Florence: Walking Tour of Duomo, Ponte Vecchio & Medici Sights

Summary

Walk Florence’s streets from Medici secrets to riverside legends

You’ll walk Florence’s historic center with a certified guide who shares stories behind every landmark—from the Medici Chapel to Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce Square. Expect laughter over local words, market smells that follow you down alleys, and tips for exploring after the tour ends. You’ll leave feeling like Florence isn’t just a museum—it’s alive around every corner.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly a little nervous walking up to Piazza dell’Unità Italiana — I always get that way in new cities, like I might miss something important if I blink. Our guide, Giulia, greeted us with this big smile and a stack of stories about Florence that felt like she’d been waiting all week just to tell them. We started weaving through the old streets, and right away you could smell fresh coffee drifting out of some tiny bar (I almost stopped for one, but Giulia kept us moving). She pointed at the Medici Chapel and told us how the family basically shaped half the city — I’d heard their name before but didn’t realize how much it still echoes here.

The San Lorenzo Market was buzzing even though it was barely noon — people shouting prices in Italian, a guy slicing prosciutto so thin you could see sunlight through it. It made me hungry and also kind of jealous of everyone who gets to shop there every day. We passed by the Duomo Cathedral and honestly, seeing it up close is nothing like photos. The marble almost glows if the sun hits right. Someone in our group tried to pronounce “Battistero” and everyone laughed (including Giulia), which made things feel less formal and more like friends wandering together.

We kept going — Repubblica Square, Orsanmichele Church (the outside looks plain until you notice all these weird little details), then Porcellino where Giulia insisted we rub its nose for luck. I did it, even though I’m not superstitious. There were tiny moments where Florence felt quieter than expected; crossing Ponte Vecchio, I caught this whiff of river air mixed with old stone and gold shops. Weirdly peaceful for such a busy spot.

By Santa Croce Square my feet were tired but my brain wouldn’t stop spinning with all the stories — Medici feuds, artists sneaking into churches at night, locals arguing about gelato flavors (seriously). The tour ended before I wanted it to. Still think about that first glimpse of the Duomo’s dome peeking between buildings — you know when something just sticks in your head? Anyway, if you’re looking for a Florence walking tour that’s not stiff or rehearsed, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Florence main landmarks walking tour

• Meet at Piazza dell'unità italiana
• Walk to Medici Chapel
• Visit San Lorenzo Market
• See Medici Riccardi Palace
• Explore San Lorenzo Church
• View Duomo Cathedral
• Visit The Baptistery
• Walk through Repubblica Square
• See Orsanmichele Church
• Visit Porcellino
• Explore Signoria Square
• View Uffizi Gallery exterior
• Walk across Ponte Vecchio
• Visit Santa Croce Square

Top questions

Is this Florence walking tour really tip-based?

Yes, you pay what you wish as a voluntary tip at the end of the tour.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Piazza dell’Unità Italiana in Florence.

Which landmarks are included on this walking tour?

You’ll see Medici Chapel, San Lorenzo Market, Duomo Cathedral, Baptistery, Repubblica Square, Orsanmichele Church, Porcellino statue, Signoria Square, Uffizi (outside), Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce Square.

Is this Florence walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas and surfaces on this route are wheelchair accessible.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the walk.

Does this include entry into museums or churches?

No—this is an external walking tour; entry fees are not included.

Will we have a local guide?

Yes—the tours are led by certified local guides sharing insights about Florence’s history and culture.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk led by a certified expert who shares stories at every stop—plus flexible booking since payment is only required as a tip at the end. The route covers major sights like Duomo Cathedral and Ponte Vecchio without any entry fees or extras needed along the way.