Florence Small-Group Walking Tour: History, Art & Hidden Gems

Highlights

• Passionate local guide
• Small group
• Hidden gems

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Piazza di Santa Croce

   15min

   The tour begins in the historic Piazza Santa Croce, dominated by the stunning Basilica of Santa Croce, one of Florence’s most important churches. Guests will admire the elegant marble façade and the statue of Dante Alighieri. The guide will share stories about famous Italians buried inside the basilica, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The square also holds cultural significance as the traditional venue for historical events like the Calcio Storico Fiorentino.

2. 2

   Piazza della Signoria

   15min

   Guests will explore Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of Florence. Surrounded by remarkable Renaissance architecture, the square features the majestic Palazzo Vecchio, the city's historic town hall. Visitors will admire famous statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David, the Fountain of Neptune, and the open-air sculpture gallery of Loggia dei Lanzi. The guide will explain the square’s historical role in Florentine politics and public life, including episodes from the time of the Medici family.

3. 3

   Palazzo Vecchio

   10min

   Guests will enter the courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio, a hidden gem full of Renaissance elegance. Designed by Michelozzo in the 15th century, the courtyard features beautiful arches, decorative frescoes, and a copy of Verrocchio’s Putto with Dolphin at the center of the fountain. Visitors will also see a fascinating old map of Florence displayed on the wall, offering a glimpse into the city’s layout during the Renaissance. The guide will highlight the artistic details and the courtyard’s role as the entrance to Florence’s historic seat of government.

4. 4

   Ponte Vecchio

   15min

   Guests will walk across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence. Known for its charming goldsmith shops built along the sides, the bridge offers picturesque views of the Arno River. The guide will share the history of the bridge, including how it survived World War II and the creation of the secret Vasari Corridor, which passes above the shops. It's a perfect spot for photos and a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

5. 5

   Piazza della Repubblica

   5min

   Guests will visit Piazza della Repubblica, a lively square that marks the site of the ancient Roman forum of Florence. Surrounded by elegant 19th-century architecture, it is now a center of city life, with historical cafés and street performers. The guide will explain the transformation of the square during the time of Florence as the capital of Italy and point out the Triumphal Arch and the column of abundance, which marks the legendary center of the Roman city.

6. 6

   Piazza Del Duomo

   15min

   Guests will admire the breathtaking beauty of Piazza del Duomo, the religious heart of Florence. The square is home to the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its iconic red Brunelleschi’s Dome, the elegant Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the ancient Baptistery of San Giovanni with its famous Gates of Paradise. The guide will share insights into the architecture, history, and symbolism of these masterpieces, which reflect the greatness of Florence during the Renaissance.

Before you go

Location