Florence, with its rich past, art, and culture, is a blended destination that exposes travelers to captivating emotions and experiences. It is also renowned for its high-profile art galleries and architectural monuments, but there are also plenty of interesting sights and activities that won’t cost you a single Euro in Florence. This article offers a comprehensive guide to the top 20 free things to do in Florence, allowing you to explore the city without straining your budget.

Best Free Things to Do in Florence

1. Stroll Across the Ponte Vecchio

Our adventure regarding free things to do in Florence commences with the Ponte Vecchio. This is possibly the most famous bridge in Florence, standing over the Arno River. An unusual feature for a bridge from medieval times, this stone structure has numerous shops on both sides, showcasing jewelry shops. The best part is that you can enjoy the stunning views and remarkable artworks at no cost. Do not forget to take some nice pictures of the river and the city.

2. Explore Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo, a large square in the middle of Florence that has three important buildings: the St. Mary’s Cathedral, the Campanile of Giotto’s, and the Baptistery of St. John, is one of the most spacious squares in the city. Of course, you’ll likely need a ticket to go inside any of these buildings, but it’s also enjoyable to admire them from the square. Enjoy the beautiful sight of the immense white, green, and pink marble cladding of the walls of the building now at the center of the most amicable hostility in Renaissance Europe—the biggest marble dome in the world.

3. Admire the Florence Cathedral 

As you might expect, the main cathedral, known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, stands at the heart of Florence in Piazza del Duomo. Important art and architectural landmarks surround it. Even just the outer wall is a confluence of styles—those who designed it incorporated both the Gothic and the Renaissance styles of architecture together after all. The Florence Cathedral Garden, usually located nearby, is free to visit in most areas. It offers people a peaceful escape from the sometimes crowded city.

4. Marvel at Giotto’s Campanile

Next to the Florence Cathedral is Giotto’s Campanile, one of the notable works of architect Giotto di Bondone. It is a freestanding tower structure serving the purpose of a bell tower. It’s a notable example of Gothic architecture. Although you need a ticket to climb it, the campanile’s walls captivate with their intricate decorations and sculptures. With its attractive colors and sophisticated design, this is an important landmark for any enthusiastic fan of art and architecture.

5. Visit the Baptistery of St. John

The Baptistery of St. John is located in Piazza del Duomo. It is famous for its striking octagonal design and large bronze doors, such as the Piazzo doors crafted by Lorenzo Ghiberti. If you wish to get inside, you will have to buy a ticket. Otherwise, you are free to remain on the outside, exploring its surroundings and focusing on the large bronze doors that are significantly noticeable from afar.

6. Wander through Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is another main square in the city of Florence. As regards its importance, both historical and political, it is free to visit in Florence. Centuries ago, impressive statues and grand buildings surrounded this square, which stood at the heart of Florentine history. You can visit an open-air sculpture exhibition. Also, you can take photos with replicas of famous statues and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square.

7. Admire the Loggia dei Lanzi

The Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria is a covered outdoor gallery showcasing sculptures such as “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” by Benvenuto Cellini and “The Rape of the Sabine Women” by Gianbologna. This impressive gallery offers free entry, allowing you to admire its remarkable works of art.

8. Snap Photos of Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio is the Symbol for the History of Florence, completely extended to Piazza della Signoria and the City Hall of Florence. If you wish to enter the interior, there is a ticket to be paid but it is not necessary as you can always view the design from the outside. The sculptures and paintings adorn this castle-like structure. It reflects both the history of Florence and the power of the state.

9. Relax in the Boboli Gardens

These fountains and artistically decorated gardens are perfect when you want to go for a walk. Located directly behind the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens offer a serene retreat from the bustling city life. However, the gardens do require an admission fee for visitors. Many visitors can still enjoy various features without charge in certain areas of the upper courtyard and the nearby spaces that remain open to the public. The gardens are ideal for a peaceful stroll. They also have excellent picnic areas.

