Travel Tips for Florence, Italy

Cost: € (affordable)

Safety: 4/5 for solo female travellers

Florence is one of those rare cities that feels like stepping straight into a Renaissance painting. With its terracotta rooftops, grand piazzas and world-class art, it’s a destination that overwhelms in the best possible way.

I visited in April, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The days were bright, comfortably warm for wandering, and the city was buzzing with life without the heavy summer crowds. Walking through Florence, I found myself constantly pausing just to take in its beauty.

How to get there

From Ireland, the most convenient way is to fly directly into Florence Airport (Peretola). An alternative is to fly into Pisa (often cheaper from Dublin or Cork) and then take a direct train or bus to Florence in about 1 hour.

Language, Currency & Weather

Italian is the official language, and while English is widely spoken in central areas, using a few Italian phrases like ‘grazie’, ‘ciao’ or ‘per favore’ will help with interactions.

The Euro is used throughout Italy, and ATMs are easy to find. Most cafés and gelaterias take cards, though some small trattorias prefer cash.

April in Florence was just right. It was warm enough for outdoor dining and long walks, but not stifling. Think mid-to-high teens and low 20s degrees Celsius. The city feels alive in spring, with blossoms and lively squares, making it an ideal time to visit.

Public Transport

Florence is a walking city. Almost all of the main attractions; the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio are within a short stroll of one another.

If you need to get around faster, there are trains from Santa Maria Novella station that connect Florence with Tuscany’s gems, like Pisa, Lucca or Siena, making day trips easy. Local buses and trams run regularly, though I found I rarely needed them.

Where To Stay

Florence offers plenty of accommodation, depending on your style. Boutique hotels or apartments are perfect for solo travellers. They usually feel safe and personal, with plenty of charm compared to large hotels.

If you want to be in the heart of it all, stay near the Duomo or Piazza della Signoria. Waking up to the sound of church bells felt quintessentially Florentine.

Across the Arno River is slightly quieter. The area is full of artisan shops, cafés and a more local vibe.

Where To Go & What To Do

Florence has a lot to offer and if you have three or four days, you can fit a lot in. By walking around you will see a lot; hidden piazzas, cosy cafés and views around every corner.

The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) is a great option to visit. Why not climb Brunelleschi’s dome for fantastic views over the city. It’s definitely a climb, but so worth it.

Travel to Ponte Vecchio. The famous medieval bridge is lined with jewellery shops, which is perfect for a sunset stroll. Uffizi gallery is home to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and countless Renaissance masterpieces. Go early in the day if you can.

Visit the Boboli Gardens, which is a serene escape from the bustle. It’s the perfect place for a quiet afternoon surrounded by fountains and sculptures.

What & Where To Eat

Food in Florence is an experience in itself! Mercato Centrale is a lively food market where you can try everything from fresh pasta to local cheeses.

If you are after Tuscan dishes, then try ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup) or pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread stew).

The Florentine steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) is a specialty for meat lovers. It is usually shared and cooked rare.

I loved the family-run spots (Trattorias) where meals felt both rustic and authentic. Dining solo here never felt awkward; Florence’s food culture is warm and inviting.

You just definitely visit some of the wine windows that are scattered around the city. They are so cool, and you can have your glass of wine on the go!

Buona visita!