Florence, Italy is known as one of the best small cities in the world. The city centre is stunning and the culture here lends an environment for a holiday you won’t forget. Overall it is also an easy city to mange, which can make all the difference when travelling with family. Florence is known as the centre for art and culture and above all, the Renaissance making it a top destination for many. Another fabulous reason Florence is perfect, is because it’s smack dab in the middle of Italy, making it extremely easy to visit other cities!
Here are some tips for a family trip to Florence:
First things first—
Before you leave for your trip to Florence, may be a nice gesture to pick up some Italian, even some basic phrases. The Florentine people love it when you make an effort to speak Italian and it is a great way to bond with the locals. Make it a family effort and learn a few helpful phrases every day leading up to your trip. There are many language apps that you can learn Italian online from, one of the most popular is Babbel. Picture it now, walking through the streets and being able to strike up a short conversation with a local!
The Duomo
Located in the centre of the city, the Duomo Santa Maria della Fiore, or the Cathedral, is the jewel of Florence. It was initially constructed in 1436, with its face of white marble and colourful designs making it a standout medieval building. Inside you’ll find the Last Judgement fresco along with other gorgeous pieces.
Take a walk through Santa Sprito neighbourhood
Located on the other side of the city from the Duomo, you’ll find the Santa Spirito neighbourhood. This is a gorgeous part of the city and has a local feel to it, so you can see what daily life looks like for those who live in Florence. It is a great spot to explore with the kids, too since there is a daily market, art and shops you can explore. You can also simply go for a coffee or lunch with a view.
Gallileo’s finger at the Museo Galileo di Firenze
The Museo Galileo di Firenze is a popular destination for families with kids especially. Galileo made significant contributions to scientific discovery and the museum has exhibits for astronomy, meteorology, medicine and more. Something that could either be a hit or not with your kids is a display of one of Galileo’s supposed preserved fingers.
After that, grab a panino at All’Antico Vinaio
Located near Piazza della Signoria and Uffizi Gallery, you’ll find the iconic All’Antico Vinaio. It is a ‘must’ to experience a typical Tuscan sandwich and is a spot most people can’t stop talking about once they have experienced it. You don’t have to go for an extravagant sandwich here either, as a classic panino is delicious and memorable! Keep your eyes peeled as well, you may see celebrities.
Walk across the Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio, which translates to Old Bridge, is a very famous spot in Florence. The bridge has shops along it going down both sides and the main walkway draws your eye along the river Arno, to the beauty of the bridge itself, and out to gorgeous views of the city.
Visit the Academia Museum
The Galleria dell’Accademia is one of the most visited spots in Florence. Here you’ll find the David, which draws significant crowds, as well as other Michelangelo works. This is a must while in Florence to see the famous piece!
Eat the famous Bistecca
The Bistecca alla Florentina is the ever-famous Florentine Steak and a serious matter in Florence. It is a classic and impressive dish to try here! Florence has a long history of being one of the richest cities in the world since the 12th century. The story goes that the city was so wealthy, that almost all residents could afford to eat meat (which was considered a delicacy at that time). This tradition still continued on today, however now the famous Bistecca is available to everyone and is affordable!
Visit Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio is another gorgeous palace in Florence, but it is the most important administrative building. It was once the palace of the Signora of the Republic of Florence, once a town hall, and other administrative functions. You can spot the building due its coat of arms displayed on the front of the building. Now, once in a while the mayor and other elected officials will meet within those famous walls to discuss Florence’s future.
Take a walk in Piazza della Repubblica
Piazza della Republicca is one of the main squares in Florence. During medieval times and back to Roman times, this square was the centre of the city and a bustling part of it at that. It was filled with markets and churches. Today you’ll find street artists and shows here, as well as historical cafes such as Caffé Gilli. If your kids enjoy carousel rides, there is also the Antique Carousel located in the piazza that offers a festive ambience and a fun family activity to do!
Florence is known for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s known as one of the safest, most beautiful cities in the world! Firenze can be easily done as a family and on a budget, making it more feasible for more families to be able to experience the beauty of Florence.
Have you ever visited Florence? Would you like to visit in the future?
Thanks for sharing about Florence for Families traveling
We have visited many cities and have the happiest memories of Florence, a must see