There is no way to visit Florence without seeing the Duomo. It towers over the city, looming in the background on practically every street corner: outside a train window as you approach Santa Maria Novella train station, from a terrace cafe in the historic center, and while walking down Via dei Servi. The 37,000-ton engineering marvel is unmissable.

Here's where to take the kids in Florence, from the best spots for gelato to family-friendly museums.

If you’ve got a week to explore Florence, you’re going to feel a little bit like a local before you leave. This seven-day itinerary includes a lot of my go-to spots, but within two or three days of exploring the cobblestone streets and squares you’ll have your own favorites that you’ll be recommending to newcomers (and, hopefully, to other travelers on Tripadvisor). I’ve given you plenty of places to take in the city skyline, including from the massive dome of the Duomo, but the best part of having so much time to explore is that you’ll find your own lookout points away from the crowds.