafés with a cosy, family atmosphere.