Florence is often synonymous with iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo, but there’s much more to explore in this beautiful city if you go off the beaten path. From exploring secret passageways and ghost tours to creating your own leather goods and discovering Florence’s quirky wine windows, this guide uncovers the city’s hidden treasures and offbeat experiences.
Whether it’s truffle hunting or visiting Galileo’s preserved fingers, there’s something for every curious traveler. Read on to discover the Florence that most tourists miss!
Top Unique Things to Do in Florence Outside the Tourist Book
Florence has more to offer than just its famous landmarks. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the city’s culture, explore these unique and unusual activities that take you beyond the typical tourist experience and into the hidden heart of Florence.
1. Venture into the Vasari Corridor
The Vasari Corridor is a lesser-known gem of Florence—a secret passageway that once allowed the Medici family to walk safely between the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace. Closed for years, the corridor offers stunning views of the city and hidden art collections. Not open to the public without prior arrangement, securing a tour here will provide a glimpse into Florence’s royal past, away from the crowds.
2. Explore the Crypt of Santa Reparata
Beneath the grand Florence Duomo lies an ancient secret: the Crypt of Santa Reparata. This underground church dates back to the early Christian period and predates the iconic Duomo. A visit to the crypt reveals ancient tombs, medieval frescoes, and archaeological remains that take you back centuries, well before the Renaissance.
3. Witness the Wax Models of La Specola
For something truly offbeat, head to the Museo della Specola, a museum renowned for its fascinating collection of anatomical wax models. Dating back to the 18th century, this museum offers a rare look into historical medical studies and is one of the oldest scientific museums in Europe. The wax models are both artistic and eerie, making it an unusual must-see.
4. Galileo’s Fingers at the Galileo Galilei Museum
One of Florence’s most unusual attractions can be found at the Galileo Museum: the preserved fingers of the famous scientist Galileo Galilei. Detached from his body during a reburial in the 18th century, these relics are now on display, offering a curious insight into the man who revolutionized astronomy. It’s a fascinating, albeit eerie, stop for those interested in science history.
5. Dark History Night Tour of Florence
Florence might be known for its art, but the city’s past has a dark side too. The Dark History Night Tour of Florence takes you through the city’s shadowy past, focusing on tales of murder, conspiracies, and ancient crimes. You’ll wander Florence’s historic streets by night, uncovering lesser-known stories of power struggles, unsolved mysteries, and the darker side of the Medici family. This immersive tour is perfect for those interested in the macabre history of Florence and provides a new, chilling perspective on this Renaissance city.
6. Uncover Boboli Gardens’ Secret Spots
While the Boboli Gardens are a well-known attraction, many visitors miss the more secluded areas like hidden grottos, secret fountains, and the lesser-known Knight’s Garden. Spend an afternoon wandering these quieter corners of the gardens for a more intimate experience with the rich Renaissance landscape architecture.
7. Ghost Hunting Tour
Florence has its share of haunted legends and spooky spots. If you’re a fan of ghost stories, this tour is a thrilling way to explore the city’s hidden past. You’ll hear about Florence’s most haunted buildings, like the Palazzo Vecchio, and eerie tales that linger in the city’s ancient streets.
8. Florentine Street Art Tour
If you thought Florence was only about classical art and art galleries, think again. The city’s modern street art scene is flourishing. A guided street art tour will reveal hidden murals, clever street signs, and contemporary works that contrast with Florence’s historical architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s evolving art culture.
9. Truffle Hunting
Take a break from the city and head into the nearby Tuscan woods for a truffle-hunting experience. Guided by a local expert and trained dogs, you’ll search for these prized culinary treasures, then enjoy a meal featuring the freshly unearthed truffles—a true farm-to-table experience.
10. Visit a Gelato Academy
Florence is known for its gelato, but why just eat it when you can learn how to make it? At one of Florence’s historic gelato schools, you can dive into the art of gelato making. Create your custom flavors and indulge in some of the best gelato you’ll ever taste, crafted by your own hands.
11. Check Out Florence’s Renowned Wine Windows
A quirky remnant of Florence’s past, the city’s buchette del vino (wine windows) dates back to the Renaissance (16th century). These small, charming openings in the walls of palazzos were used to sell wine directly to customers. Many of these windows are still visible today, and some even function again, serving wine in the same tradition. Embark on a hunt for these hidden gems and experience a piece of Florentine history that most tourists overlook!
12. Blend Your Own Wine
Florence sits in the heart of Tuscany, home to some of the world’s finest wines and a hot destination for wine-tasting tours. For a more personalized experience, visit a local winery where you can blend your own wine. Guided by a sommelier, you’ll learn about the process of winemaking and create a bottle that suits your taste—perfect to bring home as a unique souvenir.
13. Street Food Tour
Wondering where to eat in Florence for unique tastes? While Florence is famous for its elegant cuisine, the city’s street food is an entirely different experience. A street food tour takes you to local markets where you can sample Florence’s lesser-known culinary delights like lampredotto (tripe sandwich), a traditional dish cherished by locals. It’s a true taste of authentic Florentine life.
14. Craft Your Leather Goods
Florence has a long tradition of leather craftsmanship. Instead of simply shopping for leather souvenirs, why not make your own? Join a leather workshop at the infamous Scuola del Cuoio and create custom leather accessories under the guidance of skilled artisans, giving you a hands-on appreciation for Florence’s craftsmanship.
