Florence travel guide: what to know before you go

Best time to visit

April to June and September to October are the best months. July and August are hot and crowded, with strong afternoon sun in the narrow streets. Winter is cool and quiet, though some days are wet.

Easter and the May to June period are busy. The Uffizi is closed on Mondays, and other museums close on Mondays too, so check before you plan.

How many days you need

Two full days cover the Duomo complex, the Uffizi, the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo's David, the Ponte Vecchio and a walk through the Oltrarno district.

Three days leaves room for Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset, the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, and a half-day trip to Siena or Pisa.

Getting from the airport to the centre

Florence airport (FLR) is small and close to the city. The T2 tram runs from the airport to the Santa Maria Novella station area in about 17 minutes and on to Piazza San Marco, near the Duomo, in about 30 minutes. A shuttle bus and taxis are also available.

Many international travellers arrive at Pisa airport (PSA). The PisaMover shuttle links the airport to Pisa Centrale station, and a regional train then runs to Florence Santa Maria Novella in about one hour. Bologna airport is another option with a longer ride by train.

Getting around

The historic centre is small and best done on foot. Most sights are within a 20-minute walk of each other. Local buses and trams help for the hills and for places outside the centre, such as Piazzale Michelangelo.

Do not drive in the centre. A restricted traffic zone called the ZTL covers the old city, and cameras issue fines to cars that enter without a permit, including rental cars. Hotels can tell you where to park outside the zone.

Where to stay

The Duomo and Centro Storico area suits first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere, but it is busy and noisy. The area near Santa Maria Novella station is convenient for trains and day trips and has many mid-range hotels. Santa Croce has a local feel and many restaurants. The Oltrarno, south of the river, is quieter and suits travellers who like workshops, small restaurants and a calmer evening.

What to book in advance

The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery both sell out, so reserve a time slot ahead. The cathedral itself is free to enter. The dome, the Giotto bell tower, the baptistery and the Duomo museum need a pass from the Opera del Duomo, and the dome visit has a set time. Book the dome first, then plan the rest of the day around it.

The Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens are easier to visit without a long wait.

Common mistakes to avoid

Booking only one day. Florence is small but rich, and one day is rushed.

Visiting the Uffizi at midday in summer without a reservation. Queues can be very long.

Eating near the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio without checking the menu. Walk a few streets away for better value.

Driving into the centre and getting a ZTL fine weeks later.

Wearing worn-out flat shoes. The streets are paved with stone and you will walk a lot.

Money, tipping and practical notes

Italy uses the euro. Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, and a little cash is useful for small cafés. Tipping is not expected. Many people round up or leave a few coins for good service.

Some restaurants add a coperto, a small cover charge per person. The plug type is C, F and L, at 230 volts. Hotels add a city tourist tax per night. Check the official Italian government site for visa rules.

Facts on this page were last checked in November 2026. Routes, rules and opening days change, so confirm important details with the official source before you travel.

Things to do in Florence