“To see the sun sink down, drowned on his pink and purple and golden floods, and overwhelm Florence with tides of color that make all the sharp lines dim and faint and turn the solid city to a city of dreams, is a sight to stir the coldest nature.”
Mark Twain, Writer, The Innocents Abroad, 1869

Florence, Firenze, The City of Lilies. Whatever you call it, this jewel of Tuscany is something everyone should experience at least once. Known as The Cradle of The Renaissance, Florence is not just somewhere that art is stored and displayed, it is its very embodiment.

From its origins as a Roman settlement, Florence steadily grew over the next 1000 years or so to become a powerful city state and home to one of history’s most formidable families, The Medici. As well as being ruthless in their financial dealings, they were also great patrons of the arts. This patronage left such an indelible mark upon their hometown that even today, some 300 years since their final fall from grace, the art that they paid for and the artists they nurtured are household names. Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Donatello and Botticelli all found patronage in renaissance Florence. It is no wonder that one of the world’s greatest galleries , The Uffizi, has stood proudly in the city since its founding in at the end of the 16th century.

You do not have to enter a gallery though to find breath-taking works her. The magnificent Duomo di Firenze and Baptistry with their striking white facades have stood in the centre of the city since the Middle Ages, and the views taken from the summit of the Duomo are among the best to be found anywhere in Europe. Standing atop the world’s largest brick-built dome, the city is laid out before you with the rolling hills of Tuscany beyond. A trip to its viewing platform is surely a highlight of any visit, and certainly worth the climb.

Taking a walk across the River Arno on the world famous Ponto Vecchio, lined with its jewellers and art dealers, is as vibrant an experience now as it must have been when it was finished in the 14th Century. With its colourful, multi-story buildings hanging precariously over the edge you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve left the 21st century firmly behind you and entered into the medieval hustle and bustle that the likes of Dante and Machiavelli would have found so familiar.

Whether you have spent your day climbing to the summit of the Duomo or standing speechless in front of Michelangelo’s David in the Galleria dell'Accademia, there are plenty of options to unwind as the sun sets. A huge number of restaurants and traditional trattorias await.  For meat lovers, it is foolish to visit without trying the local ‘Bistecca alla Firentina’, a specially prepared traditional local steak. If however you want a truly relaxed and uniquely Florentine evening, why not buy a bottle of local chianti and make your way up to the Piazzale Michelangelo. This large square sits in the hills just east of the city and allows you to take in all that beauty from afar. A beautiful end to a day in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

What are the Best Things to See and Do in Florence, Italy?

Visit the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and discover why it’s world-renowned for it’s beautiful Renaissance art and architecture. Whether you’re visiting Florence for the first time or looking to learn more about the city’s landmarks, our local guides will take you on a remarkable adventure.

Immerse yourself in history and culture on our VIP Florence Duomo Tour (2.5 hours), where you’ll get a chance to see the Dome of Florence which has stood as a fixture of the city’s skyline since 1436. Learn the history of Italy’s best surviving Gothic cathedral and enjoy breathtaking views as you climb up the spectacular terraces of the cathedral without the hassle of waiting in long lines.

Visit Florence, Italy Tourist Attractions on a Bike, Segway, or Walking Tour

Explore the city at a leisurely pace on a bike, Segway, or walking tour led by a local guide who’ll take you to prominent attractions and hidden gems. Our tours will help you efficiently cover ground so you can explore the city and spend more time at each location.

Choose from a variety of options that let you spend anywhere from two hours to an entire day sightseeing in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing bike ride through the city on our Florence Bike Tour (3 hours), where you’ll learn about the diverse history of this incredible city and see places such as the Florence Cathedral among others.

Short on time? Hit the highlights of the city on our Florence Two Hour Segway Tour (2 hours), which includes visits to all the city’s must-see spots.

When booking a Florence tour with Fat Tire Tours, you’re also getting:

• An information-packed guided tour led by local, English speaking guides passionate about Florence’s history and quirks
• A fun, safe and adventurous way to see Florence
• Different time options that cater to your schedule
• Comfortable group sizes

Other Must-See Attractions in Florence, Italy

We also offer tours catered to specific interests, such as:

• Foodies can experience authentic local cuisine on our Florence Food Tour (3.5 hours), where you’ll enjoy mouthwatering truffle sandwiches, artisan breads, Florentine gelato, and many other decadent dishes.
• Wine aficionados should check out our Florence Wine Tasting (1 hour) to sample delicious Tuscan wines while learning about the history of the region from a professional sommelier.
• Looking for something specific? Check our our Private Florence Bike Tour for a fully privatized experience.  Just let us know if there are specific sites that you would like to incorporate into your tour, and our customer support team will be happy to arrange a bespoke experience for you!

 

Download a free bike lane and cycle path map of Florence!

Click below to download your own map of Florence cycle lanes! Florence is full of hidden treasures that can best be explored by bike, and this map will help you plan out your own itinerary should you wish to go it alone.