10. Cross the Ponte Santa Trinita

Ponte Santa Trinita is yet another of the beautiful bridges across the Arno River. From here, one can enjoy the panoramas of the river, the Ponte Vecchio, and other historical sites of Florence. A simple walk over this bridge is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Florence.

11. Explore the Rose Garden

The Giardino delle Rose, or Rose Garden, is located beneath the Piazzale Michelangelo. It is one of Florence’s most captivating attractions. This beautifully designed garden offers visitors a stunning array of roses and panoramic views of the city. This makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Walking around this garden, smelling the flowers, and the view is completely calm and free of any charges.

12. Gaze at the Basilica of Santa Croce

The Basilica of Santa Croce is also called the ‘Temple of the Italian Glories’. It is a big church that also contains the graves of great Italian historical figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Niccolò Machiavelli. However, even though the entrance of the chapels and museums is paid, they are worth seeing—the basilica’s beautiful exterior and the church’s imposing face.

13. Admire the Medici Chapels

The Medici Chapels are the resting place of the famous Medici family and are situated at the Basillica di San Lorenzo. A ticket would allow you access to the interior of the chapels, although some people might be interested in discovering the basilica’s exterior, the beautiful facade of the church, and the Medici’s emblem that’s placed on the walls.

14. Experience the Atmosphere at Mercato Centrale

The Central Market, or the Mercato Centrale, is a delicious food market. It is housed inside a beautifully old building that is located at the edge of the San Lorenzo area. If you had no intention of going to buy fresh fruits or other specialty ingredients, just going to the market itself is pleasing to the eyes. You got to enjoy the joyous ambience of the place. The vibrant decorations and stalls, and who knows, you may be lucky to be able to snag a few samples from the eager sellers!

15. Discover the Leather Market

Leather goods and items have always been one of the most important subdivisions in the city of Florence. For anyone who has wondered what this type of craftsmanship is like, they are more than welcome to visit the leather market. This market is situated in the San Lorenzo Market area of the city and is quite an impressive one, featuring shear portable market booths filled with leather handbags and accessories. You won’t find much in terms of free shopping here, but you can engage in observing and talking with the artisans at the market.

16. Roam the Oltrarno District

The Oltrarno District can be reached by crossing the Arno River and offers a more local and less touristy bazaar in Florence. The district features beautiful streets filled with artisan shops, local markets, varying trattorias, and coffee shops. Here it is nice to look at the lives of the residents of Florence.

17. Visit the Bargello Museum

Bargello Museum includes a magnificent collection of Renaissance sculptures, among them works by Michelangelo and Donatello. In contrast with the busy Uffizi, the Bargello Museum is usually quiet, and art lovers can quietly contemplate the work without the crowds.

18. Admire the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte

Set on a hill that provides lovely views of Florence, San Miniato is a Romanesque church that not only has beautiful vistas but is also a great place to escape from the noise of the city. Its lavishly decorated interior bears the mark of the Florentines.

19. Enjoy Street Performances

Just like the artwork displayed in the galleries, the most common paintings are often on the streets themselves. Pushing his musical boundaries is a J. M. who does everything from classical violin and bandoneon for tango culture. Do not be surprised to see everything from classical violinists to fun-loving street artists who spice up your visit.

20. Take in the Beauty of the City

Although it is probably not Florence’s asceticism, let us narrow the vision. Extremely enjoyable free things to do in Florence: getting lost in the streets of this beautiful city. Basically, it encourages a wandering traveler, showing them all its secrets and breathtaking sights that lurk under every corner. Florence’s duomo cast a magnificent silhouette against the clear blue sky, making its medieval center all the more tempting.

In conclusion, Florence, the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’, offers numerous free sights and activities that invite the visitor to discover more of the culture, history, and art without being on a budget. One can visit the Ponte Vecchio and Florence Cathedrals to the Rose Garden and Oltrarno District, and for sure one of them will catch your eye. These 20 free things to do in Florence are so full of life. So, when walking around, a traveler is also entertained—and many of the sights are free. Therefore, let’s get started with your adventure, and let’s see the wonders of Florence in a very easy-on-the-pocket way!