Top attractions of Florence, Italy?

Hmmmm. There are really several things to see in Florence, but i would say that the Oltrarno district is probably right up there, together with the Galleria degli Uffizi and the Piazza del Duomo which has as its principal attraction the picturesque Cupola Duomo. So, it's as follows:

1. Oltrarno

2. Galleria degli Uffizi

4. Piazza del Duomo

http://www.indianchieftravel.com/en/italy/italy/be...

It's really hard to narrow it down to just 3..

1. Not much of an attraction, rather an area, but Il Ponte Vecchio. It is the oldest bridge in Europe (so special, that during World War II the Germans would not bomb it due to its significant history). It is lined with shops, mostly all of them are gold and jewelers. At night there is live music. Center of the tourist area.

2. The Duomo. Everyone goes here. It is a masterpiece of Brunelleschi.

3. The Accademia. Where the David is, along with several other pieces by Michelangelo, and many other artists as well. Everyone who goes to Firenze has to see the David

Also, walk through the San Lorenzo market. It has many good deals and many things you can buy. Haggle your prices, and do not buy from the African men walking around selling watches, bag, etc. It is illegal in the city and you will be fined greatly.

Also, visit the Medici Palace.

Watch out for the gypsies too!

I live about two hours from Florence and spend a lot of time there. The top attractions are the Uffizi, Accademia (David), and the Duomo with Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Santa Croce, and Giotto's tower, the Baptistry, the museums in Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens all close. There are a lot of other things that I like - the Orsanmichele, San Miniato al Monte, the Brancacci Chapel, the walk between the old town and piazza Michelangelo through the rose garden, the Russian church, and lots of good food including Ribollita, Fiorentina, Cinghiale, and vin santo and cantucci.

My answers tend not to be scenery - although spectacular, how do you choose?

1) The Uffizi. One of the finest museums in Europe.

2) The Florence Cathedral, Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. This is the most outstanding landmark in Florence. The climb to the top of the Duomo is interesting, strenuous and rewarding.

3) I hate to have two churches on the list, but for me, edging out Galleria Della Academia (statue of David), is the Basilica of Santa Croce. The who's who in Italian history is buried here including: Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Foscolo, Gentile, Rossini, and Marconi. Also, for me, after a hectic day city touring, in the back of this church is a cloister that is a sanctuary for quiet.

To not answer your question, the best thing about Florence is that it is close to Lucca. Now that is a groovy little town, much more enjoyable than Florence... (actually F is really nice, especially make sure you climb the tower in the piazza. Costs a few euros and closes at 7 pm this time of the year.)