Ah Florence… the city struts through history like it owns the place—because it does. Birthplace of the Renaissance, this Tuscan gem cradled Michelangelo, Dante, and da Vinci before they were cool. The Medici family practically invented power moves here, funding art like it was going out of style (it wasn’t). Florence’s Duomo pierces the skyline, brick-and-mortar, built without scaffolding, centuries later no one quite understands why it works.. The Ponte Vecchio still hustles gold as it has since the 14th century. Even the cobblestones whisper secrets of intrigue and scandal. Florence isn’t just a city—it’s a living museum that knows exactly how fabulous it is and isn’t shy about it. There is way too much to do and you already know about so many… here are a few gems to add to your list…
Climb the Duomo (Brunelleschi’s Dome)
Join the hoards & scale the 463 steps to the top of Florence’s iconic dome. It’s a tourist but also a serious workout. The panoramic views and the chance to admire Brunelleschi’s architectural genius up close make it worth every step.
https://duomo.firenze.it/en/720/brunelleschi-pass#:~:text=Purchase%20Brunelleschi%20Pass%20here!,first%20day%20of%20your%20Pass.
Tour the Palazzo Vecchio’s Secret Passages
Take a guided tour through hidden staircases, trapdoors, and secret rooms used by the Medici. Perfect for history buffs who love espionage and political intrigue.
Take a Vintage Vespa or Ferrari Tour of Tuscany
Channel your inner Italian gentleman and hit the countryside on a Vespa or, for extra adrenaline, in a Ferrari—Florence to Chianti never looked so good.
https://www.acrosstuscany.com/en/unique-experience-in-tuscany
Visit the Offbeat Pharmacy of Santa Maria Novella
Okay, it used to be part of a church, but now it’s a centuries-old pharmacy that feels like stepping into a time capsule. You can browse ancient herbal remedies, perfumes, and luxurious soaps in the same space where monks began creating them in the 1200s.
Try Truffle Hunting with a Local and Their Dog
Join a truffle hunter (and their adorable, highly trained dog) for an excursion in the woods just outside Florence. You’ll learn about the hunting process, get muddy, and usually finish with a truffle-themed meal. A very “Only in Tuscany” experience.
Stay at the Four Seasons, Florence
The Four Seasons Florence is where Renaissance grandeur meets modern luxury, all tucked inside a 15th-century palazzo and a former convent. Yes, you can sleep in a nun’s old quarters—now with better Wi-Fi and significantly fewer vows. Surrounded by 11 acres of lush gardens, it’s a serene slice of history in the bustling city. Michelangelo might’ve wandered nearby, but you’ll be more focused on the Michelin-starred pasta and the heavenly spa
https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/julievogel/travel/luxury-hotels/6163697/four-seasons-hotel-firenze