My Solo Travel to Florence was the BEST - My Complete Guide

This guide is part of our main page where you can compare all hostels in Florence. Instantly find the best-rated hostels and real-time prices from Hostelworld and Booking.com. Compare prices side-by-side and save money every time. Learn how we compare prices.

Find your Perfect Hostel in Florence

I arrived in Florence on a sunny afternoon with nothing but a backpack and an open mind. As a first-time solo traveler, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves stepping into this Renaissance city. It didn’t take long for Florence’s charm to put me at ease. I checked into a friendly hostel and by that evening I was clinking glasses of Chianti with new friends on a rooftop terrace. In that moment, I knew I’d made the right choice coming here alone.

Over the next few days, Florence became my playground and my classroom. I wandered cobbled streets, dined alongside locals, and discovered art and history around every corner.

I’m writing this guide to help you do the same. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or a female traveler exploring independently, my goal is to help you have a great trip, find a fun cheap hostel, and stay safe while savoring everything Florence has to offer.

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Florence

Best for Hostel Newbies

Aparto Florence Manifat...9.4

from $17.04 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

Plus Florence Hostel8.7

from $9.41 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Ostello del Bigallo - B...9.3

from $18.43 | More Details

This is not an ad. We help you find the perfect hostel and compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking. You can save up to 23.7%

Why Florence is Perfect for Solo Travelers

Walkable and Easy to Navigate: Florence is a compact city, which means you can walk almost everywhere. As a solo traveler, I loved being able to wander on foot from the Duomo to the riverfront in minutes. The historic center is mostly pedestrian-friendly, so you can explore little alleyways and piazzas without worrying about traffic. It’s hard to get truly lost in Florence’s grid of medieval streets – but even if you do, you’ll likely stumble upon a beautiful church or a gelato shop.

Art and Culture Everywhere: Traveling alone means you can indulge your interests, and Florence is an art lover’s paradise. I spent hours marveling at Renaissance masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery and wandering through the sculptures at Piazza della Signoria at my own pace. One afternoon, I took a sketchbook to the Boboli Gardens and enjoyed some peaceful solo time surrounded by greenery and sculptures. In Florence, even if you’re alone, you’re never bored – there’s always another stunning fresco or scenic view to discover.

Easy to Meet Fellow Travelers: Florence attracts people from all over the world, so you’re rarely the only solo traveler in town. Between hostel common rooms and guided tours, I found it effortless to strike up conversations. Locals are generally friendly and some speak English, especially those in the hospitality industry. I remember a café owner joking with me about my Italian pronunciation, turning a simple espresso stop into a friendly chat. The city’s youthful energy (helped by lots of students and backpackers) makes it easy to connect, whether you’re swapping travel tips with someone in line for the Duomo or joining a group of travelers for a night out.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Florence

1. Ostello del Bigallo - Bigallo Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Older travelers (+50), Party Hostel, Quiet Rest, Solo Traveller
2. Pensione Mary
3. Archi Rossi Hostel - best for Couples, Family-Friendly Hostel, Older travelers (+50)
4. Instituto Gould - best for Digital Nomads, Family-Friendly Hostel, Older travelers (+50), Quiet Rest
5. Hotel & Hostel 7 - best for Digital Nomads, Party Hostel, Solo Traveller

Ostello del Bigallo - Bigallo Hostel

9.3

"…It's far from the bus station, a long hike uphill. If you want to go to a peaceful place after a more

from

$18.43

Pensione Mary

8.3

Piazza Indipendenza 5... more

Archi Rossi Hostel

9.2

Porta al Prato

"…It was by far the best hostel I have stayed at. We met so many people. It was mostly a younger more

from

$15.80

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

Hotel & Hostel 7

8.2

Cinque Terre

"…The hostel is located in a converted convent right behind a church in a residential area outside more

from

$11.65

A 2–3 Day Itinerary on Your Own

Day 1

Morning: Kick off your first day with a walking tour or an early stroll through the heart of Florence. I started at the iconic Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) – seeing its massive red dome up close is a must. If you’re feeling energetic (and don’t mind 463 steps), climb up Brunelleschi’s Dome or Giotto’s Bell Tower for a breathtaking panorama of the city.

As a solo traveler, I enjoyed taking my time at the top, snapping photos and soaking in the view without feeling rushed. After descending, reward yourself with a cappuccino and a sweet cornetto at a nearby cafe, like one of the little pastry shops on Via del Corso.

Afternoon: Dive into Florence’s art scene. I headed to the Uffizi Gallery to immerse myself in Renaissance art – think Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s works. (Tip: reserve a ticket online in advance to skip the long lines.) Wandering the Uffizi solo was incredible because I could linger at the paintings that spoke to me and breeze through others at my own pace.

After the museum, grab a quick lunch. One of my favorites was a classic panino (sandwich) from an old-school sandwich shop; eating it on a bench in Piazza della Signoria while people-watching made for a perfect solo lunch.

Evening: For sunset, make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo, the famous viewpoint overlooking the city. I joined a few fellow travelers from my hostel and hiked up the steps (it’s a bit of a climb, but absolutely worth it). From the top, you can watch the sunset paint the sky above Florence’s skyline – the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio all glow in the golden hour.

It’s a popular spot, and I found the atmosphere friendly; people often chat or share a bottle of wine. After the sunset show, head back down into the city for dinner. Try an aperitivo – many bars offer a deal where you buy a drink and get access to a spread of snacks or light buffet.

I loved munching on bruschetta and olives at a local wine bar in the Oltrarno district before finding a trattoria for a proper Italian dinner. End the night with some gelato (because one scoop a day is never enough in Italy!) from a famous gelateria like Gelateria dei Neri, and stroll across the softly-lit Ponte Vecchio.

Day 2

Morning: Start Day 2 with a dose of history and local life. I walked over to the Mercato Centrale (Central Market) in the San Lorenzo district. In the morning, the ground floor is a bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, cheese, and olive oil. It’s a great place to people-watch and maybe snag a fresh fruit or pastry for breakfast.

After exploring the market, I visited the nearby Galleria dell’Accademia to say hello to Michelangelo’s David. Seeing David in person is awe-inspiring – and as a solo traveler, I could spend as long as I wanted admiring every angle of that masterpiece. (Again, go early or reserve a ticket to beat the crowds.)

Afternoon: After a lunch break (perhaps upstairs at Mercato Centrale, which has tons of affordable food stalls and communal tables perfect for solo diners), head to the south side of the river. Cross the Ponte Vecchio – even if it’s crowded, the views of the river and the jewelry shops lining the bridge are uniquely Florence.

 On the other side is the Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisans.

I loved wandering around Piazza Santo Spirito, where you can browse local crafts or relax by the fountain. If you’re an art buff, consider touring the grand Pitti Palace and its expansive Boboli Gardens. The gardens are a lovely place for a solo wander; I found a quiet corner with a view of the city and took a mini picnic there.

Alternatively, Day 2 afternoon could be a chance for a hands-on experience: I joined a short pasta-making class that I found via my hostel, which was a fun way to learn something new and meet other travelers.

Evening: Treat yourself on your second night. Perhaps climb Giotto’s Bell Tower at dusk if you didn’t do the Dome, or visit the beautifully decorated interior of Santa Maria Novella church before it closes.

For dinner, seek out a family-run trattoria – the kind with checkered tablecloths and a nonna stirring sauce in the back. I had one of my best solo dinners at a tiny place where the owner was so delighted I was traveling alone that he poured me an extra glass of wine “for courage.”

For nightlife, you have options: if you’re feeling social, see if your hostel is organizing a pub crawl or head to a popular backpacker bar. If you’re in the mood for something low-key, catch some live music.

I stumbled upon a jazz performance at a cafe-bar and ended up chatting with a mix of locals and travelers there. The night can be as lively or relaxed as you want – that’s the beauty of solo travel.

Day 3

Morning: If you have a third day in Florence, you can either dive deeper into the city or take a short adventure outside it. For a slow morning in town, grab a cappuccino and enjoy it like the Florentines do – standing at the counter of a local bar (it’s cheaper and a fun cultural experience).

Then perhaps visit a lesser-known gem like the Bargello Museum (for more sculptures and art with fewer crowds) or the stunning Santa Croce Church, where famous Italians like Michelangelo are buried. I was moved by Santa Croce’s architecture and history, and it never felt too crowded.

If you’re itching to see a bit of Tuscany beyond the city, morning is a great time to catch a train or bus for a day trip. Pisa is just about an hour away (to see that Leaning Tower and be back by afternoon), or head to Siena for medieval charm.

I decided on a whim to take a regional train to a small Chianti town, and ended up tasting wine at a vineyard – a spontaneous solo adventure that became a trip highlight.

