Florence is renowned as one of the most cultural and historical cities in the world and is packed full of amazing architecture and places of significance. As the capital of the Tuscany region of Italy, Florence has a population of 383,000 and a wider metropolitan population of 1.5 million. This wonderful city lies in the central region of Italy and has a well developed rail network with connections to Pisa and Bologna.
During ancient history, Florence was once a Roman city and then developed into a thriving medieval commune. It is hailed as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, and throughout the 12th, 15th and 16th centuries, was one of the most important cities of the world. Notable residents of Florence included Machiavelli, Lorenzo Medici, Dante, Michelangelo, Donatello, Galileo and Raphael.
Today, tourism is undoubtedly a major part of the economy of Florence and an average of 13 million people visit the city each year. Aside from tourism, Florence has a major industrial sector and is a producer of such goods as furniture, rubber, chemicals and food. Industrial districts such as Prato-Pistoria have historically exported high-quality goods such as Vespa scooters. If you are looking for a dose of culture and want to see fantastic buildings such as the Duomo, Florence will not disappoint.
Lets explore the best things to do in Florence:
1. Florence Cathedral
Possibly the most celebrated cathedral in the world, the Duomo as it is simply known in Florence is the jewel of the city.
It was initially constructed in 1436, but the astonishing front facade wasn’t completed until the 19th century.
Located in the centre of the old city, the Duomo stands out for miles and creates an imposing sight amongst the other medieval buildings.
The exterior and front facade of the Cathedral are monumental – covered in white marble and red, pink and green polychrome designs; the colour and style is breathtaking.
Furthermore, an immense dome sits at the read of the cathedral and can be accessed via a series of steps.
Although the interior of the cathedral is quite bare in contrast, it still speaks of grandeur and has several interesting pieces such as the large clock face and the magnificent Last Judgement fresco that covers the underside of the dome.
Suggested tour: Duomo Guided Tour & Reserved Cupola Access
2. Giotto’s Campanile
Many people believe that Giotto’s Campanile is connected to the Duomo however it is a separate building in its own right.
This structure is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is one of the most renowned designs in the city.
Split into five distinct levels, the exterior of the tower features polychrome marble decoration that is also present on the Duomo in brilliant green and pink colours.
Constructed in 1334 through to 1359, the building was designed by the famous artist Giotto, but finished by Talenti who added the last levels after Giotto died 1343. A plethora of sculptures, artwork and decorated panels cover the tower and it is a true masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Aside from the decoration, you can also climb the 414 steps in the tower for fantastic views of Florence and the Duomo.
3. Palazzo Vecchio
Whilst the Duomo is the most important religious building, the Palazzo Vecchio is the most importance administrative building in Florence.
This structure stood as the palace of the Signoria of the Republic of Florence and was also a town hall in later years.
Originally built in 1299, the Palazzo was designed by the same architects that worked on the Duomo and the church of Santa Croce.
With a square design and a number of crenulations, the building almost looks like a castle; it also has a large bell tower.
On the front facade, a series of coast of arms can be seen that represent various families and important individuals relating to the history of the city.
The interior of the palace is also sublime with a series of originally decorated rooms such as The Hercules Room and The Room of Cybele.
Recommended tour: Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour
4. Ponte Vecchio
Florence is full of famous buildings and the Ponte Vecchio is an extremely famous and old bridge.
Spanning the river Arno, the Vecchio Bridge is noted for the number of shops that are built into the sides of the bridge, its decorated history and the plethora of shops that line the main walkway.
History records date the bridge as early as 996 but its true origin is unclear.
Walk onto this fantastic structure and look at the various shops and vendors – You will find jewellers, art dealers and souvenir shops.
Once at the midpoint, the bridge opens up and you are rewarded with fantastic views down the river Arno.
Aside from walking on the bridge itself also walk along the Corridoio Vasariano to see the exterior of the Ponte Vecchio and its marvellous house-like attachments.
5. Basilica of Santa Croce
Whilst the Cathedral of Florence boasts immense size, the Basilica of Santa Croce is truly beautiful and inviting.
Constructed at a similar time to the Duomo, it also features a front facade that includes pink, green and red marble polychrome panels contrasted with polished white stone.
Sitting in the Piazza di Santa Croce, the Basilica takes centre position and frames the square perfectly.
Aside from the beautiful exterior, the interior is home to the tombs of some of the most influential Renaissance artists and scholars in the world including Galileo, Michelangelo and Machiavelli.