Florence

Urban Riverfront

Population: 42k

Cost of Living: High

Near Train: Yes (Trenitalia Line)

Near Bus: Yes (ATAF and Li-nea Line)

Florence is a city steeped in history, art, and culture, located in the heart of Italy's Tuscany region. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a living museum, home to some of the most significant treasures of the art world. The cityscape is characterized by medieval streets, expansive piazzas, and striking architecture, including the iconic Duomo, with its red-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi, and the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Florence is a compact city, where every corner turned reveals a new piece of history, from the Uffizi Gallery, housing masterpieces by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, to the Palazzo Vecchio, which stands as a symbol of civic power. The city's rich artistic heritage is matched by its culinary reputation, with Tuscan cuisine celebrated for its simplicity and use of high-quality, local ingredients. Florence is also a hub for fashion, leather goods, and craftsmanship, attracting shoppers and connoisseurs from around the world. Despite its popularity among tourists, Florence maintains an air of authenticity, with locals going about their daily lives against the backdrop of extraordinary beauty. The surrounding hills of Tuscany offer a respite from the city's bustle and provide stunning views of the Florence skyline, especially at sunset.

Public Schools

Private Schools

Family Friendly

Single Friendly

Senior Friendly

Diversity

Cost of Living

Recreation

B+

Nightlife

Restaurants

Crime

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Florence is high, with housing, dining, and entertainment expenses reflecting the city's popularity as a tourist destination and cultural capital.

Area Hospitals

Florence is home to several reputable healthcare institutions, including the Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, which is one of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Italy, offering a wide range of specialized treatments and services. Another significant facility is the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Meyer, which is a well-known pediatric hospital providing comprehensive care for children.

Talk with other local in Italy on our Italy forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Visit the Italy Community

Living in Florence

Restaurants & Cuisine: Florence offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes and budgets. For a high-end dining experience, Enoteca Pinchiorri presents exquisite Tuscan cuisine with a prestigious wine list. Trattoria Mario is a historic and affordable eatery known for its classic Florentine dishes and bustling atmosphere. For a mid-range option, Osteria Santo Spirito offers delicious Italian fare in a cozy setting, while Gusta Pizza is a popular spot for authentic Neapolitan pizzas at a more casual price point.

2025 Guide to Living in Italy

Schools in Florence

Private Schools

Some students in Florence attend private schools such as the International School of Florence (Pre-K - 12th), which offers an international education with an American curriculum, and Convitto della Calza - Istituto Statale (Boarding, K-12), which provides a traditional Italian education with boarding options. Another example is the Liceo Ginnasio Galileo (High School), a prestigious private high school with a strong focus on the sciences and humanities

Public Schools

Florence is known for its rich history in arts and culture rather than for its public school system. However, the city does have a public school system that serves its residents. The schools in Florence are part of the Italian public education system, which is divided into several stages, including kindergarten, primary school, lower secondary school, and upper secondary school. The curriculum is standardized across the country and focuses on providing a comprehensive education that includes Italian language, mathematics, history, science, foreign languages, technology, music, and physical education.

Bi-lingual Schools

The Bilingual European School of Florence is one such institution, offering a bilingual curriculum in Italian and English, catering to both local and international students. Another example is the Istituto Statale di Istruzione Superiore Machiavelli-Capponi, which provides a bilingual program in Italian and English.

International Schools

Florence has several international schools, including the International School of Florence, which offers an international curriculum for students from preschool to high school and is accredited by the Council of International Schools. Another institution is the Florence International School, which provides an English-speaking education with international standards.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Florence

Living in Florence

Schools in Florence

Local Schools