8 Hidden Gems In Florence, Italy

Florence is a city full of hidden gems. The winding narrow streets of the Renaissance city hide amazing cafes, museums, gardens, trattorias, and more. Florence has more than the average hidden gem, I swear they are everywhere. In this guide we will go over some of the coolest spots in Florence, that many travelers don't get the chance to visit. Read on to discover the hidden gems in Florence, Italy.

8 Hidden Gems In Florence

1.The Photo Booths

There are a few photo booths (Fotoautomatica) scattered around Florence (a total of 5). My favorite one is in the Oltrarno neighborhood (Via Santa Monaca 1/r corner of Via dei Serragli) as it is not busy and in a charming area. Also there is an awesome gelato shop right next to it - Sbrino.

The Fotoautomantica is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Florence, Italy. Its also an awesome instagram spot in Florence!!

2. The Rose Garden

Located just a few steps from the popular Piazzale Michelangelo viewpoint, you will find the stunning Rose Garden. The Rose Garden feels like a fairytale with captivating views of Florence, green spaces, and, of course, plenty of roses, The Rose Garden is a lovely place to visit. I loved visiting at sunset as I got to see the view from Piazzale Michelangelo and then also the Rose Garden!

People often ask: What is the most beautiful area in Florence? For me, it is the Rose Garden and Piazzale Michelangelo area.

3. Explore Fiesole

Fiesole is a small hilltop village located about 20 minutes outside of Florence. While Fiesole is so close to Florence, you really dont feel like you are near a city at all. I felt like I was in the heart of the Tuscan countryside in Fiesole.

Anyway, in Fiesole you will find so much history (Fiesole is actually older than Florence), amazing trattorias, and incredible views of Tuscany!

There are so many amazing things to do in Fiesole! Read this guide all about if you are interested in visiting (I loved it).

🇮🇹Read Next - Fiesole Travel Guide

4. The Church and Museum of Orsanmichele

The Church and Museum of Orsanmichele is one of the most underrated museums/churches in Florence! Built in the 1300s, the Church of Orsanmichele sits in the center of of the historic center, but doesnt get nearly enough attention. The museum is upstairs in the church, this is where you will find incredible views of the city!

Church and museum of orsanmichele tickets will run you about 13 euro.

5. Gucci Garden

If you are at all into fashion, Gucci Garden is a must in Florence! Gucci was founded in Florence, so, of course, the museum is in the city. I am not really into fashion so I didn't love Gucci Garden, but if you are someone who is interested in that sort of thing, I think you will have a blast exploring it. One thing I did love at the Gucci Garden was the history side of it. I got to see the way fashion evolved for Gucci over time, so that was pretty interesting.

People often ask: Is Gucci Garden the same as Gucci Museum? Yes!

6. Villa Agape

I stayed at three different hotels during my time in Florence, and my favorite was Hotel Villa Agape. I loved Hotel Villa Agape because I felt like I was in the Tuscan countryside, but really I was just a few minutes from the city center. It is truly a hidden gem hotel in Florence.

If you can stay at Villa Agape, but if not you can dine at their amazing restaurant and then explore the gardens!

🛎️Art Hotel Villa Agape

7. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio

Florence is home to so many amazing markets. I visited three of them, but I found that the best one was a small local spot, Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio. Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio is a great place to stop by for groceries or delectable street food! There are tons of stalls serving top notch food. It gets crowded on the weekends, but it is definitely worth visiting.

People often ask: Do I need Sant ambrogio market tickets? Nope.

8. Wild Buns Bakery

Wild Buns is certainly a hidden gem in Florence in terms of food. Situated in the Oltrarno Neighborhood, Wild Buns Bakery is an amazing Scandinavian bakery. One of my favorite things to do in any new place is find the very best coffee and bakeries, and for me, Wild Buns takes the cake in Florence. It is off the beaten path and delicious. I know, it's not Italian, but honestly, nothing beats Scandinavian coffee shops.

The Best Florence Hotels

Luxury Florence Hotel - Dimora Palanca Boutique & SPA

Middle Range Florence Hotel - Art Hotel Villa Agape

Budget Florence Hotel - Hotel Orto de' Medici