Thanks to the influences of the Medici family, Florence is a city overflowing with art and history. The Medici contributed more than any other family to the Renaissance movement as a patron to artists such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Sandro Botticelli. You’ll see the Medici influence as you wander through the art museums in Florence, marvel at the beauty of the Duomo, and walk past buildings commissioned by the family. Keep reading for insights on the must-see attractions in Florence, history tidbits, finding the best gelato, and tips on where to stay.
The Medici House: Influential Patrons of Renaissance Art and Culture
The Medici family rose to prominence in the 12th century after relocating from Cafaggiolo to Florence. Cosimo de’ Medici, the family’s famous patriarch, used his clever (and perhaps deceitful) banking and commerce tactics to propel the dynasty to success. This enabled them to wield significant influence over the art and politics of Florence for over two centuries. The family’s power and reach went beyond Florence, producing four popes and two queens.
Cosimo de’ Medici founded a small museum when he moved the Florentine administrative offices to the building now known as the Uffizi Gallery. His grandson, Lorenzo de’ Medici, earned the title Lorenzo the Magnificent due to his significant role as a political and diplomatic figure in Florence. His impact on the Renaissance art movement was immense.
Although many artists resided in the Palazzo Medici (Riccardi), Lorenzo brought up a young Michelangelo Buonarroti as part of the family in the Medici palace. I highly recommend adding this palace to your list of places to visit while in Florence!
Florence’s Art Museums and Galleries
The Renaissance era in Italy was made possible with the significant funding from the Medici family. When compiling your list of must-see places in Florence, it is worth acknowledging the Medici family’s contribution. I recommend including some of the art galleries below in your itinerary.
Uffizi Gallery (Le Gallerie Degli Uffizi)
Include the Uffizi Gallery on your Florence itinerary to admire its impressive collections and the stunning building itself. Be sure to find these well-known pieces during your visit.
• Birth of Venus by Botticelli (this one moved my daughter to tears)
• Primavera by Botticelli
• Medusa by Caravaggio
• Annunciation by Da Vinci
• Madonna Del Cardellino by Raphael
• Self-Portraits by Rembrandt
• Venus of Urvino by Titian
• Doni Tondo by Michelangelo
Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)
The Medici family acquired the Palazzo Pitti in 1549, which was considered the most luxurious villa in Florence during its time. In the 18th century, the Palatine Gallery was opened to the public and became a popular attraction for aristocrats and artists.
Travel Tip:
If you plan on visiting during the warmer months, it’s recommended to start your day at the Boboli Gardens when they open and then explore the museums and art exhibits afterwards.
Some of the must-see works of art you can find in the Pitti Palace are:
• Judith with the Head of Holofernes by Allori
• Woman with a Veil by Raphael
• Portraits of Agnolo and Maddalena Doni by Raphael
• Madonna with Child by Dolci
• Portrait of Prince Waldemar Christian of Denmark by Sustermans
• The Bartolini Tondo by Lippi
Accademia Gallery of Florence (Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze)
The building was originally opened by the Medici family as an art academy. Young Renaissance artists came here to master their craft. The original statue of David by Michelangelo is housed in this gallery. The statues displayed in Piazza Michelangelo and Piazza della Signoria are replicas. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance for this museum as it is a popular tourist destination. Make sure to visit the Hall of Prisoners to see other works by Michelangelo. Other notable works include:
• Rape of Sabines by Giambologna
• Coronation of the Virgin by Cione
• Tree of Life by Bonaguida
• Trinity by Cione
• Plaster casts by Bartolini
Top Things to Do and See in Florence
The Iconic Florence Duomo: A Must-See Landmark (Opera di Santa Maria Del Fiore)
The Duomo di Firenze is the most iconic landmark within the city walls, and it took 140 years to build. The Medici Family commissioned it to glorify their Christian faith, and Cosimo chose Filippo Brunelleschi to build what would be the largest masonry dome in history. The frescos of Vasari, Borghini, and Zuccari painted on the Duomo’s interior are breathtaking and worth the effort of the 463-step climb.
