by Brooke Meotti
What You SHOULD Book in Advance:
A Guided Experience or Audio Tour for Your First Day
The best way to truly understand the city and appreciate its beauty and history is through informative explanations. For this reason, we recommend a guided experience or an audio tour on your first day. You can participate in a walking tour, with or without a guide, and visit many of Florence's iconic locations. If you are traveling independently, an audio guide may be the perfect fit for you! This will allow you to explore the city at your own pace and is offered in multiple languages.
Museums That Sell Out Quickly
Museums typically have tours running all day, but they tend to sell out quickly, so you want to make sure you are ahead of the rush and get your tickets early. Locations such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery are must-see attractions. They contain centuries of art and history, and serve as a symbol of Florence; however, as a result of their importance, they typically have long lines with limited access to tickets. That is why it’s essential you book ahead to have the most enjoyable experience possible. There is no need for big group tours; our audio guides will give you all the information you need to know at a pace that is suitable for you!
A Themed Walking Tour
You may also want to partake in a themed walking tour. These tend to feel more meaningful because they are focused and can connect you to the city's living Renaissance art, fashion heritage, and hidden craftsmanship. These themed tours reveal how centuries of creativity aren't only in museums but can be seen all around us.
What Not to Do:
Too Many Museums in One Day
Traveling is an amazing opportunity, but it can be exhausting, and it is important that you don't overbook. We understand that you want to see as much as possible during your visit, but you don't want to fatigue yourself. A perfect medium that we suggest is 1-2 museums a day. Oftentimes, less is more, and the point is to enjoy what you see and experience throughout your stay.
Rushed Day Trips
While you are traveling in Florence, it is common to book day trips to locations such as Pisa or Siena for activities like wine tastings or guided tours. When you do this, avoid rushing them. Rushing this type of trip will only lead to extended time commuting and waiting in lines. You will miss out on true cultural immersion and only end up feeling stressed.
Restaurants Near Major Attractions
A major component of Italian culture is the food, and following these audio or guided tours, you may find yourself developing an appetite. We recommend that you take the extra few minutes and walk a few streets away from these major sights because the ones nearby are typically tourist menus, and we want to make sure you are getting the authentic Italian experience in every aspect.
Smart Booking Tips for First-Time Visitors:
Why Booking with Local Experts Makes the Difference
Regardless of where you are traveling from, you should make the most of your time in Florence. That is why we offer a variety of unique experiences that are all based on knowledge from locals who are excited to share what they know with you! You can partake in walking tours, museum experiences, or audio guides that are offered in multiple languages. We want you to feel that each experience is tailored to your preference.
Your first trip to Florence doesn't need to be stressful. It should be about making memories and experiences to last a lifetime. That is why it is so important to set yourself up for a successful trip by booking ahead, choosing activities that provide an understanding of this beautiful city, and avoiding over-exhaustion. Discover Florence with a local perspective and book our private tours!
