Discover Florence: A Local’s Take on Beauty, Food & Life in Tuscany

Florence is a city that feels just right — whether you’re here for a day or two, or lucky enough to call it home for a while. Every corner breathes art and history, yet life here moves gently: people sip espresso in sunlit piazzas, street musicians play by the Arno, and the air smells of freshly baked pastries.

It’s a city that’s both walkable and wonderfully rich — full of masterpieces, delicious food, and timeless beauty. In a couple of days, you can see its highlights; stay longer, and you’ll uncover quiet courtyards, hidden artisan shops, and the rhythm of true Florentine life.

Florence — or Firenze, as italians call it — is a city where history and beauty meet on every corner. Once the cradle of the Renaissance, it was home to the Medici family, whose love for art and science shaped the city into what it is today.

At the very heart of the city stands the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Its terracotta dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the world. No matter how many times you see it, it still feels magical — especially when the evening light turns it golden.

A short stroll away lies the Ponte Vecchio, the iconic bridge crossing the Arno River. Once filled with butchers’ stalls, it’s now lined with tiny jewelry shops that sparkle in the sun. It’s one of those places where you can pause, watch the river flow, and really feel the rhythm of the city.

Florentine cuisine is quite simple. The famous bistecca alla fiorentina, the hearty ribollita soup, and the sweet cantucci dipped in vin santo all tell stories of Tuscan tradition. Meals here are slow and joyful, shared with friends and plenty of good wine.

I’ve been living in Florence for over half a year now, and it’s a place that keeps surprising me — with its beauty, its flavors, and its small, quiet corners that you only find when you stop rushing. I’m happy to share my favorite spots and experiences, and I hope this guide helps you plan your own trip to this incredible city.

Tip: On the first Sunday of every month, entry to many state museums in Florence is free! But expect long lines — come early and bring patience.

Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi is one of the world’s greatest art galleries — a temple of Renaissance genius. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. Don’t miss: - The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Botticelli - Annunciation by Simone Martini & Lippo Memmi - The Medici collection of classical sculptures - The famous Tribuna Room, designed by Buontalenti for the Medici family’s most precious works

Recently, the Vasari Corridor — a secret elevated passage connecting the Uffizi with the Pitti Palace via Ponte Vecchio — reopened to visitors, offering a unique walk through centuries of art and power.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Smaller and more intimate than the Uffizi, this gallery is home to Michelangelo’s David, a symbol of Florence and the Renaissance ideal of human perfection. Standing over 5 meters tall, it’s breathtaking in its detail and scale.

Beyond David, the gallery displays Michelangelo’s unfinished Prisoners — sculptures that seem to emerge from marble itself — as well as paintings by Florentine masters from the 14th–16th centuries.

Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens

Once the grand residence of the Medici family, the Pitti Palace is a vast and elegant complex housing the Palatine Gallery, Royal Apartments, and Gallery of Modern Art. The interior blends royal opulence with artistic splendor.

Behind it lies the Boboli Gardens — an open-air museum of sculptures, fountains, grottos, and panoramic terraces overlooking Florence. Highlights include the Buontalenti Grotto, Neptune Fountain, and serene shaded paths perfect for wandering.

Orsanmichele

A smaller but unique spot that combines architecture, sculpture, and spirituality. Originally a grain market turned church, it now serves as a museum. From its windows, you get a beautiful view of the Duomo’s dome — a hidden gem worth a short visit.

Vivoli — one of Florence’s oldest gelaterias. Try their affogato!

Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella — a historic pharmacy and perfumery founded in 1612. It’s part museum, part boutique, and entirely magical. The perfect place to buy an elegant Florentine souvenir.

Giunti Odeon — a beautiful cinema-bookshop hybrid showing films in English and Italian, surrounded by books, art, and cozy corners.

AquaFlor Firenze — a refined, locally owned perfumery tucked in a historic palazzo. Step inside for artisan fragrances, soaps, and candles — all made in Florence.

Gino’s Bakery — stop here for their cannolo — the best in town!

Basilica di Santa Croce — beyond its stunning façade, this is the resting place of Italy’s greats: Galileo Galilei, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli among others.

Giardino delle Rose — a rose garden just below Piazzale Michelangelo, with sculptures, blooming terraces, and the perfect picnic view over Florence.

Giardino Bardini — another tranquil garden with wisteria tunnels and sweeping city views — less crowded than Boboli, equally beautiful.

Living here has shown me that Florence isn’t a city to be rushed. It’s best enjoyed slowly — with long walks, unplanned detours, and time to simply sit and watch the world go by. Every corner hides something special, and every day you can discover a new favorite spot.

I hope this guide helps you experience Florence the way I have — not just as a destination, but as a feeling. Take your time, look up often, and let the city work its quiet magic on you.