Private guide in Florence, guided tours in Florence, Italy

Florence
Italy

Information about Florence

Why is Florence in Italy attractive to tourists?

Florence is a city where history breathes through every stone. It is considered the cradle of the Renaissance and still preserves the spirit of great artists, architects, and thinkers. Walking along the narrow streets of the old town, you can see masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Architectural monuments, world-class museums, and picturesque squares make Florence a unique destination for travelers.

The city is perfect for both art and history lovers, as well as those who want to enjoy Italian culture in its classical form. Here, romance, gastronomy, and inspiration combine to enchant even the most experienced traveler.

What are the main attractions in Florence and what can you see there?

• Duomo di Firenze (Santa Maria del Fiore) — a majestic cathedral with a red-tiled roof visible from any point in the city. Its dome, designed by Brunelleschi, became an engineering marvel of its time.
• Uffizi Gallery — one of the most famous art museums in the world, housing works from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period, including Botticelli’s iconic “The Birth of Venus.”
• Palazzo Pitti — a luxurious residence of the Medici family, featuring museums and the vast Boboli Gardens.
• Piazza della Signoria — an open-air "sculpture gallery" displaying exact replicas of famous artworks.
• Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) — the oldest bridge over the Arno River, decorated with jewelry shops.
• Basilica di San Lorenzo — burial site of the Medici family, designed by Michelangelo.
• Galleria dell'Accademia — home to one of the most recognizable statues in the world — Michelangelo's “David.”
• Church of Santa Croce — the family church of Florentine aristocrats, where Galileo and Dante rest in peace.
• Museo di San Marco — an interesting blend of art and spiritual life during the Renaissance.
• Teatro Verdi — one of Europe's oldest theaters, regularly hosting opera and musical performances.

Why choose a private guide in Florence?

Tours with a private guide in Florence allow you to dive deeper into the city’s history and culture. These specialists can offer a personalized route tailored to your interests and level of knowledge. They know hidden corners of the city, help avoid museum queues, and share interesting facts not found in guidebooks. In addition, private guides in Florence are flexible with language and format, which is especially convenient for families or groups.

When is the best time to visit Florence?

The optimal time to visit is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and tourist numbers are not yet overwhelming. Summers can be hot and crowded, while some attractions operate on reduced hours in winter.

What language do they speak in Florence?

The main language is Italian. However, in many hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, staff speaks English. To communicate comfortably, it’s recommended to know basic phrases in Italian or English.

What local food should I try in Florence?

Florentine cuisine combines simplicity with rich flavor. Must-try dishes include:

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina — a traditional thick steak;
• Panino con lampone — street food with meat and vegetables;
• Ribollita — a hearty vegetable soup;
• Cantucci with Vin Santo wine — almond biscuit dessert.

How is shopping in Florence?

Florence is a paradise for fashion and craft lovers. You can find luxury boutiques as well as workshops producing unique handmade items. Leather shoes and accessories, as well as silver and glass products, are particularly popular.

What souvenirs should I buy in Florence and what cannot be taken abroad?

Great souvenirs include perfume bottles, leather goods, paintings, and natural stone items. Buying antiques without documentation is not recommended — they are prohibited from being exported.

What clothes and shoes are suitable for a trip to Florence?

Choose comfortable shoes — the city streets are cobblestone, so high heels may be inconvenient. Dress according to the season, but always carry a light raincoat or umbrella.

What currency is used in Florence? Should I exchange money?

The currency is the euro (EUR). It’s better to exchange money at banks or exchange offices, avoiding hotel and station services — their rates are usually the least favorable.

What are the rules of behavior in public places in Florence?

It is important to respect culture and traditions: dress decently when entering churches. Don’t make noise on public transport and don’t leave trash on the streets.

How safe is Florence for tourists?

Florence is a relatively safe city, but pickpocketing is possible in tourist areas. It’s recommended to keep personal belongings close and use bags with straps.

What to do in Florence in the evening?

The city offers a rich evening program: strolls along illuminated streets, dinners in cozy restaurants, visits to opera houses or jazz bars. You can go on a night walking tour with a private guide in Italy to see the city in a new light.

Is Florence interesting for children?

Yes, Florence is a great place for family vacations. Children can participate in interactive tours, visit the zoo, or explore museums with play zones. Private guides in Italy often offer programs adapted for children's age groups.

Who lives in Florence? What religion and population size?

The population is about 400,000 people. The main religion is Catholicism. Locals are friendly and welcoming, proud of their culture and history.

What about ecology in Florence?

The city actively promotes ecological initiatives: developed public transportation, restrictions on car traffic in the historical center, and separate waste collection.

Which airport should I fly into to reach Florence and how to get there?

The nearest international airport is Amerigo Vespucci Airport (Florence). Alternatively, you can fly into Pisa and take a train or bus to Florence.

Why should I visit Florence?

Florence is more than just a city — it’s a real journey into the world of art, culture, and taste. Everyone will find something to love here: whether it’s a gastronomic experience, meeting great works of art, or simply romantic walks to the sounds of Italian music.

5 reasons to visit Florence

1. Masterpieces of world art in museums and on city streets.
2. A unique atmosphere of the Renaissance era.
3. Diverse cuisine and the opportunity to try local delicacies.
4. Excellent opportunities for shopping and buying quality souvenirs.
5. Convenient location and accessibility to other cities in Italy.

Our tips for tourists visiting Florence

1. Buy tickets in advance — this will help you avoid lines at museums.
2. Use a city map or GPS navigation apps — the streets can confuse even experienced travelers.
3. Don’t forget to try Italian-style coffee — a short espresso at the counter will be cheaper than sitting at a table.
4. Visit markets early in the morning — the goods will be fresher and prices lower.
5. If you want to learn more about the city — contact private guides in Florence, who can show you the city from a unique perspective.