TOP 5 TIPS FOR EXPERIENCING FLORENCE LIKE A LOCAL

Visiting Florence should be on everyone’s Italy bucket list. Cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and a city that gave us legends like Machiavelli, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci make Florence utterly unforgettable.

Here are the top 5 tips to keep in mind when exploring this beautiful city:

1️⃣ WALK EVERYWHERE

Forget taxis. Not only do tourists get ripped off easily, but a cab will probably take longer than your own two feet—especially during peak hours. Walking also lets you stumble upon hidden piazzas, street performers, and the little gelato shops that make Florence magical.

2️⃣ BOOK TICKETS IN ADVANCE

If it’s your first time, going to the top of the Duomo is a must. Tickets sell out fast, so plan 2–3 months ahead. For other popular museums, 2–3 days in advance is usually fine. Whenever possible, tour museums early in the morning—ideally from opening until about 11:30am—before the crowds hit.

3️⃣ SHOP AT THE MERCATO CENTRALE

Leather goods galore! Every time I visit, I snag a new leather-bound journal. Pro tip: never accept the first price you’re quoted. Walk away, let the seller counter, and always pay in cash—you’ll have the upper hand in negotiations. For example, a journal quoted at €35 can sometimes be yours for €15 if you play it right.

4️⃣ BRING THE RIGHT SHOES

Florence is a walking city, and cobblestones are everywhere. Lines can be long, streets uneven, and you’ll easily average 8 miles a day. I wore fashionable Adidas during the day and wedges at night, and my husband stuck with stylish sneakers. Dress for comfort without sacrificing style. Pro tip: use a reusable water bottle; Florence has clean public fountains throughout the city.

5️⃣ USE THE DUOMO AS YOUR COMPASS

The Duomo is the heart of Florence. Whenever you feel lost, just spot its dome and reorient yourself. It’s impossible to truly get lost in the city if you know where the Duomo is.

 Florence is a city where every street corner tells a story, every piazza is a masterpiece, and every gelato tastes like heaven. Walk slowly, soak in the history, and let the city reveal its secrets to you. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll experience Florence like a local—from sunrise strolls to sunset views over the Arno.

Pro tip: don’t skip the rooftop views—many gelaterias and restaurants have terraces with amazing perspectives of Florence.