What should I know before visiting Florence?

Direct answer

Florence is compact, walkable, culturally rich, and best enjoyed slowly—book major attractions in advance, be prepared for crowds in peak season, and respect local customs.

Visa & Entry Requirements

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: passport or ID card; no visa.
• US/Canada/Australia/NZ/EU short-stay nationals: Schengen Area entry (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) — passport valid at least 3 months beyond planned departure is recommended. Check if a visa or ETIAS (from 2024 for some nationals) is required before travel.
• Long stays, work or study: apply for an Italian national visa at the Italian consulate well in advance.
• Always check latest requirements with your embassy or official Italian government sites before travel (COVID rules or entry changes can apply).

Best Time to Visit

• Shoulder seasons (April–June, September–October): best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
• High season (July–August): hot, crowded, higher prices—expect long lines at museums and churches.
• Winter (November–March): fewer tourists, shorter lines, cooler/rainy weather; some attractions have reduced hours.

Safety Tips

• Florence is generally safe for tourists; the main issues are pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and on public transport.
  • Keep valuables in front pockets or a money belt. Use anti-theft bags and avoid leaving belongings unattended.
  • Be cautious around train stations (Santa Maria Novella) and tourist sites.
• Avoid unofficial street sellers or people offering petitions/photos; politely decline and walk away.
• Emergency numbers: 112 (EU-wide), 113 for police, 118 for medical emergencies.

Local Customs & Etiquette

• Greeting: handshake or a friendly “Buongiorno”/“Buonasera.” Learn a few basic Italian phrases—locals appreciate the effort.
• Dress: smart-casual is common. For churches (Duomo, Santa Croce, etc.), shoulders and knees should be covered; no shorts or sleeveless tops in some religious sites.
• Dining: dinner often starts later (8pm). Tipping isn’t mandatory—rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. Bread may be charged as coperto (cover charge); it’s normal.
• Noise and respect: be mindful of noise in residential areas, especially at night.

Currency & Payments

• Currency: Euro (€).
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted; smaller cafes, markets and some trattorie may be cash-only. Carry some cash for markets, small purchases, and transport.
• ATMs widely available; use bank ATMs to avoid high fees. Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Transportation

• Getting there: Florence is served by Florence Airport (Peretola/FLR) with connections to European cities; Pisa Airport (PSA) is ~1 hour by train/bus. High-speed trains connect Florence to Rome, Milan, Venice, and other Italian cities.
• Getting around: the historic center is compact and best explored on foot. Many streets are pedestrian-only (ZTL zones) where unauthorized cars are fined—avoid driving into the centro storico.
• Public transit: ATAF buses and trams cover the city; buy tickets before boarding (tobacconists, ticket machines). Validate tickets when boarding.
• Taxis: use official white taxis (metered). Ride-hailing services are limited.
• Biking: possible but cobblestones and traffic can be challenging; consider guided bike tours or e-bikes for outskirts.

Must-Know Tips & Practical Advice

• Book major attractions in advance: Uffizi Gallery, Accademia (David), Duomo dome climb, and Pitti Palace often sell out—reserve timed tickets online.
• Duomo complex: climbing Brunelleschi’s dome and visiting the Baptistery and Bell Tower each may require separate tickets; combine if possible for savings.
• Museums & free days: check official museum calendars—some offer reduced rates or free-entry days.
• Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for photos with fewer crowds. Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo offers iconic views—arrive early for a spot.
• Markets: San Lorenzo market and Mercato Centrale are great for food and souvenirs—bargain for leather goods at outdoor stalls but inspect quality first.
• Food: try Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina), ribollita, lampredotto (street-food), and local wines. For authentic dining, avoid restaurants right next to major tourist sites; seek trattorie a bit off the main lanes.
• Siesta/closing times: many small shops close midday (13:00–16:00); plan shopping accordingly.
• Day trips: consider Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Chianti wine region, or Cinque Terre (longer day trip) using regional trains or tours.
• Accessibility: some historic sites have limited accessibility due to stairs and narrow passages—check ahead if you need accommodations.

Local Insights

• Explore beyond the obvious: wander Oltrarno (craftsmen, artisan shops, local cafes), Boboli Gardens, and lesser-known churches for quieter moments.
• Photographic etiquette: flash photography may be restricted in museums and churches—observe signs.
• Seasonal events: research festivals like Scoppio del Carro (Easter), Maggio Musicale (spring opera/festival), and Calcio Storico (June) if your dates align.

Enjoy Florence—allow time to linger in cafes, soak up Renaissance art, and walk slowly through its streets to feel the city’s atmosphere.