Backpacking Florence (The Definite Budget Guide)

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Florence has always pulled me back. I remember the first time I stumbled onto its cobblestone streets—I couldn’t resist returning. This backpacking Florence guide is for anyone who wants to explore the birthplace of the Renaissance without blowing their savings.

Florence can be equal parts chill and chaotic, especially if you don’t choose your home base wisely. Trust me, location is everything if you want those early starts for sightseeing and late-night strolls back from local bars.

If you’re a solo traveler in your twenties or early thirties, you’ll feel right at home here. The city’s walkable vibe and endless art scenes keep things interesting. My goal is to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the cool stuff while sticking to your budget.

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Budget & Estimated Daily Costs in Florence

For backpackers, Florence isn’t the cheapest Italian city, but it’s still doable on a lean budget if you plan well. Expect to spend around €40–€60 per day on a tight budget, covering a hostel dorm bed, a couple of budget meals, and maybe a cheap museum ticket.

Everything centers around how smart you are with lodging. Dorm beds can go from around €25 in quieter months to double that in peak times. Food can be surprisingly cheap if you stick to local eateries and street snacks. Save up for the must-see spots like the Uffizi or Accademia, or see if you can grab free entry days.

Overall, while Florence isn’t super cheap, with some planning, it fits nicely into a backpacker’s itinerary.

Typical Daily Expenses in florence

Accommodation (Hostel Dorm Bed): €25–€40 per night in shoulder season, though it can spike in peak months.

Food: Around €20–€30 per day if you’re mixing street snacks and a sit-down meal.

• Breakfast: €3–€5 for a quick cappuccino and pastry (try the nutella croissant) at a local bar.
• Lunch: €5–€10 for a panino or slice of pizza on the go.
• Dinner: €10–€15 if you aim for simple pasta dishes or pizza in a casual trattoria.

Local Transportation: Expect to spend €2 per single bus ticket, but you can mostly walk everywhere. Taxis can get pricey fast.

Attractions: Some are free (like wandering around outdoor squares), but big museums can be €10–€20 each. Look for museum passes if you plan to see multiple places.

Entertainment & Extras: €10–€20 for a couple of drinks, a gelato, or a cheap club cover.

All in all, €50 a day can work if you’re strict, but if you can push to €70 or more, you’ll have a bit more comfort.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Florence

1. Instituto Gould - best for Digital Nomads, Family-Friendly Hostel, Older travelers (+50), Quiet Rest
2. Pensione Mary
3. Locanda Starlight
4. Luna Rossa
5. International Student House - best for Family-Friendly Hostel

Instituto Gould

8.9

"…I would definitely go back. I've stayed here twice, once with a large group and once by myself. I more

Pensione Mary

8.3

Piazza Indipendenza 5... more

Locanda Starlight

9.1

"…The front room is used as a hostel-style dorm room. There isn't a common area, so you're just more

Luna Rossa

8.5

"…I have stayed in many hostels all throughout Europe and this one was one of my favorites. I even more

International Student House

8.5

"…Not the best but worth of money - I like the location of the hostel a lot -- close to the stations more

Money saving tips

• Check for free museum days—many places offer reduced or no entry at least once a month.
• Eat near the outskirts of the tourist zones; just a few blocks away from the Duomo, prices drop dramatically.
• Grab a water bottle. Florence has public fountains where you can refill for free.
• Look for aperitivo deals—a flat rate for a drink and unlimited snacks.
• Shop at local markets for fruits, bread, or cheap lunch supplies.
• Avoid peak season whenever possible; accommodations and attraction prices skyrocket.

Getting around Florence on a budget

Florence is incredibly walkable, so I rarely hop on public transport unless I’m too tired to function. Plus, every back alley has something cool to see.

When you do need a ride, local buses are cheap and easy. Just remember to validate your ticket once you hop on. A single bus ticket usually costs around €2, or you can grab a day pass if you plan to bounce around.

Taxis are notoriously pricey, so I avoid them. If you want to see surrounding towns, the regional trains from Santa Maria Novella Station are affordable, and they’re great for quick trips to nearby cities like Pisa or Lucca.

Best Free & Budget Friendly Attractions

Free things to do

• Watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo (epic views over the city).
• Marvel at the exterior of the Duomo and Baptistery (the inside might cost, but the outside is free eye-candy).
• Roam the San Lorenzo market for an authentic local vibe.
• Window shop across the Ponte Vecchio—though you’ll be tempted to splurge!

Low cost attractions

• Climb the dome of the Duomo for an unforgettable cityscape (worth every euro).
• Check out the smaller galleries, like the Bargello, for a fraction of the big museum cost.
• Take a cheap day trip via regional train to Fiesole for hillside views.
• Grab a gelato from a small gelateria—still a sweet treat under €3.

Food and Drinks on a Budget

In Florence, street food is your new best friend. Panini shops are everywhere, and they serve hearty sandwiches packed with fresh ingredients for around €5–€7.

For a sit-down meal, look for trattorias that offer a lunch special or “menu del giorno.” You’ll often find a pasta and a drink for a set price. If you want to experience local nightlife, you can’t skip the aperitivo scene. Pay for one drink (around €8–€10), and you’ll get a buffet of snacks.

Bar hopping in the Oltrarno area is popular with students and locals alike. You’ll find cheaper drinks than in the touristy spots. Just remember that some bars tack on a small surcharge for table service, so standing at the counter can save you a few euros.

Experiences for Backpackers

A bike tour through Florence’s narrow streets is a great way to get your bearings. There are also cooking classes where you can learn to whip up fresh pasta or tiramisu. It’s a fun way to meet fellow backpackers too.

If you’re into festivals, keep an eye out for local events celebrating art, music, and street performances. These often pop up in plazas and are either free or super cheap.

Don’t miss strolling along the Arno River at sunset. It’s cliché for a reason—it’s just plain magical.

Additional tips & Final Thoughts

Best Time to Visit: Early spring or late autumn can save you cash and allow you to avoid the massive summer crowds.

Booking in Advance: If you’re eyeing popular sites like the Uffizi, snag those tickets online to dodge massive lines and potentially score deals.

Avoid Tourist Traps: Watch out for restaurants with “tourist menus” right next to major attractions. Often overpriced, and the quality is hit or miss.

Safety First: Florence is generally safe, but pickpockets love crowded spots. Keep your belongings close, and don’t flash valuables.

Cultural Respect: Local authorities might fine you for picnic-style eating on historic steps. Also, remember to cover up when visiting churches. Florence is laid-back, but churches are serious about attire.

In the end, Florence will surprise you with how budget-friendly it can be if you plan smart. Even after multiple visits, I keep finding new corners to explore. Enjoy your backpacking adventure, and let the city’s art and food work their magic on you.

Backpacking Florence? Here's What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I've been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I'm passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

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About the author: Anna Kiefer

My travels have taken me from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the tranquil beauty of Spain, each destination adding a new chapter to my journey. For me, travel isn’t about counting countries or ticking off lists; it’s about the freedom it brings and the stories that unfold with each new adventure. At Hostelgeeks, my goal is to infuse our brand with this sense of freedom and discovery.

Whether it’s finding the perfect 5 Star Hostel or sharing a hidden gem in a bustling city, I’m here to ensure that our travelers get more than just a journey – they get an experience that resonates with the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.