Piazza della Signoria - the Most Beautiful Square of Florence

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Located in the heart of the city, Piazza della Signoria, is a place you can't and don't want to miss. As soon as you step into it, you'll be amazed by the combination of the art and the city.

Piazza della Signoria is an artistic showcase and the ultimate gathering spot for Florentines and tourists alike. You'll recognize this square by the Palazzo Vecchio and the sculpture of David at its entrance as well as by Neptun Fountain - an ideal photography spot for tourists.

The Piazza della Signoria is a place where you will spend lots of time when in Florence. From visiting the Palazzo Vecchio, admiring the sculptures to enjoying in outdoor cafes and people watching, you'll be enjoying for sure.

In the text below find out what to do (and see) on Piazza della Signoria!

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Explore the Palazzo Vecchio (and Arnolfo tower)

Be sure not to miss exploring Palazzo Vecchio, once you find yourself there. There are so many ways to do this. If you are short on time, visit the first courtyard, which is so beautiful - it's completely free.

If you have more time, explore the museum that houses an amazing collection of art from 13 to 19th centuries, the Salone dei Cinquecento (with epic 16th century frescoes by Vasari) and the Studiolo - a small barrel-vaulted room which houses a cabinet of curiosities.

For an amazing views of the Florence, climb the Arnolfo Tower. The tower is part of the complex of the Palazzo Vecchio, but you can also buy a ticket just to climb the tower. This skip-the-line ticket allows you to visit all of these at once (plus, you'll get 55-minute video guide!).

Palazzo Vecchio is enhanced with secret passageways and hidden doorways, which are open to the public - this guided tour will take you there.

Exploring the Palazzo Vecchio is something you can do when it rains in Florence.

A view of Palazzo Vecchio from outsideA view of Palazzo Vecchio from outside
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a beautiful courtyard by Michelazzo (free to see)Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a beautiful courtyard by Michelazzo (free to see)

Take photos of the Neptun's Fountain

Near the Palazzo Vecchio, you'll notice the Neptun Fountain, one of the most photographed spots in Florence. Take the opportunity and capture amazing photos here (you'll look when you are back home).

You should know that the fountain was made by Bartolomeo Ammannati in the 16th century, and it portrays the sea god Neptune with the signs of the zodiac engraved below his chariot, surrounded by mythical creatures and nymphs. The Neptune fountain is also known as il biancone, after the high-quality Carrara marble that is made of.

Be sure to see the Neptun Fountain as well at night - it's spectacular.

Admire Loggia dei Lanzi (and take a break)

The Loggia dei Lanzi is an open-air sculpture gallery, situated to the left of Palazzo Vecchio. It's wide, covered loggia (build in the 14th century) that houses a collection of impressive sculptures, including several masterpieces of Renaissance art.

Some famous sculptures on display include Giambologna's "Rape of the Sabine Women," and "Hercules Beating the Centaur Nessus", Benvenuto Cellini's "Perseus with the Head of Medusa," and various other classical and mythological figures.

The stone benches along the loggia are great for sitting and soaking up the atmosphere and people watching.

Tourists sitting on the stone benches of Loggia dei LanciTourist sitting on the benches of Loggia dei Lanci

Enjoying in one of the cafès

Sitting at one of the cafès on the square is definitely an amazing experience. Imaging yourself sipping a coffee, eating a pastry and chatting with your fellow travellers, while admiring the beautiful architecture.

There are several cafès with tables outside in the Piazza. The most famous is 'Rivoire', offering drinks, sweets and food as well. It costs a little more but, you can't beat the scenery. If you are on a hunt for a foodie gifts, here you can buy quality pralines and cantucci cookies.

Caffè Rivoire, a place to have a coffee at Piazza della SignoriaCaffè Rivoire, a place to have a coffee at Piazza della Signoria

Great food (and shopping) places near Piazza della Signoria

When you take Via dei Calzaiouli from the Piazza della Signoria, and turn right to Via dei Cimatori, you'll come across 'I' Girone De' Ghiotti' - sandwich shop offering yummy schiacciata sandwiches in variety of options (very affordable - from 6 Euros). Be prepare to queue, but it's definitely worth!

Not far from there, in Via della Condota, there is 'Il Cernacchio' - an eatery where you can eat classic Tuscan food, from lasagna or meatballs in the sauce, to lampredotto panini or schiacciata sandwich - everything so delicious! Plus, the owners are super friendly!

I Fiori della Signoria, a cute flower shop near Piazza della SignoriaI Fiori della Signoria, a cute flower shop near Piazza della Signoria

In the same street, you'll find a cute flower shop 'I Fiori della Signoria', with lots of flowers to all tastes. You can collect a bouquet you like or also ask for a certain one. The lady florist is a true gem and her floral arrangements are magical!

From Piazza della Signoria (next to the David's statue) turn into Via della Ninna and then into Via dei Castellani, where you'll find Coin department store. The store spreads across six floors where you can buy clothes, cosmetics, bags, kitchenware and home products. You won't find crowds here, it's very enjoyable to look and shop here!

You'll find lots of small stores and eateries across Via della Condotta, only steps away from Piazza della SignoriaYou'll find lots of small stores and eateries across Via della Condotta, only steps away from Piazza della Signoria

How to reach Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is situated in the very heart of Florence, between Piazza della Repubblica and the Uffizi Gallery. It's also short walk from Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. So, you can easily reach it on foot from anywhere in historic centre.

If you still want to use public transport, several bus lines connect other parts with Piazza della Signoria, from nearby stops - Condotta and Galleri degli Uffizi.

Planning Your Travel in Italy

Best Florence Food Tours
What to See in Florence
Rome to Florence by Train