Sharing the Road in Firenze FI: 8 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Firenze

Trip guide

• About Firenze
  About FirenzeThe San Giovanni district, also designated as the Quartiere 1, serves as the historical center of Florence. This area contains the city's primary religious and civic monuments, most notably the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza San Giovanni.
• When to go
  When to goThe best months to visit the San Giovanni district are April, May, September, and October, which offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the Duomo and surrounding historic sites on foot. While summer (July and August) brings peak crowds and grueling heat often exceeding 30°C (86°F), June 24th is a unique highlight for the Feast of San Giovanni, featuring city-wide celebrations and fireworks. For the best value and fewest crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Firenze

  • Walking The San Giovanni district is the compact historical heart of Florence; most major landmarks like the Duomo are within a 10-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) railway station.
  • Tramway (T2 Line) The T2 tram line connects Florence Airport directly to the city center, with the San Marco Università and Unità stops providing easy access to the northern edge of the San Giovanni district.
  • Autolinee Toscane (Local Bus) Small electric C-line buses (like C1 and C2) navigate the narrow streets of the historic center, while larger lines like the 23 connect the district to the suburbs and the main train station.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always validate your bus or train tickets at the yellow or green machines before boarding to avoid heavy fines during inspections.
  • Ask for the bill when you are ready to leave, as Florentine servers consider it rude to rush guests and will rarely bring it unsolicited.
  • Keep your bag in front of you and avoid leaving phones on tables in crowded areas like Piazza del Duomo to prevent opportunistic pickpocketing.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Firenze

  • 230th Anniversary of the Società di San Giovanni Battista: A major year-long celebration featuring the '230' exhibition at Museo de' Medici and the unveiling of the restored 1928.
  • Secret Florence 2026: A viral contemporary arts festival transforming hidden spots in the district, like Palazzo Neroni and the Complex of Santa Maria Novella.
• Feel Florence↗
  Feel FlorenceThe official tourism website of the Municipality and Metropolitan City of Florence, providing travel guides, event listings, and visitor information.