30 Things to Do in Florence, Italy
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, overflows with artistic masterpieces, stunning architecture, and Tuscan charm, often leading visitors to believe it’s an expensive destination. However, exploring the heart of this incredible Italian city doesn’t require emptying your wallet; there are numerous fantastic free things to do in Florence, allowing you to soak up its beauty and history without spending a euro. Experiencing world-famous landmarks and breathtaking views is possible even on a tight budget.
This guide points you towards 30 specific ways you can enjoy Florence’s magic entirely free of charge. From admiring architectural wonders from the outside to discovering panoramic viewpoints and browsing lively markets, you can craft an unforgettable Florentine adventure. Get ready to explore the best of Florence without the cost.
Admire Churches and Cathedrals
Duomo Exterior (Florence Cathedral): Stand in Piazza del Duomo and marvel at the magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. Admiring Brunelleschi’s dome and the intricate marble facade from the outside is completely free and utterly awe-inspiring.
Giotto’s Bell Tower Exterior: Right next to the Duomo, gaze up at the stunning Gothic campanile. Appreciating its detailed Pisan Romanesque architecture and sculptures from ground level costs nothing.
Baptistery Doors (Exterior View): See the famous bronze doors of the Baptistery of St. John, including Lorenzo Ghiberti’s “Gates of Paradise” (replicas, originals in museum). Viewing these masterpieces from the piazza is free.
Basilica di San Miniato al Monte: Hike or take a bus up the hill to this stunning Romanesque basilica. Entry is usually free, and inside you’ll find beautiful mosaics and architecture, plus incredible city views from its terrace.
Basilica di Santo Spirito: Visit this important Renaissance church in the Oltrarno district, designed partly by Brunelleschi. Admiring its simple, elegant facade and stepping inside the main area is often free (check for specific chapels).
Orsanmichele Church & Museum (Exterior/Ground Floor): Admire the unique building, once a grain market, featuring stunning exterior sculptures by Renaissance masters (many are replicas). The ground-floor church space can often be visited for free.
Santa Felicita Church: Step inside this small church just past the Ponte Vecchio. It houses Mannerist masterpieces by Pontormo in the Capponi Chapel, often viewable for free (check current access).
Basilica della Santissima Annunziata: Explore the beautiful Baroque interior and the historic Chiostrino dei Voti (small cloister) with frescoes. Located in a lovely piazza, entry to the main church is typically free.
Enjoy Panoramic Views
Piazzale Michelangelo: Take the walk or bus ride up to this famous square for unbeatable panoramic views over Florence’s cityscape, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and surrounding hills. It’s especially magical at sunset.
Giardino delle Rose (Rose Garden): Located just below Piazzale Michelangelo, wander through this beautiful public garden. Enjoy the roses (in season) and fantastic city views; entry is always free.
San Miniato al Monte Terrace: Combine your visit to the basilica with enjoying the spectacular views from the terrace in front. It offers a slightly different, but equally stunning, perspective than Piazzale Michelangelo.
View from Ponte Santa Trinita: Stand on this elegant Renaissance bridge for classic views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. It’s a perfect spot for iconic photographs.
Explore Piazzas and Landmarks
Piazza della Signoria: Soak up the atmosphere in Florence’s main civic square, home to the Palazzo Vecchio. Admire the outdoor sculpture gallery, the Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Fountain of Neptune.
Loggia dei Lanzi: View the impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures under the arches of this open-air gallery in Piazza della Signoria. Masterpieces like Cellini’s Perseus are freely accessible here.
Palazzo Vecchio Exterior & Courtyard: Admire the imposing fortress-like exterior of Florence’s town hall. Step into the first courtyard (Cortile di Michelozzo) to see the decorated columns and fountain free of charge.
Ponte Vecchio Stroll: Walk across Florence’s oldest and most famous bridge, lined with glittering jewelry shops. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and views along the Arno River from its central arches.
Piazza della Repubblica: Visit this large 19th-century square marking the site of the city’s ancient Roman forum. Admire the Arcone triumphal arch and enjoy the lively atmosphere with its historic cafes.
Palazzo Pitti Exterior: Gaze at the massive Renaissance palace on the Oltrarno side of the river. While the numerous museums inside require tickets, admiring its impressive scale and facade is free.
Fontana del Porcellino: Find the bronze boar fountain near the Mercato Nuovo. Rub its snout for good luck and toss a coin (optional) – viewing the statue and market is free.
Discover Markets and Local Life
Mercato Centrale (Ground Floor Browsing): Explore the bustling ground floor of the Central Market. Soak up the sights and smells of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local ingredients.
San Lorenzo Market Outdoor Stalls: Wander through the extensive outdoor market surrounding the Basilica di San Lorenzo. Browse the stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs, and clothing (window shopping is free).
Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio: Experience a more local neighborhood market away from the main tourist crowds. Browse fresh produce, food items, and household goods, soaking up the authentic Florentine atmosphere.
Oltrarno Artisan Workshops (Window Shopping): Stroll through the streets of the Oltrarno district (“across the Arno”). Peer into the small workshops of artisans practicing traditional crafts like leatherworking, bookbinding, and jewelry making.
Walk Across Bridges and Along the Arno
Walk Ponte Santa Trinita: Cross this elegant bridge designed with input from Michelangelo. Enjoy the graceful arches and beautiful views of the river and the Ponte Vecchio.
Stroll Lungarni (Arno Riverbanks): Take peaceful walks along the embankments lining the Arno River. Enjoy different perspectives of the city’s bridges and buildings reflecting in the water.
Find Art and Hidden Gems
Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella: Step inside one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, located near the Santa Maria Novella church. Browsing the historic sales rooms with their frescoes and potpourri scents is free and atmospheric.
Street Art Spotting: Keep an eye out for contemporary street art, particularly in the Oltrarno district and other areas outside the immediate historic center. Discovering murals by artists like Clet Abraham (altered street signs) is part of the fun.
Admire Renaissance Palace Exteriors: Wander streets like Via Tornabuoni or Via de’ Ginori. Admire the impressive facades of numerous Renaissance palaces, such as Palazzo Strozzi or Palazzo Medici Riccardi, from the outside.
Attend Free Events/Concerts: Check local listings (Firenze Spettacolo, university boards) for occasional free concerts, lectures, or events. Churches sometimes host free organ recitals or musical performances.
Explore Piazza Santo Spirito: Hang out in this lively piazza in the Oltrarno. Enjoy the local vibe, browse the occasional market stalls, and admire the simple facade of the Santo Spirito basilica.