Afternoon: I do totally recommend climbing up to San Miniato al Monte (above Piazzale Michelangelo) if you haven't already – it’s quieter than Piazzale Michelangelo and offers a peaceful spot to reflect while overlooking Florence.

Evening: Your last evening in Florence can be a little celebration. I suggest doing whatever your heart enjoyed most – it could be a second visit to your favorite gelato stand, a final walk along the Arno River at sunset, or dinner at that restaurant you kept passing by.

On my final night, I joined a couple of friends from the hostel for a farewell dinner and one last round of Italian gelato (we made it a mission to try a new flavor every day).

If you’re solo, you might spend this night writing postcards or taking one last nighttime stroll. In summer, sometimes the Duomo’s dome is open for special night visits – a unique way to say goodbye to the city.

Take a moment to soak it all in – you did it, you navigated Florence on your own!

That sense of accomplishment and the city’s twinkling lights will stay with you.

Still not sure? Pick my Favorite Hostel in Florence

#1 Top Hostel in Florence: Aparto Florence Manifattura

This is the overall best rated hostel in Aparto Florence Manifattura. The overall rating is 9.4. You cannot go wrong here.

It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.

The price for a dorm at Aparto Florence Manifattura starts from $17.04.

Check out Aparto Florence Manifattura here

Hostels in Florence

I’m convinced that staying in a hostel made my Florence trip twice as fun. For solo travelers, hostels are more than just a cheap bed – they’re a ready-made community. In Florence, you’ll find hostels that cater to every vibe. I chose a budget-friendly hostel near Santa Maria Novella station, and it quickly felt like home base.

Each morning I’d swap tips with other travelers over free coffee in the common room, and in the evenings there was always something going on: a pasta party on the terrace, a group headed out for a pub crawl, or simply a bunch of us playing cards and sharing bottles of wine.

Florence’s hostels often organize activities, which is perfect when you’re solo and don’t have a built-in travel buddy. Many offer free walking tours of the city, cooking classes, or family-style dinners. One popular hostel even has a rooftop pool and bar, making it super easy to meet people while cooling off from the Tuscan sun.

Whether you’re staying at a quiet boutique hostel or a lively party hostel, the key is the social atmosphere. I met travelers from five different countries in one kitchen! 

Plus, hostels in Florence tend to have staff who are fellow travelers or locals eager to share their favorite spots. They led me to some hidden gems I might’ve missed otherwise. If you’re nervous about being alone, a good hostel is the ultimate cure.

Is Florence Safe for Solo Travelers?

Safety is a top concern on any solo trip, and I’m happy to report I felt very safe in Florence. Like any city, it pays to be aware of your surroundings, but Florence isn’t notorious for crime. I walked around a lot, even at night, and generally felt comfortable – but I also stuck to well-lit, busy streets in the late evenings.

As a woman traveling alone, I appreciated that the city center always had other people around, even after dark, especially in popular areas like around the Duomo or Piazza della Signoria. I never felt harassed; at most I got the occasional ciao bella, which I just ignored while continuing on my way.

Of course, basic precautions go a long way. Here are some practical safety tips I followed during my stay:

• Stay vigilant with your belongings: Pickpocketing can happen in crowded spots (like buses or busy museums). I kept my bag zipped and wore it cross-body, and never had any issues.
• Be cautious with strangers offering help or gifts: Florence’s tourist spots occasionally attract scammers – like someone handing you a “free” rose then asking for money. A polite “no, grazie” works well to disengage.
• Plan your nights: If I went out for wine or gelato after dark, I noted the route back to my hostel along main streets. When possible, I paired up with someone from the hostel if we were heading back around the same time. It just felt safer and was more fun to walk together.
• Trust your instincts: This is universal advice. If a street feels too empty or a situation doesn’t feel right, pivot to a different plan. Duck into a cafe or hop in a taxi (taxis in Florence are reliable) if you ever feel uneasy walking alone.

Overall, Florence’s vibe is friendly and welcoming. The city is used to solo travelers and students, and it’s well-policed around tourist areas. I made it a point to blend in – I dressed modestly, kept a confident posture, and tried not to look too much like a lost tourist. By doing so, I felt I drew less unwanted attention. Remember, millions of people visit Florence every year, many of them solo like you. With normal city smarts, you’ll likely feel as safe as I did.

How to Meet People?

One of the best parts of solo travel is the chance to meet people you might never have met otherwise. In Florence, I found it surprisingly easy to make friends, even though I arrived alone. If you’re wondering how to break the ice or find company for an afternoon of exploring, here are some of my go-to methods:

• Stay in social accommodation: Hostels or guesthouses with common areas are ideal. I met a bunch of great people just by hanging out in the hostel lounge. Don’t be shy to say hi – most folks staying in a dorm are also looking to chat and share travel stories.
• Join walking tours and activities: Florence has free walking tours that start daily from places like Piazza Santa Maria Novella. I joined one and befriended another solo traveler as we followed the guide through backstreets. Tours (be it food tours, bike tours, or art tours) naturally bring solos together – you’ll have something to talk about right away (“What did you think of that statue?”).
• Take a class or workshop: I signed up for a gelato-making class (because who doesn’t want to learn the secrets of Italian gelato?). In the class, I ended up laughing and mixing ingredients with a small group of travelers. Cooking classes, art workshops, or even a short language class can be a fantastic way to bond with others over a shared activity.
• Use social apps or meetups: There are apps and websites where travelers organize meetups (like group dinners or photography walks). I checked a travel meetup app and found a group of people going to watch the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. It felt a bit like dating apps for friends – and it worked out great because we shared a memorable sunset together.
• Be open and approachable: This one isn’t an event, but a mindset. Smile, say hello, and ask questions. I struck up a conversation with a fellow solo traveler in line for gelato; we ended up eating our ice cream together on the steps of a fountain, chatting like old friends. Sometimes just asking “Where are you from?” or offering to take someone’s photo at a scenic spot can open the door to a friendly exchange or even a new buddy for the day.

Remember, other travelers are people just like you – curious, adventurous, and probably happy to have some company for dinner or museum hopping.

The great thing about a city like Florence is that it brings together people with shared interests (art, history, food!), so you already have something in common with those around you. I found that by putting myself out there just a little, I was rarely alone unless I wanted to be.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay Solo in Florence

Florence is relatively small, and most central neighborhoods are safe and convenient for solo travelers. Here are a few areas I found ideal, each with its own vibe:

• City Center (Duomo & Uffizi area): If you want to be in the middle of everything, the historic center around the Duomo is perfect. You’ll wake up steps away from famous sights. It’s very touristy (and prices for cafes and hotels can be higher here), but it feels safe and lively day and night. I loved staying nearby because I could pop back to my room easily during the day if I needed a break.
• Santa Croce: Just east of the main sights, the Santa Croce neighborhood has a fun, social vibe. By day, you can visit the beautiful Santa Croce Basilica and wander its leather workshops; by night, the area around Piazza Santa Croce and Via de’ Benci comes alive with bars and restaurants. I found this area great for nightlife – it’s easy to meet other travelers or young locals over aperitivo here.
• Oltrarno (Santo Spirito): Across the Arno River from the Duomo, Oltrarno offers a more artsy, laid-back atmosphere. This is where many locals live and work, so it feels authentic. I stayed near Piazza Santo Spirito for a few nights and loved the bohemian flair – street musicians, open-air markets, and hip cafes. It’s still walking distance to everything, but just far enough from the main tourist crush. As a solo traveler, I enjoyed evenings in Santo Spirito square, where people casually gather on the church steps and it’s easy to strike up a conversation.
• Santa Maria Novella: Centered around the Santa Maria Novella train station, this area is super convenient if you’re arriving by train or plan to do day trips. Many hostels and budget accommodations are located here. I stayed my first night in this neighborhood and appreciated how connected it was – I could walk to the Duomo in 10 minutes, and having the train station nearby made it simple to join tours or catch transportation. While parts of it are busy with commuters by day, it gets quieter at night, but I still found a few nice eateries and felt safe returning to my hostel, which was on a well-lit street.

No matter where you stay, Florence’s charm is that everything is fairly close. Even if you’re in Santa Croce or Oltrarno, you can be at the Duomo or train station with a 15-20 minute walk.

For solo travelers, I recommend accommodations inside or just near the historic center so you can easily walk home after dinner or exploring. Each of these neighborhoods offers something special, so think about whether you prefer to be in the heart of the action, in a nightlife hub, or somewhere a tad quieter with local character.

Where to Eat and Drink in Florence

Eating alone in Florence turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the trip – seriously! Italian meals are such a pleasure that I quickly forgot any awkwardness I thought I’d feel. Restaurants in Florence are used to solo diners (you won’t be the only one enjoying a meal for one). And there are plenty of casual spots where dining solo feels completely natural.

