Florence Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Tour with a Local

Florence , Italy

Florence Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Tour with a Local

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(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

This tour reveals the quieter, more intimate side of Florence—beyond the crowds and guidebooks. With your local host, you’ll explore meaningful places like Via Taddea, where Pinocchio was born, or Michelangelo’s little-known Laurentian Library. Sip wine where legends were born, and end with a coffee above the rooftops at a spot only locals know.

Within 24 hours of booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests. Based on your responses, we’ll match you with a like-minded host who will contact you directly to suggest a flexible, personalized itinerary. You’ll agree on your meeting time and location—and throughout the experience, your host can adjust the route to reflect your energy, mood, and spontaneous discoveries.

Available options

Florence Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Tour with a Local

What's included

Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations.

Flexible durations and start times—choose your preferred time when booking

Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences

Private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local

Detailed itinerary

Discover Florence through the eyes of someone who lives and loves it—strolling quiet backstreets, sun-drenched piazzas, and hidden spots where history lingers in the details. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a personalized journey shaped entirely around you. Before your experience begins, your host will reach out with a short questionnaire to get to know your interests—whether you're drawn to Renaissance art, literary legends, neighborhood cafés, or unexpected detours only locals would suggest. Here are a few highlights and hidden gems to spark your curiosity:

Admire the Duomo’s towering dome from outside and hear the stories behind Florence’s most iconic architectural marvel. Learn how Brunelleschi’s revolutionary engineering changed the course of architecture forever. Your host will reveal hidden details in the façade that most visitors overlook.

Visit the birthplace of Carlo Lorenzini, better known as the creator of Pinocchio, and hear how this historic street inspired his world. Explore how 19th-century Florence shaped his imagination and literary voice. Your host may share local folklore that parallels the whimsical tone of his beloved tale.

Step into Michelangelo’s least-visited architectural masterpiece—an intimate space filled with beauty, history, and silence. Hear how the Medici family commissioned this hidden gem to elevate knowledge and legacy. Your host will explain Michelangelo’s inventive staircase and why it remains a marvel of design.

What's not included

Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions

Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

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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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.

This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.

Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.

Meeting point

Meet your host in Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, in front of the Santa Maria Novella Church. After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you.

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