Florence holds a very special place in my heart. The first time I traveled here, it was my first time in Europe when I was in the 6th grade. We had some issues with our hotel and ended up in a palatial suite, so my memories of Florence always bring me back to this moment when I felt like a real-life princess! I have since been back to this beautiful city two more times and have explored every corner imaginable. Trust me when I say that this city is even more gorgeous in real-life and is DEFINITELY photo-worthy! I’ve gathered some of my favorite photo spots so you can ace the ‘gram during your Florence travels:
1. PIAZZA DEL DUOMO
The Pizza del Duomo is the most iconic are of the city, and for a good reason. The square is flanked by medieval masterpieces like the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower and St. John’s Baptistery, all adorned in ornate sculptural elements and marble. The details here are absolutely stunning and make for the perfect photo-op!
Travel Tip: If you’re like me and like to have the city to yourself, make sure to wake up by sunrise because it gets super crowded super fast!
2. PONTE VECCHIO
The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge that spans the Arno River. This bridge is unique because it is houses many shops over the river itself. These were historically home to butchers, but are now occupied by jewelry and souvenir tenants. It is definitely worth walking across the Ponte Vecchio, but also be sure to check out one of the surrounding bridges to get an epic shot with the Ponte Vecchio from behind!
3. THE STUDENT HOTEL
Ok, so I saw this pool on Instagram and knew that I had to stay here! While I don’t think that the beach is the most boring place in the world, a rooftop pool with a view over a breathtaking historical city is definitely more exciting! The Student Hotel offers both hotel rooms and hostel suites, so you can enjoy the pool here at any budget.
P.S. I was definitely not a student when I stayed here and did not feel weird at all! The hotel rooms are very modern and comfortable for travelers at any age.
4. RINASCENTE ROOFTOP
Rinascente is an Italian department store and their location in Florence has one of the most prime views of the Duomo. Come here for brunch, lunch or drinks and enjoy the view with a home-made Bellini and some Italian food.
5. GUCCI OSTERIA
Florence is the only place in the world where you can dine in alllll of the Gucci Glory with a menu by a renowned chef at the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. Florence is the birthplace of this luxury brand, so be sure to add the osteria and the Gucci museum to your list while you are visiting here. I highly recommend the Gucci Burger; it comes in a pink Gucci take-out box!
6. PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO
The Piazzale Michelangelo has the best panoramic views overlooking the city of Florence. Located on the southern side of the Arno river, it is a bit distanced from all of the major tourist attractions, but it is definitely worth the trek to the top (or the pricey taxi ride!) There is also a café at the top of the hill, so you can grab a Spritz and enjoy the best sunset view in the city.
7. VINTAGE FOTOAUTOMATICA BOOTHS
When I travelled to Florence for the second time, my friend pointed out these Fotoautomatica booths out and I realized that I had never noticed them before! Now, I’ve been seeing them all over Instagram because of their super-cool vintage vibes. There are many of these booths across the city, but my favorite was the one at Via Santa Monaca.
Travel Tip: Make sure to pop in-side the booth and take some silly photos with the vintage B&W film! It’s such a cool souvenir.
8. GRAND HOTEL MINERVA ROOFTOP
The Grand Hotel Minerva is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Florence. They have an awesome pool with a view overlooking the city and the Duomo. If you can’t bank a stay here, come for sunset cocktails on the rooftop and watch the sky change colors.
9. Piazza Santa Trinita
The Piazza Santa Trinita is a medieval square lined with luxury shopping, a palace and the Salvatore Ferragamo museum. The impressive buildings are beautiful shades of brick and beige, making for a cool monochromatic photo backdrop.
10. Santa Croche
The Basilica of Santa Croche is another beautiful medieval structure in the city and it is far less crowded than the Piazza del Duomo. If you’re looking for a shot with the beautiful architecture without a huge crowd of people, this is your spot!
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