Florence Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about Florence Tours & Trips

• What are the must-visit spots for first-time visitors to Florence?

  Florence's historic center contains key landmarks that define the city's Renaissance heritage. Start at the Duomo complex which includes the main cathedral with its red-tiled Brunelleschi dome the white marble bell tower by Giotto and the Baptistery known for the Gates of Paradise. The Uffizi Gallery displays essential Renaissance art while the Accademia Gallery houses Michelangelo's David statue. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The views from Piazzale Michelangelo over Florence were absolutely breathtaking and exploring the Ponte Vecchio at sunset was magical." For convenient access book a stay at Hotel Executive or Hotel Plaza Lucchesi near these main sites.

• What's the best time of year to visit Florence?

  Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide the most pleasant conditions for exploring Florence with moderate temperatures and fewer tourists than summer. The peak months of June through August bring temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) along with the largest crowds. Visitor data shows most travelers come between April and October with September as a particular favorite. One TourRadar traveler shared: "We visited in early October and had perfect weather for walking tours and outdoor cafes in Piazza della Signoria."

• What unique food experiences should I try in Florence?

  The San Lorenzo market area offers authentic Florentine cuisine and food experiences. Local specialties include the Bistecca alla Fiorentina a thick T-bone steak ribollita a traditional vegetable soup and various crostini appetizers. Cooking classes in countryside villas let visitors learn regional techniques. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "Our cooking class near Florence was incredible - we learned to make authentic pasta and tiramisu in a beautiful farmhouse setting." The surrounding Chianti region provides wine tasting opportunities while the Sant'Ambrogio market showcases fresh local ingredients.

• What's the best way to explore Florence's art scene?

  The city's artistic heritage centers around its renowned museums and historic churches. The Uffizi Gallery contains works by Renaissance masters like Botticelli Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. The Accademia Gallery focuses on Michelangelo including his famous David statue. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Having a guide at the Uffizi made all the difference - their insights into the Renaissance artworks brought everything to life." Hotel Villa Rosa near Santa Maria Novella provides convenient museum access. Advance booking is essential especially from May through September.

• What day trips are possible from Florence?

  Florence's central location makes it ideal for exploring Tuscany. Popular destinations include Siena (1 hour by train) San Gimignano (1.5 hours) and Pisa (1 hour). According to a TourRadar traveler: "The day trip to Siena and San Gimignano was a highlight - the medieval architecture and Tuscan countryside views were spectacular." Many tours combine visits to medieval towns with stops in the Chianti wine region. Tours typically depart from Santa Maria Novella station or Piazzale Montelungo bus terminal.

• How walkable is Florence for tourists?

  The compact nature of Florence's historic center makes it ideal for walking exploration. Most major sites lie within a 20-30 minute walk from each other concentrated around the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. A TourRadar traveler confirmed: "The city's small size made it easy to explore everything on foot from the Ponte Vecchio to the Boboli Gardens." The shopping and dining district along Via Tornabuoni and Via della Vigna Nuova stays within easy walking distance from central hotels like Hotel Plaza Lucchesi.