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How to Spend 3 Days in Florence: A Complete Guide

Florence is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy. Known as the ‘Birthplace of Renaissance’, the city is an unparalleled hub of world-class art and architecture. From Michelangelo’s Statue of David to the towering Duomo and its renowned dome, Florence is home to more masterpieces than you’ll know what to do with.

The rich and sometimes salacious history around the Medici family, one of the most famous families in Florence’s history, is worth learning about. And I do mean “rich” in multiple ways. 

At one time Florence was the banking capital of Europe, and was where the first gold florins that were later used as international currency were minted. Florence was, like, a big deal. Florence wasn’t rich because it had a lot of art. It was, in fact, it was quite the opposite. Florence had a lot of art because it was rich, and that wealth allowed for the commission of all these amazing works of art. 

Florence’s history has all the makings of a good HBO series – murder, mystery, intrigue, and plenty of scandal (a pope with a son, who was made the duke of Florence? Questionable at best). 

We’ve set up this 3 day Florence itinerary to help you learn alllll about it. From world-class art museums to walking tours, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to dive into the stories that bring the city’s history to life. 

Our favorite thing to do in Florence , though, is to wander the quiet streets before 9:00 am, which is just about when all the tourists seem to wake up. It’s so calm and serene, and the architecture is beautiful.

Three days in Florence isn’t a huge amount of time. While the city may be small in size, there are countless fantastic things to do, including several huge museums where you could easily spend an entire day alone.

This itinerary is here to help you experience both the city’s most famous attractions, and save some time for other experiences so that you get as much out of your time as possible. 

With three days, we also think you should take advantage of Florence’s amazing location in the heart of Tuscany to get out of the city and explore other parts of this glorious region on your third day.

The easiest way to do that is to take a guided tour, but you could also do it yourself via train or renting a car. We’ve got plenty more on where to go on a day trip from Florence and what to do and see below. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Florence

Being a small city, you can’t really go too wrong wherever you choose to stay in Florence. We have an entire guide on where to stay in Florence that dives deeper into the specifics and details – make sure to read that if you’re trying to decide where to stay and want more details.

These are a few of our top suggestions. 

The Historic City Center: Best Overall Location

The historic city center of Florence is fairly compact and is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s main attractions and hotels. For context, no matter where you stay in this area you’ll likely be no more than a 10-minute walk from most of the places you’ll want to visit. 

Staying in the historic city center will ensure you get as much out of this itinerary as possible.

The best hotels in Florence’s historic center:

• Palazzo Gamba Luxury Apartments – An amazing aparthotel with elegant and spacious rooms, all with their own private kitchen and some of which have frescoed ceilings and a balcony. But the best part? It’s just a few steps away from the iconic Cathedral so is about as central as you can get in Florence.
• Arte’ Boutique Hotel – A super stylish and cozy boutique hotel sitting between Accademia Gallery and the Cathedral. The spacious suites can sleep up to six people so are a great option for larger groups or families. Some rooms also have a private terrace with stunning views across the Florence skyline.

Oltrarno is the area to the south of the Arno river – Oltrarno translates to ‘across the Arno’ – and is Florence’s artisans quarter, with plenty of small workshops and independent boutiques. There are also a few nice piazzas filled with restaurants and bars.

While technically still a part of the historic city center, Oltrarno is usually a little quieter than the main tourist district north of the river. It’s a neighborhood where you’ll be able to get a glimpse into authentic local life in Florence.

Some parts of the neighborhood are outside of the ZTL so it’s also a convenient place to stay in Florence if you’re traveling by car.

The best hotels in Oltrarno:

• The House of Books – A modern and spacious apartment that is guaranteed to give you interior design envy. The chic split-level apartment has a large kitchen, views across to the Duomo and a beautiful shared terrace. It’s conveniently located just a short walk from the center but outside of the ZTL area so you can park your car on the street right outside.
• Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio – An affordable 4-star hotel sitting right next to Ponte Vecchio (bridge), which means that while it’s in Oltrarno, the hotel is only a couple of minutes walk to the many attractions north of the river. The highlight of the hotel has to be its top floor restaurant terrace with panoramic views.

Your Complete 3 Day Florence Itinerary

There are a number of amazing things to do in Florence , and it’s definitely not possible to fit it all in if you only have three days.

In this guide, we’re going to help you figure out what to prioritize (and by doing that, what to save for next time). 

We think that Florence is best experienced slowly. Of course, you’re going to want to see the Uffizi Gallery and some of the other famous sights in Florence. But you’ll also want to save time to experience the magnificent food and wine scene of Tuscany and to wander along the river.  

One of our favorite parts about Florence is that it serves as a fantastic home base for exploring the surrounding area of Tuscany. On your third day in Florence, we highly, highly recommend you take a day trip either to Lucca, Bologna, or the wine region of Chianti.

Here’s what the itinerary looks like at a high level. 

Day 1 : Brunelleschi’s Dome, an Introduction to Florence, and the Statue of David Day 2 : The Uffizi Gallery and Exploring Oltrarno Day 3 : Choose Your Own Day Trip Adventure

For this itinerary, we’ll assume you’re arriving the evening before and have three full days to explore. 

Planning a trip to Italy? You won’t want to miss our guide to planning an incredible Italy itinerary , with ideas for one week in Italy , 10, and 14 days in Italy , how to organize your trip, and the best things to do and see along the way.

Day 1: Brunelleschi’s Dome, an Introduction to Florence, and the Statue of David

On your first day, take in the view from the top of Florence’s Duomo before diving into the history of the city and finishing with the David.

Brunelleschi’s Dome and the Florence Cathedral

You’ll want to get out nice and early on the first day of this Florence itinerary so you can hit the main attractions of Piazza del Duomo before the crowds get too big. 

The Piazza is where you’ll find several of Florence’s most important landmarks, including the iconic Duomo, as well as the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile. It’s not hard to see that these three buildings are all part of the same complex from their shared Gothic-Renaissance architecture and famous marble design.

We’d strongly recommend choosing one attraction here to focus on (there are five separate pieces of the complex) rather than trying to see it all. And we’d recommend that one attraction is Brunneleschi’s Dome. Here’s why. 

The Dome gives you both the best view of Florence from the top (the Campanile or Bell Tower has a netting at the top, which makes it hard to take pictures), and an up-close-and-personal view of the best part of the interior of the cathedral, the dome (which means you don’t have to wait in the crazy line to get into the interior of the cathedral). 

If you are interested in visiting all of the attractions on Piazza del Duomo, you’ll save both time and money by purchasing a combined Duomo complex ticket . You could also book a guided tour of the Duomo complex .

Opening times for key attractions on Piazza del Duomo:

• Campanile : 8:15 am to 6:45 pm
• Baptistery : 8:15 am to 10:15 am and 11:15 am to 7:30 pm
• Duomo Museum : 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (closed Sunday afternoons)
• Duomo : 10:00 am to 4:30 pm
• Brunelleschi’s Dome: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome

The striking 13th-century Gothic-Renaissance cathedral is one of the largest Christian churches in the entire world. But the real highlight of the Duomo has to be its magnificent dome – known as Brunelleschi’s Dome – which was once the largest of its kind in the world. 

Be sure to admire the outside of the Duomo first, which is intricately decorated with amazing sculptures and designs. Once inside, you’ll notice that the cathedral is a little less elaborate. Don’t miss the marble floor and its pure immense size. 

Then, climb up to the top of the dome to see its striking frescoes up close and to take in the fantastic views over Florence. 

We did this first thing in the morning, and would strongly recommend that you do the same for the best light over Florence and fewer crowds. Which means you’ll want to buy tickets for the 8:15 am time slot and be in line by 8:00 am. 

It’s an early morning, but we think it’s worth it. 

The website to buy tickets for the Dome is here . You’ll follow that link, click on “Brunelleschi’s Dome,” then choose a date and time slot and go from there. Alternatively, if you want to avoid the sometimes confusing official website, you can book skip-the-line tickets here , which are exactly the same thing – tickets for entry to the Dome. 

There are another 463 steps (there’s no elevator) to reach the top of the dome. The walkways to the top are a little narrow and cramped so it’s not something we’d recommend for anyone who is super claustrophobic. 

There’s a point where you are shuffling along a narrow balcony (behind a glass wall, of course, it’s not like you’re at risk of falling) around the base of the dome high above the floor of the church below, which is spectacular. 

From there, you can see the details in the art on the interior of the dome, which is worth stopping to admire. There are depictions of heaven and hell, and some of the figures in the hell portion really make me wonder exactly what drugs artists back then were taking. The imagination that went into creating this piece is truly wild. 

However, by stopping to admire, and everybody else doing the same, you will be standing there, suspended several hundred feet up on a narrow ledge, which isn’t for everyone. Alysha was a little antsy to be done with it after about five minutes, which is why I’ve included this little blurb. I’m not a fan of heights, but I was totally fine on this one.  

A Walking Tour with Andrea

A walking tour is our favorite way to get to know a new city when we first arrive. And it’s how we’d recommend spending the first morning of this itinerary after climbing the dome. 

Not only will you be able to get to grips with the layout of the city and where to find all of the main attractions, but you’ll also learn about Florence’s fascinating past and have a chance to ask a knowledgeable local guide any questions you might have. 

There are a few different walking tours of Florence that we’d suggest as an introduction to the city, but we have a specific recommendation based on our own personal experience in Florence. 

We did Andrea’s Walking Tour on our first evening in Florence, and we thought it was one of the best walking tours we did during our three month adventure to Italy, Spain, and Portugal! Andrea is about as Italian as it gets, and we loved the energy and enthusiasm he brought. 

