In Florence, a city where every stone tells a story , it’s not easy to name my favourite spots as there are so many of them.
As a Florentine guide I’m always finding new and unexpected treasures, from hidden masterpieces, to lovely gardens and welcoming Florentine cafes. Here’s a selection of the sites I love most.
10 Amazing spots in Florence
1. Laurenziana Library by Michelangelo
First of all I strongly recommend that you visit the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, or Laurenziana Library designed by Michelangelo. This is a place where you can breathe in the harmony and beauty of incredible architecture and decoration. It was commissioned by Pope Clement VII, a Medici, to house the family’s rich collection of manuscripts.
This historic library is part of the Church of San Lorenzo Complex. Only open on the occasion of special exhibitions – in the morning from Monday to Friday, closed on Saturday and Sunday.
2. Ognissanti Church
San Salvator Ognissanti, in Ognissanti Square, is a wonderful church where you can see some of the most important styles and artists associated with Florence, from Giotto to Botticelli, who is also buried here. If you go on Saturday and Monday you are allowed to visit also the fresco of the Last Supper painted by Renaissance Master Ghirlandaio in the refectory. Outstanding!
=> Discover Florence’s most beautiful Churches!
=> 10 Curious Facts about Brunelleschi’s Dome.
3. Coffee with a view of the Innocenti Museum
Want coffee served with a breathtaking view? Go to Il Verone, inside the Innocenti Museum, in S.S. Annunziata Square. You can access it without going inside the museum. And there’s a gorgeous view of the Dome from the terrace.
4. The Iris and Rose Gardens
If you are in Florence in April/May you must visit the Iris Garden next to Piazzale Michelangelo. Nearby, on the opposite side, there’s the Rose Garden. Both are definitely worthwhile. There’s an amazing view over Florence and a lovely atmosphere.
=> See the Best Gardens to visit in Florence.
5. A great bookshop & café
Looking for an interesting bookshop with a delicious lunch bar inside? Head to Todo Modo in via dei Fossi 15red.
6. Desco Bistrot
A good quality organic farm-to-table restaurant for the food intolerant. Where to eat? Il Desco Bistrot , via Cavour 27.
=> 20 Unforgettable Experiences to live the real Florence.
7. Best gelato in town
If you want to eat the best gelato in Florence, go to Sbrino Gelatificio Contadino, via dei Serragli 32red.
8. My favourite spot for a panino
If you’re after a good panino with excellent Tuscan ingredients, or if you want to buy some good wine in a gourmet market shop, go to the historical Pegna in via dello Studio 26red.
9. Pasticceria Dolci e Dolcezze
Do you need a sweet treat or a good cappuccino to warm you up in a place that is a bit off the well-trodden path? Go to Dolci e Dolcezze, in Piazza Beccaria, besides the delicious pastries you will be surrounded by an enchanted atmosphere.
10. Bookshop with remedies for the soul
Do you need a soul remedy while you are in Florence ? Go to the “Piccola Farmacia Letteraria” in via di Ripoli 7. Every book here is a special medicine for the afflictions of the soul.
=> 8 Top Day Trips from Florence
=> Unmissable Masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery
Author: Sabrina Scardigli , a Florentine licensed and authorised guide in English, French and Portuguese. Unusual slow art tours, a different way to see the beauties of our city. => You can contact her here.
