This is the university district, where the seats of all of the most prestigious faculties of the city's university: political science, law, fine art, literature, and where all of the university facilities, student residences and student cafeterias are located.
On any given day you will find the hustle and bustle of the city right here in Piazza San Marco. It is the main hub for people coming and going by bus. You will also find those on break from work or school who are taking a break on the benches in the middle of the piazza under the sun.
It isn't just people traffic, however, because you will also find the beautiful Church of San Marco which is worth the visit if you are in the area. It is also just steps away from the Accademia Gallery, home to The David.
If you ever find yourself on a bus in Florence, chances are you will somewhere along the line, meet Piazza San Marco.
Via San Gallo, just next to Piazza San Marco, is home to a number of restaurants and shops and is a delight to visit for a meal when in the area, but expect to find a more eclectic selection of food rather than just Italian cuisine.