Florence Travel Tips: 10 Things First-Time Visitors Need to Know

Visiting Florence for the first time is exciting, a little overwhelming, and absolutely worth it. Like any great destination, it helps to know a few things before you arrive. These ten tips will save you time, money, and the occasional awkward moment.

Consider this your pre-departure briefing — everything you need to hit the ground running in Florence, Italy.

1. Get Your Timing Right

The best time to visit Florence is April to June and September to October, when the weather is most favorable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing. Peak season runs during June to August and Easter week — expect higher prices and bigger crowds. Shoulder season offers the best balance of weather and value.

2. Know the Money Situation

The local currency is Euro (€). A comfortable mid-range daily budget is around $140, while budget travelers can manage on $50 per day. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for markets, street food, and small shops.

3. Learn Basic Local Phrases

The primary language is Italian. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few phrases goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is imperfect. "Hello," "thank you," and "excuse me" are the essential three.

4. Master the Transport System

Getting around Florence is straightforward once you understand the options:

• Florence is best explored entirely on foot — the center is car-free
• Santa Maria Novella station has trains to Rome, Venice, and Pisa
• Walking is often the best way to explore central neighborhoods like Centro Storico — Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazza della Signoria.
• Avoid unmarked taxis — use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps.

5. Respect Local Customs

Florence has cultural norms that differ from what you may be used to. A few key points:

• Do not sit on church steps to eat — hefty fines apply in the historic center
• Order a proper meal if sitting down — standing at the bar is cheaper for espresso
• Dress modestly for churches — no bare shoulders or shorts

6. Stay Safe and Aware

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but common-sense precautions apply everywhere:

• Florence is safe but pickpockets operate around the Duomo and train station
• Watch for bicycles and scooters in pedestrian zones
• Beware of street sellers pushing friendship bracelets — it is a distraction scam
• Save your embassy's contact information in your phone before you arrive.

7. Pack Smart

Packing for Florence's Humid subtropical with hot summers and cool wet winters climate requires a bit of thought:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes — you will walk 10-plus miles daily on stone streets
• Carry a refillable water bottle for free public fountains
• Pack a light scarf for church dress codes and cool evenings

8. Eat Like a Local

Skip the tourist-trap restaurants near major attractions. Instead, explore neighborhoods like San Lorenzo — Medici Chapels, leather market, and Mercato Centrale for authentic food at local prices. Must-try dishes include Bistecca alla Fiorentina — thick T-bone steak grilled rare over charcoal and Ribollita — hearty Tuscan bread and vegetable soup — both are quintessentially Florence.

9. Do Not Over-Plan

One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is cramming too many activities into each day. Florence rewards slow exploration. Leave room for wandering, unexpected discoveries, and the occasional lazy afternoon in a cafe.

10. Use Technology Wisely

• Download offline maps before you arrive.
• Book Uffizi and Accademia tickets online well in advance — queues exceed 3 hours
• Use TripGenie to create a flexible itinerary that adapts to your pace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Exchanging money at the airport — Rates are almost always worse. Use a local ATM or exchange office in the city.
• Only visiting the top-5 tourist sites — Florence's magic is in the quieter corners. Venture beyond the highlights.
• Forgetting travel insurance — Medical care abroad can be expensive. A basic policy costs less than a nice dinner.
• Over-tipping or under-tipping — Research local tipping customs before your first meal.

Pro Tips

• Florence is compact and walkable — you do not need public transit for most sights
• The Firenze Card covers 72 hours of museums and public transport
• Book one "splurge experience" — whether it is a fancy dinner or a guided tour, one premium activity makes the trip feel special.
• Keep a small daily journal. You will thank yourself years from now.

You Are Ready

Florence is one of those places that exceeds expectations if you give it the chance. Armed with these tips, you are set for an incredible first visit.

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