Florence invented the Renaissance. Michelangelo's David, Botticelli's Birth of Venus, and the Duomo's dome all emerged from this small city's genius. Walk the same streets as Leonardo, Dante, and the Medicis, and feel history in every stone. Florence is compact, making it easy to see major sights in a few days. But the real pleasure is slowing down: a long lunch with Chianti, gelato in a piazza, sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. Flight deals to Florence or Pisa (an hour away) appear regularly on budget carriers.
Best Time to Fly to Florence
Peak Season
April through June and September through October have ideal weather and maximum crowds. Easter is especially busy.
Off Season (Best Deals)
November through February is cooler but significantly quieter. January and February are best for avoiding crowds.
Spring (April to May) is pleasant at 60-75°F with occasional rain. Summer (June to August) is hot at 80-95°F. Fall (September to October) cools to 65-80°F. Winter (November to February) is mild at 40-55°F.
💡Book Uffizi and Accademia tickets weeks ahead in peak season. They sell out. Winter visits rarely need advance booking.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Florence
Cheapest Months
January, February, November
Most Expensive
April, May, June, September, October
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Must-Try Foods in Florence
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
Massive T-bone steak from Chianina cattle, grilled rare over wood fire. Served by weight and meant for sharing. Buca Mario and Trattoria Mario are traditional choices. Order it bloody; that's the only way.
$50-80 for 2
Lampredotto
Tripe sandwich from street carts is Florence's true local food. The fourth stomach of a cow, simmered and served on bread with salsa verde. Find carts near Sant'Ambrogio market. Locals swear by it.
$4-6
Ribollita
Thick Tuscan bread soup with white beans, kale, and vegetables. Hearty peasant food that warms winter nights. Every trattoria has their version. Simple, filling, and genuinely Florentine.
$10-15
Top Attractions in Florence
Uffizi Gallery
One of the world's greatest art museums has Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Primavera, Michelangelo, Raphael, and more. Book timed tickets far ahead. Allow 3-4 hours minimum. Go early.
Accademia (David)
Michelangelo's David is here, and it's worth the hype. The 17-foot marble sculpture is breathtaking up close. The museum has other Michelangelo works too. Book ahead; lines are brutal.
Duomo & Brunelleschi's Dome
The cathedral dome revolutionized architecture. Climb 463 steps for city views and close-up frescoes. Book dome tickets online. The baptistery doors and museum add context. Essential Florence.
Daily Costs in Florence
Florence is moderate for a major tourist destination. Museum tickets add up but food is reasonable. Hotels are cheaper than Venice or Rome. Budget $100-140 per day.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$80-130
Mid-Range
$140-250
Airbnb
$100-180
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$8-15
Restaurant
$20-40
Coffee
$2-4
Transport
Local Transport
$1.50-2/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$100-160
Getting Around Florence
From the Airport
From Florence Airport (FLR): Tramvia T2 runs to the center in 20 minutes for $1.70. Taxis cost $25-30. From Pisa (PSA): trains run hourly to Florence Santa Maria Novella, taking 60-80 minutes for $10-15.
Getting Around
Florence's centro storico is small and entirely walkable. Buses cover outer areas. No metro or trams in the center. Taxis are useful for luggage or rain. You'll walk everywhere.
Tips
- •Everything is walkable. The centro storico takes 20 minutes to cross. Don't bother with transit.
- •Fly into Pisa if it's cheaper. The train to Florence is easy and scenic.
Where to Stay in Florence
Duomo / Centro
The cathedral, major museums, and Piazza della Signoria are walking distance. Tourist-heavy but essential. Stay here for convenience to everything. Classic Florence.
Santa Croce / Sant'Ambrogio
The basilica area has bars and restaurants popular with locals and students. Sant'Ambrogio market is excellent. More authentic evening energy than the tourist center.
Oltrarno
South of the Arno river, artisan workshops, the Pitti Palace, and Piazzale Michelangelo define this area. Less touristy with genuine Florentine character. Excellent restaurants and sunset views.
Smart Travel Tips for Florence
FAQs About Flights to Florence
Florence is moderate. Budget $100-140 per day. Museum tickets add up ($20-30 each) but food is reasonable. Hotels are cheaper than Venice. Avoid tourist trap restaurants near major piazzas.
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