Private Florence Highlights Guided Tour including Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce

Florence , Italy

Private Florence Highlights Guided Tour including Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce

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About this experience

Enjoy the quaint streets and picturesque piazzas of Florence, accompanied by an expert guide, on this private walking tour. This tour will explore the history of the city, particularly the Renaissance, through the many important historical landmarks along the route.

An expert guide will lead you on a fascinating walking tour through the streets and piazzas of Florence, following the city’s history, particularly the Renaissance, through the many historical landmarks along the route.

Available options

Private Florence Highlights Guided Tour including Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce

What's included

local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A licensed expert guide will lead you on a fascinating walking tour through the streets and piazzas of Florence, a tour that will trace the history of the city, and in particular the times of the Renaissance through the numerous important monuments that line its route.

Stop 2

At the Palazzo Strozzi you’ll be amazed by the perfectly preserved courtyard, before discovering the less known, but nonetheless incredible Palazzo Davanzati, a great example of a Medieval Palace.

Stop 3

Passing by the famous "Porcellino" (little pig) market, you'll reach the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, dating back to the 1300s.

While marveling at the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, participate in an informative discussion of the history of the bridge, and the unique Vasari Corridor that drastically altered the shops located on the bridge.

Stop 4

Next, the tour moves on to Piazza della Signoria - the political hub of the city.

Stop 5

The Uffizi Gallery, formerly the offices of the Grand Duke, is situated on one side of the piazza and on the other side, Palazzo Vecchio formerly the seat of the Florentine government.

Stop 6

Following a pleasant walk through one of the oldest parts of the city, home to stunning tower houses from the 1300s, you'll arrive at Piazza Duomo where you’ll have a perfect view of the Duomo (Cathedral of Florence) that still has its original marble decoration and is crowned by Brunelleschi's dome, an architectural triumph and a symbol of the Florentine Renaissance, both for its bold design and also the feat of engineering.

The tour ends at the Baptistery, where you can see the brilliant Porta del Paradiso – which took Ghiberti 27 years to complete - along with Giotto's bell tower, an excellent example of 12th Century architecture. We are sure you will fall in love with Florence, and ask your guide for recommendations to make the most of the rest of your stay.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

below the Dante statue.

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