Top Culture in Florence

Take a few moments to sit on the nearby steps by the river to soak in the view. It’s a beautiful spot to relax; I missed this the first time around!

Consider visiting early in the morning, around 8 AM, to avoid the massive crowds. I found it peaceful and got some great photos without too many people around.

Bring a good camera or your phone with a decent lens. The light at sunset is incredible, and the views are stunning for photos. I wish I had taken more!

If you can, try visiting on a weekday morning right when it opens at 8:15 AM. It’s way less crowded, and you’ll get a nice view of David without the horde of tourists.

Take your time to enjoy the gallery. The atmosphere is peaceful, so sitting on a bench to soak it all in is totally worth it, especially after rushing through other busy spots.

My advice is to focus your visit on the Palatine Gallery. The art there is stunning, but the rooms can feel overwhelming, so pick a few favorites and enjoy them!

Check out the Secret Rooms! They’re not always on the main tour, so ask about them. Totally worth it for the unique history!

Get there as early as 9 AM to beat the crowds. I arrived around that time and had a much more peaceful experience exploring the stunning architecture.

If you're a fan of history, I suggest downloading an audio guide beforehand. I didn't, and I felt like I missed out on some cool stories about the place!