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Free Things To Do In Florence, Italy
Florence has been on the beaten track since men wore breeches and stockings. Those travellers however had recourse to the bank of Lord and Lady mum and dad. You probably don’t, so here are some free things to do in an expensive place.
Take a free tour
Most of the major tourist sights in Florence are within easy walking distance of each other, but to learn as you wander it might be worth tagging along with a tour. It’s free, but tips are appreciated. More free tours in the city are listed on GuruWalk.
Pop inside a cathedral
While the Duomo, the city’s beautiful cathedral and the symbol of the city, is free to enter it may be worth paying to climb the winding staircases inside to see some of the best views of Florence. Not only can you see the Tuscan countryside in the distance and the impressive palaces and churches of Florence in the foreground, but it also shows you just how large the Duomo is
Walk up a hill
If you weren’t keen to pay to climb the Duomo, a great view of the city can be had from the Piazzale Michelangelo. The view captures the heart of Florence from Forte Belvedere to Santa Croce, across the lungarni and the bridges crossing the Arno, including the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, the Bargello and the octagonal bell tower of the Badia Fiorentina. Beyond the city are the hills of Settignano and Fiesole.
Rub a boar’s nose
On your way to the Ponte Vecchio, you will encounter to your right, a market, the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, which hosts a peculiar boar made of bronze. Legend has it that your wish will be granted if you rub its polished snout while placing a coin in its mouth which must slide and fall into the underlying grating.
Cross a river
The only Florentine bridge to survive World War 2, the Ponte Vecchio – literally “old bridge” – offers romantic views. Originally lined with butchers shops these days it is mostly jewelers, art dealers and souvenir sellers.
Image courtesy Rachel Claire
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