Planning a trip to Florence? Discover insider travel tips, local favorites, and expert advice to help you explore Florence like a local. Authentic, personal, and packed with practical info!
One of the questions I get asked most often is: when’s the best time to visit Florence? And honestly—it depends on what kind of experience you’re dreaming of! I’ve shared some of my favorite Florence travel tips below to help you decide.
Spring (April to June) is one of my favorite times in the city. The weather is mild, flowers are blooming in every garden and piazza, and there’s a lovely buzz without the intense summer crowds. Autumn (September to October) is equally magical, with golden light, grape harvests, and cozy evenings perfect for wine and pasta.
July and August can be very hot and busy, especially in the afternoons—but it’s also the time for lively festivals and long, warm evenings. Just plan for early mornings and plenty of gelato breaks!
Winter (especially December) is underrated. Florence sparkles with holiday lights, the museums are quieter, and you can enjoy the city at a slower, more local pace.
So, when should you visit Florence? It really depends on what you love. I’d be happy to help you plan your perfect season here—whether that’s spring blooms, autumn sunsets, or twinkling Christmas markets.
Let’s find the best time to fall in love with Florence—together.
Looking to make the most of your time in Florence? Booking activities in advance is one of the best ways to experience the city without stress—and with a local touch, it becomes even more special.
As someone who’s been living in Florence since 2017, I know how overwhelming it can be to choose between all the museums, walking tours, food tastings, and day trips. That’s where I come in! I help you find and book activities in Florence that truly match your interests—whether that’s climbing the Duomo at sunrise, joining a pasta-making class in a Tuscan kitchen, or discovering hidden artisan workshops.
I can arrange private city walks, wine tastings, family-friendly experiences, or even off-the-beaten-path adventures that you won’t find in guidebooks. The goal? To make your time in Florence unforgettable, personal, and smooth from start to finish.
You can also explore the blog for inspiration and tips—but if you’d like a more custom approach, just reach out. I’d love to help you book the best activities in Florence based on what you love.
Let’s create the kind of trip that feels like it was made just for you.
Getting to Florence—and getting around once you’re here—can be easier than you think! Whether you’re arriving by train, plane, or car, I’m here to help you navigate transportation in and to Florence with ease.
Florence is well connected by high-speed trains from major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, Venice, and Naples. The main station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is right in the heart of the city, making it super convenient to start exploring right away. If you’re flying in, Florence’s airport (Peretola) is just a quick 20-minute taxi or tram ride from the center.
Once you’re here, the best way to experience Florence is on foot. The historic center is compact, walkable, and full of charming details you don’t want to miss by rushing past. That said, there are buses, taxis, and trams if you need them—and I’m happy to explain how they work or help plan your route.
Driving? Keep in mind the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and the ZTL Scudo Verde. If you’re unsure, just ask—I’ll help you avoid any unwanted fines!
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, I’m here to make transportation in Florence as smooth and stress-free as possible.
One of the most common questions I get is: Is Florence safe for travelers? And the short answer is—yes! Florence is generally a very safe city, especially compared to many other European destinations. That said, it’s always good to be aware and prepared, especially when you’re in a new place.
Pickpocketing can happen, especially around busy tourist spots like the Duomo, train station, or Ponte Vecchio—so keep your valuables close and stay alert. But overall, walking around—even at night—feels safe and comfortable in most areas of the city.
Solo female travellers will find Florence welcoming and easy to navigate. I’ve explored this city on my own for years and still love walking home after dinner through quiet cobbled streets. Just use the usual common sense, and you’ll be fine. If you want to take a taxi home, there is a great initiative called ‘Taxi Rosa’ in the city. Our friends of The Florentine wrote about it.
Florence is also a safe and open-minded destination for LGBTQI+ travellers. While Italy still has room to grow in terms of legal protections (to put it mildly…), Florence tends to be progressive and inclusive—especially in creative and student circles.
If you’re ever unsure about an area, or need advice on where to stay or go, just reach out. I’m always happy to help you feel comfortable and confident while exploring this beautiful city.
Details of Florence
Esther Baardemans
Tel: +39 3286584810
Partita IVA number 06903510482
Via Senese, 31
50124 Firenze FI
Italy
Tel: +39 3286584810
esther@detailsofflorence.com
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