Hard to miss and easy to linger in, this L-shaped square is basically an open-air museum. Grab a seat at a café (yes, it’s pricey, but the people-watching is worth every euro), and you’ve got front-row views of Palazzo Vecchio, the Fountain of Neptune, and the statue of Cosimo I on horseback. Just off to the side is the Loggia dei Lanzi, packed with Renaissance sculptures—all free to see, no ticket needed. Early mornings or late evenings are quieter if you want to take it all in without the daytime crowds.

This perennial plant is regarded as the largest in Europe. According to mythology, this is where the Greek physician Hippocrates mentored his medical students.

The Roman Odeon is an ancient open-air theatre. Used in the 2nd and 3rd centuries, its floor, wings, and orchestra pit are still in very good condition. Today, the theatre hosts a variety of cultural events.

If you want to take a break from outdoor activities, kick off the day by paying a visit to the Audain Art Museum, where you can learn more about British Columbia's history and culture, from the 18th century to the present day. This gallery houses a permanent Michael Audain collection and other temporary exhibitions from all over the world.