Florence: Guided Tour of Streets, Cathedrals & Central Market Flavors

Highlights

• Florence Cathedral & Baptistery
• Loggia of the New Market
• Piazza della Signoria

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10min

   The tour starts at the most emblematic icon of Florence, the 14th-century Florence Cathedral. The looming red dome of the magnificent church which was once the world’s largest has become the symbol of Florence, crowning the city’s beautiful skyline. Indulge your eyes with an abundance of ornate bas-reliefs depicting centuries of history and biblical scenes on its external walls made of striking green, red, and white marble.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   10min

   Right opposite the church stands the oldest temple in Florence, the 12th-century Baptistery of St. John. The Italian Romanesque gem built in a simplistic octagonal shape stuns any passer-by with its bronze doors intricately carved by the most famous sculptures and goldsmiths at the time.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10min

   Continue to join the most popular pedestrian street in Florence, Calzaiuoli Street. The vibrant shopping haven with an elegant touch of period architecture offers great chances to watch meandering tourists and glittering window displays of international brands.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10min

   The festive street leads you to the 16th-century Loggia of the New Market, sheltering colorful souvenir stalls. Take some time to examine splendid sculptural details of the Renaissance structure, and don’t forget to rub the nose of its iconic bronze wild boar to get some luck!

5. 5

   Piazza della Signoria

   15min

   Then, get immersed in the enchanting Signoria Square just a stone’s throw away. The living piece of history boasts the magnificent Medieval Town Hall of Florence and numerous plaques marking the political events that happened around the square.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   10min

   The immersive space is also a feast of mesmerizing centuries-old masterpieces, such as the majestic Fountain of Neptune, the central equestrian statue of Duke Cosimo I, and most notably the Loggia of Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery showcasing exquisite statues depicting mythological stories.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   15min

   Next, browse through the atmospheric quarter of goldsmiths and jewelers perching on the 14th-century Old Bridge. The oldest bridge in Florence is etched with history and mystery, from Vasari's Secret Corridor to the legend that Adolph Hitler himself decided to spare the bridge during WW2, as well as vintage vibes from overhanging buildings and rustic jewelry boutiques.

8. 8

   Basilica of Santa Croce

   20min

   Proceed to pass by the tranquil Basilica of Santa Croce and pay tribute to many famous Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, who rest peacefully in the stunning church.

Before you go

Location