Florence isn’t just a city of stunning art and architecture; it’s a place where each tour offers a different way to deepen your connection with its soul. Whether you’re sipping wine in the rolling hills of Chianti, marveling at Michelangelo’s David, or cycling through city streets, Florence’s diverse tours make exploring easy and memorable. We particularly like the Chianti Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting, for example, because it combines scenic landscapes with authentic regional flavors and the chance to chat with local winemakers.
While art lovers can’t miss the Uffizi Gallery guided tour, foodies will find the Street Food Tour with Wine & Local Guide a true highlight, offering authentic tastes and lively markets. With so many options—from self-guided explorations to intimate small-group trips—there’s a perfect match for every traveler. Below, we’ve gathered the best 14 tours in Florence to help you choose your ideal experience.
1. Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting
At number 1, this Chianti Wineries Tour stands out for its scenic drive through Tuscany’s most iconic landscape. Over 5 to 5.5 hours, you visit two authentic vineyards in the Chianti Hills, walk through lush vineyards, and meet local winemakers. The tour includes sampling a variety of wines, complemented by regional cheeses, olive oils, and balsamic vinegar, making it a delicious and educational experience. Reviewers love the balance of wine, scenery, and local products—“lots of wine and yummy meats and cheeses” is a typical comment.
The highlight is the opportunity to learn about the area’s history from expert guides while enjoying the stunning rolling hills. The tour’s value lies in the combination of intimate winery visits, scenic views, and inclusive tastings. Best suited for wine lovers who want authentic experiences outside Florence’s busy city. The one potential downside? If you’re not a wine enthusiast, you might find the focus too narrow. Bottom line: a scenic, flavorful way to experience Tuscany’s best vineyards.
2. Uffizi Gallery: Renaissance Masterpieces Guided Tour
Second on our list, the Uffizi Gallery guided tour offers a 1.5-hour deep dive into Florence’s most famous art collection. Skip the long lines and enjoy an expert guide who reveals the stories behind Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus,” Michelangelo’s sketches, and Da Vinci’s works. The tour’s popularity (4.6/5 from over 6,000 reviews) reflects its quality and efficiency.
What makes this tour special is the combination of quick access and expert commentary, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time. Plus, after the visit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Florence from the museum’s terrace. It’s ideal for art enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a confident overview of Renaissance art. The only drawback might be the brief duration, but it’s enough to get a solid taste of the gallery’s treasures. Bottom line: a must for art lovers who want to avoid the lines and dive into Florence’s visual history.
3. From Florence: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide
At number 3, this Tuscany Wine & Food Tour offers a full 8 hours of authentic regional tasting. You visit three wineries, sampling wines, olive oils, and balsamic vinegars, all in small-group settings that foster personal connection. The tour includes a delicious Tuscan lunch of local specialties, making it a satisfying culture.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the well-planned itinerary, with comments like “flawless driver and guide” sharing the experience of lush landscapes and a charming stop in Greve. It’s particularly suited to foodies and wine fans eager to learn about production and regional varieties. The longer duration means you see more and taste more, but it might be a long day for those who prefer shorter trips. Bottom line: an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive, tasty day in Tuscany.
4. Florence: Highlights Walking Tour with Expert Guide
Number 4 is the Highlights Walking Tour, a 1.5-hour stroll through Florence’s major sights. It covers the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and hidden corners that reveal Florence’s Renaissance charm. Led by a local expert, the tour emphasizes storytelling and uncovering lesser-known facts alongside famous landmarks.
Reviewers appreciate the “small-group” setting and the fact that it’s a manageable, informative introduction. The tour is great for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking and want to get their bearings early. The main limitation is time—if you want to explore in greater depth, you’ll need additional visits. Bottom line: an accessible, well-rounded introduction to Florence’s city center.
5. Florence: Street Food Tour with Wine & Local Guide
Number 5, the Street Food Tour, takes just 2.5 hours but offers a true taste of Florence’s culinary scene. Led by a passionate local guide, you walk through San Lorenzo Market, tasting traditional fare like coccoli (fried bread with prosciutto), truffle samples, and authentic pasta. Along the way, you’ll also sip on regional wines and learn about Florence’s food culture.
Guests rave about “so much food and a knowledgeable guide,” making it perfect for foodies who want a relaxed yet flavorful experience. The tour’s strength is its combination of cultural insights and delicious samples, with enough time to explore at a comfortable pace. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting regional specialties. The only potential downside? If you’re not a big eater, portions might be more than enough. Bottom line: an excellent way to enjoy Florence’s vibrant food scene and local atmosphere.
6. Florence: Art Tour, Accademia Gallery, and David
Number 6 is the Accademia Gallery art tour, a 1-hour visit centered on Michelangelo’s iconic David. This skip-the-line experience allows you to see the masterwork and explore other Renaissance sculptures in the museum. An expert guide shares fascinating stories behind the artworks, making it both educational and inspiring.
Reviewers mention “learning so much about art and Michelangelo,” and the tour’s brevity makes it ideal for those with limited time. It’s particularly suited for art lovers eager to see David in person without waiting in long queues. The main drawback is the short duration, so it’s best paired with other explorations. Bottom line: a concise, high-quality art experience for any visitor wanting to see Florence’s most famous sculpture.
7. Florence: Duomo Area Tour and Brunelleschi Dome Climb Ticket
Number 7, the Duomo Area Tour and Dome Climb offers a 2-hour guided visit that includes a climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome. It’s an immersive experience, learning about Florence’s religious architecture while enjoying breathtaking views of the city from above.
