GemmaFlorence, the jewel of Tuscany, isn’t just about Renaissance art, charming streets, and gelato that makes you question your life choices. Its skyline is punctuated by stunning churches, each with a story, a secret, or a masterpiece that will leave you breathless. From my own personal experience, wandering through Florence without visiting its churches is like going to a bakery and skipping the pastries—you simply miss the best part.
If you love history, architecture, or just want to feel like you’ve stepped into a painting, these ten churches are must-sees. And the best part? You don’t need a PhD in art history to appreciate them. Let me take you through them, and trust me, you’ll fall in love with Florence all over again.
1. Santa Maria del Fiore (The Duomo)
The Duomo isn’t just the crown jewel of Florence—it’s the crown jewel of Italy. Its massive dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is an architectural marvel. Climbing to the top is a workout, sure, but the view? Absolutely worth every step, even if your legs threaten mutiny halfway.
Inside, the frescoes of the Last Judgment by Vasari and Zuccari dominate the ceiling, and every corner tells a story of Florence’s history. Based on my overall experience, visiting the Duomo early in the morning avoids the crowds and gives you a few quiet moments to appreciate its grandeur. Don’t forget to check out the Baptistery right next door—the golden doors are more than Instagram-worthy.
2. Basilica of Santa Croce
If Florence has a “who’s who” of history, Santa Croce is the hall of fame. Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli—they’re all here in one place. The church’s Gothic architecture is impressive, but the real charm is in the details: the leather school nearby, the frescoes, and the quiet cloisters where you can imagine monks whispering secrets hundreds of years ago.
One of the fun things I noticed is how every time I visit, I catch something new—maybe a hidden sculpture or a tiny fresco tucked away in a corner. Santa Croce isn’t just about looking up; it’s about exploring.
3. San Lorenzo Basilica
San Lorenzo may not be as immediately eye-catching from the outside, but step inside and you’ll see why it’s a Florentine favorite. It houses the Medici Chapels, where the power and wealth of one of Florence’s most famous families is on full display.
The Laurentian Library, designed by Michelangelo, is a surprising twist: it’s almost theatrical with its staircases and columns. Based on my overall experience, don’t rush your visit—spend time noticing how the light changes across the marble and brings the carvings to life.
4. Santa Maria Novella
Located right across from the main train station, Santa Maria Novella is a perfect first stop if you’re arriving in Florence. Its façade alone, with its green and white marble, is iconic. Step inside, and the frescoes by Masaccio, Ghirlandaio, and Lippi will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a time capsule of Renaissance art.
One tip: look up, look around, and even peek at the floor mosaics. The church has layers of history stacked on top of each other, and each visit feels like a new discovery.
5. Orsanmichele
This church is a bit of a hidden gem. Originally a grain market, it was converted into a church with elaborate statues of saints on the exterior niches. Inside, it’s a mix of art and history, with a museum that houses original sculptures from Donatello and others.
The humor? Imagine going from shopping for flour to staring at Donatello’s masterpieces—talk about a glow-up. Orsanmichele proves that Florence has a way of turning even mundane places into spectacular experiences.
6. Basilica of San Miniato al Monte
Perched on a hill overlooking Florence, San Miniato al Monte is one of the city’s most scenic churches. Its Romanesque architecture is simple but striking, with a green-and-white marble façade that seems to sparkle in the sunlight.
The real treat? The panoramic view of Florence from the steps. From my own personal experience, watching the sunset here is magical, almost cinematic. It’s peaceful, a little off the beaten path, and the perfect spot to reflect on Florence’s beauty.
7. Badia Fiorentina
Tucked away in the bustling streets near Piazza della Signoria, Badia Fiorentina is easy to miss—but that’s part of its charm. Its interior has a medieval elegance, with cloisters that transport you back in time.
One quirky detail I noticed is how tiny and intimate this church feels compared to the grandiose Duomo or Santa Croce. Sometimes, it’s the smaller spaces that leave the deepest impression.
8. Church of Santo Spirito
Santo Spirito feels alive in a way that few churches do. Its interior is simpler than other Florentine churches, but it’s filled with energy, thanks to works by Brunelleschi and later additions.
The square outside is a hub of local life, with artisans, cafes, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for people-watching after exploring inside. Based on my overall experience, pairing your visit with a gelato nearby makes for an unbeatable afternoon.
9. Santa Trinita
This elegant church on the Arno River often flies under the radar, but it’s worth seeking out. The Tornabuoni Chapel frescoes by Ghirlandaio are exquisite, and the quiet beauty of the church itself makes it a peaceful stop amid Florence’s hustle.
It’s also a good reminder that sometimes the less famous sites hold treasures that rival the well-known landmarks. Take your time here—you’ll be rewarded.
10. Church of San Marco
Last but not least, San Marco is more than a church; it’s a sanctuary of art and contemplation. The frescoes by Fra Angelico are serene and inspiring, giving you a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic soul of Renaissance Florence.
From my own personal experience, walking through San Marco feels like stepping into another era. The soft colors, the quiet halls, and the sheer devotion captured in the art make it a deeply moving experience.
Florence’s churches are not just buildings—they’re stories, art galleries, and time machines all rolled into one. Each one offers something unique, whether it’s breathtaking architecture, priceless art, or just a quiet moment to sit and take it all in. Visiting them is more than a checklist; it’s an adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve left Tuscany.
So, lace up your walking shoes, bring a camera (or just your eyes), and let Florence’s churches show you why this city is eternally captivating. Trust me, once you explore these ten incredible sites, you’ll see the city in a whole new light—and you’ll probably start planning your next trip before you’ve even left.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.