Take The Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Florence, Italy

Get ready to lace up your most comfortable sneakers and embark on a journey through the heartbeat of the Renaissance — Florence, Italy! Personally, I enjoy wandering around a city when I am traveling, and that is when I find treasures within the city. This is why I am sharing a self-guided walking tour of Florence 🇮🇹✈️.

Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets, gelato in one hand, camera in the other, capturing the essence of a city that’s like stepping into a living museum. 🍦📸 So, dust off that wanderlust, grab your “I ❤️ Florence” tee (JK don’t do that), and let me be your virtual guide through this spectacular self-guided walking tour. Andiamo! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Hey, before I share some great free info, could you help me out by using my affiliate links to book your trip? It doesn’t cost you anything, and it supports my blog. Let’s keep the good vibes flowing! Thanks a bunch!

🌟 1. Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (AKA The Duomo)

First stop, and what a jaw-dropper! 🤩 The Duomo Cathedral is a Renaissance masterpiece! Completed in 1465, this magnificent structure still stands as the world’s largest masonry dome that is a feat of engineering as it stands completely self-supporting. Contruction started in 1296 and took almost 170 years for it to be completed. With a facade that looks like it’s made from the marble of dreams, you can also see the famous fresco “Dante and the Divine Comedy” by Comenico di Michelino.

If you’d like to get an up-close and personal view of this masterpiece, you can climb 450 steps on the narrow winding staircase that circles the Dome’s interior. Trust me it is worth the “Stairmaster” workout you’ll get! And for the brave at heart, climb the dome for a view that screams “I’m never leaving Florence!” 🏰💖

🌟 2. Campanile di Giotto

Right next to our beloved Duomo stands the Campanile di Giotto, the famous Bell Tower of Giotto. Created after its namesake, Giotto di Bondone was widely regarded the first line of great Italian artists during the Renaissance. Standing at 85 meters it is truly a magnificent structure celebrating Florentine Gothic architecture. Another reason to pack good shoes on your trip to Florence, the views from the top of the 414-stair climb are totally worth it. Sketchy cardio session plus unforgettable selfies? Yes, please! 🧗‍♂️😍

🌟 3. Casa di Dante

Imagine texting from the actual house of Dante Alighieri! 📖🔥 This museum is a love letter to the man who basically invented Italian, so prepare to get poetic amidst the history. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to caption your pics with something deep. #FeelingDante 😌📝

🌟 4. Palazzo del Bargello

Ready for a throwback? The Palazzo del Bargello looks like it came straight out of your fave historical drama film. 🏛️✨ Also known as the People’s Palace “Palazzo del Popolo”, it is one of the city’s oldest structures. Dating back to 1255 this building has had a mirad of uses throughout its long history. Including a “police station” in the 16th century, then as a prison till the 19th century and now a museum boasting some serious Renaissance sculptures like Michelangelo’s “David” and other renowned work by artist like Verrochio, Brunelleschi and Donatello.

🌟 5. Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio

This square is the heart of the city (second only to the Piazza del Duomo)! This square has held a major historical importance since the Roman times when the city was a small town called Florentia. Back then it was surrounded by a theater, Roman baths and a textile workshop. Over time a church, a looggia and a huge 5th century basillica was later added (which were found by excavations in the 1980s). It’s like the VIP lounge of Florence, minus the bouncer. 🎉 With sculptures that are magnificent feats of artistry and the Palazzo Vecchio standing guard, it’s the perfect place to play pretend as Florentine royalty. Crown and scepter, optional! 👑

🌟 6. Galleria degli Uffizi

Art lovers, try not to faint! 🎨😲 The Uffizi is where Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo hang out (their art, not them – sorry!). This is where, of you had to choose ONE museum to go to during your time in Florence, this is the one! This galleria was originally used as the office of the Magistrates (thus the name Uffizi). At the same time it was also used to house the art collection of the Medici Family until 1765. You can still see these remarkable collections in the Galleria today. So, get ready to art-nerd out HARD. 🤓🖼

🌟 7. Ponte Vecchio

Welcome to one of the most iconic sights of Florence and Tuscany. The Old Bridge! The first documentation of the bridge used for the first time 996. Of all the six bridges that cross the river Arno, the Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge where the Germans retreated across it in 1944.

Still lined with shops today you can buy almost anything! Art, jewelry, souvenirs! Fair warning though to keep you bags close to you and nothing in your back pockets. When the bridge is crowded it is a pickpocket’s dream! Let me save you the heartache that would taint your love of the beautiful city of Florence with a bad memory.

🌟 8. Palazzo Pitti & Giardino dei Boboli

Fancy a bit of palace life? The Palazzo Pitti is packing the opulence, and the Boboli Gardens are like stepping into your most extravagant landscaping dreams. 🏞️🏰 Honestly, my favorite thing about visiting here was the gardens. You could get lost in the labyrinth of the stunning landscaping and not have a care in the world until it was time to eat something!

The Palazzo houses several museums under one roof. The last time this beautiful building was used for a residence was by the Medici family (big big name in Florence) from the 16th to the 18th century. Everything about this architectural wonder just oozes luxury and class.

Pro tip: If you purchase a full ticket to the gardens and the Pitti museums you can enjoy access for two days so you can pace yourself and enjoy more of “la docle vita” lifestyle while in the heart of Italy.

🌟 9. Forte di Belvedere

Speaking of views, Forte di Belvedere is your go-to for that “I can see my house from here” moment. It’s giving you exclusive Florence panoramas and a lesser-known spot to avoid those pesky tourist crowds. 🕵️‍♂️🌆

Built in the 16th century by Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’Medici, the fortress was built for two specific reasons: to safeguard the city of Florence and to showcase the power and prestige of the Medici Family. It was also used as the Medici’s treasury and offered a safe haven for the Grand Duke in times of potential attacks.

The Forte di Belvedere is the largest fortress in Florence and sits on a stratigic vantage point over the city and the surrounding areas, perfect for keeping a watchful eye out and now for getting the best views of the city! On the upper floor of the fort there is a delightful cafeteria where you can grab yourself a cafe and enjoy the stunning views.

🌟 10. Piazzale Michelangelo & Basilica di San Miniato al Monte

Last but not least, end your day with a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s the golden hour spot where Florence looks like it’s blushing! 😌🌅 And if you’re not too tired, a short climb up to the San Miniato al Monte will prove why Florence is not just a city, but a love story written in stone. 💌🛤

So, dear friends and fellow globe-trotters, there you have it! Florence laid out just for you, with all its glory and endless charm. Don’t just walk – saunter, meander, and sashay through history, art, and gelato. Remember, in Florence, every step is a story, and now, it’s your story too. 🌍💞✨

Until our next adventure, keep wandering, keep wondering, and most importantly, keep finding joy in the journey! Ciao for now! 🌈👋

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