How to Budget Travel in Florence, Italy

At the heart of Tuscany, the majestic city of Florence is one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations. Travelers flock to the city each year to enjoy its renowned works of art, spectacular architecture and mouth-watering Italian cuisine. Prices in Florence are notoriously high, but it is possible to enjoy everything the city has to offer--without breaking the bank.

Instructions

1. Avoid the peak travel season. During the summer months, travelers flock to Florence. Prices for accommodation, tours and even food rise with demand; rates routinely increase by as much as 40 percent. In the off season, prices are cheaper, lines are shorter, and travelers can get the feel of authentic Florence that is so elusive when the city is overrun by tourists.

2. Follow the locals. When in Florence, you will notice that Florentines do not frequent the restaurants and stores targeted towards wealthy travelers. Venture away from the main tourist venues to find small markets, stores, and restaurants that offer food and merchandise for significantly lower prices. When shopping for clothing and shoes, avoid pricey department stores and head for the many markets that pop up in piazzas throughout the city.

3. Sleep like a student. If you're traveling on a budget in Florence, avoid the overpriced hotels and head for the city's many hostels. Dorm beds can be had for a fraction of the price of a hotel room, with the added social networking benefits inherent to places frequented by travelers. If you're feeling adventurous, the city also offers several camping facilities, where tents are provided. The accommodation is simple, but the prices are the lowest in the city.

4. Don't miss free attractions. Two of the most popular sites in the city--the church of Santa Maria del Fiore (commonly known as the Duomo) and the Pizza Michelangelo--are free. If you are interested in art, research your top museum and art gallery choices before you plan, as some offer free admission on certain days.

5. Head for the hills. Florence is located at the heart of Tuscany, a region known for its hill towns, food and wine. For budget accommodations and food, head out of Florence to the neighboring towns. Look for "agriturismos," farm villas that have been converted into hotels and hostels. Stop at a small neighborhood cafe for cheap food and drinks, and don't forget to try the local pizzeria.

6. Avoid taxis. In Florence, taxis are the enemy of the budget traveler. To avoid the inflated fares, take the well-developed and easy to understand bus system, or try the regional trains. Tickets are available at the main Santa Maria Novella train station and at tobacco stores (tabaccheria) throughout the city.

7. Drink smart. Many bars and restaurants in Florence offer happy hours with discounted drinks. Others, including Mojo on the Via Dei Benci, offer a free appetizer bar with purchase of a drink. Buy bottles of wine from a market, kebabs to go, and enjoy a picnic as you watch the flow of people throughout Florence.

8. Get outside. Don't spend all of your time inside of Florence's many churches and museums. The city is full of parks, large and small, that are perfect for people-watching and relaxing, and the streets are pedestrian-friendly. Get a gelato to go and wander to a new section of the city, or sit by the Arno River to watch the boaters.

Tips & Warnings

• Pickpockets abound in Florence, so keep a close eye on your bag or wallet.