His tour is a great overview of the city, and we liked that it was only two hours long, so it’s plenty of time to dive into the history, see some sights, and give you enough knowledge to know what to focus your time on or come back to later, but not so long that it feels like a slog by the end.

You’ll start from Piazza di Santa Croce on the eastern side of the city and make your way to Piazza di San Lorenzo over the course of the tour, with stops at Piazza della Signoria to learn about Cosimo I de’ Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, and see the bronze statue of Perseus, which has stood in the same spot for more than 500 years. 

We highly recommend it as an introduction to Florence, and you should do it as early in your trip as you can. 

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability for Andrea’s Tour.

There are a few other walking tours of Florence that we’d suggest as an introduction to the city.

Take Walks Best of Florence Tour (2 hour 30 minutes) – If you’ve read our guides to Rome , then you already know we love Take Walks (if you’re interested, you can read about our amazing Colosseum tour ). This is a great small-group walking tour of Florence which covers the histories and stories of all of the city’s highlights, from the unique Ponte Vecchio bridge to Florence Duomo and plenty more. The tour also includes a skip-the-line entry to see Michelangelo’s David at the Florence Accademia, which we have you doing later in the day on this itinerary. Two birds, one stone. 

Context Travel: Introduction to Florence (3 hour 30 minutes) – With Context Travel, a local historian will help you to get acquainted with Florence’s main sites and neighborhoods while talking you through the city’s fascinating history. The tour also includes a visit to see Michelangelo’s David and the Accademia Gallery.

Lunch at Mercato Centrale (San Lorenzo Market) or Sant’Ambrogio Market

Florence has a duo of food halls, and they offer slightly different experiences. Both would be a good option for lunch in between attractions here, though San Lorenzo Market is in a more convenient location given the agenda for the day. 

San Lorenzo Market (also known as Mercato Centrale ) has two levels – the lower dedicated to fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats, and the upper being a hip food hall with tons of different stalls and options. There’s also an outdoor market that is full of leather goods, trinkets, and other gadgets. 

The other market – Sant’Ambrogio – is filled with locals going about their weekly shopping, particularly on Saturday. There’s a smaller but more authentic selection of stands ranging from butchers and cheesemongers to ready-to-eat foods. 

Better yet, take a guided food tour that includes a visit to the markets and try some local delicacies with the help of a knowledgeable guide!

The Statue of David and the Accademia Gallery

We would say that the Accademia Gallery is one of the three things you shouldn’t miss in Florence, along with the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo di Firenze (specifically, the view from the roof and the art on the inside of the dome). 

My memory of seeing the statue of David for the first time is realizing just how huge this statue is. It’s not life-sized, which is kind of what I had thought before seeing it in person. It’s actually 17 feet tall. 

The Accademia Gallery is really all about the David, though there are a couple of other noteworthy pieces that you should spend some time exploring.

You essentially have two options to see the Galleria dell’Accademia. You can pre-book tickets yourself (and yes, we’d highly recommend pre-booking here ), or you can join a guided tour . If you want to do it on your own, you should know that tickets sell out months in advance for peak season (aka the summertime), so book as early as humanly possible. 

If you’re planning a trip at the last minute and tickets are sold out, jumping on a guided tour is the best way to see the David. 

The museum is closed on Mondays , so plan accordingly. 

Day 2: The Uffizi Gallery and Exploring Oltrarno

This day is action-packed, starting with one of our favorite art museums in the world, the Uffizi Gallery, and moving across the river to explore a more low-key neighborhood, Oltrarno, finishing with one of the best views in all of Florence. 

Santa Croce Church (Basilica di Santa Croce)

Start your day with a quick visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce . The Gothic-Renaissance church is a little removed from the other main attractions (and by that we mean a 5-10 minute walk away) but it’s worth visiting, being the burial place of many notable Italians.

Some of the most famous names you’ll find buried at the church include artist Michelangelo, who called the neighborhood of Santa Croce home, scientist Galileo Galilei and political philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli. The church also has an impressive art collection.

Our favorite part of the church is the facade, which you can see from different angles was basically just added on to the front of the church to make it look prettier from the front. Other parts of the church are less ornate and more austere, which shows how the church evolved over the years from a humble place of worship to one of the more important churches in Florence.  

Piazza della Signoria

While there are numerous piazzas in Florence, Piazza della Signoria is the city’s main square and a definite must-visit.

The large square is somewhat of a free open-air gallery, with numerous statues and sculptures in every direction you look.

Keep an eye out for :

• The Fountain of Neptune
• Cosimo I de’ Medici on horseback , one of the most important figures in the sometimes salacious history of Florence
• A replica of Michelangelo’s David – don’t let anyone convince you it’s the real one! – in the place where the original used to stand before being moved indoors out of the elements
• The many lifelike statues of important historical figures like Galileo and Da Vinci along the Loggia dei Lanzi

Piazza della Signoria is also home to Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence and one of the city’s most important historic government buildings. You won’t be able to miss it.

A History of Renaissance Art at the Uffizi Gallery

Round off your second afternoon in Florence by ticking off another of the city’s most famous attractions, the Uffizi Gallery . The gallery is just to the south of Piazza della Signoria.

The world-famous Uffizi Gallery has an unparalleled collection of Renaissance and European art assembled by the Medici family over the course of their centuries at the top of the Florence food chain. 

It’s an absolute must-visit in the city known as the ‘Birthplace of the Renaissance’. The gallery is home to many priceless masterpieces from different famous Italian artists including Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’, Michelangelo’s ‘Doni Tondo’ and Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Annunciation’.

With an astounding 101 rooms and thousands of artworks to explore, you’ll need at least a couple of hours in the Uffizi Gallery. But how do you know what to focus on?

This is the part where we tell you that the best way to see the Uffizi is on a guided tour , which is exactly what we did.

We like taking guided tours of places like the Louvre in Paris and the Vatican in Rome , because the expert guides are able to give you so much context and color that is lost on us when we walk through the museums on our own. 

Otherwise, we’d look at the art, say “yeah, that looks pretty,” and move on without really understanding the context behind what we’re looking at.

We believe that a guided tour is worth it for a few reasons. 

• As we already mentioned, the gallery is massive. Which means, unless you’re an art history buff, you’re going to want someone to help curate the pieces and artists that you should focus on . 
• An art historian brings two important things to the table that will help bring the pieces of art you’re going to see to life. They are historical and cultural context (who was the artist and what was happening in the world when this piece was created?) and stories . The added richness will help you understand the piece of art and its role in the history of Florence and broader Italy. 
• Skip-the-line tickets . The ticket line is always huge, and whether you do a tour or not, you should book your tickets in advance to walk right past them directly to the security line. 

We booked this tour of the Uffizi in Florence , and we really enjoyed it. 

Visiting Independently : If you want to visit independently, we’d definitely recommend investing in the audioguide. Being one of the city’s most popular and busiest attractions, you’re going to want to book your ticket and time slot online in advance . The entrance can be booked in 15 minute time slots until 5:00 pm each day. The museum stays open until 6:50 pm so you’ll have plenty of time to wander around, even if you arrive late in the afternoon.

Lunch at Via dei Nei

Imagine our surprise when we exited the Uffizi Gallery onto Via dei Neri ( here on Google Maps) only to find ourselves in the midst of another long line. 

“Oh, this must be the line for the ticket office? Or is the line wrapped around the building? Weird that it’s all the way over here.”

We meandered alongside the line, curious to see what exactly all these people were not-so-patiently waiting for. At the front of the line was a surprise. 

They were in line for a sandwich. Not just any sandwich, though. A “Schiacciata” (we also have seen Schiacciate, which I think is the plural form) from All’Antico Vinaio , one of the most reviewed food establishments IN THE WORLD. 

The sandwich is a very popular form of street food in Florence, which we learned when we saw multiple different shops selling essentially the same thing, all with long lines pouring into the street. 

The sandwich itself is basically two pieces of focaccia (though, I want to be clear – it’s not focaccia, it’s made differently and with more salt than your typical focaccia), with some sort of cured meat, a cheese, and some other accouterments stuffed in between.

Either stand in line for the famous one, find another alternative nearby that looks good to you, or head a half block down the street to Sgrano for a gluten free version made in a 100% gluten free restaurant. 

Take your sandwich over to the Arno and enjoy it on the banks of the river before making your way to Ponte Vecchio and preparing to cross the Arno. 

Ponte Vecchio

Just a two minute walk away from the Uffizi Gallery you’ll find Florence’s famous bridge, the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) crossing over the Arno river.

The unusual-looking bridge is the oldest in Florence and was the only one to survive the bombings of World War II. It’s been lined with shops since the 13th century. Originally, many of the shops were butchers or fishmongers, but due to the awful smell they were banned and most of the shops you’ll find there today are high-end goldsmiths and jewelers.

You’ll probably catch glimpses of Ponte Vecchio a couple of times while exploring Florence during this itinerary, but our favorite time to visit is when it starts to light up around sunset.

By the evening, most of the shops will be closed. However, taking a slow stroll across the bridge with all of the wooden shutters down, stopping to marvel at the sunset views along the Arno river, is one of the most romantic things to do in Florence in our opinion.

Don’t forget to look up and see the Vasari Corridor, a raised corridor built by the Medici family so they could cross without rubbing shoulders with commoners.

Oltrarno: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Between Ponte Vecchio and the Boboli Gardens, take some time to explore the neighborhood on the other side of the river, which is full of great food, drinks, and piazzas that are worth a stop. 

