Florence, Italy Travel Guide: 9 Hidden Gems to Discover in 2025
Every guide is crafted with love, real research, and carefully chosen photos that show what each destination actually looks like. Thank you for exploring with me. - Narmin (Read more)
Florence is world-famous for its Renaissance art, historic landmarks, and incredible food, but beyond the usual tourist spots, the city has plenty of cool, offbeat, and unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems, quirky museums, or immersive local activities, this guide will show you how to explore Florence in a totally different way.
Florence, areal view of the city - a breathtaking panorama showcasing terracotta rooftops/Depositphotos
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1. See Michelangelo’s David... But in Three Different Places
Most visitors rush to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David, but did you know that Florence has three versions of this iconic sculpture? The original is inside the Accademia, but there’s a replica standing in Piazza della Signoria (the original location of the statue). For the most epic view, head up to Piazzale Michelangelo, where a bronze David overlooks the entire city. This is one of the best spots for a sunset photo of Florence!
Florence, Michelangelo’s bronze cast of David-proudly standing atop Piazzale Michelangelo, this striking replica offers both artistic beauty and panoramic views over the city’s skyline/Depositphotos
2. Go Wine Tasting at a Tiny "Wine Window"
Florence has a hidden wine-drinking tradition that dates back centuries—tiny wine windows carved into the walls of historic buildings! These Buchette del Vino were originally used for selling wine directly from noble family homes. Today, a few of these charming little windows are back in action, serving wine and Aperol Spritz straight from the wall. Try one at Babae or Osteria delle Brache, and sip wine the way the Florentines did in the 1600s!
Glass of red wine with cheese with a scenic rooftop view of Florence - the perfect Tuscan moment, combining local flavors with breathtaking views of the Duomo and terracotta rooftops/Depositphotos
3. Discover the Secret Passageways of the Medici
Ever wondered how the powerful Medici family moved through Florence unnoticed? They had a secret passageway, known as the Vasari Corridor, connecting Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and Pitti Palace over the Ponte Vecchio. The corridor is usually closed to the public, but you can still get a glimpse of it from inside the Uffizi. Keep an eye out for hidden doors and secret staircases throughout the city—many buildings have passages that date back to medieval times!
Florence, the Vasari Corridor - an elevated passageway rich in history, connecting Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti, offering a unique glimpse into the Medici family's secret route above the city/Depositphotos
Florence, tourists inside the Uffizi Gallery- tourists admire classical sculptures, including a reclining female statue that captures the elegance and artistry of the Renaissance era/Depositphotos
4. Visit the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum
Sure, Florence is filled with stunning art museums, but if you want something fun and hands-on, check out the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Unlike most museums, here you can touch, test, and interact with real models of Leonardo’s inventions—from flying machines to war devices! It’s an amazing spot for science lovers, and you’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for da Vinci’s genius.
5. Escape to a Hidden Garden in the City
If you need a quiet escape from the crowds, Florence has some beautiful hidden gardens where you can unwind. Bardini Gardens is one of the most underrated spots, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, plus a magical wisteria tunnel that blooms in spring. Another local secret is the Rose Garden, just below Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s free to enter and filled with over 350 types of roses, sculptures, and quiet corners to relax with a view.
Florence, Bardini Gardens-a peaceful escape with blooming terraces, elegant staircases, offering a perfect blend of nature and Renaissance charm/Depositphotos
6. Try the Most Unique Gelato Flavors in Florence
Gelato is a must in Italy, but instead of sticking to vanilla and chocolate, why not try something totally different? Florence is home to some of the most creative gelato flavors in Italy. Head to Gelateria dei Neri for gorgonzola & walnuts or ricotta & figs. If you love experimental flavors, try Vivoli for their saffron, chestnut, or spicy chocolate gelato.
Italy, a colorful showcase brimming with appetizing Italian gelato - creamy, vibrant scoops in every flavor imaginable, inviting you to savor one of the country’s most beloved treats/Depositphotos
7. Get Chills at Florence’s Hidden Bone Church
For a spooky and unusual experience, visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Impruneta, also known as Florence’s "Bone Church." Located just outside the city, this small church holds a crypt lined with real human skulls and bones, creating an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere. It’s definitely not your typical tourist attraction, but it offers a unique glimpse into Florence’s dark history.
The Florence Cathedral of St. Mary, or Il Duomo, is a stunning symbol of Florence/Depositphotos
8. Take a Boat Ride Under the Ponte Vecchio
Most visitors admire the Ponte Vecchio from above, but a boat ride down the Arno River offers an entirely different perspective! Hop aboard a traditional Renaioli boat, which is like Florence’s version of a gondola, and glide peacefully under the city’s historic bridges. Sunset boat tours are especially beautiful, as you’ll see Florence bathed in golden light.
Florence, Arno River - a peaceful view where the city's historic bridges and pastel buildings reflect beautifully in the water, perfect for a scenic stroll or golden hour photos/Depositphotos
9. Step Inside the World's Oldest Pharmacy
Florence is home to one of the oldest pharmacies in the world—the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, established in 1221. This place looks like a museum, with ancient perfumes, herbal remedies, and beauty products made from centuries-old formulas. You can even buy handcrafted fragrances inspired by 16th-century recipes used by Florentine nobility!
Florence, traditional grocery store - a charming shop filled with local Tuscan delights like olive oil, cured meats, cheeses, and handmade pasta, offering an authentic taste of Florence/Depositphotos
Final Thoughts:
Florence is a city of art, history, and surprises, and there’s so much more to discover than just the usual attractions. Whether it’s sipping wine from a tiny window, uncovering secret passages, or exploring eerie crypts, these cool and unique experiences will make your trip to Florence truly unforgettable.
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