5 ideas for guided tours in Florence

• The Duomo: Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral

  Why not start with one of the most magnificent buildings in the world?
  A true blend of styles! The time taken for its construction paid off. The construction of the Duomo, or Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, began in 1296 and was completed in 1436.

  Its splendor is highlighted by its façade, adorned with beautiful marble in white, pink, and green. To fully appreciate the history and secrets of this emblematic monument, hiring a tourist guide in Florence can enhance your visit and immerse you in the past of this architectural marvel.

  The cathedral is crowned by its grand dome, which is not only its architectural symbol but also the largest in the world, with a diameter of 45 meters.

  Its magnificent doors, the Porta dei Canonici to the north and Porta del Mandorla to the south, open freely to welcome up to 20,000 visitors. These doors are adorned with finely sculpted reliefs, making them true works of art.

  Climbing to the top of the Giotto’s Bell Tower is well worth the effort. Its precisely carved statues embellish the tower, and the terrace offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

• The Ponte Vecchio

  Do you enjoy unique strolls?
  Head to the only bridge still standing since the Middle Ages. Built in 1345, it offers an unforgettable journey before you even reach it. You’ll pass through the secret passage of the Vasari Corridor, built in 1565.

  In its time, the Medici family used this passage to travel between the Palazzo Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti. From there, you’ll walk along charming streets like Via Por Santa Maria and Via Calimala.

  Another excellent route is Via Roma. One of the most famous bridges in the world, the Ponte Vecchio invites you to explore Florence’s artisanal craftsmanship in its small wooden shops. You’ll find goldsmiths, specialty gold shops, and artisan jewelers, making this a truly magical experience.

• Piazzale Michelangelo

  When we think of Italian art, Michelangelo immediately comes to mind.
  Florence is the city that best honors his masterpieces through various historical sites. One of the most remarkable is Piazzale Michelangelo, located in the Oltrarno district. Built in 1869 by the renowned architect Giuseppe Poggi, this square offers an unrivaled view of Florence.

  Perched on a hill, you can reach it on foot via the San Niccolò stairs. This splendid spot provides the most breathtaking panoramic view of the city, especially at sunset.

  While you’re there, don’t miss the romantic Giardino delle Rose (Rose Garden), located on Via di San Salvatore al Monte. This enchanting garden is home to the scents of 350 varieties of roses and over a hundred plant species from all over the world.

• Palazzo Pitti

  Originally the residence of the wealthy banker Luca Pitti, this grand palace was built in 1458. Later, the Palazzo Pitti was acquired by the powerful Medici family, becoming a symbol of Florence’s rich heritage. Today, it is one of the city’s largest museum centers.

  Inside, visitors can explore three museums and six stunning gardens. The Palatine Gallery, one of the palace’s finest attractions, perfectly embodies the Renaissance movement, showcasing around 500 paintings by artists of that era, beautifully displayed within the palace’s lavish apartments and halls.

  The palace is also home to a magical garden designed between the 16th and 19th centuries: the Boboli Gardens. As the largest green space in Florence, this breathtaking garden is adorned with numerous statues, elegant pathways, fountains, caves, and picturesque ponds.

• Mercato Centrale

  Famous markets are often renowned for representing the art of cuisine, offering a variety of traditional ingredients. Located in San Lorenzo, the Mercato Centrale was built in 1874 by architect Giuseppe Mengoni, who drew inspiration from the Halles of Paris.

  This vibrant market welcomes visitors daily, offering a wide selection of culinary delights. On the ground floor, you’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, while the first floor is dedicated to local dishes and international flavors. Here, you can embark on a journey of rich and diverse tastes.

  Just a short distance away, another open-air market awaits, filled with souvenirs, clothing, and leather goods—perfect for bringing home a piece of Florence to share with your loved ones.