Florence is widely considered more traditionally beautiful than Milan, offering an immersive, compact, and walkable Renaissance art experience. Known as the "cradle of the Renaissance," it features stunning architecture, museums, and historic charm. Conversely, Milan is a modern, cosmopolitan financial hub that mixes contemporary design with historic sites, featuring the impressive Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Neither Florence nor Milan is objectively "better," as they cater to different interests: Florence is ideal for classic Renaissance art, history, and a charming, slower pace, while Milan excels in modern fashion, design, vibrant nightlife, and contemporary culture, serving as a sophisticated, fast-paced Italian city. Choose Florence for iconic art (Uffizi, David) and Tuscan vibes, or Milan for high fashion, design weeks, great food, and a more "real" Italian city feel with major art (The Last Supper).
While beauty is subjective, Florence is widely considered one of Italy's most beautiful cities, often topping travel lists for its unparalleled Renaissance art, architecture (like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio), and Tuscan charm, with some sources even naming it Europe's most beautiful based on reader polls. Other contenders for Italy's most beautiful often include Venice, Rome, and picturesque towns in the Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast, but Florence's rich cultural heritage and visual appeal consistently place it at the very top.
Is Florence one of the most beautiful cities in the world?
Florence has been crowned Europe's most beautiful city in Travel + Leisure's 2025 World's Best Awards. Thousands of travelers voted for the Italian city, praising its art, history, cuisine, shopping, and warm atmosphere.
Some of the most beautiful places in the world include: 1. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam - Stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. 2. Santorini, Greece - Picturesque whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches.
29 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Milan, Italy
Is Florence the nicest city in Europe?
It's official. Florence has been awarded Europe's Best City in Travel + Leisure's 2025 World's Best Awards and it's no surprise to anyone who has wandered its streets. Florence is a living Renaissance.
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Milan, Naples, and Rome as MEDIUM-threat locations and Florence as a LOW-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
I have been to Milan several times and it is a 3 compared to Florence in virtually every way. Nice Duomo, high-end shops and that about it other than The Last Supper. Florence has way better food, and tons more to see and do.
Yes, you can absolutely wear jeans in Florence, Italy, as they are common for both men and women, but Italians generally prefer stylish, well-fitted, darker washes, especially when dressing up for evenings or nice dinners where chinos or dressier pants might be better. Always ensure jeans cover your knees for religious sites like the Duomo, and opt for lighter fabrics or dresses in the intense summer heat to stay comfortable.
Florence is the better choice because it offers a much more authentic experience and has a longer shoulder season, which means fewer crowds. However, if you want to explore historic wonders and go island hopping, then Venice is the choice for you.
This is Matera, the oldest city in Italy and one of the oldest cities in the world. It's known for its ancient cave dwellings which are carved into the rock. A simply magical place that makes you feel like you're stepping back in time.
We think that 6 days is the perfect amount of time to spend exploring Florence and some of the nearby towns. For extra guidance and convenience, we recommend booking the 6 Day Florence & Val d'Orcia, Tuscany Tour Package or the 7 Day Best of Italy Tour Package - Florence, Tuscany & Cinque Terre.
