Visiting Florence can be a life-changing event. There’s so much art, food, culture and history in this old city, it’s hard to enjoy it if you’re on a really tight budget. So here are some easy ways to enjoy Florence without breaking the bank.
1. Stay at a Hotel Outside of the City
We didn’t stay at a hotel during our visit. But the Bed and Breakfast we did book was outside of the city center. Costing us significantly less money than if we stayed in the center of Florence. We stayed in Campo Di Marte, one train ride away from Firenze station. Meaning with the 10 minute walk from our B&B to the train station, plus the 10 minute train ride, we were in the city within 20 to 25 minutes.
2. Book a Location with Breakfast Included
Always book a hotel with breakfast or B&B when traveling on a budget. Meal expenses add up and having once less meal to worry about really ensures you stretch your money. Spending it on lovely things like clothes and gelatoooo.
3. Go on a FREE Walking Tour
Get some insight on Florence’s past by going on a free walking tour with La Bussola. This was definitely an insightful walking tour for me and my children. Learning about the Medici’s and their history from a local was exactly what we needed. Our tour guide also took us to the “local” section of Florence. This is where you could find some amazing outdoor markets and amazingly delicious gelato that will only cost you 1 Euro.
4. Eating Where the Locals Eat
Always try to eat where the locals eat. Although we were tempted by many fancy restaurants, we knew they were tourist traps and walked on by. Eating where the locals eat will definitely save you a lot of money. Eating sandwiches at small cafes or ordering an “Aperitivo” which is a pre-dinner drink with a complementary small snack as an early dinner works for any tight budget.
5. Visiting Piazzale Michelangelo
Looking for spectacular views of the city without spending your entire savings on a ticket to go up the bell tower at Duomo. Head over to Piazzale Michelangelo. This hill-top park gives you amazing views of the city in a relaxing atmosphere. You will also find food trucks and artists, perfect for an afternoon stroll. The best part is you can take the #12 bus all the way there from the front of Firenze station.
6. Validating Your Transportation Tickets
Remember to validate those bus and train tickets you purchase. The last thing you want is to be slapped with a 50 Euro fine for not validating a ticket. That’s 50 Euros that could’ve been spent on a beautiful scarf and a bottle of wine to bring back home.
7. Visiting Smaller Museums
The larger museums like Uffizi are great for a visit. But if you’re trying to stretch your money it’s best to visit smaller museums like the Leonardo Da Vinci museum. This was perfect for children, they liked that it was also interactive.
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Love it!!! Great ideas!