Things to do in Castello

Activities, attractions and tours

Il retro visto dal giardino
Il retro visto dal giardino
Il Giardino visto dal basso
Foresteria
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Top places to visit

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is also known as the Duomo, which is an Italian term for cathedral. Dominating the Florence skyline is the Duomo’s magnificent dome, considered by many to be the most important architectural achievement of the Renaissance. Inside the cathedral, you’ll find stained-glass windows and frescoes by Italian masters, and one of the oldest examples of an hora italica clock in the world. For many, the most impressive part of a visit is a close-up view of the building itself.
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore featuring religious elements, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

2. Ponte Vecchio

As you make your way over the Ponte Vecchio, peer into the windows of the goldsmith stores that have been here since the 16th century. Enjoy a sweeping view down the banks of the Arno from the viewing balconies in the center of the bridge. Street performers, artists and tourists create a lively atmosphere during the day. When the shutters come down over the shops in the evenings, the bridge takes on a romantic ambiance, perfect for a romantic stroll.
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Ponte Vecchio which includes a bridge and a river or creek

3. Uffizi Gallery

Names of the masters exhibited within the U-shaped Uffizi building read like a who’s who of Renaissance art. Find seminal works by Botticelli, da Vinci, Raphael and Rembrandt in a collection that spans six centuries. The Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi) is unique in that it contains only masterpieces. It’s considered by many to have the most important collection of Western art in the world.
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Uffizi Gallery in Florence in Italy

4. Piazza del Duomo

Join the bustling crowds, vendors and street performers in the cultural and geographical heart of Florence, the Piazza del Duomo. The cathedral for which the square is named is a spectacular centerpiece. In its shadow you will find several other historical, artistic and architectural treasures.
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Piazza del Duomo showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and night scenes

5. Pitti Palace

Discover a wealth of art within the vast, fortress-like walls of the Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti). The Gallery of Modern Art holds important Italian pieces from the 18th to early 20th centuries, while the Silver and Carriages museums offer glimpses into the lifestyle of Florence’s longest-ruling family. The Palatine houses a collection of masterpieces second only to the Uffizi’s. The core of the building was constructed in 1458 for wealthy banker Luca Pitti, and sold to the Medicis in 1549. It was opened to the public in 1919.
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Palace of Pitty

6. Piazza della Signoria

Take a seat at an outside table in one of the Piazza della Signoria’s many cafés and restaurants. Watch the crowds jostle as they have for over seven centuries in the town’s political and civic center. Flamboyant street performers, milling tourists and busy locals move about this L-shaped town square in front of some of Florence’s most famous buildings.
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Piazza della Signoria featuring heritage architecture

What to do in Castello

Popular places to visit

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella which includes a garden, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella

After visiting Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Florence. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore featuring religious elements, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The “Saint Mary of the Flower” cathedral and its towering dome have come to symbolize Florence.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Ponte Vecchio which includes a bridge and a river or creek

Ponte Vecchio

Take a trip over Florence’s iconic bridge, spared by the Nazis for its beauty and home to jewelers for more than four centuries.

Ponte Vecchio
Uffizi Gallery in Florence in Italy

Uffizi Gallery

Art lovers will be in their element in this famous museum, home to the most extensive and important collection of masterpieces in the world.

Uffizi Gallery
Piazza del Duomo showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and night scenes

Piazza del Duomo

Giotto’s Bell Tower, the resplendent Baptistery, as well as the cathedral and its dome draw the crowds to this square in the heart of the city.

Piazza del Duomo
Arcetri which includes a city and landscape views

Pitti Palace

This former royal residence now showcases the extensive collections of the Medici family, with seven galleries containing some of the finest artworks in Florence.

Pitti Palace
Arcetri showing heritage architecture, a city and landscape views

Palazzo Vecchio

After visiting Palazzo Vecchio, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Florence. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or experience its acclaimed art galleries.

Palazzo Vecchio
Piazza della Signoria showing a city, art and outdoor art

Piazza della Signoria

This lively square is home to Michelangelo’s David, as well as numerous cafés, the world-famous Uffizi and an outdoor sculpture gallery.

Piazza della Signoria
Santa Maria Novella showing a church or cathedral, street scenes and heritage architecture

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

You can find out about the history of Florence with a visit to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Arcetri showing a city and landscape views

Florence

Frequently asked questions

Is Castello worth visiting?
Castello has a unique mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Castello?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Palazzo Capponi and Palazzo degli Uffizi. Then, explore different areas of Castello for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Castello?
Duomo Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Castello and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Castello?
You can easily visit top sights like Duomo Museum, Palazzo Capponi and Palazzo degli Uffizi with a three-day escape to Castello. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Florence.
Is Castello a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Castello, including The New Florence Opera House and Piazza Dalmazia, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 5 kilometres from the city centre of Castello is Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Castello with kids?
If you're searching for attractions and activities for all the family, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Castello with kids.

What to do in Castello for adults?
Via de' Tornabuoni and Via Faenza are just a couple of the things to do in Castello. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Castello?
In Castello, Ponte Vecchio is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Castello.