The ISI Florence Guide | Listing the Best Picks of the Month to Explore the City at its Best.
DOMENICA AL MUSEO: FREE ENTRANCE TO MUSEUMS
When: Sunday, December 7 – all day
Take advantage of free entrance to a selection of museums: Galleria degli Uffizi, Galleria dell’Accademia, Museo delle Cappelle Medicee, Palazzo Pitti, Museo Nazionale del Bargello, Palazzo Davanzati, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Casa Martelli, Museo di Orsanmichele, Villa Medicea di Castello, Villa il Ventaglio, Villa Corsini, Villa Medicea della Petraia.
VASARI CORRIDOR. FRIDAY EVENING OPENING
Discover Florence from above with a special evening walk through the Vasari Corridor, the secret passage linking the Uffizi Galleries and Palazzo Pitti. This 35-minute experience offers beautiful views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio in a quiet and atmospheric setting, a unique way to see the city after hours. Reservation required.
When: Every Friday – 7:00pm to 11:00pm
Tickets here: https://tickets.uffizi.it/event/DD3B6F19-0639-560F-35AA-0199CA931732
FLORENCE ON ICE 2025
The Fortezza da Basso transforms into a winter wonderland with a 320-meter ice skating rink circling the fountain in Piazzale Oriana Fallaci. Glide across the ice, enjoy stunning city views from the Ferris wheel, and warm up with hot drinks and seasonal treats at the nearby stands in a truly festive atmosphere.
When: From Friday, November 28
Where: Fortezza da Basso
LIGHTING OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE
Join in the festive spirit with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Piazza del Duomo, a yearly tradition that brings together tourists and locals! Many squares in Florence will feature Christmas trees this holiday season, but the one in Piazza Duomo is a sight to be seen! Another great option overlooking the Florence skyline is the tree at Piazzale Michelangelo.
When: Monday, December 8 – 6:00pm
Where: Piazza del Duomo
CREATIVE MANI FACTORY
This independent design market celebrates handmade craftsmanship and limited-edition creations, with a special focus on sustainability. Artisans, designers, and illustrators showcase unique pieces, from jewelry to home decor, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics. Visitors can explore exhibitions, engage in creative activities, and experience innovation through carefully curated materials and techniques.
When: December 6 to December 8 – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Where: Manifattura Tabacchi
FREE
LEATHER GOODS
Leonardo Leather and Gold (Borgo dei Greci, 16/A)
Scuola del Cuoio (Via di S. Giuseppe, 5R)
At these locations you can ask the staff to personalize your gifts by embossing your initials in gold on them
MOKA COFFEE MACHINE
Bialetti (Piazza della Repubblica, 25R)
HANDMADE GIFTS
Gioielleria Saccardi (Via Por Santa Maria, 58)
Monnaluna (Sdrucciolo de’ Pitti, 22R)
FOOD & DRINK
Eataly (Via de’ Martelli, 22R)
Conad Sapori e Dintorni (Via de’ Bardi, 45 / Borgo S. Lorenzo, 15)
Pegna dal 1860 (Via dello Studio, 26R)
Antonio Mattei (Via Porta Rossa, 76R)*
*here you can get cantuccini, delicious almond cookies to be served with vin santo, a sweet dessert wine*Pre-order all or part of your Thanksgiving meal here!