There’s something deeply magical about exploring Italy on your own—but Florence takes that magic to another level. It’s walkable, welcoming, and overflowing with history, art, and quiet beauty. Whether you’re sipping an espresso in a tucked-away piazza or watching the sunset from a rooftop terrace, Florence whispers, this is your moment.
If you’re planning a solo trip to this Renaissance gem, here’s an insider guide to four must-do experiences that go beyond the guidebooks—crafted just for the solo traveling woman.
1. Climb the Duomo: A View You Earn
Florence’s iconic Duomo, officially the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is breathtaking from below—but nothing compares to standing on top of it. The climb is no joke: 463 narrow steps winding through ancient stone corridors. But once you reach the top, you’re greeted by panoramic views that stop time.
As a solo traveler, there’s something empowering about making the climb on your own. You don’t need anyone to point out the beauty—you feel it. Consider going early or around golden hour for fewer crowds and gentler light. Bring your journal. Take your time. This is your Florence.
2. Indulge in Gelato at Perché No!
Let’s get real—no solo trip to Italy is complete without daily gelato. And Perché No! (“Why Not!”) is a Florence staple you’ll love. This family-run gelateria has been perfecting its craft since 1939, using fresh, local ingredients and traditional methods.
It’s small, cozy, and full of charm—just the kind of spot that feels like a secret shared by locals. Try their pistachio, honey-sesame, or seasonal fruit flavors. Then wander nearby streets with your cone in hand, people-watching and soaking in the buzz of the city.
Traveling solo means choosing gelato whenever you want—and savoring it without a schedule.
3. Visit Michelangelo’s David: Quiet Awe
You’ve seen the photos, but nothing compares to standing in front of Michelangelo’s David in real life. Housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, this 17-foot marble masterpiece radiates presence, strength, and astonishing detail.
Go early to avoid crowds—mornings are quieter and more intimate. As a solo visitor, you’ll have the luxury of standing in silence, taking your time, and connecting with the piece on your own terms. No rushing. No distractions.
Seeing David is more than a tourist stop; it’s a moment of stillness in the middle of a vibrant city. A reminder of what humans are capable of—and a little reminder of your own strength too.
4. Discover a Signature Scent at Acqua dell’Elba
Tired of souvenir magnets and postcards? Acqua dell’Elba, a boutique perfumery inspired by the scents of the Tuscan coast, offers something more personal.
Step inside their serene shop—located a short walk from Florence’s busy center—and you’ll be welcomed by soft lighting, ocean-inspired blues, and elegant glass bottles filled with handmade fragrances. Each scent is crafted to capture the essence of Italy: fresh sea air, Mediterranean herbs, sun-drenched citrus.
Find the one that speaks to you and wear it throughout your trip. Every time you return home and catch that scent, Florence will come rushing back. It’s not just perfume—it’s a memory in a bottle.
 Florence Is Yours
Florence is often called a museum without walls—but for the solo female traveler, it’s more than that. It’s a space to reflect, to wander, to reconnect with yourself. With every step, every view, and every tiny café discovery, you’re writing your own story—one no one else gets to author.
So take that trip. Climb that dome. Eat that second gelato. Florence is waiting—and she’s even more beautiful when seen through your eyes.