Unforgettable Piazzas in Florence (Best Florence Squares)

Last Updated on 22nd August 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy and disclosure for more information.

Florence is a city that is best explored on foot, and one which reveals new gems, treasures, and architectural marvels around close to every turn. And one of the most delightful things to discover is all of the pretty squares scattered across the city. Here are some of the most unforgettable piazzas in Florence you have to visit during your trip.

Best Piazzas in Florence

Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square)

Dominated by the breathtakingly beautiful Florence Cathedral Piazza del Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore), with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, the Piazza del Duomo is no doubt the most famous square in Florence.

The Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower) are also located here. The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best views of the square can be found from the top of the bell tower.

The views from the top of the dome are pretty beautiful, but the curvature of the dome makes it pretty much impossible to see the square below. The square is pretty much always busy, though if you want to see the place without the crowds, then you’ll want to head to the piazza first thing in the morning.

Piazza della Signoria

Home to some of the greatest treasures of Florence, Piazza della Signoria is a must see on any trip through the Tuscany city. Boasting a replica of the statue of David (this is where the original one was located prior to its relocation to the Accademia), this is also where you’ll find the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence.

Palazzo Vecchio began life as a building constructed by the people of Florence in order to show the city’s importance and to act as a workplace for officials of the republic. Today, the Palace has been transformed into a museum showcasing the history of Firenze. It’s also home to a tower which boasts one of the best views of Florence.

Another highlight of Piazza della Signoria that you won’t want to miss is the Loggia dei Lanzi. This free to visit open-air museum comprises of a raised arcade which houses dozens of statues representing some of the most important figures of Florence’s past, as well as Biblical figures and mythical scenes.

Piazza Santa Croce

Though still quite touristic, the Piazza Santa Croce sees way fewer visitors than Piazza del Duomo and is a beautiful spot where you can soak up the sun, sit on one of the little benches that are scattered around the square, and watch the world go by.

Piazza Santa Croce is also home to Basilica Santa Croce. This beautiful church that serves as the final resting place for many famous Italians including Michelangelo, Vittorio Alfieri, Leonardo Bruni, Gioachino Rossini, and Galileo, the Santa Croce church was consecrated in the latter half of the 15th-century.

You’ll have to pay but the entrance fee is more than worth the chance to wander around the church, see the tombs of some of Italian’s greatest citizens, and admire the Renaissance artworks.

Afterwards be sure to wander around the Piazza di Santa Croce which is filled with bars, restaurants, and people watching opportunities. Purchase your Santa Croce ticket here in advance.

Piazza San Marco

One of my favourite squares in Florence is undoubtedly Piazza San Marco. Presided over by the front façade of the 17th-century San Marco church, the piazza is just a short walk away from the Accademia. It’s also just a few minutes walk to reach the Mercato Centrale.

The centre of the square is dominated by a fenced public garden (filled with flowers and benches) and is home to a monument of Manfredo Fanti, a 19th-century Italian general. This is one of the more local squares in Florence and is where you’ll find plenty of locals hanging out.

Piazza della Repubblica

Located pretty close to Piazza dell Signoria, Piazza della Repubblica was once home to the Roman Forum. This square remains pretty central within the centro storico and has been the bustling heart of Firenze since Roman times. Today, the café is home to a mix of cafés, shops, bars spilling out onto the square, and even a merry-go-round.

Piazzale Michelangelo

If you’re looking for postcard-worthy views of Florence, then you have to make the time to head to the other side of the River Arno and enjoy the sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo. From this gorgeous square, you can see highlights such as the Ponte Vecchio and the Florence Duomo.

Just note that sunset can get pretty busy as this Florence square is certainly not a secret and features on pretty much every Florence itinerary out there.

There are a few bars where you can sit and enjoy the view with a drink, though you should note that you’re paying a higher price for the privilege of a view and the quality/ price ratio isn’t the greatest as a result!

Piazza Santa Maria Novella

Named for its position directly in front of the Santa Maria Novella church (one of the most important ecclesiastical buildings in Florence), this square is known for its stunning façades and is easily one of the most beautiful piazzas in Florence.

Located on the fringes of the old town, this square is larger and less busy than some of the other square in the city, making it a great spot to hang out in the green space and admire the architecture. Throughout the year, a number of festivals and events are held in the piazza.

Piazza Pitti

Though not necessarily the prettiest square in Florence, the Piazza Pitti is certainly one of the grandest. Situated in front of the Palazzo Pitti, this square is actually part of the Boboli Gardens complex (and so the square acts as something of a gateway into the gardens).

Once upon a time, the Palazzo Pitti was once the residence of the Medici family. It has since been transformed into a cultural space and now houses several museums. During the summer months, the square often hosts outdoor events and concerts.

Piazza Santo Spirito

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, where you can hang out where the locals do (and frequent some of the bars which are less touristic and tend to come with a cheaper price tag), then you can check out Piazza Santo Spirito.

Located in the Oltrarno district, this square is known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibe. As with many other spots on the other side of the River Arno from the centro storico, this pretty piazza is a great spot to enjoy a drink at one of the outdoor cafes and soak up the authentic Florentine ambiance.

Piazza di San Lorenzo

Home to the Basilica di San Lorenzo (one of the oldest churches in Florence) and the Medici Chapels, where members of the Medici family are buried, Piazza di San Lorenzo is steeped in history. One spot that you won’t want to miss out on is Monument to Giovanni delle Bande Nere, Florence, which was carved in the 16th-century.

Piazza della Santissima Annunziata

One piazza which is home to my personal favour hidden gem of Florence, the Capella di San Luca, is the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. This lovely square lies north of the Piazza del Duomo and boasts treasures such as the Basilica of the Santissima Annunziata and the Hospital of Innocents (now a museum).

Enjoyed reading about the prettiest piazzas in Florence? Pin this article now, read it again later: