Packing List & Tips

What to Pack?

• Comfortable, sturdy shoes: THE most important. Florentine sidewalks are made of Pietra Serena (sandstone) and cobblestones — smooth, uneven, unforgiving for thin soles. Heels: forget it.
• Light layers: Cool in the morning (especially in the shade of the alleys), hot at midday, pleasant in the evening. Spring/Fall: jacket and scarf for the evenings.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses — even in spring and fall.
• Cover shoulders and knees: For churches (Duomo, Santa Croce, Santo Spirito) you must cover shoulders and knees. Have a light scarf or cardigan with you — checks are conducted at the entrance.
• Water bottle: Florence has excellent tap water and public drinking fountains. Saves money and plastic.
• Umbrella: In fall and winter — Florence gets rainfall.

Important Notes

• Tipping: In Italy, tipping is NOT obligatory. Many restaurants charge a "Coperto" (cover charge, 1.50–3€ per person) — this is legal and common, but not a tip. If satisfied: leave 1–2€ on the table or round up. Never 15–20% like in the USA.
• Coperto & Servizio: Coperto (cover charge) is listed on the menu. Sometimes also "Servizio" (service, 10–15%) — then no further tip is needed. Check the bill!
• Lunch break: Many small shops and churches close between 1 PM and 3:30 PM. Supermarkets and large museums remain open continuously.
• Sunday opening: Many shops are closed on Sundays. Supermarkets (Conad, Carrefour) in the city center are usually open. Restaurants: many have Monday or Tuesday as a rest day.