“Embrace the vast unknown and pursue your adventurous passion”
The central Italian region of Tuscany is home to many treasures, notably the city of Florence. Historically, it was an important cultural, commercial, and commerce center, and many experts believe that it was here that the Renaissance began.
That is why cultural vultures and history aficionados flock here to view Florence’s many historical attractions. The majestic Boboli Gardens close to Pitti Palace, Michelangelo’s masterpieces, including the David sculpture, and the Ufizzi Gallery, known for its spectacular art collection, are just a few examples.
Check out our detailed list of 10 absolutely adventurous things to do in Florence Italy, and plan your trip accordingly.
“Suggestion Read” TOP-RATED TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN FLORENCE
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Ride a Vespa across Florence | Vespa Tour
Let’s kickstart your Florence adventure with a truly Italian tradition.
Vespas have become linked with Italian cities, including Florence. In my opinion, riding about on one of those vintage scooters is one of the top adventurous things to do in Florence Italy. It’s the best way to see the entire city without having to battle the awful traffic.
Experienced drivers might even want to check out this adventure that includes a Vespa Electric for two. This self-guided tour passes by well-known attractions including the Piazzale Michelangelo and Fiesole, making it ideal for getting more done in less time.
The best part is that these Vespas are green, so you can lessen your environmental impact when traveling!
Discover the Local Wine
Vineyards and olive orchards span rolling hills, distant landscapes studded with farmhouses and castles, and historic roads lined with cypress trees! Personally, I feel that riding your Vespa through the Tuscan hills is one of the most adventurous things to do in Florence Italy. This is what you see as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany.
Is this what your Tuscan fantasy looks like? Then let me assure you that you are not dreaming the Tuscany wine area has all of this and more to offer! Tuscany vineyards are a microcosm of all of Italy’s delights, from world-class wines to sophisticated food, a rich history, and a cultural legacy.
If you’re seeking absolutely adventurous things to do in Florence Italy a visit to the vineyards is a must! After all, Tuscan wine is well-known throughout the world. Explore the Chianti beauty while drinking some of the region’s top wines in the Tuscan countryside.
The best part is that you’ll also visit a wine-tasting school to experience four different varieties of wine, including Super Tuscan wines, Brunello di Montalcino, and the famed Black Rooster Chianti Classico. It’s also not just about wine. Visitors will also be able to sample local delicacies such as truffle olive oil and a three-decade-old balsamic vinegar.
Quad and Buggy Tours
From my point of view, take an exciting quad tour through the Chianti countryside on a fun and original adventure by using the dirt roads, and have the time of your life. One of the most adventurous things to do in Florence Italy, that literally takes you down the road less taken is renting a quad or buggy ride. Discover the breathtaking medieval cities as you go past olive groves, amazing cypress trees, and lovely steep roads.
Another exciting alternative is to schedule an electric buggy trip, which will kick-start your experiences through Firenze on a journey unlike any other. In addition to a professional tour guide, you’ll enjoy a tasty halfway lunch or a delectable cheese and prosciutto snack.
It takes some work to get to the abbey because you have to walk around 2 kilometers from the city’s heart and climb upwards for at least 20 minutes to get there. This can be very difficult in the summer heat, so please take your time and pace yourself while you walk. To avoid the warmest part of the day, you can alternatively visit the abbey in the evening.
Explore Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is a location where food is lived, told, and created by craftsmen who love and understand it. It is a space to be lived and shared, as well as a container that acquires cultural and social content in and of itself, without losing spontaneity and simplicity.
You’ve undoubtedly realized by now that the city is a foodie’s paradise! In fact, one of the nicest things to do in Florence is simply strolling through the several markets in quest of regional foods. The Mercato Centrale, which dates back to the nineteenth century, is one such location. This two-story market offers a wide variety of local food, including pasta, meats, fish, oils, cheeses, and more.
In case you become hungry, climb up to the second level where you’ll discover a food court that hits the mark for new and unique adventurous things to do in Florence Italy, and has enough alternatives to please even the pickiest diners. But a word of advice: stay away from the market during mealtimes because it gets really busy.
Climb San Gimignano’s Torre Grossa
These are the last of 72 towers wealthy families erected to symbolize their dominance over the economy of royalty throughout the Renaissance. I recommend climbing the tallest tower of Torre Grossa, which has 214 steps to master but offers breathtaking vistas, as one of the adventurous things to do in Florence Italy.
If the stunning beauty of Italy’s Tuscany region entices you, consider booking a combo day trip that includes stops in other picturesque cities dotting the lush Tuscany region. Some day trips to San Gimignano may also include a stop in Siena, where you can walk through the circular old Piazza del Campo. Another possibility is to visit Monteriggioni, a charming village with Mediaeval charm and lovely vistas of the Chianti region.
Arno River on a Traditional Barchetto
The Arno is crucial to the growth of Florence, the “Womb of the Renaissance,” and innovations in bridge architecture gave rise to the iconic bridges of today. As a result, despite appearing to be only a river, Arno River merits a high grade.
