If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve either booked your flight to Italy or are deciding whether to, and you're curious about what a trip to Florence would be like. This isn’t your ordinary Florence guide. While we recommend visiting the main sights if they interest you, this guide is for those who want to venture off the beaten path and explore beyond what the average tourist experiences. Welcome to your not-so-ordinary travel guide to Florence.

The most important factor when traveling is making the trip truly your own. If you’re not into art at home, the likelihood of suddenly becoming an art connoisseur abroad is slim, unless that’s something you genuinely want to explore. When you travel in a way that aligns with who you are, you’ll have richer, more meaningful experiences. Since we’re all different, finding an itinerary that feels personal can be challenging, especially when many travelers end up doing the same things.

Some of the most memorable moments come from going with the flow, talking to locals, and doing a bit of discovery once you arrive. Leaving time to wander and explore neighborhoods often leads you to the parts of a city that feel the most real. Many of my favorite travel moments were never planned or found on Google, they happened naturally.

Here are 2 ideas that can lead to unique experiences:

Having a starting point for your research can make it easier to discover experiences that fit your interests. Whether you’re looking for a book-lover activity, a foodie adventure, or simply want to elevate your stay by exploring options like a cozy bed and breakfast in the Tuscan countryside, narrowing your focus can help you curate a trip that feels more intentional.

For the Book Enthusiast

If none of these match your interests, start with what you already love and build your research from there. For example, if you enjoy live music, look up local venues, cafés with performances, or simply ask a local you meet.

As a reminder, Florence is one of the top three most visited cities in Italy, welcoming between 5.3 and 8.9 million tourists each year. Because of this, fully avoiding crowds, especially in the city center, can be challenging. If you find yourself in a more localized area, be mindful and respectful; you’re a guest in someone’s home.

That said, the number of visitors shouldn’t deter you. Florence is a beautiful city with intricate architecture, rich culture, and layers of history waiting to be explored. With so much to do and see, having reliable gear makes capturing your favorite moments effortless. Explore our iPhone photography and filmmaking tools to get the most out of your trip.