Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but small mistakes can quietly ruin your visit. Many travelers leave with regrets they could have avoided.
Here are 22 Things That Can Ruin Your Trip to Florence (and How to Avoid Them), with practical tips so you can enjoy Florence the right way.
22 Things That Can Ruin Your Trip to Florence (Read Before You Go!)
Don’t treat Florence like a one-day stop
So many people try to squeeze Florence into a day trip between Rome and Venice. You’ll see the Duomo, rush through the Uffizi, maybe walk across the Ponte Vecchio—and then it’s over. But Florence isn’t a checklist city; it’s about atmosphere, rhythm, and detail.
Stay at least two or three nights so you can slow down, wander its streets at night, and discover places beyond the main sights.
Don’t rush through the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi is home to masterpieces like Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Leonardo’s Annunciation, and Caravaggio’s Medusa. Many visitors make the mistake of running through in under an hour, leaving more exhausted than inspired. Plan two to three hours, book your ticket well in advance, and don’t be afraid to focus on just a few rooms if you feel overwhelmed.
Don’t miss the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
This free viewpoint offers the most iconic panorama of Florence, with the Arno River and Brunelleschi’s Dome glowing in the evening light. If you skip it, you’ll regret it as soon as you see someone else’s photos. Go early, bring a gelato or a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere as locals and travelers gather to watch the city turn golden.
Don’t ignore how crowded it gets
Florence is compact, which means the same streets and squares fill up fast with tourists. Midday in summer can be suffocating, especially around the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The best strategy is to start early: visit museums in the morning, explore quieter neighborhoods like Oltrarno in the afternoon, and return to the historic center in the evening when crowds thin out.
Don’t buy leather from just anywhere
Florence is known for leather goods, but many stalls—especially around San Lorenzo—sell cheap imports that are not authentic. If it smells like plastic, it’s fake. Look for family-run workshops or stores with a clear reputation for craftsmanship. For guaranteed quality, the Scuola del Cuoio behind Santa Croce is a safe bet.
Don’t believe the hype from TikTok food spots
Some viral food spots in Florence, especially famous sandwich shops, are more about social media photos than good meals. Long lines often lead to disappointment. The best Florentine food is found in small trattorie, often a little outside the busiest tourist streets. Ask locals for recommendations, or try authentic places like Trattoria Mario for a real experience.
Don’t skip the Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina)
This thick, rare T-bone steak is a Tuscan tradition. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s meant to be shared. Many tourists avoid it because of its size or price, but it’s one of the best things you’ll eat in Florence. Order it at a proper trattoria, pair it with Chianti wine, and you’ll understand why it’s legendary.
Don’t stop at just seeing the Duomo
The exterior of the Duomo is magnificent, but the true highlight is climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome. The climb takes you between the inner and outer shells of the dome, past Vasari’s frescoes, and finally to a panoramic terrace at the top. Tickets are not included with general cathedral entry, so reserve in advance.
Don’t drive into the historic center
Florence has ZTL (limited traffic) zones monitored by cameras. Drive into one by mistake, and you’ll get a fine mailed home—no exceptions. Parking is expensive and difficult anyway. The best option is to leave your car outside the city center and explore Florence on foot or by public transport.
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Don’t rely on walk-ins for everything
From museums like the Uffizi and Accademia to popular restaurants, Florence works on reservations. Tourists who show up without booking often wait for hours or get turned away completely. Reserve tickets and dinner tables ahead of time, especially in high season.
Don’t miss the Vasari Corridor
After years of restoration, the Vasari Corridor is finally open again. This elevated passage, built in 1565, connects the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace, crossing the Ponte Vecchio above the shops. Inside, it houses hundreds of portraits and unique views of the city. It’s one of the most fascinating walks in Florence, but tickets are limited, so book as early as possible.
Don’t stay only on the Duomo side of the river
Most tourists never cross the Arno, but the Oltrarno district feels like another world. Here you’ll find artisan workshops, small piazzas filled with locals, and some of the city’s best food. Piazza Santo Spirito, in particular, is lively in the evenings and gives you a taste of real Florentine life.
Don’t skip the Boboli Gardens
Behind the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens are a refreshing break from museums. They’re filled with sculptures, fountains, shaded paths, and sweeping city views. Many tourists regret skipping them because they didn’t realize how big or beautiful they are. Wear good shoes and bring water—you’ll need both.
Don’t join the wrong kind of tour
A generic, fast-paced tour can make Florence feel overwhelming. Choose a small group tour with an expert guide who loves art and history, or use an audio guide if you prefer to move at your own pace. The right tour makes all the difference in how you experience the city.
Don’t cram your itinerary
Trying to see every museum and landmark in two days will burn you out. Florence rewards slow travel—sitting in piazzas, enjoying long meals, and wandering quiet side streets. Leave space in your schedule for spontaneity. The best memories often come from unplanned moments.
Don’t skip a cooking class
Many travelers assume cooking classes are “too touristy,” but they often become the highlight of the trip. Learning to make fresh pasta, Tuscan sauces, or tiramisu with locals is fun, interactive, and gives you a lasting memory to bring home.
Don’t confuse the replica David for the real one
The David standing in Piazza della Signoria is just a copy. The original masterpiece by Michelangelo is inside the Accademia Gallery, and the impact of seeing it in person is unforgettable. Book tickets in advance—it’s one of Florence’s busiest attractions.
Don’t over-plan or under-plan
Arriving with a strict, minute-by-minute itinerary will leave you exhausted. But showing up with no plan at all means missing out on Florence’s essentials. Strike a balance: book the most important museums and tours, and leave the rest of your time open for discovery.
Don’t rely only on Google Maps
Florence’s medieval streets can confuse GPS, and many tourists find themselves walking in circles. Maps often underestimate walking times too. Download an offline map or take screenshots of directions before you head out, especially if you’re trying to reach a restaurant reservation on time.
Don’t drag a huge suitcase through the streets
Cobbled streets, narrow alleys, and small hotels without elevators make oversized luggage a nightmare. Tourists often regret bringing large roller bags. Pack light if you can—or book accommodation close to Santa Maria Novella station if you know you’ll be carrying heavy bags.
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By knowing these 22 things that can ruin your trip to Florence—and how to avoid them—you’ll be free to enjoy the city’s beauty without unnecessary stress.