One of the “big three” cities to visit in Italy, Florence has majestic sites and lines that are nearly as impressive. There are crowds of tourist, but plenty to see and getting an early start and late finish to your day is a must if you’re trying to fit it all in. This is a list of the most common places to visit in Florence as you make your travel plans.
Remember that these are popular and therefore going to be rather crowded all year, although they will be more crowded in the summer months. If you don’t enjoy the press of the other tourists all day long, break these big events up over several days and give yourself time to relax in less ambitious venues on alternating days.
Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria
The center of Florence, the piazza is the hub of the city since the Dark Ages. The piazza has a nearby museum that holds a copy of the statue of David and other important pieces. The piazza also has beautiful features in its own right. The Palazzo is home to some intricately designed restrooms and private apartments that are open for tours if you plan ahead.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Duomo in Florence is its most famous sight. This beautiful Gothic cathedral took almost 150 years to be created. It was begun in 1296 and completed in 1436. The church can hold twenty thousand people and always contains masterpieces of art and construction.
The Baptistery of John the Baptist
John the Baptist is one of the oldest building in Florence. Green and white marble are set beside three sets of (replica) ancient bronze doors. The building dates back to the 11th century and you’ll find beautiful mosaics and marble designs inside.
Ponte Vecchio
The Old Bridge of Florence dates back to 1345 and is the only bridge to survive from Florence’s medieval days. The bridge is lined with shops that specialize in gold and silver jewelry. Walk the bridge for a feeling of ancient history and get terrific views of the surrounding city.
Giotto’s Campanile
The bell tower near the Duomo is beautiful in its own right, but paying for a ticket and climbing the stairs is what makes the tower most impressive. 414 stairs take you up over the city of Florence and let you experience breath-taking views of what makes this city so famous. Be aware, however, that there are no lifts in the building.
And if you desire moving around the monuments, discovering detailed information about them, contact a professional Florence tourist guide!
