
I’ve only been to Florence once, but somehow, it managed to steal the top spot as my favorite city in Italy. Maybe it was the golden light on the terracotta rooftops, or the sound of church bells echoing through narrow streets. Or maybe it was the fact that I explored it all on a vintage bike with Florencetown Tours which made the whole experience feel like I’d pedaled straight into a postcard.
We cruised past cathedrals, over bridges, and through hidden piazzas, with just the right mix of history, espresso stops, and “wow, is this real?” moments. It was the perfect way to meet Florence for the first time.
Why Bike Through Florence?
Florence is made for wandering, but it’s also made for riding. The city center is compact, mostly flat, and full of little streets and secret corners you’d probably miss on foot. A bike lets you cover more ground while still feeling totally immersed in the charm of it all and trust me, the feeling of biking past the Duomo, with its massive dome rising above you, or coasting along the Arno River as the sun starts to set, it’s pure magic.
Florencetown Tour
I booked the Florencetown Tour after seeing glowing reviews and was not disappointed. The team was friendly, organized and made the whole thing super easy. The bikes were classic, comfortable city bikes (complete with a basket, which felt very Italian) and the group was small enough that it felt personal, even with overcrowded tourists.
Our guide? An absolute gem. Full of fun facts, local tips, and that kind of passion for Florence that’s contagious. He made sure we saw the famous sights and a few hidden gems only locals would know.






We rolled through the heart of the city, hitting major landmarks like:
- Piazza della Repubblica
- The Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
- Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio
- The Uffizi Gallery (from the outside, of course)
- The Arno River & Ponte Vecchio
We also veered off into quieter neighborhoods where the tourists thinned out and the real Florence revealed itself. Think artisan workshops, old city walls and tucked-away churches with stories carved into the stone.
And yes, we stopped for gelato, because priorities!



What Made It Special
It wasn’t just the landmarks or the breeze in my hair. It was the rhythm of the ride. How Florence unfolded slowly, beautifully and with just the right amount of storytelling. I learned about Medici family secrets, got restaurant tips I actually used later and felt like I got to feel the city, not just see it. It was the kind of tour that doesn’t just show you a place, it connects you to it.
Tips for Your Bike Tour
- Book in advance as these tours fill up fast, especially in the summer.
- Wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes. The vibe is casual.
- Bring a camera or phone for quick stops. You’ll want to capture the view from the river or a narrow street glowing in golden light.
- Don’t worry if you’re not an avid cyclist. The pace is easy and Florence is super bike-friendly, especially with a guide.
Ready to ride? Your Florence adventure is waiting—pedal on!