Florence – Tour in Portuguese – With the “best” of beautiful Florence

Exploring Florence with a knowledgeable guide in your native language can make all the difference—especially when you want to soak up the city’s most iconic sights without feeling overwhelmed. This 3-hour tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Florence’s artistic treasures, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, all led by a local guide who speaks Portuguese.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: first, its thoughtful itinerary that balances major sights with authentic local touches, like the perfume visit and market stop. Second, the inclusion of a carousel ticket—giving you that fun, classic Florence photo op. A possible consideration? The tour’s short duration means it’s a quick overview rather than an in-depth deep dive into each site, so if you’re craving hours of museum time or a detailed history, you might want to supplement this with additional visits.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a structured, engaging introduction to Florence in a friendly language, especially those with limited time but a desire to see the city’s highlights. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors eager to get their bearings with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview of Florence’s main sights in just three hours
• Guided in Portuguese, making it accessible and comfortable for Portuguese-speaking travelers
• Includes a perfume visit, offering a sensory glimpse into Italian craftsmanship
• Visit to Ponte Vecchio and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, two of Florence’s most iconic landmarks
• Carrousel ride included, adding a fun element and photo opportunity
• Market stop at San Lorenzo for local snacks and souvenirs

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour hits many of Florence’s essential sights while offering some unique experiences. It begins in Piazza della Signoria, the historic heart of Florence, where we admired the Palazzo Vecchio and the impressive Neptune Fountain. Here, you’ll get your first panoramic sense of Florence’s Renaissance grandeur—a perfect way to orient yourself.

Next, you’ll visit the Santa Maria Novella Perfumery, a highlight for many. The monks have crafted perfumes here since 1533, and their ‘Queen’s Water’—created for Queen Catherine de Medici—continues to enchant visitors today. You’ll be taken on an olfactory journey, learning about the tradition of Italian perfumery and experiencing the elegance that has lasted nearly 500 years.

A stop at the Ponte Vecchio offers a chance to walk across Florence’s most famous bridge. Known for its jewelers and charming views of the River Arno, it’s a spot that often draws compliments for its picturesque setting. The guide shares stories about the bridge’s history—originally a market, now a symbol of Florence’s craftsmanship and resilience. Expect about 20 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and soak up the lively atmosphere.

From there, you’ll head to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—Florence’s architectural crown. Brunelleschi’s dome is a marvel of engineering, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might consider climbing up for spectacular city views. The guide will point out details of the façade and interior, helping you appreciate the artistry and ingenuity that went into creating this masterpiece.

Adjacent is the Piazza del Duomo, where the Baptistery of St. John awaits. Its marble façade is one of Florence’s most photographed features, famous for the Gates of Paradise (although the tour doesn’t include admission, you’ll get a good look).

A fun aspect of this tour is the Carousel, which often opens if it’s available on the day. It’s a whimsical touch that makes for great photos and lets you feel like you’re part of a Florence movie scene. Many travelers mention how charming and photogenic this stop is—something you’ll want to take advantage of if it’s operational.

The final stop is San Lorenzo Market, where you can sample local Tuscan cuisine and browse for souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere provides a taste of Florence’s everyday life, and it’s an excellent spot to pick up authentic gifts or enjoy a quick snack.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Piazza della Signoria

The tour kicks off in Piazza della Signoria, a lively square filled with history. We loved the way the guide pointed out details about Palazzo Vecchio and Neptune’s Fountain, giving us a sense of Florence’s political and artistic history in a short span. It’s a perfect introduction, offering both a visual feast and a story-rich environment.

Santa Maria Novella Perfumery

This stop is a sensory highlight. The monks’ perfumery has been creating fragrances since the 16th century. The ‘Queen’s Water’ was a personal favorite quote from another traveler: “It’s incredible to think this perfume was made for royalty—yet here I am, smelling it myself.” The guide explains how these perfumes have maintained their prestige, making this visit a blend of history, craftsmanship, and indulgence.

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Ponte Vecchio

Walking onto the Ponte Vecchio is like stepping into a painting. The guide shares stories about the bridge’s history as a merchant hub and how it became a jewelers’ enclave. Expect about 20 minutes here—a good amount to appreciate the views, browse the shops, and snap memorable photos.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

This is the tour’s showstopper for many. While we don’t go inside, the guide’s commentary helps you understand Brunelleschi’s dome, the intricate façade, and the significance of this religious and artistic symbol. If you choose to climb the dome, you’ll get breathtaking views, but even from the outside, the cathedral’s grandeur is palpable.

Piazza del Duomo and Baptistery

A quick look at the Baptistery allows some appreciation of Florence’s craftsmanship. Its marble façade is striking, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the city’s most photographed features.

Carousel Ride

The carousel is a charming addition. Many reviews mention how it gives a fairytale quality to the experience. It’s especially great for families or those wanting a fun photo op.

San Lorenzo Market

Ending at the market offers a chance to enjoy local flavors. You can sample some Tuscan delicacies or browse for souvenirs—making this a practical and tasty conclusion to your tour.

What We Think About the Price and Value

At $111.02 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering its inclusions: a local guide, the perfume visit, and the carousel ride. It’s designed to give a well-rounded snapshot of Florence’s most famous sights without the need for additional tickets or hassle.

While it doesn’t include entry tickets to sites like the cathedral or the Baptistery, the guide’s commentary helps you appreciate what you see from the outside, which is enough for many first-time visitors. If you want to explore the interiors, you might want to plan a separate visit.

For travelers with limited time, this tour delivers an efficient route with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. The small, private group format ensures a more intimate experience—an advantage over large, crowded tours.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prefer guided tours in their native language, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the essentials. It’s also great for those interested in a mix of art, architecture, and sensory experiences like perfumery. If you love scenic views and authentic local flavors, the San Lorenzo Market stop will appeal as well.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for deep historical context, in-depth museum visits, or a leisurely pace. But for a quick, engaging overview of Florence’s highlights in Portuguese, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This type of tour packs a lot into just three hours—an efficient way to get acquainted with Florence’s most iconic sights while enjoying some authentic local touches. The inclusion of a perfume visit and carousel ride adds a splash of uniqueness that elevates the experience beyond a standard city walk.

The guided format, in Portuguese, makes it accessible and friendly for travelers who prefer to learn in their native language without missing the nuances. The tour’s moderate price balances well with the quality of sights seen, stories told, and little extras included.

If you’re visiting Florence for the first time and want a manageable, engaging introduction that covers the essentials with a dash of fun, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate beautiful views, vibrant markets, and a touch of sensory indulgence.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it feasible for travelers with mobility concerns. However, some sites like the cathedral or climbing the dome may involve stairs, so check in advance if you have specific needs.

Are tickets to sites like the cathedral included?
No, the tour does not include entry tickets. You’ll see the outside and learn about the sites from the guide, but if you want to go inside or climb the dome, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

How long is the walk?
The walking portion lasts approximately 3 hours, covering several major landmarks. Expect a relaxed pace with opportunities to stop, take photos, and listen to the guide.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this is a walking tour starting in Piazza della Signoria and ending at San Lorenzo Market. You should plan to get there on foot or use public transportation.

What is the group size?
It’s a private group, which means a more personalized experience with fewer people. This allows for more interaction and flexibility.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel schedule.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. The tour ends at San Lorenzo Market, where you can sample local foods at your leisure.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Since the tour involves outdoor stops, dress according to the weather—Florence can be hot in summer and chilly in winter.

This tour offers a practical, engaging, and visually stunning introduction to Florence, perfect for those who want a guided experience in Portuguese that emphasizes the city’s highlights and cultural essence.

You can check availability for your dates here: