Florence
Italy
Backpacking Florence
Information on Florence, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
On the banks of the Arno River in the region of Tuscany, you’ll find a city that has shaped almost every aspect of modern Western civilization. Florence is the home of the Renaissance, a city bursting with cultural, historical, and political significance. Between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries, Florence was perhaps the most significant city in Europe. This is where opera and ballet were first performed. Dante, Galileo, Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci are just a handful of the figures whose lives were intertwined with Florence. On a backpacking trip to Florence, you’ll have the opportunity to visit loads of museums, art galleries, churches, and basilicas. The Uffizi Gallery, Italy’s best-attended art museum, requires at least a few hours to explore, if not a full day. The Piazzale Michelangelo offers views across the entire city. All this exploration requires good food to keep you exploring, and this is one area where Florence shines. The coffee here is among the best, and along with incredible sandwiches and gelato, you’ll be all set for hours of sightseeing. After a day of wandering Florence’s streets, gazing at gorgeous architecture, and taking in Renaissance masterpieces, there’s no better way to wind down than with a glass of Tuscan wine. Florence is a city where culture is packed tightly into the winding streets and enchanting piazzas.
Must See
Piazza del Duomo - With its iconic red-brick dome, the Duomo dominates the city skyline. Duomo is Italian for 'cathedral'; the actual name for this world-famous Renaissance church is the 'Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore'. The other main two structures within the piazza include Saint John’s Baptistry with notable bronze doors, and the Opera del Duomo, home to many of the original works of art created for the cathedral.
Ponte Vecchio - The Ponte Vecchio is one of the world’s most famous bridges and was the only bridge across the Arno river in Florence until 1218. Characterized by its three arches, the pedestrian-only bridge is renowned for its multitude of craft shops. If you’re looking for souvenirs, these stalls are known for selling the most elegant gold and jewelry in the city. In the middle of the Ponte Vecchio, the Vasari corridor links the Piazza Signoria to the Palazzo Pitti. This enormous palace is one of Florence's most significant architectural monuments and is home to a vast collection of Florentine art.
Piazzale Michelangelo - For the best view of the city and a great way to end your day in Florence head here for a beer or glass of wine. It’s a bit of a hike but the Piazzale Michelangelo has the best view in the city and the Duomo is right in front of you from this view point.
The David - The Galleria dell'Accademia is home to Michelangelo's David. This marble masterpiece is a wonder to behold; it depicts the biblical hero, David, before his famous battle with Goliath. As one of the most important works of the Renaissance, David showcases Michelangelo’s skill for human-like detail. The gallery also houses a magnificent collection of paintings from the 14th- and 15th-century.
Must Do
All locations below are 1hr from Florence
Day Trip to Pisa - Home to the world’s most famous leaning tower,Pisa is famous across the globe with thanks to its slanting foundation. While most tourists tend to stick to the sights of the ‘Campo dei Miracoli’ (the Field of Miracles), the actual city of Pisa is often overlooked. After taking your own photo of the iconic tower, wander off to experience the vibrant atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and attractive architecture that lies beyond.
Day Trip to San Gimignano - Characterized by its 13th-century city walls and collection of soaring house towers. This well-preserved medieval town offers a host of museums, quaint cafes, wine bars, and local delicacy shops, which sell goods produced in Tuscany. Here you can also walk around the 14th-century fortress ruins and rest beneath the shade of its scenic olive groves.
Day Trip to Siena - A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, Siena is a popular day trip from Florence. Among its attractions is Piazza del Campo, considered to be one of Europe’s most magnificent medieval squares. Wander through this medieval oasis, and you’ll find an array of fascinating sights, from historic architecture and churches to bustling squares with local performers and artists. Climb the steep steps of the Torre del Mangia for the most spectacular views of this famous city.
Nightlife
The biggest nightlife in Florence is generally found in the city center. Popular spots to drink are found around Santa Croce and the Piazza del Republica. If you want to drink like the locals, then the best place to drink in Florence is Santo Spirito. At night the piazza is crowded with locals with bars opening and tables appearing in the square. Florence is not well known for clubbing but it does allow you to take your drink to go so enjoy walking the streets with a beer in hand.
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