9 must do’s in Florence

We spend one day in Florence to discover its beautiful buildings, museums, and gardens. Here are my must do’s in Florence.

Check out my Instagram for more photos!

1) Galleria dell’Accademia

The University of Florence owns the Galleria dell’ Accademia that is known for having Michelangelo’s David. The statue is really impressive! Shame I didn’t take a photo of it! Luckily I did take a photo of a replica on our evening walk!

Tip: Make sure to buy your ticket ahead of time and get in line early! We had to wait sometime before we could enter the galleria.

2) Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore

The main attraction in Florence is the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore. It is the largest church in the city and was once even the biggest cathedral in the world. Now the cathedral of Rome, Milan, and London are bigger than the Duomo of Florence.

Tip: You can climb the bell tower to have an amazing view of Florence.

3) Battistero di San Giovanni

The Battistero di San Giovanni is in front of the duomo of Florence and is one of the oldest medieval buildings of Florence. The bronze doors depict a story of the old and new testament.

4) Palazzo Vecchio

Walk further to the Palazzo Vecchio. The palace was build in the 14th century but over the years, artists tried to beautify the building. The palace is now a museum and a place to celebrate weddings.

5) Ponte Vecchio

From the Palazzo Vecchio, it’s a 5-minute walk to the Ponte Vecchio. The colorful bridge is one of the few remaining medieval bridges that still house merchants. The bridge was build in the 10th century and was made out of wood. In the 14th century, the bridge was replaced by a stone bridge. The bridge was the home of many butchers but as they polluted the river they were relocated. Since then only gold- and silversmiths were allowed to have a shop on the bridge.

6) Palazzo Pitti

The Palazzo Pitti is the biggest palace in Florence. The construction of the palace began in the 15th-century but before it was finished the Medici family bought it.

Fun Fact: Napoleon even lived here once!

7) Boboli Gardens

The largest garden in the city is the garden of Palazzo Pitti. The garden spans 11 acres with statues, ponds, and fountains.

8) Porcellino

Il Porcellino is a bronze fountain of a boar. The original status was in Rome but was placed in Florence in the 16th century by the Medici family. Put a coin in the boar’s jaws and let it fall through the water for good luck. Also, rub its snout to ensure a return to Florence.

9) Evening walk

Enjoy an evening walk in Florence to see al the buildings in city lights.

This is what a day in Florence looks like when you don’t have enough time to check out the interiors of the buildings!

Life of a Passion