• Cafés and Quick Bites: In the mornings, I embraced the Italian way: standing at the counter of a café for a quick cappuccino and pastry. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also made me feel like a local, shoulder-to-shoulder with Florentines during their coffee ritual. Try a spot like Caffè Scudieri or any bustling bar near the Duomo – you order at the counter, sip your coffee, and you’re on your way.

For lunch, Florence has amazing street food and markets ideal for solo travelers. I often grabbed a panino from All’Antico Vinaio (their stuffed sandwiches are famous and for good reason) or a slice of pizza and ate it al fresco on a bench. Mercato Centrale’s upper floor is also perfect for lunch or a snack; with communal tables, you can sit with locals, other travelers, or just contently people-watch while savoring some fresh pasta or a porchetta sandwich.

• Aperitivo: Come evening, the city’s food scene really shines. One trick I loved as a solo traveler was indulging in aperitivo. Starting around 6–7 pm, many bars offer a deal: buy a drink (like a Spritz or a glass of wine) and you get access to a spread of appetizers or small dishes. It’s a fantastic way to dine casually and even strike up conversation.

I remember enjoying aperitivo at a bar in San Frediano – I had a plate full of delicious bites and ended up chatting with a couple of Italian students next to me.

• Dinner: When it came to dinner, I never felt weird requesting a table for one. In fact, some restaurants have bar seating or communal tables which are great for solo diners. I had an unforgettable Florentine steak while sitting at the counter of a trattoria, where I could watch the chef at work. If you prefer a quieter dinner, opt for an outdoor table at a piazza-side restaurant; with a book or journal in hand, you can relish your pasta while enjoying the view of daily life in Florence.

And of course, end every day with gelato – it’s practically a law in Florence.

Being solo didn’t stop me from trying two flavors at once; I’d stroll with my gelato along the Arno or find a spot on the steps of a monument to enjoy it. In Florence, food isn’t just fuel, it’s an experience, and doing it solo meant I could follow my taste buds anywhere.

5 Hidden Gemz for Florence (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Final Tips and Surprises

Every trip has its surprises, and my solo adventure in Florence was no exception. One thing that pleasantly surprised me was how much I enjoyed my own company. I learned that sitting alone in the Rose Garden below Piazzale Michelangelo, watching the sun go down with no one to talk to but my own thoughts, was actually a magical experience.

It turns out Florence can make a poet out of anyone – I scribbled in my journal and savored that peaceful moment. So, my tip here is: embrace the solo moments. Don’t worry about being alone; in a place as enchanting as Florence, solitude can be sweet.

On the practical side, I was a bit caught off guard by how crowded the major attractions were during peak hours. I didn’t love standing in line for the Uffizi under the mid-day sun.

 If you visit in high season, book tickets online for big attractions and go early in the morning whenever possible. And if you find yourself in a sea of tour groups, don’t fret – Florence has plenty of quiet corners.

One afternoon, I skipped the crowded Ponte Vecchio and found a tranquil spot by the Arno riverbank where I could hear the water and escape the hustle for a while. That leads me to another tip: allow time to wander aimlessly. Some of my best discoveries (a hidden gelateria, a free art exhibit in a church, a street performer playing the violin) happened when I wasn’t following a strict plan.

Lastly, a surprise challenge: the cobblestones! I can’t count how many times I was thankful for wearing comfortable shoes. Florence is an old city with uneven streets, so pack good walking shoes (your feet will thank you after a day of touring on foot).

Also, note that many museums and churches have one closed day a week (often Monday), which I learned the hard way when I tried to visit the Accademia on a Monday – oops. Check the schedules so you don’t miss out.

Despite a couple of minor hiccups, my solo trip to Florence was everything I hoped for and more. 

My final piece of advice: come with an open mind and heart.

Florence will embrace you like an old friend, and whether you’re gazing at the Duomo or clinking glasses with new travel buddies, you’ll create your own little renaissance of memories.

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!

Must-Read

Backpacking Florence

All those cool and unique experiences we are looking for!

Where to stay in Florence for First Time

My experience and what you can expect

Where to Stay in Florence as a Solo Traveler

Best Areas and how to get around

How to Pick a Hostel in Florence

What to Expect (and what not!)

I stayed in a Backpacker Hostel in Florence

My experience and what you can expect

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.