Here’s a map of a route you could start from, but we’d encourage you to do some exploring on your own. 

Here are some stops we’d recommend based on our own experience. 

• Ditta Artigianale : One of the O.G. specialty coffee shops in Florence, this location is newer, and has a beautiful interior and nice outdoor patio. Great coffee, too. 
• Gelateria Della Passera : Alysha’s favorite gelato in Florence, and maybe all of Italy. It’s on a nice little square too, which is a good spot to relax, eat gelato, and do some good old fashioned people watching. 
• Piazza Santo Spirito : Andrea, the walking tour guide mentioned above, told us this is where the locals hang out. It’s a big piazza, with the Basilica Santo Spirito at one end, and a nice fountain on the other. The outside of the square is lined with bars and restaurants, and it’s a good place to pass the time in the sun. 
• Le Volpi e l’Uva : One of our favorite wine experiences in Florence. They have a wide range of Italian wines, both from Tuscany and from other Italian regions, and are passionate about wine and willing to chat about different grapes and wines they’re loving at the moment. 

The Boboli Gardens

After a glass of wine or two, head up the street to Pitti Palace .

We actually don’t recommend doing the Pitti Palace if you have limited time – you’ll find it in the “with more time” section below. Instead, focus on the lovely green space that sits behind the palace, the elegant Boboli Gardens. 

It’s part of the Pitti Palace Complex, but you can buy a separate ticket that is significantly cheaper and just covers the gardens. 

The vast grounds span over 45,000 square meters, making them the largest green area in all of Florence. On a stroll around, you’ll discover fountains, pergolas, grottos, a small lake and hundreds of ornate Renaissance statues. A lovely way to take a break from the crowds of the busy city outside.

On a warm day, we’d also recommend bringing some drinks (Aperol Spritz?) and snacks to enjoy a late lunch or afternoon aperitivo as a picnic in the tranquil gardens.

Note : The entrance to the gardens is the same as the entrance to Pitti Palace ( here on Google Maps). If you’re looking at Pitti Palace, the ticket office is off to the right. 

Get your tickets in advance – the ticket line can be very, very long, and you get to skip right to the front if you already have tickets. You will still need to exchange your electronic tickets for paper tickets, though, which surprised us. Again, though, you skip the line, show a barcode, and off you go! Learn more and get tickets here . 

Piazzale Michelangelo

Finally, end your day on the other side of the river with a walk up to the best viewpoint in the city, Piazzale Michelangelo. Follow the crowds of locals and tourists up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the most spectacular sunset views in the city.

The large hilltop terrace has a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David – once again, don’t let anyone convince you that it’s the original – as well as a restaurant and plenty of vendors catering to the crowds that flock to this stunning spot for the views each evening. 

From Le Volpi e l’Uva, you can walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo in around 20 minutes, and you’ll walk up through the rose garden, which is worth a stop to admire the blooming roses in the spring and summer. You’ll get some great panoramic views on your stroll.

If you don’t feel like walking, jump on bus line 12 to the top, which you can catch from the southwestern end of Boboli Gardens at Porta Romana ( here on Google Maps).

Dinner at Mister Pizza or Ciro and Sons

On your second night in Florence, it’s pizza time!

We spent five weeks in Italy, and ate our body weight in pizza over that timeframe. We love pizza, even though Matt has Celiac Disease and needs to eat gluten free. 

There are two places we’d recommend for pizza (including gluten free options) in Florence. 

Mister Pizza was our favorite pizza in Florence, and they have two locations in the city center. One right under the Duomo, where you can eat with a view of the dome, and one quieter location towards Santa Croce, which is where we ate lunch on our last day in Florence. 

Ciro and Sons is a few blocks from the main attractions in Florence, but that doesn’t mean the food isn’t good. The biggest problem is the huge line and unorganized staff, which meant we were standing in a line (and by line, we mean blob of people) waiting for our table that we reserved for over an hour after our reservation. The pizza is good, but it wasn’t our favorite in Florence.  

Day 3: Choose Your Own Day Trip

For your final day in Florence, make the most of the city’s prime location in the heart of beautiful Tuscany by taking a day trip from Florence out to one of the amazing nearby destinations.

You might be wondering about Pisa and Cinque Terre, and we wouldn’t recommend either as a day trip from Florence for different reasons. We wouldn’t recommend Pisa because it’s not that cool. There’s the leaning tower, sure, but that’s it. And it’s absolutely swarming with tourists. Guess what? There’s a leaning tower in Bologna too, which is a day trip we’d recommend. 

Cinque Terre is too far to comfortably tackle as a day trip, and it requires more than a day to see it properly. 

Instead, we would recommend either doing a day trip to Bologna , one of the best food cities in Italy (if you’re a foodie and you’re into prosciutto, parmesan, and bolognese, this is the place for you), to Lucca , a charming town whose medieval walls are still intact, or the Chianti wine region . 

Option 1: Bologna – the Choice for Foodies

Bologna is our number one recommendation for foodies in Florence. Bologna is known for its food, both within Italy and throughout the European continent. 

We were lucky enough to experience Bologna with friends who had moved there from the United States, and they did a great job showing us around and introducing us to the Emilia-Romagna region.

This is the region that is known for Italian delicacies like tagliatelle al ragu (which is similar to the American version Bolognese, but is very different than what I think you’re probably picturing, at least if you’re American), parmigiano reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar from Modena, and mortadella.

Basically, if you want to experience some of the best food Italy has to offer, a day trip to Bologna should be on your agenda. 

Getting to Bologna

Bologna is easy to get to from Florence – there’s a high speed train that gets you from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to Bologna Centrale in 40 minutes or so. From the station, it’s a 20 minute walk to the main attractions in Bologna.

What to Do in Bologna

Basically, walk, eat, repeat. 

We have an entire guide dedicated to spending a day in Bologna , which you should read if you choose this one.

Climb the Torre degli Asinelli : Did you know Bologna has its very own leaning tower? It’s just not nearly as famous as the one in Pisa. Climb to the top of the Torre degli Asinelli for great views out over Bologna. 

Eat your heart out : A good place to start would be the Quadrilatero, which is a huge area just east of the main square – Piazza Maggiore – full of amazing eateries, market stalls, and shops to buy meats, cheeses, and all of the foods. Specifically, we’d stop by Mercato di Mezzo , which is a food hall with tons of different options. We stopped at Tamburini , a gourmet grocery store, to buy some prosciutto and parmesan to take back to Florence with us. 

Option 2: Lucca – a Beautiful Town with Medieval Walls

Lucca is a great day trip if you’re looking to experience a Tuscan town that is less visited than other cities in the region like Florence and Siena, but still has all the charm you’d expect from Tuscany. 

Located west of Florence towards the coast, Lucca was founded by the Etruscans more than 2,000 years ago before becoming a Roman settlement. It’s unique because it has a set of medieval city walls that completely encircle the city, which is fairly hard to find. 

Getting to Lucca

We have good news and bad news for this one. 

The good news is that getting to Lucca from Florence is both easy and cheap. 

The bad news is that the journey is on a regional train, which is slower and takes a long time. 

It’s 10 Euros each way, and takes an hour and twenty minutes if you opt for a direct train (roughly once an hour). 

What to Do in Lucca

Circumnavigate the city on the walls : Far and away our favorite thing to do in Lucca was to circumnavigate the city walls, which is a 4km journey that takes you allll the way around the city along its intact medieval walls. It’s a unique experience, and it’s gorgeous. We were there in the fall, so there was plenty of nice fall color to go around. A lovely way to spend your morning before venturing into the center of Lucca. 

Climb the tower : Torre Guinigi is the main tower in the middle of Lucca, and it’s unique because it has a little garden growing on top. From the top, you have incredible 360 degree views of the surrounding landscape, which includes the city and the mountains in the distance. You’ll climb 230 steps up to the top of the tower, which sits at 145 feet above the ground. 

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro : One thing you should definitely do is wander around the old medieval center of town a bit. And Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a great place to start. It was a Roman amphitheater for centuries, but now all that remains of that structure is the shape of the public square, which is distinct because it’s the same shape as an amphitheater rather than being square or circular. This would be a good place to take a break from exploring with a glass of wine or an espresso in the sun. 

Option 3: Chianti – Taste Some of the Best Wine in the World

If you’re interested in wine, you’re in the right place. Tuscany is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, and is easily accessible by day trip from Florence. Big bold reds rule the roost here, and you’ll find famous grapes like sangiovese and barolo at wineries just outside of Florence. 

The best way to do a day trip into wine country from Florence is with a guided tour . 

You could also do it independently if you have a rental car. But, it’s going to be a much more enjoyable experience with a group tour where you have a driver so you can imbibe in all the amazing wine without worrying about getting behind the wheel. 

You have two options – do a tour that visits multiple wineries and includes transportation (like this one or this one ), or go DEEP with a single winery, and deal with getting to and from the winery on your own (like this one or this one ). 

The former is easier because there’s no trains and buses to worry about, the latter is cheaper, but you’ll have to deal with the logistics of getting there. 

They’re both great ways to experience one of the most famous wine regions in the world. 

Planning a trip to Florence? We’ve got some detailed travel guides to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

• The Best Things to Do in Florence: A Complete City Guide
• Where to Stay in Florence: A Complete Guide to Florence’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Florence: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• Where to Find the Best Coffee in Florence: A Specialty Coffee City Guide

What to Do with More Time in Florence

If you find yourself with more time in Florence, below are a few other attractions in the city worth adding to your itinerary.

Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)

The Pitti Palace is a series of museums and galleries housed inside a grand 15th-century Renaissance palace. For many years the palace was the chief residence of the ruling families of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.

The palace is now split into four main museums:

• The Treasury of the Grand Dukes
• The Palatine Gallery and the Imperial and Royal Apartments
• The Gallery of Modern Art
• The Museum of Costume and Fashion

To really explore the entire palace you could spend an entire day here. But for a leisurely couple of hours, we’d suggest visiting the opulent Appartamenti Reali and the Costume Gallery, a stunning collection of clothing including pieces from brands such as Gucci, Versace, and Prada.

You can buy a single ticket to visit all of the museums of the Pitti Palace . However, if you’re following this itinerary and plan on visiting the Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and Uffizi Gallery, you’ll save money by purchasing the PassePartout combination ticket for all three instead (€38).

The Campanile di Giotto (Giotto’s Bell Tower)

The Campanile di Giotto is the bell tower of Florence’s Duomo. 

The impressive 277.9 foot tall free-standing tower dates back to the 14th century when it was originally designed by celebrated painter Giotto di Bondone, after whom the building is named. However, Giotto died long before the tower was complete and it took another two architects 25 years to complete the job.

To reach the top of the Campanile you’ll have to walk up the 414 steep steps (there’s no elevator). As long as you don’t mind a little morning workout, the climb is worth it for the amazing views back over Piazza del Duomo and out across Florence from the top.

The Campanile opens at 8:15 am, so the earlier you arrive, the better to avoid the crowds in Florence. 

The Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni)

From the Campanile, head across to Florence Baptistery, which is believed to be one of the oldest buildings in the city.

While many people choose to view the Baptistry from the outside, we’d recommend heading inside to admire the incredible Byzantine ceiling mosaic which dates back to the 12th century.

One of the most famous parts of the Florence Baptistery is the Porta del Paradiso (Gates of Paradise). However, what a lot of people don’t realize is that the current gates are only a replica of the original. The original gates are kept in the nearby Museo dell’Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Museum) .

The combined ticket includes entry to the Cathedral Museum so it won’t cost you any extra to pop inside and see the original gates, even if you don’t have long to spend there. Although, if you’ve got more time on your trip to Florence, you could easily spend a few hours exploring the fascinating museum.

The Baptistery opens at 8:15 am, but it’s important to note that it shuts for a short period between 10:15 am – 11:15 am each day. This is why it’s best to arrive early in order to visit the Campanile and Baptistery between 8:15 am – 10:15 am.

Even More Things to Add to Your Florence itinerary

• Medici Chapels . The two chapels of Basilica of San Lorenzo are the final burial place of many members of Florence’s important Medici family. Parts of the chapels were designed by Michelangelo himself.
• Strozzi Palace . A 15th-century palace hidden with an impressive courtyard that now hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
• San Marco Museum . Located in a former convent, this museum houses the largest collection of sacred art in Florence 
• Piazza della Repubblica . With extra time in Florence, you’ll be able to spend more time simply enjoying Florence’s many lively piazzas. Piazza della Repubblica ( here on Google Maps) is a busy square where we love to grab a coffee or spritz and just watch the world go by.

What to Do with Less Time in Florence

Only have a day or two in Florence? Here’s how to make the most of your time on a shorter Florence itinerary.

Florence in Two Days

With two days in the city, just follow days 1 and 2 of this Florence itinerary. You can always come back again to explore more of the Tuscany region.

Florence in One Day

With just one day in Florence , spend the morning on a walking tour to get to see as much of the city as possible in a few hours. Try to choose a tour which includes a visit to see Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery. 

In the afternoon, fit in a visit to the Duomo to climb the dome then on to Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery . 

End your day by walking over Ponte Vecchio and climbing up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset. 

Eating and Drinking in Florence

What’s a trip to Italy without eating and drinking as much as possible?

Eating in Florence

• Schiacciata on Via di Neri . All’Antico Vinaio , which is one of the most reviewed restaurants in the world on all sorts of platforms, which means hundreds of tourists flock there every day to get their hands on one of their Insta-famous focaccia (ish) sandwiches. There are multiple lunch options on this street, and it’s a must-do if you’re visiting Florence. 
• Da Garibardi . For traditional Tuscan cuisine (and good wine), head to this small Trattoria and order the pici with wild boar or pumpkin tortelloni (they have Celiac-safe gluten free options, too). 
• Mister Pizza . Delicious pizzas at a quick and easy canteen-style restaurant close to the Duomo. Every pizza can be cooked on a gluten free base!
• Grom Gelato . Our favorite gelateria in Florence, if not all of Italy. Everything they serve is 100% gluten free, but that doesn’t mean it’s not good. Their gelato is top notch, and you should order the pistacchio. 
• Ciro and Sons . Florence’s first gluten free pizzeria serves delicious Neapolitan style pizzas that are both gluten free and lactose free. Ciro and Sons have even won the world champion award for their amazing gluten free pizzas.

Psst! Need to eat gluten free? Check out our gluten free guide to Florence for the best gluten free eats.

Coffee and Tea in Florence

• Ditta Artiginale – Via de Neri & Via dello Sprone . Elegant and picturesque specialty coffee bars owned by modern-day coffee artisans and Italian roasting company Ditta Artigianale. Definitely some of the highest quality coffee you’ll find in Florence.
• Coffee Mantra . A cozy little local coffee shop with fantastic coffee and friendly knowledgeable baristas. It tops our list of the best coffee in Florence because they rotate through different single origin coffees every day. 
• Caffe Piansa . Small family-run coffee roasters that use only the finest varieties of beans and prepare its blends and mono-varieties using artisanal processing techniques. Sit and enjoy a cup in their cafe or grab a bag to take home with you.
• Le Murate . One of the most unique spots to stop for a coffee in Florence. Le Murate is located within a former prison. The popular student hangout has a lovely large terrace to use during the day and a variety of live entertainment each evening.

Bars in Florence

• Casa del Vino . There are countless wine bars all over Florence, but Casa del Vino has to be one of our favorites. A cozy local wine bar with a comprehensive wine menu and extremely popular with locals – so you know it’s good!
• Loggia Roof Bar . A romantic rooftop terrace bar in the Oltrarno district, close to the Pitti Palace, with a great cocktail list as well as amazing panoramic views over the city and surrounding hills. 
• Beer House Club . The best selection of beer in all of Florence, with over 100 bottles from all over the world. Plus, don’t miss their unusual Birramisù, the popular Italian dessert made with beer instead of coffee.

The Best Time to Visit Florence

Florence is a popular tourist destination all year round, so there’s no real low season. However, the height of summer is when the largest crowds descend upon the city. So this is the time to avoid unless you want to spend your entire trip waiting in line for attractions in the grueling summer heat. 

The shoulder months of April, May, September and October are the best time to visit Florence, with pleasantly warm weather and fewer other tourists to share the city with.

• Summer sees temperatures in Florence rise to the high 80s and 90s. So hot that many locals choose to escape the city in August to cooler destinations. July and August are also the peak tourist season so you can expect much larger crowds.
• In Fall , the weather in Florence remains warm and sunny, and you can still enjoy open-air dining and the city’s many festivals, but with fewer tourists than summer.
• Winter in Florence doesn’t get too cold and there’s an extremely low chance of snow, making it a popular winter destination in Italy for people who prefer to avoid extreme temperatures. You’ll also get to experience the city’s Christmas decorations and festivities.
• Spring is a beautiful time to visit Florence, with long sunny days, slightly fewer crowds, and the flowers in full bloom in the city’s parks. It’s also the perfect time to explore the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

Getting to Florence

For the most part, you’re probably going to be arriving for your trip to Florence either by train from another place in Italy, like Rome or Venice , or you’ll be flying in from somewhere outside of Italy.

Flying to Florence

There are two main airports from which to reach Florence; Pisa International Airport and Florence Airport.

Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport, PSA) is the main airport in the Tuscany region and the airport where most international flights arrive.

To get from Pisa Airport to Florence there are a few options:

• Train . Take the Pisa Mover shuttle train from Pisa Airport to Pisa Central Station (€5) where you can catch one of the regular trains to Florence Santa Maria Novella station (€13.70). This takes around 1 hour 30 minutes and is the method we would recommend.
• Bus . Sky Bus Lines Caronna runs a bus from Pisa Airport to Florence for €19 which takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. However, these only run a few times a day so it’s important to check whether timings lineup with your flight.
• Taxi . While a taxi is a convenient option, it is extremely expensive. You’ll pay around €150-200 to get from Pisa Airport to Florence. 

Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola, FLR) is a smaller international airport, just 4 km from Florence city center. Many European and internal flights arrive at this airport.

To get from Florence Airport to Florence city center:

• Tram . The new Tramway Line T2 is now the easiest and cheapest way to reach Santa Maria Novella train station in the city center. The journey takes 15 minutes and tickets are only €1.50 one way.
• Bus . The ‘Vola in bus’ shuttle bus is another easy way to get from the airport to the city center. The bus runs every 30 minutes during the day and every hour at night, takes just 20 minutes, and costs €6.00 for a single ticket and €10.00 for a return.
• Taxi . A 15-minute taxi from the airport to the center will cost you around €25.

Arriving by Train

If you’re arriving in Florence by train, you’ll want to head to Stazione di Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) which is right in the heart of the historic center.

The other two major stations on the outer edges of the city are Firenze Campo di Marte and Firenze Rifredi . If your train arrives in either of these, just swap onto a connecting train into Santa Maria Novella station. 

Arriving by Car

Florence isn’t the most car-friendly city. Much of the historic center is pedestrianized and the few roads are a ‘Zona a Traffico Limitato’ (ZTF) or Limited Traffic Zone. This means you’ll get a fine for driving or parking there. 

Even if you do manage to get a ZTL permit, the narrow one-way roads are extremely difficult to navigate your way around.

If you’re arriving in Florence by car as part of a wider Tuscan road trip, try finding a hotel on the outskirts of the city away from the ZTL zone. You can park at your hotel and get the local bus into the historic center.

Getting Around Florence

Considered a ‘living museum’, there’s only one way to properly explore Florence’s stunning historical center – on foot! 

Wander around the ancient streets, soak in the atmosphere and admire the city’s world-renowned Renaissance architecture. Florence is truly one of the most beautiful cities in the world so you won’t want to miss a thing.

Plus, the historic center is pretty small. You can walk from one side to the other in roughly 30 minutes.

If you’d rather use public transport, you can also make the most of Florence’s fleet of small electric ATAF buses.

Tickets (valid for 90 minutes) cost €1.50 and can be purchased from convenience stores around the city. If you can’t find a store and need to purchase a ticket on the bus it will cost you €2.50 instead.

Don’t forget to validate your ticket as soon as you step onboard the bus.

Planning a trip to Italy? We’d love to help!

Here are our other Italy travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re not sure where to start, your first stop should probably be one of our detailed itineraries. 

We have a two week Italy itinerary that blends the main cities with some less-visited cities that we love (BOLOGNA!), a guide to spending 10 days in Italy that focuses mostly on the highlights, and a whirlwind guide to spending one week in Italy that features the Rome – Florence – Venice highlight circuit. 

Here are more specific guides to the main cities in Italy. 

• What to do in Rome (as a First Timer)
• How to Plan an Amazing 4 Day Rome Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Rome: A Complete Guide for First Timers
• 12 Things to Know Before You Visit Rome
• Gluten Free Rome: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
• Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Rome
• What to do in Florence (as a First Timer)
• Where to Stay in Florence: A Complete Guide for First Timers
• Gluten Free Florence: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
• Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Florence (for Coffee Nerds)
• The Best Day Trips from Florence (Complete Planning Guide)
• What to do in Bologna (as a First Timer)
• How to Spend One Incredible Day in Bologna
• How to Plan an Amazing Bologna Itinerary (2 Days)
• Where to Stay in Bologna: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Cinque Terre

• What to do in Cinque Terre (as a First Timer)
• How to Plan an Amazing Cinque Terre Itinerary (2 Days)
• Where to Stay in Cinque Terre: A Complete Guide for First Timers
• What to do in Milan (as a First Timer)
• How to Plan an Amazing Milan Itinerary (2 Days)
• Where to Stay in Milan: A Complete Guide for First Timers
• Gluten Free Milan: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
• Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Milan (for Coffee Nerds)

The Rest of Italy

• How to Plan an Incredible Sicily Road Trip Itinerary (14 Days)
• Exactly How to Spend 7 Days in Sicily
• How to Plan an Incredible Tuscany Itinerary (7 Days)

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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I really enjoy your blog, mostly because you inject your personal observations and experience and very importantly you impart important gluten free information. That is priceless! Just wondering how you made out at Mercato Centrale in finding gluten free food. Was it easy? Available?

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Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Europe , Italy , Travel Guides · Last Updated: May 23, 2023

A First Timer’s Travel Guide to Visiting Florence Italy

Florence travel guide: for a first-time visit.

Nothing screams romantic charm and historic culture more than roaming the streets of Florence Italy. Or as the Italians call it Firenze. Florence is one of the most historic cities in Italy. It birthed the Italian Renaissance which inspired artists such as Michaelangelo and many of his masterpieces are still there today. In this blog ” A First-Timers Travel Guide to Florence Italy” I cover when to visit Florence, the best places to see in Florence, the top hotels and restaurants, and so much more!

Florence is the capital of Italy and is best known for its art, culture, fine food, and charm. The city is renowned for its incredible art collections and museums. It is home to the Uffizi Gallery, which houses works by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The Galleria dell’Accademia is famous for Michelangelo’s statue of David. The historic center of Florence has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, recognizing its exceptional artistic and architectural heritage.

Things to Know Before Visiting Florence, Italy

• Florence is best explored on foot. The center of the city is so compact that you can easily walk around for a couple of hours and see the majority of it.
• When shopping in Florence, local shops are closed from 1 pm-4 pm for siesta. That is how you’ll know if it’s an actual local shop or tourist spot.
• Pre-book your tickets to the museums. You can spend hours waiting in line for the Piazza del Duomo or Uffizi, it’s easy these days to pre-book your ticket. I typically book my excursions on Viator or Get Your Guide
• There is no Uber in Florence. This took us by surprise when arriving at the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station. We decided to walk to our hotel which was on the Arno. It wasn’t the most pleasant experience being that our luggage was making the most noise on the cobblestone streets. In retrospect, we should have taken a taxi!

When to Visit Florence Italy

Florentine summers are hot and humid and most businesses are closed for the month of August. For the best time to visit consider late September or early October. Tourism is at the end of its peak season and the weather is beautiful and sunny!

Spring (April to June): Spring is a popular time to visit Florence, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant. The city comes alive with blooming flowers, and outdoor activities become more enjoyable. However, this is also a peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September to October): Autumn is another great time to visit Florence. The weather is mild, and the city experiences fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The foliage starts to change, creating a beautiful atmosphere. It’s a good time for sightseeing, exploring museums, and enjoying outdoor activities.

While all opinions are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share the best properties, things to do, and items I love!

Best Things to Do in Florence

Visit the piazzale michaelangelo.

The high point of our trip. Literally. When visiting the Piazzale Michaelangelo, is situated on a hill called Monte Pincio, south of the Arno River, and offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. At the center of Piazzale Michelangelo stands a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s renowned statue of David. While the original sculpture is housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, this replica serves as a tribute to the artist and his masterpiece. The statue is a popular photo spot for tourists.

It’s completely free to visit and the views at golden hour were spectacular. If you want the place to yourself, make sure to get there early. If you only have time to see one of these places in this Florence Travel Guide, you better pick this one!

Visit the Piazza del Duomo

The Piazza del Duomo is one of if not the most popular duomo in the world. The square’s centerpiece is the Florence Cathedral, officially known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. This magnificent Gothic-style cathedral is renowned for its striking dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Visitors can admire the intricate marble façade and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

In order to climb to the top of the dome you’ll have to walk up 463 steps. But you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sights in Florence. You can pre-book your time slot. Plan to get here early in the morning for the best views and shorter wait times. Piazza del Duomo is not only a focal point for religious and historical landmarks but also a vibrant gathering place where visitors can appreciate the grandeur of Florence’s architectural masterpieces.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery  

A notable Italian Art Museum is located in the historic center of Florence. The gallery has been open since the 16th Century and the pieces of art were a gift after the Medici family lost its rule. Showcasing pieces from Michaelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo Da Vinci, and so many more artists. Uffizi Gallery’s most prominent piece is ‘The Birth of Venus’ by Sandro Botticelli. Finally, to make the most of your time in Florence, I highly recommend purchasing the “ skip the line tickets ” prior to visiting the Uffizi Gallery.

Florence Travel Guide: Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia

Another beautiful Italian Art museum is located in the center of Florence. It’s most famously known for housing Michaelangelo’s David sculpture. It also has many other Florentine artists’ pieces from 1300-1600.

Walk Along Ponte Vecchio and The Arno

Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence. The Italian translation of “old bridge” is literally Ponte Vecchio. When the bridge was in its prime, it was primarily meat vendors. However, the Medici family hated the smell so much, that they made it a law that only jewelry stores can be opened on the bridge. To this day this holds true and you’ll find countless jewelry shops on Ponte Vecchio. Finally, The Arno is the river that runs adjacent to Florence’s city center. If it’s a nice day, walk along The Arno to see what it’s like to live as a local in Florence.

Visit the Historic Piazza Della Signoria

Florence is filled with Piazzas (which is simply town square) however the most notable one has to be Piazza della Signoria. Here you’ll find a W-shaped square that is historic because it has always been the focal point of the Florentine Republic. The Palazzo Vecchio which is Florence’s Town Hall is located in this square. Finally, another popular square is the Piazza Santo Spirito so add that one to your list too!

Visit the Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens is a historical park that was opened to the public in 1766. Originally it was owned by the Medici family and it represents one of the first examples of an Italian garden.

Day Trip to Tuscany for Wine Tasting

Florence is also famous for its wine, particularly Chianti, which is produced in the surrounding vineyards. One of our favorite days of our Florence trip was taking a day trip to the Tuscan vineyards. We booked a Tuscany Wine tour through Viator. It included lunch, transportation to two wineries, and visiting two medieval towns. Each winery offered a guided tour where we learned a great deal about winemaking. The tour took about 6 hours total and was a definite highlight of this Florence Travel Guide!

Best Hotels in Florence Italy

Plaza Hotel Lucchesi : We personally stayed at the Plaza Lucchesi when visiting Florence and would highly recommend it. The hotel is located directly on the Arno River so it’s not exactly in Florence’s historic center but it’s super close walking distance to all the sights. The views from the rooftop are reason alone to stay here! And like most European hotels, breakfast was included. Book your stay here .

Villa Cora : a 19th-century mansion that is secluded in the hills next to the center of Florence. Not only is it a beautiful property, but it boasts a lot of charm and elegance. They have a garden pool and spacious rooms, and the service is unmatched! It’s a perfect spot if you want to be more secluded. Book your stay here.

Hotel Savoy : A Rocco Forte hotel located on the Piazza Repubblica, this hotel is luxurious and stylish all in one. It’s only steps away from the main fashion houses and super close to the main attractions in Florence. Book your stay here .

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze : who doesn’t love a stay at a four seasons hotel? This 5-star hotel is only steps away from the cultural center of Florence. Enjoy a private garden, a luxurious pool, and a delicious on-site restaurant. Book your stay here .

Best Restaurants in Florence

Buca Niccolini – When visiting Florence you absolutely must have the Bistecca alla Fiorentina aka Florentine steak. It’s the main dish of Florence dining. Buca Niccolini is known for having the best and it’s big enough to split with three people!

Trattoria Zsa Zsa – There is something about sitting in a glass cube that sparks joy in my life. The food at Trattoria Zsa Zsa was not only delicious but decently priced as well. Get the truffle ravioli and you will not be disappointed!

Gusta Pizza – Surprisingly, Italy is not really well-known for its pizza. But this spot has amazing pizza. It’s great for on-the-go slices when exploring the city.

Gelateria Dei Neri – The most delicious gelato I’ve ever had in all of Italy. The portions are amazing and it’s located right in the center of town.

For a full restaurant guide to Florence, check out the Best Restaurants in Florence article from Conde Nast traveler.

Best Bars in Florence

Empire Rooftop Bar ($$) – Located in the Hotel Lucchesi this rooftop bar has views of the Duomo. Great bar eats and drinks!

Atrium Bar ($$$) – Elegant and casual at the same time. Great food and an epic atmosphere.

Golden View Open Bar ($$) –Enjoy a glass of vino while looking over Ponte Vecchio. This came highly recommended by a Florence local.

How To Get Around Florence

Since Uber’s been banned in Florence, there are plenty of other ways to get around this cultural city…

Walk ($) – Florence is pretty small and very walkable. A lot of places are pedestrianized and most of the streets are so narrow that walking can get you around much faster than driving.

Bus ($) – The ATAF electric bus is a great way to cover a lot of ground. They are made to navigate the narrow streets and run frequently during the day/night. One-day fare is only 5 euros.

Bikes ($$) – We rented bikes for the day and covered so much ground. If you’re feeling adventurous you can bike up to the Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s all uphill and you have to be in some sort of shape to do so, but the beauty we witnessed was unbelievable!

Grazie for reading my “First-Timers Florence Travel Guide”. If you’re headed here soon it’s safe to say I’m incredibly envious of you. Have the best time and make sure to check out more of my Italy Guides .

You’ll Also Love

February 7, 2023 at 5:34 am

Thank you for this great post and all very useful tips! I will soon visit Florence for the first time. You have beautiful photos! Do you remember where the shop in the first photo is located?

March 30, 2023 at 10:13 am

This post is amazing! Thank you! We are traveling to Florence in May and looking for a wine tour to book in Tuscany. The link in your post does not work, do you know if it is still offered?

March 31, 2023 at 7:49 am

Hi Arielle! Thanks for your comment I just checked and clicked on it myself and it is still offered through Viator. Try clicking on it again 🙂 perhaps the date you are searching for is sold out?

August 19, 2023 at 11:44 pm

My fiance lives in Florence, Tuscany, Italy, I’m planning on going there possibly in October,cause my birthday is that month, my fiance wants me to stay with him while I am there. I am looking forward to visiting Florence, Tuscany, Italy soon! Thanks A soon to be visitor and possibly a new resident after I marry my fiance. Thanks Linda Milton Stockton, California

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Home » Europe » Italy » Florence

EPIC FLORENCE Itinerary for 2024

Florence, or  Firenze  as it is locally known, is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Europe. This is the capital city of the Tuscany region in Italy, and it is one of the most historic and cultural places in the world!

Any traveler will fall in love with this ancient city straight away! This ultimate Florence itinerary will help guide your stay in Italy’s gorgeous capital city. I know it will guide you on an amazing trip!

The moment you arrive in Florence, life slows down and you seem to be taken back in time. The cobblestone streets are lined with charming medieval buildings that hold an olden-day ambiance. The city is loaded with important historical and cultural sites, iconic renaissance architecture, incredible food, wine, and a one-of-a-kind Tuscan appeal!

Florence is has many well-known landmarks, but it also has modern touches from the newest generation of locals creating new life in their beloved city. This place was made for exploring.

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A Little Bit about this 3 Day Florence Itinerary

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Florence’s history, architecture, renaissance artwork, and stunning piazzas are what make this Italian city truly memorable! It has something for every traveler backpacking across Italy , from the historic city center full of incredible monuments to world class art museums full of modern art and works by different famous Italian artists.

It’s also the home of the great inventor Leonardo da Vinci and Renaissance artist Michaelangelo. As such, Florence has some of the most visited museums in the world, including the Academia Gallery where you can see Michelangelo’s David, plus it houses a total of eight UNESCO world heritage sites in the whole city.

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So if you’re planning on staying just 1 or 2 days in Florence, think again! You need at least three full days to explore the city and see the best it has to offer. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but you won’t fully be able to appreciate it. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this 3 day Florence itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with culture, history and works of art. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in.

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

3 Day Florence Itinerary Overview

• Day One: Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore | Palazzo Vecchio | Basilica di San Lorenzo | Galleria dell’Accedemia | Boboli Gardens | Piazzale Michelangelo
• Day Two: Uffizi Gallery | Ponte Vecchio | Mercato Centrale | Museo Stibbert | Window Shopping | Basilica of Santa Croce | Piazza Della Signoria
• Day Three: Fiesole Hills | Paddle Down the Arno River | Pitti Palace | Giotto’s Campanile | Forte di Belvedere | Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class

Your Florence itinerary will be loaded with walking between attractions. This is why it is important to stay somewhere central. In order to get the most out of your vacation, base yourself around the hub of the old city.

Piazza del Duomo is the historic and geographic center of Florence. This is one of the best and most popular areas to stay! The Piazza del Duomo neighborhood is where the city’s most famous sights and attractions are all found. There is also an amazing buzz on the streets and authentic Firenze charm around here. Besides the convenient location, Piazza del Duomo has got to be one of the most attractive areas!

The second most popular area to stay in is the Santa Maria Novella neighborhood. It’s slightly outside the historic city center but it’s within walking distance, and slightly cheaper. Santa Maria Novella is also near the railway station, in case you are planning to take day trips to Pisa, or travel further afield to Rome or Venice.

The main hurdle when staying in Florence is that it can get expensive! If you want to stay somewhere a little bit more removed from the hustle and bustle (and a bit more affordable), consider the San Marco neighborhood. This residential area is still a short walk to the city centre, and it offers some great Florence points of interest.

The main (and possibly only) way to get around this city is on foot. Most things to see are all located within a relatively compact area, making them easy to reach through walking. Staying somewhere central is very important to your Florence itinerary!

For the best place to stay, check out my top picks below!

Best Hostel in Florence – Archi Rossi Hostel

Archi Rossi Hostel offers the perfect central location for all travelers to Florence! This hostel in Florence is clean, comfortable, and loads of fun. Archi Rossi has highly recommended breakfasts and affordable dinners, as well as their own walking tour! Due to its proximity to the city centre, great rooms, tasty food, and overall vibe, Archi Rossi is an unbeatable hostel choice!

Best Airbnb in Florence – Charming Room in Apartment

This ultra-cozy room is just the place you want to stay when you get to city – it’s easily one of the best Airbnbs in Florence . It’s light and bright, making it feel spacious with a window overlooking the scenic neighborhood. Just what you would expect to see staying in an apartment in the city of Florence. Love to walk? Great! The museums, shops, and restaurants are just minutes away on foot.

Best Budget Hotel in Florence – Hotel Alessandra

For the best in location, value, and comfort, consider a stay at Hotel Alessandra. This hotel is just down the road from the Uffizi gallery, offering an ideal central location! The rooms are well equipped with a TV, wifi, and private bathrooms. Your stay in this beautiful city couldn’t get any more convenient.

Best Luxury Hotel in Florence – Villa Cora

Set in an incredible 19th-century building, surrounded by gardens, this hotel is the ultimate base for your Florence itinerary! Located in a convenient neighborhood with the main attractions being just a short walk away, Villa Cora is the ideal gateway to Florence. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, modern facilities, and all the comforts one could wish for!

For day one in Florence, you will be doing a great deal of important sightseeing, learning, and experiencing the city’s beauty. Here is the start of your itinerary in Florence.

9:00AM – Experience the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore

When you get to Florence, one of the first things you will see is the impressive dome of the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral rising over the skyline. This Florence cathedral, also called the Duomo, is found in the heart of the city. Visiting it is the perfect way to start your Florence itinerary!

You can simply visit the cathedral for free where you will be able to explore the amazing old building. This cathedral is full of detail, and wandering around inside of it is an amazing experience. 

Keep in mind this is a fully functioning church. Plan to arrive when worship is not in session. Ladies can keep a scarf on them to cover themselves before entering. They may turn you away if you’re showing a lot of skin.

If you would like to see more, you can buy a ticket for access to the dome. Climbing up the dome is well worth the views from the top. You get to stand above the city and look right across Florence.

Appreciating the history, architecture, and cultural importance of this building is a great first stop.

In case you’re interested in learning a bit more about the Dome and its history, you should think about booking a guided tour. Don’t worry, you won’t have to stand around for hours while listening to an equally tired guide – this express tour is only going to take 30 min, and it offers the best and most professional guides. The ticket also includes free access to Giotto’s Bell Tower and Museo della Misericordia afterwards.

