Guest post by Rosita
Florence is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, rich in arts and culture. Because it has such a strong tourist tradition, it can offer many affordable solutions for all pockets. So even if you are on a budget, with a bit of attention and some helpful suggestions, Florence is the perfect destination.
Here are some tips on how to have a wonderful experience without breaking the bank.
Cheap travel solutions to Florence
The airport of Florence is well-connected to the most important European cities, with mainly seasonal flights. If you want to save money and book a cheap flight from London to Florence, you might consider to land in Pisa, a stopover for several low-cost airlines.
Pisa airport is connected to Florence by a convenient bus service that takes about an hour to the city centre. You can book tickets online, and the service operates day and night. The bus stops at the T2 tram, which will take you to the centre of Florence in just a few minutes, while the night the bus stops at Santa Maria Novella Station.
Choose the best time of year for a budget trip to Florence
In the summer, Florence is taken by storm by tourists, the weather is sultry, and prices are through the roof. From November to March, you can enjoy the city without the crowds. Moreover, as it is the low season, you can find cheap flights and accommodation at affordable prices, with rates 50% lower.
You can always get an extra discount by booking in advance.
Look for flats rather than hotel rooms if you are travelling as a family or with a group of friends, especially if you are staying for several nights.
Enjoy architecture, art, and culture without spending a cent
The good news for those interested in a low-cost trip is that Firenze is a free-sight paradise. This city is an open-air museum, and the most interesting sights can be admired for free, simply by taking a stroll through the city.
The Duomo and Giotto’s bell tower, with its enchanting colours and imposing dome, can be admired on a walk around the city. Also on foot, you can reach Ponte Vecchio, where you can find numerous jewellery shops, and from which enjoy a wonderful view over the Arno.
Some of the most beautiful Renaissance frescoes can be seen in Florence. In the Basilica della Santa Trinità, there are incredible decorations dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and the Virgin Mary. With just a €0.50 coin in the machine, you can light up the domes and be part of a stunning spectacle.
To enjoy a 360-degree view of the city and take beautiful photos, just go to Piazzale Michelangelo, located on the hillside.
Enjoy a relaxing time in the city gardens
Many gardens are free to enter for those who want to spend a relaxing moment in a green area. You can admire over 350 varieties of roses and several statues by the Belgian sculptor Jean-Michel Folon in the Oltrarno district. Or you can visit the Parco delle Cascine, the larger one in the city, near the Arno, which was once owned by the Medici family.
Visit Museums on Sunday for a free-entrance
‘Sunday at the Museum’ is an initiative that offers free entry to some museums in Florence during the first Sunday of the month. In some cases, guided tours are also available. The Uffizi, Accademia Gallery, Boboli Garden and Pitti Palace are some of the most famous that are worth a visit.
If you are unable to take advantage of this initiative, you can still save money by purchasing a combination ticket. This gives you access to several museums and is cheaper than buying individual tickets.
Delicious street food to eat on a budget
It is not necessary to book a table in the most expensive restaurants to discover the typical specialities of Florence. The local gastronomy is based on tasty and rich dishes that can be eaten in the street, such as lampredotto, a sandwich filled with cow’s stomach and seasoned with various sauces, or bollito and slow-cooked meats.
Small restaurants offering authentic Italian dishes for little money can be found just outside the centre.
Apéritifs are a must for living like a local and for pampering your palate without spending too much: many bars offer free snacks (cold cuts, cheese, focaccia, etc.) when ordering a drink.
Enjoy a good glass of wine for a few euros
Tuscany is the home of good wine: some of the most famous wineries are here. Alla Sosta dei Pipi in Santa Croce is the place for wine lovers on a budget. All you need is an empty bottle and fill it up with some excellent local Tuscan wine, from as little as 3.40 euros a litre.
