Do I need reservations for the big venues? Any suggestions for dinner? Thank you....
It high season and the lines will be long. I would suggest reservations.
Donna
For dinner-Trattoria Sostanza for Bisteca Florentina from the White Chianni cattle, butter chicken, traditional soups. Old school place, been there fifty years or so. Late seating gets you with a more local crowd. Excellent desserts made on the premises. Reservation is recommended, you might ask your hotelier to do this for you.
Which "venues" are you referring to? If you plan to visit the Uffizi or Accademia, then reservations would definitely be advisable, as they will likely be very busy (spring shoulder season).
If you want to visit the Pitti Palace, you may want to buy online to save waiting in the queue. I was there a couple of days ago, waited less than 10 minutes to buy tickets (around 11.30 a.m.). I would imagine that there'll be more tourists, and longer lines, in another 4 weeks.
I think you've found your answer. Buon viaggio!