• Cost: Free/$20.
• Getting there: Take a tram to Valfonda and walk for 10 minutes.
• How long should I stay there: It shouldn’t take more than an hour to see the Duomo and bell tower. The musuem is small and can take as little as 20 minutes to an hour to see.

11:00AM – Witness the Basilica di San Lorenzo

The Basilica di San Lorenzo may not look as impressive as the Duomo at first glance, but this church has just as much beauty to share! This is believed to be the first cathedral of Florence, and it was built under the designs of the powerful Medici family that ruled the city for many years.

A tour of this church will allow you to witness all of the incredible art, details, and frescoes inside the ancient building. Between the amazing art, you can find the highly decorated tombs of the buried Medici family.

This is an interesting historic stop, as well as a great place to enjoy some old art and architecture. It’s an important addition to your weekend in Florence!

• Getting there: it’s around the corner
• How long should I stay there: less than an hour.

12:00PM – Visit the Palazzo Vecchio

Originally built in 1299, the Palazzo Vecchio is a historically significant building in Florence. The Palazzo Vecchio looks like a castle with its rising belltower and crenulations. If you love medieval architecture and want to appreciate a spectacular building, then this is a must-see stop.

Tours are available of the Palazzo Vecchio which are informative and interesting. You will get to experience some of the incredible rooms inside the building, as well as learn all about the age-old history. A tour here will have you much more clued up on Florence as a whole.

This is a beautiful, interesting, and famous attraction in Florence!

If you love Italian food, you should make sure to get lunch nearby at Caffe Rivoire is located just next to the Palazzo Vecchio. It is the perfect place for a great coffee or a tasty meal! This restaurant offers brilliant local Italian food in a lovely outdoor seating environment.

• Getting there: it’s a 7 minute walk away
• How long should I stay there: At least an hour, especially if you fancy stopping for a coffee!

1:00PM – Lunch at Trattoria Toscana Gozzi Sergio

Trattoria Toscana Gozzi Sergio is a traditional Tuscan restaurant near this cathedral. If you would like to experience a true taste of Florence in between sightseeing, then a visit here is a great idea!

2:00PM – Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia (Accademia Gallery)

Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. To learn more about this, and to experience some of the most famous Renaissance art in person, be sure to add the Galleria dell’Academia to your Itinerary.

Most famously, this gallery houses Michelangelo’s David. There are plenty of other Michelangelo sculptures here too, as well as loads of paintings! The gallery is divided into several different halls, each displaying historical art from 14th and 15th century Florence. For more ideas on how to plan your trip, check out our Florence travel guide.

You’re interested in learning more about the history behind each piece of art? Then how about you book a guided tour? This tour offers fast access to the gallery too, meaning that you won’t have to wait in line to get your tickets. All of the guides are very professional and extremely passionate about their work – you’ll enjoy every second of the tour!

• Getting there: it’s a 6 minute walk from the last location.
• How long should I stay there: about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your love for art.

4:00PM – Enjoy the View at Piazzale Michelangelo

The Piazzale Michelangelo is found on a hill above the city. From this popular square, you can get the ultimate views across Florence. The entire city’s skyline can be admired here.

Take some time to appreciate the magnificence of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo. You will have amazing panoramic views of the Arno river, as well as the Duomo.

This square has a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s famous sculpture David . There are also various food trucks and vendors around here. If you are looking for the best place to enjoy a sundown drink or photo opportunity of Florence, then a visit here is essential.

Insider Tip: Arrive in the early evening to end your day of touring Florence with the most beautiful view possible.

• Cost: Free!
• Getting there: it’s a 35 minute walk, or you can take a taxi. It would be complicated with public transport.
• How long should I stay there: around 1 hour should be enough.

7:00PM – Wander Around the Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens are so much more than just a  green space in the city. These gardens are a kind of outdoor museum, showcasing many amazing sculptures, fountains, and of course, well-kept gardens!

The gardens are next to the Palazzo Pitti – another important site in the city and the royal apartments of the monarchy. These gardens have been regarded as one of the best examples of royal gardens in Europe, and they have inspired places such as the Gardens of Versailles.

Take some time to enjoy the fresh air and walk around. You will get to see all kinds of significant sights along the way. Not only are the Boboli Gardens historically interesting, but they also offer an enjoyable break from the busy city streets.

• Getting there: it’s a 15 minute walk from the last location.
• How long should I stay there: Around 1-2 hours should be enough.

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With 2 days in Florence, you will be able to experience more of the city’s interesting museums, galleries, and points of interest. Here is what to do in Florence on your second day.

9:00AM – Visit the Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is an essential stop on your itinerary. Due to its large collection of famous renaissance art, this gallery is one of the most popular Florence attractions.

The most famous artwork in the gallery is Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus . While crowds gather to ogle at this incredible work, there are so many other amazing pieces of art across the gallery. The 16th-century building is also well worth admiring, as the details and design here is a work of art itself!

To learn about Renaissance art and experience some of the worlds finest paintings and sculptures, be sure to pay the Uffizi Gallery a visit!

Insider Tip: You can book skip-the-line tickets and enjoy a professionally guided tour, fast access to the gallery, and lots of information about the most beautiful artwork you can find there.

• Getting there: Take the train to Santa Maria Novella station and walk from there.
• How long should I stay there: Around 2 hours, maybe more depending on how much you love rennaisance art.

11:00AM – Cross the Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is the most famous bridge in Florence, and it can be seen as a symbol of the city. Take a trip back in time to the medieval city of Florence, where this medieval bridge stands tall. The architecture and detailing is beautiful to look at, with its stone arches and shops along the top of it.

Take a walk across the Ponte Vecchio bridge to experience one of the great Florence landmarks up close. The little shops along the bridge are worth visiting. Be sure to appreciate the age and detail in this old bridge, as it really is a structure like nothing else!

• Getting there: it’s a 2 minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I stay there: 30 minutes, max.

12:00PM – Mercato Centrale

If you want to dive into an Italian foodie heaven, then a visit to the Mercato Centrale is a must! This massive 19th-century market place sells a wide range of local produce, and it is a great way to explore the different foods and products of the region.

Spend some time browsing all of the different stores and sampling the products. This is also the ideal place to buy a gift or souvenir to bring home . You could even learn how to make fresh pasta at the big pasta stall downstairs!

The first floor is all about selling fresh produce, wine, meat, cheese, fish, oils, pasta, and more! While the second floor offers an extensive food court with options for nearly every way of eating.

Insiders Tip: The market can get really busy during normal eating hours, so try to arrive at a different time if you want to avoid the crowds.

• Getting there: it’s a 12 minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I stay there: around 1 hour should be enough time.

2:00PM – Museo Stibbert

Museo Stibbert is located outside of Florence’s historic center, which makes it rather unknown by most tourists. However, this shouldn’t stop you from visiting! This museum offers one of the most fascinating collections in the city.

The museum is full of amazing armor from around the world, and all of it is very well kept. A highlight of this place is the original cloak that Napoleon wore when he was coronated! There is also a great deal of fantastic art.

This museum used to be a private collection, but it was then left to the city. An interesting stop on your Florence itinerary for history lovers.

• Getting there: walk to Valfonda – Stazione Santa Maria Novella tram stop and take the T1.3 to Muratori – Stazione Statuto and walk for 15 minutes.
• How long should I stay there: around 2 hours at the most.

4:00PM – Go Window Shopping

One of the best things to do in Florence is to simply wander around the ancient streets and alleyways, admiring all the shops and buildings around you. This city is stunning, and the only way to really experience this is through a walking tour or renting a bike .

Florence is world famous for its leather goods- so why not treat yourself to a new jacket! There is a vast amount of shopping to be done, so be sure to allocate some time in your Florence itinerary to simply walking around and looking into the many different shops.

Insiders Tip: Start at the Piazza del Duomo for a central location, and move your way outwards from there.

• Getting there: take the same tram back to Valfonda – Stazione Santa Maria Novella and walk from there.
• How long should I stay there: as long as you like!

6:00PM – The Basilica of Santa Croce

The Basilica of Santa Croce was built during a similar time to the Duomo, and so its white, green and pink marble facade looks familiar. While this church may not match the Duomo in size, it makes up for it with beautiful detail.

This church is an amazing place to explore. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty in here, as well as enjoy a moment of quiet peace away from the busy streets. Inside the church, you can also find the tombs of famous Renaissance artists and scholars, such as Michelangelo and Galileo!

• Getting there: from the Duomo, it’s a 12 minute walk
• How long should I stay there: 30-minutes to 1 hour.

7:00PM – Visit the Piazza della Signoria

During your trip to Florence, be sure to make a stop at the iconic Piazza Della Signoria. This major piazza in the city is surrounded by important old buildings that are worth appreciating – most importantly the Palazzo Vecchio.

The fountain of Neptune can be found in the piazza, and it is a real masterpiece. You can also see statues of Hercules, Perseus, and Menelaus. There is also an impressive statue of Cosimo Medici here.

Visit the piazza to enjoy some of the amazing Renaissance sculptures and buildings! There are also some high-end shops surrounding the square.

• Getting there: it’s a 10 minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I stay there: 1 hour or so should be enough time, especially if you get a coffee.

Archi Rossi Hostel

Archi Rossi Hostel offers the perfect central location for all travelers to this charming city! Prefer to stay in hostels? These are our recommended hostels in Florence.

• Free Breakfast
• 24 Hour Reception

If you will be spending more than three days in Florence, there will still be a great deal for you to see and experience! With all that is available to do around here. Here are some more places to visit in Florence !