The tour includes outdoor learning about the Baptistery and Cathedral, with the highlight being the summit of the dome. Guests rave about “spectacular views and friendly guides,” making it perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of a climb. The combination of history, architecture, and panoramic scenery makes this a top choice for active travelers. The main consideration is the climb, which might be challenging for some, but the reward is well worth it. Bottom line: a memorable, scenic, and educational experience at Florence’s heart.
8. Florence: Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Number 8 is the Skip-the-Line Accademia Guided Tour, a 1-hour visit that guarantees quick access to Michelangelo’s David and other sculptures. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll learn about the sculptures’ techniques and stories, transforming a quick visit into a rich experience.
Reviewers say “the guide’s explanations made the visit more meaningful,” and the skip-the-line feature saves valuable time. It’s perfect for art lovers who want to see David with expert context but have limited time. The only downside could be the short duration, so it’s best combined with other city explorations. Bottom line: an efficient, insightful art tour for those short on time.
9. Florence: Cathedral Duomo Tour with Local Guide
Number 9 offers a 1-hour guided tour of the Florence Cathedral. It covers Vasari’s “The Last Judgement,” insights into Brunelleschi’s architecture, and the overall ambiance of Florence’s religious heart. The guide provides a detailed overview, enriching your visit to the Duomo complex.
Reviewers mention “passionate guides and stunning views,” which makes this suitable for travelers who want a compact yet meaningful experience. It’s ideal for first-timers or those who want a quick, guided overview. If you prefer a more in-depth visit or access to the dome itself, you might consider other options. Bottom line: a perfect intro to Florence’s religious art and architecture.
10. Florence: Duomo Skip-Any-Line Tour
Number 10 features the Duomo Skip-Any-Line Tour, lasting approximately 75-100 minutes. It’s a guided experience that allows you to bypass the crowds, explore the cathedral, and stand beneath Brunelleschi’s dome in a privileged setting.
Guests love “Claudio’s engaging commentary” and the fact that they avoid long queues, making it ideal for time-sensitive visitors. It’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include the climb, but it still offers a rundown. Best suited for travelers who want efficient, in-depth access without the wait. Bottom line: a practical, crowd-free way to experience Florence’s jewel.
11. Tuscany Wine Tour: 2 Wineries & San Gimignano from Florence
Number 11, this Tuscany Wine Tour combines visits to two wineries with a trip to San Gimignano. Over 7 hours, you taste up to 7 different wines and learn about wine production. The tour includes a trip through beautiful Chianti countryside plus free time in San Gimignano to explore its famous towers.
Reviewers highlight “Lorenzo’s excellent guiding” and the chance to try a wide variety of wines and oils. It’s ideal for those wanting to see more of Tuscany’s countryside and taste the region’s best wines. The longer day allows for a relaxed pace, but it’s best for travelers comfortable with a full schedule. Bottom line: a great choice for wine lovers eager to combine sightseeing and tasting.
12. From Florence: Half-Day Pisa Tour and Optional Leaning Tower
Number 12 is the Half-Day Pisa Tour, taking about 6 hours. It covers Piazza dei Miracoli, the Baptistery, and the Cathedral, with an optional climb up the Leaning Tower. The tour is praised for its reliable guides and well-organized logistics, allowing visitors to enjoy Pisa’s highlights comfortably.
Reviewers mention “smooth operation from pickup to return,” making it ideal for a quick day trip. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Pisa and the chance to stand on the tower. The main consideration is the short duration—if you want a deeper exploration, you might need more time. Bottom line: a hassle-free way to include Pisa in your itinerary.
13. Florence: Guided E-Bike Tour to Piazzale Michelangelo
Number 13 features the E-bike Tour to Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s a 2-hour ride that combines city sights with stunning city views. The guided ride takes you off the beaten path and delivers picturesque vistas from Michelangelo Square, one of Florence’s most famous overlooks.
Guests praise the “fun and informative” experience, especially the chance to see parts of Florence not on typical tourist routes. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a relaxed way to see the city’s panoramas. The main point to consider is the need for some comfort on the bike, but the reward is a memorable, scenic perspective. Bottom line: a lively and scenic way to experience Florence from above.
14. Florence: Private Electric Mini Car Tour with Local Guide
Finally, the Private Mini Car Tour offers a personalized, eco-friendly way to explore Florence. Lasting 1 to 1.5 hours, it features a guided route in a stylish electric mini car, with a local guide providing insight into hidden corners and iconic landmarks. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private experience with the comfort of a small group or individual tour.
Reviewers mention “Danny’s engaging manner” and “a fun, memorable experience,” making this a top pick for families, couples, or anyone wanting customized attention. The tour’s flexibility and eco-friendliness are big selling points, though it’s best suited for those comfortable in a small vehicle. Bottom line: a stylish, personalized way to see Florence at your own pace.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. Art lovers will find the Uffizi Gallery or Accademia perfect, while foodies should explore the Street Food Tour. For those who want a full immersion in Tuscany’s landscape and wines, the Chianti Wineries Tour and Tuscany Wine & Food Tour stand out.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer shorter, guided experiences like the Duomo tours, while active explorers could enjoy the E-bike ride. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Skip-the-Line David or Uffizi, to secure your spot.
Florence offers a rich variety of tours, from art and architecture to wine and cuisine, that suit nearly every interest and schedule. Whether you want to stand beneath Brunelleschi’s dome, sip Chianti in the hills, or explore by electric car, these options provide a great starting point. For a memorable trip, pick a tour that matches your interests, book early, and get ready to see Florence in a way you’ll never forget.