When purchasing tickets, opt for the Brunelleschi Pass, which gives you access to every part of the cathedral. The ancient Basilica of Santa Reparata founded in the early 5th century is an unexpected gem for history enthusiasts, and you don’t need a guided tour to explore it. If you plan to stay in Florence for a while, the pass is valid for three consecutive days, giving you the flexibility to visit during quieter times of the day and avoid the crowds.
Although entrance into the cathedral is free, the line to access it from the North Door is usually very long. By purchasing tickets granting access to the Duomo or Santa Reparata, you can enter through other doors and save time waiting in line.
Exploring Florence’s Hidden Gems
The Laurentian Library, also known as the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, is a hidden gem in Florence. It is located next to the Basilica of San Lorenzo and houses some of the most unique manuscripts in the world. The building is an architectural masterpiece, showcasing designs by Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, and Ammannati, commissioned by the Medici family.
The National Archeological Museum of Florence is a must-see destination for history lovers. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Etruscan, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations, as well as art collections from the Lorraine and Medici families. Plan to spend about two hours exploring the museum but be aware of the limited operating hours. If you’re interested in visiting the Necropolis Garden, note that it is only accessible on Saturday mornings.
Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is a unique spot to visit in Florence. This former friar’s convent, which was converted into an apothecary and later a perfumery, is the perfect place to purchase high-end souvenirs. You can still find the original scent created in 1533 by Catherine de’ Medici as a gift for her future husband, Henry II of Valois, the future King of France. If you’re not a fan of the Acqua Della Regina, there are many other scents to choose from while you explore this historic building.
If you’re not interested in perfume, head over to the leather district located in the Mercato Centrale or San Lorenzo Market for more shopping options. Florence is known for its high-quality leather goods, thanks to its surrounding cattle lands in Tuscany and trade schools within the city. You’ll probably notice the earthy scent of leather before you even get to the market. Don’t be intimidated by the vendors who will try to convince you to buy from their shop instead of their competitors. Enjoy the attention and take your time. You may even be able to negotiate a better price if you pay in cash, though most vendors will accept cards.
Cheap or Free Things to Do in Florence
Grab some gelato and make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the highest points in the city. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the Florence skyline at sunset without having to climb all the stairs to the top of the terrace. But if you arrive a bit earlier, you can also visit the cemetery, and the rose and iris gardens before you find a perfect spot to take in the free view.
Another great attraction to check out is the Santa Maria Novella church (Opera per Santa Maria Novella), which has an inexpensive entrance fee. While the amazing frescos and architecture were expected, I was taken aback by the cemetery and memorials lining the walls. Appreciating the privilege of my surroundings, and being present in so much history made time seem to stand still.
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Tuscany Delights: Experience Florence’s Food Scene
When you travel to Italy, food is one of the most important aspects of your trip. It is essential to know the specialties of the region you are visiting. Florence is located in the Tuscany region, and its cuisine is centered around fresh and simple ingredients. During your visit, make sure to try some of the Tuscan dishes to get the full experience.
• Fettunta (bread)
• Panzanella (salad)
• Antipasto with finnochiona, prosciutto and cheese. Paired with crisp white wine.
• Pappardelle al Sugo di Cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce)
• Potato Tortelli (ravioli)
• Panini (yes, the sandwich)
• Cantucci con Vin Santo (dessert with holy wine)
The Quest for the Best Gelato in Florence
I have a weakness for gelato no matter which Italian city I visit, but Florence has some of the best gelaterias that I’ve ever been to. Gelato’s origins are often attributed to Florence, however other Italian cities dispute this belief. Unfortunately, the best gelato I found in Florence is not in the city center, but rather very close to the airport. This means I couldn’t enjoy it as much as I wanted to. If you’re in Florence, be sure to visit these little gems:
• La Strega Nocciola Gelateria Artigianale – southeast from south side of Ponte Vecchio
• Gelateria Edoardo il gelato biologico – southeast side of the Duomo
• Gelateria la Rotonda del Borgo – south of the Florence airport
• Gelateria de’ Medici – by the airport, or on the east of the city center on the southwest side of Pizza Cesare Beccaria
• Perchè No – a few blocks north of Pizza della Signoria
• Badiani – between the Duomo and Piazza della Repubblica
It is best to avoid any gelateria that serves colorful gelato piled high. This is usually an indication that the gelato is loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives. For fresh ingredients, the gelato should have a natural color and be kept in covered stainless steel containers to maintain its coldness.
Choosing the Perfect Location to Stay in Florence
Florence is a highly walkable city, making it easy to access most of the major points of interest on foot. If you want to stay in the best area of Florence, it is recommended to choose a location within the city center triangle formed by the Arno River and the SS67 freeway. This way, you’ll have easy access to the attractions mentioned above, as well as the public transportation hub if you plan to take a day trip from Florence.
It’s worth noting that Florence is home to many beautiful churches, and you will hear their bells ringing day and night from your hotel room. However, if you choose to stay in a hotel near the Duomo, you’ll be able to explore less crowded streets in the early morning and evening, which is perfect for taking great pictures. The inconvenience of adapting to the chiming of bells is definitely worth it.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Avoiding the Florence Crowds
Florence may not be located on the coast, but it is a popular destination for cruisers, with around 1.5 million visitors heading there each year after porting in Livorno or La Spezia. As a result, the midday hours can be quite crowded with tourists. However, you can avoid the large crowds by visiting popular attractions like the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery at the earliest available times or later in the day. Just ensure that you give yourself enough time before closing to see everything without feeling rushed. You should also purchase tickets beforehand from the museum’s website to avoid standing in long queues. Some ticket options, such as at the Uffizi Gallery, offer early bird access or skip-the-line tickets, so make sure to explore these options as well.
During the busiest hours of the day, it’s best to explore the hidden gems and smaller museums, which are likely to be much less crowded. Alternatively, you can find a seat in a Piazza to enjoy a snack and people-watch before heading back to your hotel for a rest. You can then prepare for your visit to one of the popular museums later in the day when the crowds have dispersed. Finish your day with a late dinner and a stroll through the quiet streets. Note that restaurants stay open much later than in the States, so taking a midday rest can be quite helpful.
Fun Facts:
• Galileo Galilei tutored the Medici children for many years and named the four large moons of Jupiter after 4 of them. (Not in current use)
• The Pitti Palace houses the largest collection of Raphael paintings in the world.
• The Ponte Vecchio bridge is the only bridge in Florence not destroyed in WWII.
• Dante is responsible for the Italian language we know today. His poems were written in the Florentine dialect which became the basis for the modern Italian language.
• Although we think of Milan as the fashion capital of Italy, Florence boasts of many fashion icon beginnings such as Gucci and Ferragamo.
Florence is a city that seamlessly weaves the legacy of the Medici family into its very fabric with its captivating history, art, and Florentine culture. As you wander through the art museums, take in the splendor of the Duomo, and explore the treasures commissioned by the Medici, you’ll discover a city that’s been profoundly influenced by its patrons. From the Medici Palace to the renowned Uffizi Gallery, the Medici’s fingerprints are everywhere, allowing you to step back in time and appreciate their monumental contribution to the Renaissance movement.
While exploring, make sure to savor the local cuisine and, of course, indulge in the quest for the best gelato in Florence. Believed by some to have its origins here, gelato is a sweet treat you won’t want to miss.
To make the most of your visit, it’s crucial to know the tricks for avoiding the Florence crowds. Purchase tickets in advance, consider skip-the-line options and explore the hidden gems during quieter hours.
Now, it’s your turn to embark on this remarkable journey. Explore Florence’s rich tapestry of history and culture, savor the finest gelato, and uncover the city’s hidden treasures while remembering the Medici family’s immense influence and the wonders they left behind. Unleash your inner explorer and spark a sense of wanderlust in others by sharing this page with them. Discover the enchanting city of Florence and inspire others to experience the magic of this extraordinary destination firsthand.
Leave a comment below if this guide has helped you plan your own Italy itinerary! Florence awaits your exploration!
