Built in the 14th century as the seat of governmental power, Palazzo Vecchio has an array of valuable Renaissance art and architecture. Highlights include the grand ornate Hall of the Five Hundred, the priceless collection of frescoes in the Quartiere degli Elementi, and the stunning view of Florence from the Arnolfo Tower.
The Uffizi Gallery is home to one of the world's most significant collections of art, and houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael, among others. Allow time to walk through the Medici Palace before entering the gallery.
Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge over the Arno River. It was the only bridge to survive the World War II bombings. Take a break to enjoy the area's charming boutiques and cafes, or continue on to the Boboli Gardens.
The Boboli Garden is a vast and beautiful garden that sits behind the Pitti Palace with several striking features such as fountains, sculptures, grottos and ponds streaming throughout the area. The Medici family's vision was to create a grand outdoor area which embodied the ideals of Renaissance culture.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo or the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's famous sculpture David. If you're interested in fashion, the Gucci Museum or the Ferragamo Museum are excellent options.
If you have less time, consider visiting the Mercato Centrale in the San Lorenzo neighborhood for a traditional Florentine lunch or the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, which is known for its stunning artwork.