What to see in Florence besides the Galleria degli Uffizi
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is also known as the capital of the Renaissance. Its streets, museums, churches, bridges and squares are filled with history, art, power and heritage. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and if you're planning to explore it, besides visiting the Galleria degli Uffizi we recommend the places you simply can't miss on your trip to Florence. Get your pen and paper ready!
What to visit in Florence: must-see attractions
The Vasari Corridor: the Medici's (not-so-secret) passageway
One of the most fascinating places is the Vasari Corridor. This elevated passageway was built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari to allow the powerful Medici family to travel safely between their residences and administrative buildings, without having to mix with the general public.
The corridor connects Palazzo Vecchio with Palazzo Pitti, passing through the Galleria degli Uffizi and crossing above the famous Ponte Vecchio. After being closed to the public for eight years for restoration, it has reopened and offers a unique experience: walking above the city, surrounded by artists' self-portraits and incredible views of the Arno River.
Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens: Renaissance luxury
After crossing the Ponte Vecchio, you'll encounter an imposing stone façade that looks more like a fortress than a palace: Palazzo Pitti. Originally the residence of the Pitti family, Florentine bankers, it passed into the hands of the Medici after the family's financial collapse and now houses several museums. These include the Palatine Gallery, with an impressive collection of Baroque paintings, and the Royal Apartments.
But one attraction you absolutely shouldn't overlook is the Boboli Gardens, a perfect example of Renaissance landscape design. These gardens feature classical sculptures, fountains, artificial grottoes and panoramic views that alone make the visit worthwhile.
The Accademia Gallery: much more than David
Another essential stop in Florence is the Accademia Gallery. Its international fame comes from Michelangelo's magnificent David, with the power radiating from the marble, the tension in the body, the determined gaze... Everything speaks of a perfection that only Michelangelo could sculpt. But don't forget to admire the unfinished sculptures known as the Prisoners, which seem to emerge from the marble, captured in an eternal act of creation.
However, this gallery also houses other valuable collections of paintings and sculptures, as well as a section dedicated to historical musical instruments.
The Duomo and its dome: the spiritual heart of Florence
No tour of Florence would be complete without visiting its most recognisable landmark: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, known as the Duomo. Its dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is a revolutionary feat of engineering that challenged everything known at the time.
From the outside, the cathedral impresses with its façade of white, green and pink marble. Inside, its spacious yet understated interior is crowned by the magnificent dome decorated with frescoes depicting the Last Judgement. Would you dare climb the more than 400 steps to the top of the dome? If so, you'll enjoy one of the best views of Florence.
Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria: power carved in stone
Palazzo Vecchio was the seat of government of the Republic of Florence. Its crenellated tower dominates Piazza della Signoria, one of the most artistically impressive squares in Europe.
Inside the palace, the Hall of the Five Hundred and Vasari's frescoes are particularly noteworthy. The square itself serves as an open-air museum, featuring sculptures such as the replica of David, Ammannati's Neptune and the magnificent Loggia dei Lanzi, where works such as Cellini's Perseus and Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women are displayed.
Ponte Vecchio: the most picturesque bridge over the Arno
The Ponte Vecchio is one of those places you'll never forget. Traditional Florentine jewellery shops still operate in its small premises, which literally hang over the river. Its history is remarkable: it was the only bridge the Nazis did not destroy during World War II, supposedly on Hitler's direct orders.
Crossing it is an experience in itself, and stopping halfway across allows you to see the Vasari Corridor from below and admire the waters of the Arno reflecting the warm colours of the building façades.
Basilica of Santa Croce: the resting place of great geniuses
The Basilica of Santa Croce is a Gothic masterpiece and also the final resting place of some of the most illustrious figures of the Italian Renaissance: Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli and Rossini, among others.
Its interior is solemn and magnificent, filled with frescoes, decorated chapels and tombs. In addition, the cloister houses the famous Pazzi Chapel, a masterpiece of the Early Renaissance designed by Brunelleschi.
Piazzale Michelangelo: the ultimate panoramic view
To round off a perfect holiday and this article about what to see in Florence, we offer you the city's finest panorama: a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. This viewpoint offers the best view of the city, with the Duomo, the Arno, Ponte Vecchio and the Tuscan hills on the horizon.
At sunset, this place fills with travellers, musicians and locals who sit on the steps to enjoy a sunset that bathes the city's red rooftops in golden light. Without a doubt, it is one of those moments that stay with you forever, and you'll realise that every minute of this trip has been worthwhile. You've fallen in love with Florence.