Ride a barchetto, Florence’s counterpart of a gondola and a traditional tiny rowing boat, through the Arno River as you romantically take in the city. The Ponte Vecchio, the beautiful Uffizi, the Corridor Vasari, and the Palazzo Corsini are all visible from the river during an hour-long tour.
Allow a Florentine boatman to transport you back in time to the days when this wooden boat was used to ferry building supplies for constructing the city walls. While enjoying prosecco and the Italian sun, sail in the tranquil water and listen to the town’s history and that of the river that goes through it.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Florence Italy
Is there a better way to see the Tuscan landscape than from 6,000 feet up, just as the sun is rising? The view from above the clouds is unmatched, making the early wake-up time well worth it. See for yourself how the layout of the buildings and the grids of the roads follow the old city walls.
Observe how the beautiful, lush gardens’ complex patterns and decorations highlight the imposing brown brickwork. The icing on the cake is, of course, the champagne breakfast that awaits you after landing.
This one-hour flight over the Renaissance city provides an opportunity for “rebirth,” whether you’re commemorating a special occasion or escorting your significant other to a romantic moment. It definitely ranks among the best adventurous things to do in Florence Italy.
Rafting at San Niccolo Dam
There are lots of opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking through Florence, and visitors fall in love with the beautiful sunsets that shine through the arches of the city. Go urban rafting down the Arno River towards the San Niccolo dam for a little additional thrill if you love the outdoors and adventure.
Enjoy the views and iconic buildings from the river while paddling an inflatable boat, such as when you cross the Ponte Vecchio. In most tours, you get to enjoy an aperitif while contemplating an unforgettable adventure. It’s an exhilarating adventure that should be on your list of must-do adventurous things to do in Florence Italy.
Skydiving above Florence Italy
An experience unequaled, a way to see Florence unlike any other! On the ground, you will receive instructions on how to land and the proper stance to adopt during the flight. You only need to attend a quick fifteen-minute briefing led by the instructors at the sky diving center to get the information you need to launch.
Once the plane has taken off and climbed to the designated altitude (about 4000 meters), which will take about 20 minutes, the only thing left to do is plunge. While firmly fastened to your teacher, you’ll execute the breathtaking ‘leap’ from the airplane.
You will then begin to experience the exhilarating excitement of a free fall, followed by an amazing parachute flight. As you descend via parachute, you can more leisurely take in the city’s 360-degree panorama. For instance, you can see the enormous cathedral’s imposing bell tower and massive dome in this view. Stretch your arms out in front of you and you’ll appear to touch these magnificent structures at Palazzo Vecchio, which is located above Piazza della Signoria.
Paragliding flight over Mount Bargiglio
During this 20-minute journey from the summit of Mount Bargiglio, take in the breathtaking views of Tuscany from a bird’s eye perspective.
A tandem paragliding flight is a part of the adventurous things to do in Florence Itlay and it is open to almost everyone because prior flying expertise is not necessary! You’ll get to fly with your licensed pilot on this tour as you soar above Tuscany’s gorgeous mountains. You’ll be granted spectacular views of the Tuscany region from above whether you decide to fly for the first time or you’d like to have extra flight instructions so that you can work towards a different paragliding rating.
You’ll have the option of letting your pilot take control during the flight if you prefer to have complete freedom to wander around and shoot breathtaking pictures. Your pilot will do a soft landing after 20 minutes, leaving you with lifelong experiences that will never be forgotten.
Summary
With our hand-picked list of 10 absolutely adventurous things to do in Florence Italy, set off on a thrilling adventure in Florence. Indulge in the bustling art scene, tackle spectacular views from medieval buildings, and plunge into adrenaline-water sports along the Arno River as you let your inner explorer out.
Take a Vespa tour to find hidden jewels, savor delicious regional cuisine, and learn about this fascinating city’s fascinating past. Prepare to make lifelong memories while doing the most daring and adventurous things to do in Florence Itlay and let your sense of adventure lead you on an exciting journey through Florence.
FAQs:
What are the adventurous things to do in Florence Italy suitable for all ages?
Without a doubt! Florence has a diverse choice of thrilling activities for people of all ages. There is something for everyone, regardless of your age or whether you want family-friendly activities.
How can I book adventurous tours or experiences in Florence?
You may easily reserve a spot by contacting reliable trip companies or online platforms.
How safe are the adventurous activities in Florence?
When it comes to daring and adventurous things to do in Florence Italy, safety comes first. Rest assured that respectable operators put your safety first. They have everything you need, from knowledgeable guides to high-quality equipment.
Are there any waterfalls or natural swimming spots near Florence?
Yes! there are many spots but in my opinion, there are two stunning waterfalls called Cascata dell’Abbraccio and Cascata del Mulino where you may cool yourself and admire the wonders of nature.
Are there any thrilling water sports or activities in Florence?
Absolutely! For an incredible water experience, you can go kayaking, stand-up paddling, or even take a thrilling jet ski trip along the Arno River.
