Florence is one of the most beautiful cities we’ve ever seen. As the capital of the Tuscan region, it is unparalleled in architecture, gastronomy, history, and sightseeing.
This destination is about slowing down and enjoying la dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing!) Use this comprehensive guide to learn what to pack, what to wear in Florence, what NOT to bring, and helpful FAQs to make the most of your getaway.
When heading to Florence, you will need a power adapter specifically designed for Italian outlets. You don’t want to risk buying a cheap one on the street that fries your precious electronics or craps out on the first use. This one is top-notch and comes with a built-in fuse protector to defend against any power surges. It’s also backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee so you can trust that it will be reliable in charging and powering your phone, tablet, laptop, power bank, or any other device you bring along.
Florence is generally safe, but petty theft can happen in any large city, particularly in areas that draw tourists. Where there is a mass of foreigners, you’re likely to find highly stealthy pickpockets that have plenty of tricks to distract you as they snatch your valuables. This neck wallet has RFID-blocking material to stop digital thieves and can be worn under your shirt to conceal your cash, credit cards, passport, travel documents, phone, and more. It’s also great for staying organized on long travel days when the jet lag sets in!
Not to scare you, but Italy has consistently ranked in the top 5 most targeted countries for cybercrime and online attacks. We personally experienced this when one of our credit card numbers was hacked on a Wi-Fi network that we believed to be trustworthy (at our Airbnb in Europe!) If you didn’t know, you are vulnerable anytime you join a public Wi-Fi network at cafes, airports, libraries, restaurants, hotels, and more.
Another major perk of a VPN is it mitigates regional censorship. NordVPN is our go-to since they offer access to 6,000+ servers in 100+ countries (and counting!) This means basically no corner of the internet will be off-limits to you. You can also change your server to a new country in an effort to find flight discounts (since prices can often be higher when you’re searching in America). It is the best solution for encryption around your passwords and private data, plus internet freedom wherever you may roam.
Flights to Italy range from 12-20 hours depending on where you’re coming from and how many layovers are involved. We don’t fly internationally without these since they use botanicals like Chamomile to help you feel rested. They’re very gentle but they make a noticeable difference – when I didn’t have them on a flight from Paris to America, I seriously regretted it! They will help you to adjust quickly and enjoy more of your time in Florence.
You no longer need to deal with outrageous roaming rates or finicky physical SIM cards that can fail, break, or get lost. Saily is a perfect solution for hopping around different countries since they cover you in 150+ countries. Everything is handled 100% digitally and you activate it before your trip. Internet access will be effortless (so you don’t have to struggle like me on an old trip to France, going from phone store to phone store trying to find a compatible SIM card. I was lost with no GPS or internet for weeks!)
It’s super affordable and you can join a native network to ensure seamless coverage while only paying for the data you need. It’s simply the best.
For certain travelers that require a visa for Italy, travel insurance is required. Even if it’s not mandatory for you, it should be treated as such since paying out-of-pocket for major bills can be difficult to recover from. Keep in mind that your domestic provider does not cover you outside of the country, and if they do, there are tons of stipulations.
We use Faye to cover our travel investment against flight delays, theft, baggage loss, evacuations, medical costs, and even entire trip cancelation. Our friend once got sick in Italy and the medivac transfer alone was $8K+! Insurance is a must, and Faye makes it painless since it’s completely digital. They reimburse you quickly and the service basically pays for itself if anything comes up.
Italians are experts in fashion and know how to remain chic yet effortless. In the summertime, you’ll want to opt for lightweight fabrics like this flattering dress. The empire waist compliments a variety of figures and it has a natural femininity that flows with you as you move. My wife has this in a few patterns and gets complimented all the time!
We always bring our own filtered water bottle to maintain control over our water supply while abroad. Yes, the water is fairly clean in Italy and there will probably be bottled water available, but that can get expensive and the plastic waste is unnecessary. This Brita option will noticeably make the water taste better – you’ll be thankful to have it when filling up at water spouts around the city.
Visiting Italy calls for some shopping! We never leave without bringing back authentic Chianti, real Italian olive oil, balsamic vinegar, perfumes, and other local goods that you can’t find back home. These Wine Wing packing cushions are perfect for anything fragile or made of glass. They protect your new finds from any damage on the inevitably rough return journey.
Whether you’re heading to Tirrenia Beach (1.25 hours away), Marina di Pisa (1.25 hours away), or the undeniably stunning Amalfi Coast (about 6 hours away) – you’ll need a travel towel. Hotel towels are bulky and fluffy, impractical for carrying around. This option is perfect since it’s light as a feather and dries 10x faster than cotton, so none of your other items will get wet or soggy.
Florence is a very walkable city so you’ll want to bring a comfortable pair of shoes. Most of the city is paved in 6-inch cobblestone that can be uneven or slanted. I would avoid high heels or wedges that could lead you to twist an ankle. This pair offers breathability and support with a cushioned midsole and molded foam for support.
Unfortunately, we’ve experienced theft first-hand after checking a bag for an international flight. Something was taken out of our checked bag and now we always secure our belongings with these TSA-approved luggage locks. They are considerably more secure than a 3-digit code and you can use your birth year or something memorable like that. It offers great peace of mind when your things will be out-of-sight for long durations.
We love this lipstick-sized power bank! Phones tend to die quickly on vacation because you’ll be taking tons of pictures, using GPS to navigate the network of streets, and testing Google Translate to combat the language barrier. This option is perfect since it offers multiple charges to your devices and fits neatly in your purse or pocket for on-the-go charging.
European bathrooms can be a laughable setting. They are small, cramped, and often lacking in the storage department. In England, their referred to as ‘water closets’ because that’s about how much space you have to handle business. For any travel, we use this hanging toiletry bag to create a shelf out of thin air and stay organized on the road.
With 4 large pockets inside and 3 external compartments, you’ll have a spot for everything. It hangs virtually anywhere (a door, shower pole, towel rack, etc.) so you don’t have to worry about juggling products on the edge of the sink or scattering them around the hotel room.
It rains fairly often in Italy, particularly in the Autumn and Spring months. Summer rains are not uncommon either so be sure to pack your own umbrella. This one is higher quality than the ones you’ll get at the airport or from a street vendor, which are prone to falling apart on the first sign of wind. This option is windproof and backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee.
Any traveler knows that food poisoning can happen when you least expect it. Whether it’s a gourmet 5-star meal or a street vendor – new food from a new destination can tear up your stomach. That’s why we pack these activated charcoal tablets to detoxify quickly. They absorb harmful toxins from your system and help you to feel much better, much faster! Even tap water can hit your stomach in the wrong way, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Florence is full of breathtaking churches like the Duomo, Santa Maria Novella Church, The Church of Santa Croce, and more. Many of these require a modest dress code, like covered shoulders and knees. Be sure to bring a pashmina shawl to cover up when entering a holy site or to stay warm on a chilly night. For a cathedral or an evening stroll, you’ll be glad to have such a stylish option.
You will definitely want to explore the Accademia Museum with the iconic “David” and the Uffizi Gallery, which boasts pieces by Michelangelo and Leonardo. One of my favorite tours was a day-trip that hit major nearby sights like the 13th-century town of San Gimignano and sipping wine in Chianti. You can also do something shorter, like a wine tasting in Tuscany or an authentic pasta-making class in Florence.
Get Your Guide is one of our favorite platforms for booking excursions since they have all the popular ones with more niche options that allow you to immerse in the culture. They offer low prices and a flexible cancellation so you can book confidently.
Packing cubes are a way of life and once you try them, you will never go back to the typical disarray of packing. These keep you organized by sorting similar items into each cube (pants, tops, socks, underwear, essentials, etc.) You can label each set and have a different color for each family member, so no one’s items get criss-crossed. This set even comes with 2 bonus laundry bags so you can separate your dirty and worn items from clean ones.
Stay hands-free with this anti-theft backpack that will carry your essentials each day for town exploration and excursions. It has a zipper on the inside against your back so no one can rummage through your things without your knowledge. It’s also very stylish so you won’t stick out like a blatant tourist, which can also put a target on your back in a foreign place.
Italy has had ongoing cases of Dengue Fever and Zika. Mosquitos can be fierce in Florence, particularly in the summer months. Since Italy is considered to have a high level of mosquito activity, I would recommend these natural mosquito-repellent wristbands. We like this brand because they’re wearable to avoid respraying toxic fumes all day, and you can wear them on your wrists and ankles to add a strong layer of protection. They’re also non-toxic and safe for kids.
Don’t go through the fate of throwing away your favorite products at airport security. It’s a painful and unnecessary expense! Be sure to pack these TSA-approved bottles that meet the 3.4-ounce size limit so you can maintain your self-care routine while outside the country. They are compact and have a triple-layer leakproof design to avoid any shampoo explosions!
I can’t imagine going to Florence without room to spare in my bags for the beautiful local goods. Use this “just in case” bag to hold your loot since it counts as your personal item bag for the flight home and fits perfectly in the overhead compartment. Some finds I would pick up while in Florence are – vino (of course), olive oil, Florentine chocolates, Italian textiles and leather, and dried pasta.
Last year alone, there were 27-million bags that were damaged or lost within the airport transit system. This figure is even higher for international flights than domestic ones, so we advise reinforcing your suitcase with these adjustable luggage straps. They are TSA-friendly and can withstand more than 700-pounds of force tension.
They actually saved the day when my friend’s suitcase fell open on the arrivals carousel, we were able to lace his bag together to prevent his dirty laundry from being aired out for everyone to see! These also are very versatile for cinching-in your carry-on bag to fit in the overhead bin, or tether bags together for easy movement through busy places.
The plumbing system in Italy is not quite ancient, but still very old! The toilets can be unreliable and you never know how well-stocked a bathroom will be either. We consider ourselves quite pro at being prepared for the unexpected, which is why we bring this biodegradable toilet paper with us in case of emergencies.
Florence isn’t the hottest place in Italy, but walking around in nearly 90 °F (32 °C) weather isn’t exactly pleasant. Bring these cooling towels with you to beat the heat during summer months when even the locals get out of town (noting that many shops close for a few weeks in August or the entire month as the locals try to escape the heat). These self-cooling towels are a dream since they drop to nearly 30-degrees colder than the outside temp, merely by adding some water. We never wander anywhere warm without them. They’ll make all the difference on a long wine-tasting tour or climbing the 463 steps of the Duomo!
This crossbody bag combines functionality with fashion. A medium-sized purse will hold your essentials (wallet, phone, makeup, etc.) without being too heavy and slowing you down on busy sightseeing days. This one is made of vegan leather and a quilted, wide-set strap that is designed for comfort.
Florence is a laid-back location that is actually considered the capital of the Tuscan region. Due to this, the ambiance is casual yet refined. I would advise you to mostly wear what makes you feel comfortable while considering your activities and the weather that season.
The Florentine are a very kind and welcome people. They do not try too hard in the area of fashion, yet everyone looks very put together and naturally chic. You can opt for lightweight linens, simple layers, feminine skirts in the summer, and fitted pants in the winter with leather boots. Always wear a comfortable pair of shoes and prepare to walk a lot!
Spring is my favorite time to visit Florence. The crowds are not too thick yet, the prices are a bit lower than in peak season, and the temperatures are moderate. This is a time to enjoy the blooming flowers in Florentine gardens, indulge in a picnic, and have an aperitif at a rooftop bar.
Keep in mind that April can be a bit finicky since some days will offer pure sunshine while others will be filled with rain. Definitely bring a pair of boots and/or waterproof shoes to combat the unpredictable weather. For warm days, you’ll want breathable sandals or cushioned tennis shoes for support as you walk the town.
You should bring your own umbrella since it will fare better than a cheap one from a street vendor. Bring a cardigan for a chilly night and a stylish rain jacket for any random downpours.
Temperatures average between 42°F and 76°F (5°C and 24°C).
The summer days in Florence are long, warm, and humid. This is considered peak season – so you’ll notice more crowds, slightly higher prices, events and excursions selling out more quickly, and more things to do. Daylight hours can reach up to 15 hours per day, so this will give you even more time to enjoy all of the bustling activities. And since this town is surrounded by 3 large hills, there isn’t a ton of wind to deal with or cool you off.
Summer rains do still occur but your main priority will be staying cool. Don’t bog yourself down with layers; instead, bring lightweight linen shirts, skirts, sun dresses, and sandals. If you’re heading out to Viareggio Beach (about an hour from Florence), you can bring a chic swimsuit, a cooling towel, and a gorgeous sun hat.
Temperatures average between 60°F and 90°F (15°C and 32°C).
Autumn is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Florence. The city's glow is enhanced by the leaves changing color and golden skies against Medieval architecture. You don’t even need a filter for your photos since the autumn light adds a crisp warmth that will brighten any scene.
This season offers fun festivals, the beginning of wine season in the Tuscan region, and a fair amount of rain. October and November are the wettest months, so you will want to bring your umbrella and rain boots. It can also be chilly, so I’d recommend a cardigan, jeans, shawl, and a full-blown jacket for colder nights.
Obviously, September and October will be warmer, but by November, it can feel almost like Winter with temperatures dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, you may even want a hat and gloves.
Temperatures average between 43°F and 80°F (6°C and 27°C).
If you can handle the cold, Florence in the Winter has some amazing perks. Not only have the tourists cleared out and the locals have emerged, but the prices are lower and there is a calmness throughout the town.
There is less going on, but you still have the Christmastime charm with holiday markets, decorations, and festivities. Decorations will adorn the plazas and you can embrace the European Winter style (which is so elevated and fun!) We almost exclusively wore leather jackets, sweaters, jeans, hat, and gloves.
Since the cobblestone streets are uneven, choose a pair of boots that have a wide-heel and aren’t too high in the air. Here’s a secret tip that has changed our life in cold destinations – bring a pack of hand & foot warmers to slip in your jacket pocket or gloves and hold onto. They insulate you from the inside-out and stay warm for up to 10 hours! They make all the difference on a cold night and will make your explorations more enjoyable.
Temperatures average between 36°F and 54°F (2°C and 12°C).
Shopping is part of the fun of visiting a new place. I always leave a bit of empty space in my suitcase to pick up some authentic goods, souvenirs, and gifts for loved ones. You can use an adjustable luggage strap to remedy any overpacking, and it will also cinch-in your carry-on bag like a belt to shrink its width.
Also, consider how much weight you want to carry and keep things as lightweight as possible! You will have to lug your suitcase up streets, through the airport, and most old buildings don’t have an elevator. So only pack what you can carry and lift.
This isn’t the best use of space in your suitcase. Opt for a digital Kindle since it can hold an entire library of books and save you some unnecessary weight. You can also download the Lonely Planet Guidebooks which are free through Kindle Unlimited.
Heels and cobblestone simply don’t mix. Don’t risk a twisted ankle or hurting yourself on the uneven terrain. You’ll want to stick to flats and sandals with arch support, or if you do go for a heel, make sure it’s a thick one. You may think a wedge heel sounds like an ideal solution, but this can lead you to be very unbalanced and risk harm. You won’t see Italian women wearing high heels very often, so follow their lead.
Any type of hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener can be left at home. Most hotels will have them and they typically have an issue with voltage conversion that can lead to a fried device or blown fuse. It’s also a fire risk and typically just wise to go without when overseas.
Italians don’t wear athleticwear or sweats anywhere but the gym. Unlike Americans, it’s not a daily attire and can look a bit sloppy or careless. For the summer months and peak season as well, it’s too hot for these kinds of fabrics. So stick to linen and authentic cotton when shopping and hitting the cafes.
Honestly, you won’t look like a tourist in Florence unless you’re acting like an obnoxious tourist. Florence is a place that draws tourists from all over the world and the risk of pickpockets is lower than in other parts of Europe. Still, you don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb by wearing baseball hats and American flag shirts. Graphic t-shirts, shorts, tennis shoes, and fanny packs are fine. Yes, you are a tourist and this won’t bother most people in Florence.
There is no bad time to visit Florence, only the best time based on your specific needs. If you want to avoid the crowds and peak tourist traffic, you should visit during the off-season from November to March. Although it will be a bit chillier, this is also a good time for backpacking and hopping between wine bars.
My preferred time to visit is Spring, where it’s still warmer but not peak-season yet. Summer is everyone’s favorite time to visit, which leads to more crowds and higher prices, but also more activities and fun things to do!
May through September (late spring through Summer) is ideal for festivals, events, and sunshine. However, January boasts the Pitti Uomo, one of the largest fashion events in Italy. And February is an opportune time for wine lovers to experience the vino fair, Chianti Classico Collection. November will have the highest chance of rain and the driest months will by July and August.
While the city fosters a calmer pace of life, there is still plenty to see and do. The most important sight, in my opinion, will be the epic Duomo Cathedral, constructed in 1296. Of course, you will want to visit the Uffizi Museum, which holds Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and Da Vinci’s “Announciation.” The Academia Museum garners incredible Renaissance works, including Michelangelo’s “David,” but I found “Prisoners” to be even more profound.
Besides all of the incredible art and architecture, I think the best parts of Florence lie in the food, wine, and sights. We loved our day-trip to Pisa, Siena, Chianti, and San Gimignano (a jam-packed 12-hour excursion but you can hit all of the highlights!)
Yes, Florence is reasonably expensive, but there are always ways to save money when traveling abroad. The average cost of a day in Florence is $165 in USD. But still, you can easily spend $1-300 on a night at a hotel, $30-200 per day on food (wine making the biggest difference), and $25-150 per person on activities or tours.
When we visited, we stayed in a REAL castle outside of Florence in the rolling hills of Chianti. It was stunning, private, and just a walk and bus ride away from town for only $70 per night. We also ate pretty reasonably except for one or two nice meals that we splurged on. Lunches for two with appetizers and one round of drinks can be about €50.
You could live in luxury and spend €1,000 per day on top-notch hotels and private transfers, or you could stay in hostels and drink €5 bottles of wine from the family-owned corner store, so it’s really up to you!
There are plenty of nearby cities to explore:
Most first-time visitors will want to stay in the heart of the city near the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio (Florence’s oldest bridge and the first arch bridge of its kind built in this area). Florence is not a huge town, so staying in the center of the action will be ideal for short trips.
We stayed outside of the city at a lower cost and found it very easy to make our way into town each day on a short bus ride. There were a couple of walks involved, maybe a mile or two each way, but we found these to be beautiful, peaceful, and welcome.
Know that it will be a little noisier in the center of town, particularly during peak season when tourists are out late drinking vino, but you can bring earplugs or stay on the outskirts of town if you are concerned.
Asher has been traveling the world since he left Australia to study in the USA in 2004. He received a Master’s in Business Administration degree in 2013. He has lived all over the globe including India, Europe, Hawaii, and mainland US. He enjoys researching the travel industry, loves being a dad, cooking & eating delicious food, photography (took many of our photos), surfing big waves on Maui, camping trips and walking barefoot on the earth.
