Private Florence Must-See Sites Guided Tour with Local Guide

Florence , Italy

Private Florence Must-See Sites Guided Tour with Local Guide

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About this experience

This 2-hour walking tour is a superb introduction to the city of Florence. In the company of a local and very knowledgeable guide you will see the Santa Croce Church, the Bargello Palace, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Cathedral, Giotto's Bell Tower, Uffizi Gallery's courtyard and the church of San Lorenzo (all from the outside). Your guide will also give you suggestions for the rest of your stay in Florence; what else to see and where to eat!

Available options

private tour

What's included

Local guide

Local taxes

private tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

On this small group (max 15 people) tour you are taken through the streets and piazzas of Florence by a local, expert guide who will tell you something of the city’s history. You see the monuments, squares and markets of this beautiful Renaissance city and learn about its masterpieces and wonderful architecture.The tour starts at the Church of Santa Croce.

Stop 2

The next part of the tour takes you to Piazza della Signoria, the political centre of Florence. On one side the magnificent building housed the Great Duke’s headquarters and is now the famous Uffizi Gallery. On the other side there is Palazzo Vecchio, the historic seat of the Florentine Government. A short detour from the main tourist routes takes you into the oldest part of Florence to see the medieval tower houses and then it is on to the Piazza Duomo.

This magnificent square is where you can see the stunning Cathedral with its unique marble engravings and towering above everything Brunelleschi’s Dome, a wonder of Renaissance architecture and an enduring symbol of Renaissance Florence.

In the square there is also Giotto’s famous bell tower, a wonderful example of 1300’s architecture as well as the Baptistery with its stunning Porta del Paradiso. The tour ends in front of the church of San Lorenzo and from here you can explore the surrounding market area.

Stop 3

Then it is on to Florence’s most famous and oldest bridge that dates to the fourteenth century: Ponte Vecchio. From here you have wonderful views towards the hills that surround Florence and your guide will recount the bridges history and how the Vasari Corridor radically changed the botteghe (shops) that line the bridge..

Stop 4

This magnificent square is where you can see the stunning Cathedral with its unique marble engravings, and towering above everything Brunelleschi’s Dome: a wonder of Renaissance architecture and an enduring symbol of Renaissance Florence.

In the square there is also Giotto’s famous bell tower, a wonderful example of 1300’s architecture as well as the Baptistery with its stunning Porta del Paradiso.

Stop 5

The tour ends in front of the church of San Lorenzo and from here you can explore the surrounding market area.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Piazza Santa Croce in front of the white marble statue of Dante near the steps of the church of Santa Croce

About Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Duomo

The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture/Religious 2-3 hours Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome

Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum/Art 2-3 hours €20

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazzale Michelangelo

A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.

Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free

Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Ribollita

A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Lampredotto

A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.

Lunch Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cantucci

Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Dessert Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting tours Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici Visiting museums and art galleries Attending opera or concerts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center

By train

Santa Maria Novella Station

By bus

Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno San Lorenzo Santa Croce

Day trips

Siena

70 km from Florence • Half day to full day

A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.

Pisa

85 km from Florence • Half day

Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.

Chianti Wine Region

30-50 km from Florence • Full day

A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.

Festivals

Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary) Firenze dei Fiori • April to June

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals