Florence, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is a city steeped in history, art, and culture. Renowned as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it is home to iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Visitors can immerse themselves in world-class art museums, admire breathtaking architecture, and stroll through picturesque streets lined with vibrant markets and charming cafes. Florence is also famous for its exquisite Tuscan cuisine and rich history, which can be explored through its historic sites and nearby vineyards. With its timeless beauty, Florence is a captivating destination for any traveler.

Why Florence, Italy?

  • Florence is home to Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, David.
  • The Uffizi Gallery holds some of the world’s most renowned Renaissance art.
  • The Ponte Vecchio bridge is the oldest and most iconic in Florence.
  • Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement.
  • The Florence Cathedral’s dome was engineered by Brunelleschi and remains a masterpiece.

Florence, Italy Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
52° F
° F
February
55° F
° F
March
61° F
° F
April
66° F
° F
May
73° F
° F
June
81° F
° F
July
86° F
° F
August
86° F
° F
September
81° F
° F
October
72° F
° F
November
61° F
° F
December
54° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.9 inches
February
2.7 inches
March
3.2 inches
April
3.1 inches
May
2.9 inches
June
2.2 inches
July
1.6 inches
August
3 inches
September
3.1 inches
October
3.5 inches
November
4.4 inches
December
3.6 inches

History

Florence, often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, has a history rich in art, politics, and culture. Settled as a Roman military colony in 59 BCE, it was known as Florentia and served as a crossroads for trade. By the Middle Ages, Florence became a major center of commerce and banking, with the powerful Medici family rising to prominence in the 15th century. Under the Medici’s patronage, Florence flourished as a hub for artists, scientists, and thinkers, leading to the creation of masterpieces by figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.

The city’s political landscape was marked by the rise of the powerful merchant class and intermittent conflict with neighboring city-states. Florence was briefly a republic before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. During this period, it played a central role in shaping Italy’s national identity.

The city’s historical landmarks, such as the Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, stand as enduring symbols of its rich past. Florence has continuously maintained its position as a cultural beacon, attracting millions of visitors to admire its art, architecture, and heritage. Today, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains a vibrant center for art, fashion, and history.

Transportation on Florence, Italy

Getting to Florence, Italy and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Most nationalities can enter Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be required.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Italy; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right.
  • Roads: Well-maintained but narrow and busy in the city center.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Florence has a Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), restricting car access in the city center. Be cautious of fines for entering restricted areas without proper authorization. Parking in Florence can be limited and expensive, so alternative transport is recommended.

Local Transportation

Florence’s local transportation is easy to navigate, with most major attractions within walking distance in the city center. Public buses, operated by ATAF, provide convenient access to various neighborhoods and surrounding areas. The tram system, with two lines, connects key locations like the airport, train stations, and the city center. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance, as they are not commonly hailed on the street. Bicycles and scooters are popular for short trips, with bike-sharing services available. For longer journeys, the city’s central train station, Santa Maria Novella, connects Florence to other Italian cities.

Know Before You Go...® - Florence, Italy Travel Tips

Before making their way to Florence, Italy , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Florence, Italy even more relaxing.

Capital: Florence is the capital of Tuscany, Italy.
Population: 383,000 (estimated)
Size: 39 square miles
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: Italian is the official language of Florence. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, museums, hotels, and restaurants, catering to the city’s international visitors.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
  • ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
  • Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments, though smaller shops or markets may prefer cash.
  • Contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and museums.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory as service charges are included in restaurant bills, but leaving a small tip (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax) of 22% is typically included in displayed prices for goods and services.
Dress Code: Florence has a sophisticated and stylish dress code. Lightweight, comfortable clothing is ideal for exploring during the day, while smart casual or formal attire is recommended for dining and evening cultural events.
Topography: Florence is a historic city situated along the Arno River, surrounded by rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Known for its Renaissance architecture and art, the city features iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio.
Telephone: * Country code: +39 * Area code for Florence: 055. * Mobile networks and Wi-Fi are widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

Florence, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

In Florence, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Submit a marriage application to the Comune di Firenze (Town Hall of Florence). This should be done several weeks in advance. Non-residents may need additional time to ensure proper document preparation.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards
  • Birth certificates (translated into Italian and certified with an Apostille)
  • Certificate of no impediment (Nulla Osta) issued by your home country’s embassy in Italy
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Declaration of intent to marry (Atto Notorio), certified at the Italian consulate or in Italy

Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be officially translated into Italian, certified, and include an Apostille.

Publication of Banns: Required in some cases, with banns published at least two weeks before the ceremony, especially if one partner resides in Florence.

Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are conducted in Italian by a registrar at the Comune. An interpreter may be required if neither party speaks Italian.

Costs: Civil ceremony fees vary based on the venue, ranging from €100 to €600. Costs may increase for ceremonies held in historic locations, such as the Palazzo Vecchio. Additional fees apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Florence offers breathtaking venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, such as historic churches, Renaissance villas, or gardens. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.