When Florence Goes Wrong: Rain and Pickpocket Chaos
We went on another excursion to see Florence. So many people had talked about its breathtaking art and sun-washed buildings, and it was too far to walk. With this in mind, we set off early from the port.
The coach ride from Livorno’s port took about 90 minutes, bringing us closer to the city we had been eager to visit.
Our first stop was Piazzale Michelangelo, where we enjoyed the view of the city below. After a 15-minute walk, we made our way to the Santa Croce area. At that point, we decided to leave our tour guide and explore on our own, going at our own pace without all the commentary.
How Small Is Florence, Really?
Florence (Firenze) feels almost magical when you arrive. It’s a small city that’s easy to explore on foot, and it’s packed with art, history, and style. Florence proves that even a small city can offer a lot.
Whether you come for Renaissance art, delicious food, shopping, or to wander the beautiful streets, Florence makes it all simple.
One of the best things about Florence is how small it is. The historic center is tiny. 
You can walk from the Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio in about 10 minutes, and it only takes around 30 minutes to cross the old town from end to end.
The sightseeing here is easy and relaxed, so we decided to leave the group and explore on our own.
Shopping here can be a bit much at times, since there are so many stores, many of which focus on luxury, which means prices can be high.
What to Visit in Florence
As you explore Florence between the cathedral and nearby streets, you’ll discover must-see sites perfect for first-time visitors.
And lots of shopping streets.
-The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Start your discovery with Florence’s most iconic symbol. The Duomo’s exterior is striking, and climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome rewards you with an unforgettable panoramic view, making the effort worthwhile.
-Uffizi Gallery
After exploring the cathedral, immerse yourself next in world-class art at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, this one stands out. Book your tickets in advance to skip the long lines.
-Accademia Gallery
From the Uffizi, continue your artistic journey at the Accademia Gallery. This is where you’ll see Michelangelo’s David. The atmosphere is quiet, dramatic, and often moving.
-Ponte Vecchio
When you’ve had your fill of galleries, shift from art to Florence’s iconic sights and shopping at Ponte Vecchio. The city’s most famous bridge is lined with gold and jewelry shops.
Shopping in Florence
Florence is perfect if you love shopping and appreciate craftsmanship over fast fashion. I found there were a lot of stores, but I really enjoyed all the leather goods.
After exploring many stores, I found San Lorenzo Market perfect for leather goods, souvenirs, and leisurely browsing.
Some places will give you 10% if you pay cash!!
Look out for these highlights:
Italian fashion
Jackets, bags, belts, and wallets
Choose small artisan shops for more authentic, higher-quality products rather than tourist-oriented stalls.
Visit shops near Santa Croce, which are known for higher-quality craftsmanship and selection.
Walking around
Florence is different from larger cities. It feels effortlessly elegant and full of history, yet also lively.
Here, you discover that small cities can offer travel experiences just as rich as those in big metropolitan areas.
Pickpocketing in Florence: Tips to Stay Safe While Traveling
Florence is a safe and welcoming city. As with other popular European destinations, pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded places.
Stay alert near major attractions like the Duomo di Firenze, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery. Also, be careful on buses and around the main train station, Santa Maria Novella.
Keep your bag zipped and wear it in front in busy areas. Avoid leaving your phone on café tables. Do not keep your wallet in your back pocket.
Crossbody bags with anti-theft features are helpful. Most incidents are non-violent and happen when people are distracted. Please stay tuned to your surroundings to have a safe and enjoyable visit to Florence.
Personal Insight:
Despite all the praise I’d heard for Florence, my disappointment hit hard. The city was small, and beyond the endless shops, it felt like walking in circles.
Adding to my disappointment, it rained all day. The rain was not dramatic, just steady and cold. When it was time to leave, the sun finally came out.
To make matters worse, my sister was pickpocketed during our visit.
