Things to Do in Florence: A Private Guide’s Top Picks

Quick answer: the best things to do in Florence are seeing Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, visiting the Uffizi Gallery, climbing Brunelleschi’s dome at the Duomo, crossing the Ponte Vecchio and exploring the Oltrarno artisan workshops. Allow two to three days, and book timed tickets in advance.

Florence is small enough to walk, yet it holds more Renaissance masterpieces than almost any city in the world. This guide is written by the private tour team at Tour Florence. It lists what is truly worth your time, in a sensible order, and where a private guide changes the experience.

1. Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia

Michelangelo carved the David between 1501 and 1504, and it stands in the Galleria dell’Accademia. It is the most visited sight in the city, so reserve a timed entry through the official museum website or let your guide arrange it. A private guide also points out what most visitors miss: the unfinished Prisoners in the hall leading to the statue.

2. The Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi was designed by Giorgio Vasari for Cosimo I de’ Medici in the 1560s. It houses Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and works by Leonardo, Raphael and Caravaggio. Check opening days and tickets on the official Uffizi website. For a focused visit, ask for a private tour of the highlights; see our private tours of Florence.

3. The Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome

Florence Cathedral, topped by Brunelleschi’s dome (completed in 1436), is the city’s landmark. The climb to the top is about 463 steps and rewards you with the best view of the rooftops. Tickets and rules are listed by the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore. Giotto’s Bell Tower next door is a quieter alternative with equally good views.

4. Ponte Vecchio and the Arno

The Ponte Vecchio has carried goldsmiths’ shops since the 16th century. Cross it early in the morning or at sunset for the best light, then continue to the Oltrarno. For photo spots, read where to photograph Florence.

5. Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria

Palazzo Vecchio has been Florence’s town hall for centuries. Its Salone dei Cinquecento, secret passages and tower tell the story of the Medici. Learn more on the Florence civic museums website.

6. The Oltrarno, Boboli Gardens and artisan workshops

Across the river, the Oltrarno is where Florentine craftsmanship survives: leather, gold, paper and furniture restoration. Combine a workshop visit with the Boboli Gardens.

7. Food, wine and a cooking class

Try a bistecca alla fiorentina, lampredotto from a market stall, and a glass of Chianti Classico. For a hands-on evening, book a private Tuscan cooking class.

8. Day trips from Florence

With a third day, leave the city. Our most requested excursions are the private Chianti wine tour, Arezzo and Cortona and the Val d’Orcia. Traveling further? We also organize private tours of Rome, Venice and Milan.

Plan your visit with a private guide

Tour Florence arranges licensed guides, museum tickets, drivers and transfers, all tailored to your pace. If you also like group activities, browse Florence tours and tickets on GetYourGuide. To prepare, a good printed guide helps: Florence and Tuscany travel guides on Amazon.

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Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Florence?

Two full days cover the essentials: the Duomo, the Uffizi, the Accademia and the Oltrarno. With a third day you can add a Chianti or Siena excursion.

What is the one thing not to miss in Florence?

Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia. It is the most requested sight in the city, so book a timed entry in advance or have your private guide arrange it.

Is Florence walkable?

Yes. The historic center is compact and mostly closed to traffic (ZTL), so most sights are within a 20-minute walk. A private driver is useful for hotels outside the center and for Tuscany excursions.

What is the best time to visit Florence?

April to June and September to October offer mild weather. Winter is quiet, and museums are easier to visit.

Can I book a fully private tour in Florence?

Yes. Tour Florence arranges licensed guides, museum tickets, drivers and transfers, and tailors every itinerary to your pace and interests.