15. Attend a Perfume Making Class in AquaFlor
Florentine perfumes have been renowned since the Renaissance. You can learn the secrets of creating your own fragrance in a perfume-making class at the famous AquaFlor, located in the Santa Croce district. You’ll work with a master perfumer to blend scents that reflect the city’s historical legacy and your personal taste, leaving with a custom perfume to take home.
16. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Tuscany
For a breathtaking view of Tuscany’s landscape, book a hot air balloon ride at dawn. You’ll float over vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, experiencing the rolling hills from an entirely new perspective—perfect for a romantic adventure.
17. Arno River Rafting
Explore Florence from a different angle by rafting along the Arno River. This guided adventure takes you under the iconic Ponte Vecchio and past Florence’s riverside architecture, offering a peaceful, offbeat perspective on the city.
18. Vespa Ride Through Chianti
Take a Vespa tour through the picturesque Chianti region. As you wind your way through vineyards and olive groves, you’ll stop at small villages, wineries, and scenic spots for wine tastings and local food. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the Tuscan countryside.
19. Horseback Riding in the Florentine Hills
For a more serene adventure, consider a horseback ride through the rolling hills surrounding Florence. You’ll ride through olive groves and past medieval estates, with opportunities to stop for wine and olive oil tastings.
20. Attend an Opera in a Church
Florence’s rich cultural history extends to its love for opera. One of the most unique ways to experience this art form is to attend a live opera performance inside one of Florence’s historic churches, like Santa Monaca Church. The setting provides an intimate and atmospheric backdrop to the powerful music.
21. Florence’s Secret Appearances by Street Artist Clet
Florence is known for its historical artwork, but keep an eye out for Clet, a modern street artist who adds playful alterations to the city’s street signs. His humorous and clever tweaks often go unnoticed by tourists, making it a fun scavenger hunt as you explore the city’s streets.
22. San Lorenzo Market for a Culinary Dive
If you want to immerse yourself in authentic Florentine life, head to the San Lorenzo Market. This local market is a sensory overload of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. It’s the perfect spot to grab ingredients for a picnic or sample some of Florence’s best street food.
Where to Stay in Florence for Unique Experiences
Looking for a memorable stay in Florence? Here are some options that go beyond the usual:
- Historic Palazzos: Stay in a centuries-old Florentine palace converted into a boutique hotel.
- Artisan Apartments: Choose an apartment in the Oltrarno district, where local artists live and work.
- Charming B&Bs: Opt for cozy, family-run bed and breakfasts in quieter neighborhoods like San Niccolò.
- Hidden Garden Hotels: Some boutique hotels boast serene gardens hidden from street view, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
Seasonal Events and Festivals in Florence
Florence offers a unique vibe in every season, with free activities and events at your footsteps! Here’s what you can catch during your visit:
- Spring: The city bursts with color during Scoppio del Carro (Easter Explosion of the Cart).
- Summer: Enjoy open-air performances during the Florence Dance Festival or Opera in Piazza.
- Autumn: Experience the Festa di San Giovanni (St. John’s Day) with historic parades and fireworks.
- Winter: Cozy up with Florence’s Christmas markets, and don’t miss Firenze Winter Park for ice skating fun.
Secret Artisan Boutiques and Local Markets in Florence
For unique shopping, skip the chain stores and dive into Florence’s artisan scene:
- Leather Goods: Visit Scuola del Cuoio to watch artisans handcraft beautiful leather products.
- Jewelry: Head to the Ponte Vecchio, but check out smaller shops off the bridge for one-of-a-kind designs.
- Local Markets: Don’t miss the Mercato Centrale and Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio for everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
- Vintage Finds: Explore flea markets like Mercato delle Pulci for quirky antiques and vintage fashion.
Best Time to Visit Florence for Offbeat Adventures
For the best offbeat experiences, timing your visit is key. So, plan your Florentine tour keeping in mind the seasonal trends.
- Spring (April-June): Mild weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring Boboli Gardens or taking a street art tour.
- Fall (September-October): The city calms after the summer rush, which is great for visiting hidden museums or taking a ghost tour.
- Winter (November-March): Fewer tourists mean you can enjoy quieter streets and discounted off-season tours, like the Vasari Corridor.
How to Get Around Florence Like a Local
Navigating Florence like a local is simple with these travel tips:
- Walk Everywhere: The historic center is compact—put on comfy shoes and walk to take in hidden gems along the way.
- Bike It: Rent a bike for the day and explore areas like the Oltrarno district and Florence’s lesser-known parks.
- Public Transport: Florence has a reliable bus network—get a Carta Agile pass for quick rides.
- Hop on a Vespa: Want to venture outside the city? Join a Vespa tour through Tuscany’s scenic hills.
One Final Remark
Florence is full of surprises beyond its famous landmarks. For a truly unforgettable experience, immerse yourself in its hidden history, artisan workshops, and offbeat adventures. From Vespa rides through Tuscany to attending an opera in a church, these unique activities will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper connection to the heart of Florence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I do Florence in 3 days?
Yes, 3 days is enough to explore Florence’s highlights and even enjoy some unique experiences.
What is the most visited museum in Florence?
The Uffizi Gallery is the most visited museum in Florence.
What is worth buying in Florence?
Leather goods, handcrafted jewelry, and Florentine paper are worth buying.
What food is Florence known for?
Florence is known for bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak) and lampredotto.
Is Florence a walkable city?
Yes, Florence is very walkable, with most attractions close to each other.
What’s better, Rome or Florence?
Rome is grand and historic, while Florence offers a more intimate, art-focused experience.
