Florence—yeah, the city’s got this fancy rep for Renaissance art and luxury shopping, but honestly? It’s a playground for broke travelers, too. You just gotta know where to look (and maybe how to hustle a little). Here’s how you soak up all that Florentine magic without emptying your bank account. Florence on a Budget: Affordable Things to Do & Where to Eat
Cheap Stuff to Do in Florence
– Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio
Just wander around this epic square—Neptune’s Fountain, fake David, all the statues… it’s basically a free open-air museum. If you wanna go inside Palazzo Vecchio, go for it. But honestly, the outside’s already a showstopper.
– Check Out Free Churches
Not all of ‘em charge entry. Santa Maria Novella and Santo Spirito welcome you in during services—nobody’s checking your wallet at the door. The architecture, the chill vibe? Worth a peek.
– Walk Across Ponte Vecchio
Super touristy, sure, but c’mon—the views at sunset over the Arno are unreal. You don’t have to buy any bling, just people-watch and soak it in.
– Hike Up to Piazzale Michelangelo
Bring your legs and maybe a snack, because the view up there? Perfect for that “I went to Florence” selfie. Sunrise or sunset, you’ll thank yourself.
– Mercato Centrale
Food stalls, weird souvenirs, old dudes arguing about cheese—it’s chaos in the best way. Grab a cheap bite or just wander and people-watch.
– Florence’s Gardens
Boboli and Bardini Gardens are cheaper if you go off-season. Bardini’s the underdog—less crowded, still gorgeous.
– Museum Deals
Uffizi and Accademia drop their prices in the winter (November to February), so if you don’t mind a little chill, you’ll save some euros.
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Where to Eat in Florence When You’re Not Ballin’
– Sosta Di Baccio
Out in Scandicci, but dang—the food’s the real deal, and you won’t get robbed at the register. Local hangout, big portions, friendly vibes.
– Trattoria da Giorgio
Fifteen euros for a legit three-course lunch, wine, and water? Gimme a break. It’s near Santa Maria Novella. Don’t tell too many people.
– I Fratellini
Tiny place, giant sandwiches. Six euro for a panino the size of your face. Grab one and eat it standing on the street like a proper local.
– Trattoria Pallottino
Hidden near Santa Croce, doing ribollita and steak the classic way. Not fancy, just good, and you won’t need a loan to pay the bill.
– Gustapizza
They make these adorable heart-shaped pizzas. Take it to-go and eat on the riverbank. Romantic or just hungry, it works.
– Il Cernacchio
Right by Piazza della Signoria. Homemade pasta, schiacciata sandwiches… Your carb dreams come true.
– Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio
Go inside, find Rocco, and order whatever he’s cooking. Sit with strangers. Try the ribollita or tripe if you’re brave.
– Zeb Gastronomia
Sushi-bar vibes but all Tuscan food. Walk in for lunch, no fuss, and everything’s fresh. Not your grandma’s trattoria, but worth it.
Quick Hacks
– Coffee “Al Banco”
Stand at the bar and slam your espresso—no need to pay a “sit-down” tax. It’s how the locals roll.
– Regional Trains Are Your Friend
Wanna check out Lucca or Siena? Hop a train for under €10. It’s cheaper than a cab ride across town.
– Cheap Wine Refills
Find an enoteca like Alla Sosta dei Papi. You bring a bottle; they fill it with solid local wine for pocket change. Eco-friendly and buzz friendly.
Florence doesn’t have to bleed you dry. Get a little scrappy, eat where the locals eat, and don’t be afraid to wander. The best stuff? Usually free, or close to it. Florence on a Budget: Affordable Things to Do & Where to Eat