I have been studying abroad in Florence for 6 weeks now and have loved getting to explore this magical city. There is so much art, beauty, history, and tasty food around every corner. Florence is so well-rounded, with so much to see and do. I have a lot more to see and do before my time here is up, but here’s a list of my top 10 favorite places in Florence at the moment:
Museums
1. Uffizi Gallery: The most popular Florence art gallery. This museum holds many pieces from the Italian Renaissance. There’s tons to see in this museum; I could spend hours here. Plus, it has a great view of the river!
2. Gucci Garden: If you like fashion, the Gucci Garden is a must-see. It’s small, but full of some beautiful pieces that are worth a look.
Food
3. Gusta Pizza: They have the best single-serving pizzas for super cheap. I love grabbing my pizza and heading to a cool spot to eat it. I’m going to miss Gusta Pizza way too much when I leave.
4. Coquinarius: Probably my favorite restaurant in Italy thus far (I still have so much to try). They have the most amazing pear ravioli. I literally have dreams about it. They also just have a unique menu, which in general is worth checking out. I love everything I’ve ever ordered from this place.
5. I Fratellini: My go-to lunch spot in Florence. They have the best paninis in my opinion. The line can get a little long, but it’s so worth it. The ingredients are fresh and so tasty. The workers are also super friendly.
Gelato
6. Edoardo’s: My personal favorite gelato place. They have unique, organic flavors that are perfection. Edoardo’s never disappoints. And, it’s right by the Duomo, so you get gelato with a view.
Markets
7. Santo Spirito (Market): Santo Spirito is my favorite neighborhood in Florence. There are a lot more locals than tourists, plenty of great food, and it seems like there’s always something going on in this area. The best part is that they have a great flea market on the second Sunday of every month with clothes, antiques, art, food, and more. The market is a great way to feel like a local for a few hours.
8. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio: This market is where I buy my produce. Located in my neighborhood (Santa Croce), it’s convenient and has an amazing selection of seasonal fruits and veggies.
Other
9. Piazzale Michaelangelo: Absolute favorite spot in Florence. Great view of the city. I love coming here for sunset with some friends. There are always performers at night, which really adds to the ambiance.
10. Santa Croce: I’ve never actually been inside this church (it's on my bucket list still), but it’s basically in my backyard. The front of the church is a big, open square. I love going to the square at night, because there’s always something exciting going on -- whether it be a street performer, local kids playing soccer, or some local college kids hanging out on the steps. This spot makes Florence feel like home for me.
I’m definitely biased, but Florence is one of the best cities in Europe. I can’t believe I’m lucky enough to live in a city with so much adventure to be had. I never seem to get bored here. Getting to experience Florence on such a deep level has given me a new appreciation for the people, the culture, and all of the little things. Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore and connect with your new home. And even if it’s not Florence, every city has an endless list of adventures and experiences to enjoy.
Cali Edmunds is a CEA Content Contributor studying abroad in Florence, Italy, during the Fall 2019 semester. She is currently a student at Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo.