Discover things to do in Florence
After reading this blog you will know where to go to in Florence. We already made a shortlist for you with the must do’s. Want to get the best out of your trip to Florence? Play a City Game in Florence.
The ”Walking city”
City Game takes you to Florence which is considered the most walkable city in the world! The historic center of Florence has many areas of traffic limited to public transport and residents, so the best way to get by is on foot.
The city is a real open-air museum. All the main historical monuments are located a short distance from each other. From the historic Ponte Vecchio to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, to Piazzale Michelangelo which offers a breathtaking view of the Tuscan capital.
Tired of the walk? No worries, there are several bars and restaurants in all corners of the city that offer respite for tired feet and refreshment for hungry bellies.
Birthplace of the piano
Did you know that the piano was born in Florence? That’s right: his inventor is called Bartolomeo Cristofori: a harpsichord, organist and luthier who worked at the court of Prince Ferdinando II de’ Medici.
In the Courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio there is a piano available to the public. Visitors, citizens and tourists who want to try their hand at the keys can do so freely.
To satisfy the palate
It weighs 1 kg and is 4 cm thick… the queen of Florentine restaurants: the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. It is a piece of fine beef that is prepared using a special ritual. This includes a high cut, including the bone, must cook on the grill with a “rare” cooking.
Another specialty not to be missed is the Schiacciata. It is like the focaccia, BUT BETTER. Tuscan cuisine is known as “poor cuisine” and Florentine bread is the proof. It is made without salt (in the past, the Florentine citizens did not want to pay the tax on salt imposed by the Pisan neighbors), and this is how Schiacciata was born. If you pass by the center, make a stop at Antico Vinaio to try this delight!
Some insider tips
The best months to visit Florence are May and June when the city has a lot of festivals. One of them being the Calcio Storico Fiorentino. This is a combination of football, rugby and world wrestling. Guess what? Nowadays, they are now played whilst dressed in historical costumes. Really a great show!
If you want to visit the main attractions such as the Uffizi Museum and avoid long lines, I recommend booking tickets online and in advance. Especially if you go to Florence on the first Sunday of the month, when museums and galleries are free of charge.
