CULTURAL EXPERIENCES TO DO FOR FREE IN FLORENCE

Visit Churches with Free Entry

Florence’s churches are treasure troves of art and history, and many don’t charge admission.

Top Free Churches:

  • Santa Maria Novella (church area) – Free with a prayer entrance
  • Ognissanti Church – Stunning frescoes by Ghirlandaio
  • Orsanmichele – Former grain market turned church, featuring original medieval statues

Pro Tip:
Visit during Mass times to quietly observe the beauty while respecting the space.

Discover Florence’s Open-Air Sculptures

  • Overview:
    Florence is essentially an outdoor museum. In places like Piazza della Signoria, you’ll find incredible sculptures—such as a replica of David, Perseus with the Head of Medusa, and the Fountain of Neptune—all for free.
  • Additional Spot:
    Walk across Ponte Vecchio for a taste of living history and street music.

Stroll the Artisan District in Oltrarno

  • Overview:
    Oltrarno, across the Arno River, is home to generations of artisans crafting leather goods, jewelry, and prints. Walking these streets is a cultural experience in itself.
  • Don’t Miss:
    Peek into open studios and workshops on Via Maggio and Via dei Serragli.

Experience Local Life at Sant’Ambrogio Market

  • Overview:
    A lesser-known gem compared to Mercato Centrale, Sant’Ambrogio offers a glimpse of everyday Florentine life. Food stalls, antiques, and old-school vendors make this a lively, authentic experience.
  • Address:
    Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 50122 Firenze FI
  • Tip:
    Wander the stalls, try free samples, and soak in the atmosphere.

Attend Free Cultural Events & Festivals

  • Overview: Florence hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year with free access.
  • Popular Free Events:
  1. Festa della Rificolona (September): A lantern parade celebrating the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.
  2. Scoppio del Carro (Easter Sunday): A centuries-old tradition involving fireworks and pageantry in front of the Duomo.
  3. Estate Fiorentina (Summer): Free concerts, film screenings, and performances across the city.

Admire Street Art in the City Center

  • Overview:
    Florence may be ancient, but it’s not stuck in the past. Modern street art—like Clet Abraham’s altered street signs or Blub’s “Art Knows No Fear” scuba portraits—add a playful, thought-provoking layer to the city’s cultural landscape.
  • Where to Look:
    Keep your eyes open in areas like San Niccolò, Borgo Pinti, and around Santo Spirito.

Visit the Biblioteca delle Oblate

  • Overview:
    This beautifully restored historic library offers art exhibits, a rooftop café, and unbeatable views of the Duomo—all free to explore.
  • Address:
    Via dell’Oriuolo, 24, 50122 Firenze FI
  • Bonus:
    A peaceful break from the tourist hustle and bustle, ideal for relaxing or working remotely.