Explore the Fiesole Hills

• Easily accessible from the city by public bus.
• An example of what life is like in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
• You could make an entire day out of visiting this place as there are hiking trails, historic sites, and breathtaking viewpoints around the Fiesole Hills.

If you would like to escape the busy city for a while in order to enjoy a piece of the true Tuscan countryside, consider paying a visit to the Fiesole Hills. A short bus journey from Florence will take you to Fiesole – a hilltop town that is well worth visiting!

This town offers incredible views out over the valley of Florence and the Arno River. Take some time to explore the little town for a bit of an insight into life in the Tuscan countryside. The main piazza of the town has a fair amount going on, with some great tours departing from here. You could visit an interesting Roman theatre or see the San Francesco Convent.

If you love nature, then doing a hike from Fiesole is a great idea!  Bring your best hiking shoes , because there are a number of hiking trails in Monte Ceceri – a stunning nature reserve area around here. This is one of the best ways to witness just how beautiful Tuscany is.

A visit to Fiesole is the perfect way to add some country variety into your Florence itinerary, and it makes for a refreshing escape from the city.

Paddle Down the Arno River

• A fun and active way to experience Florence.
• The Arno River provides totally unique views and perspectives of Florence.
• All kinds of paddling options are available.

One cannot visit Florence without experiencing the iconic Arno River . This river stretches for 240km before reaching the Tyrrhenian Sea, making it a highly important river in Italy!

For a fun experience while in Florence, take a paddling tour down the Arno River. Depending on what appeals to you, you could choose to kayak, go on a boat, or even a stand-up paddle tour! For something completely unique, river rafting tours are also available.

These tours are seriously fun, because they give you a completely new perspective of the city. They are also very informative, as you will be taken along by a professional guide that will teach you about your surroundings as you pass them.

For those that are less active, leisurely boat tours down the Arno are also available. These provide just as many stunning views of the city, but from a more relaxed setting. However you choose to experience the Arno River, it is sure to be an experience that will stay with you for a long time!

Visit the Palazzo Pitti

• An impressive 15th-century palace.
• The Pitti Palace houses many important museums and is the perfect stop for taking in culture and history!
• The palace has an interesting royal history which can be learned about during your visit.

Florence is full of incredible museums, and the Palazzo Pitti is definitely one of the best! The palace was built in the 15th century, and it has a fascinating history. The enormous building has been home to some of the most influential characters in the history of Florence!

The building is divided into four different museums – each one is unique and interesting. On the ground floor, you can find the Treasury of the Grand Dukes . This includes a decorative collection of arts from the Medici’s summer apartments.

The first floor houses the Palatine Gallery – an impressive display of the Medici’s collection of paintings. The Imperial Apartments are also found on this floor.

The Modern Art Gallery and the Museum of Costume and Fashion can both be found on the second floor. These are both very interesting collections that are well worth exploring. The Palazzo Pitti is an essential cultural stop on any Florence itinerary.

Giotto’s Campanile and the Baptistery of St. John

• Two separate buildings next to the Duomo that are highly important sites in their own right.
• Both buildings are world famous examples of Florentine design and architecture!
• These buildings are iconic Florence landmarks, and they contain so much important history of the city.

The Duomo may be the main attraction on its piazza, but there are also two other extremely significant buildings on the site – Giotto’s Campanile and the Baptistery of St. John. These three buildings are all designed and decorated in the same style. Together they make up the most celebrated piazza in Florence!

Giotto’s Campanile is a towering gothic building that was constructed between 1334 – 1359. This tower is covered in incredible artistic detail and sculptures, making it an impressive sight to behold. Climbing to the top of Giotto’s Campanile is highly recommended, as you get incredible views of the Florence skyline.

The Baptistery of St. John is one of the city’s oldest buildings, and its marbled design matches the Duomo and Giotto’s Campanile. This building is of great religious importance – something which can be seen in its three sets of bronze doors and incredible fresco.

The Forte di Belvedere

• An ancient fort located in the Boboli Gardens.
• This is the second largest fort in Florence!
• Besides its historical importance, the fort also offers great views of the city.

The Forte di Belvedere was built in the 1500’s, and it can still be explored today! This fort was built to show off the power and wealth of Florence at the time, which is why it is such an impressive site to visit.

The fort is strategically placed on the Southern banks of the Arno River. From here you can get some brilliant views of the city. This is a great place to appreciate the age-old beauty of Florence.

Forte di Belvedere has a long and interesting history itself. Take some time to wander around this fort and appreciate its Renaissance style architecture. This is an important historic landmark to add to your extended Florence itinerary!

Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class 

• learn how to make your own ice cream and pizza with an Italian chef 
• enjoy your creation with a glass of wine 
• impress your family back at home with your new-earned skills 

Sometimes, having a break from all the sightseeing and doing something unique and different instead, is a good alternative. This cooking class in the centre of Florence is perfect for everyone that wants to improve their pizza and gelato skills. Learn from a professional Italian chef, get to know the secrets of the probably simplest but most delicious meal and treat yourself with a self-made dessert afterwards. 

The class will take around 3 hours and you’ll be going home with some of your creations as well as a full stomach! If this sounds appealing to you, you can book it here.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Florence ? This city, and Tuscany as a whole, generally has pretty mild weather conditions. While it is possible to enjoy magical Firenze at any time of year, the best time to go would be when the sun is still shining, but the heat and crowds are not too intense.

Weather-wise, the ideal time to plan your itinerary for Florence would be between April to June and September. This is when the summer heat is not too grueling, but you can still enjoy outdoor dining, cultural events and experience the typical Tuscan dream holiday! July and August are when the city gets incredibly hot.

However, these summer months bring large amounts of tourists every year. Florence is a popular destination, and if you want to experience it in perfect weather, you will need to be prepared for crowds! If you prefer to avoid other tourists, consider planning your itinerary in March to April or September to October, when the weather is still pretty pleasant but the streets are quieter!

Before you start planning and packing for your trip to Florence, it is important to know how you will be getting around! Even though it is the major city of Tuscany, it is still a pretty compact place. As most of the attractions in the city are within close proximity, getting between them is easy!

In terms of public transport, Florence has a good bus and taxi network. These would be the best choices for traveling long distances in the city. Busses may be cheaper, but they do not operate overnight and can be a little tricky for first-timers. Ask a local if you’d like to take a bus and need some guidance. There is also a tram line that runs efficiently past fourteen stops.

However, chances are you won’t need to use public transport during your Florence itinerary! The best way to see this city is by walking around. The narrow streets and cobbled lanes are most easily accessible by foot, and you will enjoy all of the sights and happenings around you this way. Renting a bicycle in Florence is another fun and efficient way of getting around!

Florence does have an airport, as well as a central station for trains from around the country.

Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to start planning your three-day itinerary in Florence

Now that you know about what to get up to in this beautiful city, it is important that you stay safe! Luckily, this shouldn’t be an issue during your trip to Florence!

Florence is a very popular destination for tourists, and it has become a safe place in order to accommodate this. While walking around, your safety should never really be an issue, as this city is certainly not a dangerous place.

Like any city though, you will need to exercise caution where necessary. Tourists can often fall into traps in Florence when purchasing overpriced goods or food. Typical touristy shops will often take advantage of people, so be cautious of this.

You will also need to be aware of pickpockets and scammers in crowded areas. Tourists are often seen as easy targets by thieves, so make sure that you are vigilant with your belongings.

Other than following general safe practices and common sense, you shouldn’t need to worry. Florence is a very safe destination to visit!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Florence itinerary.

How many days do you need in Florence?

You can explore a lot of Florence in 3 days, making it the ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Of course, any extra days there are a bonus and will allow you to make the most of the area.

What should you include on a 3 day Florence itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Florence hotspots: – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – Piazzale Michelangelo – Ponte Vecchio – Mercato Centrale

Where should you stay for a weekend in Florence?

For a short trip, you’re best off staying central. Duomo is a great option, but prices can get steep. San Marco provides a cheaper alternative, and San Spirito is where you’ll find the best nightlife.

What are the best day trips from Florence?

There are plenty of options to explore further afield. Head on a Tuscan Wine Tour, check out Pisa, or visit picturesque Tuscan towns like Siena and San Gimignano.

Whether you will be spending a weekend in Florence or a month, you won’t get tired of all that there is to see and do around this magical city! Florence is rich with history, culture, delicious food and amazing sights. It is a city that will have you falling in love each time you walk around a new corner.

Due to its Renaissance heritage, medieval architecture, and Tuscan flair, Florence is a destination completely unlike anywhere else in the world. Its wide range of things to do is also suitable for any kind of traveler!

I hope that this guide will help you to understand this wonderful city a little better and allow you to plan the ultimate trip! If you’re super pushed for time but dead set on visiting Florence, then why not consider it as a day trip from Rome.

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Journey of Doing

3 Days in Florence: A Complete First-Timer’s Guide

3 days in Florence is never enough, but if that’s all I (or you) can manage, I will take them every time.  As I’ve mentioned before, I studied abroad  in Florence, Italy so it holds a special place in my heart.  Like Georgette once said, it’s like Florence can feel your emotion, and I find that comforting.  I went abroad during a very difficult time in my life.  I was struggling with several issues – all of which were mostly resolved by the time I came home.  Florence is a city of healing for me.  It is where I learned photography, ignited my wanderlust, and became comfortable in my own skin.

In 2015, I got to share parts of that with my husband as we spent part of our honeymoon in Florence .  ( Like Aimee I apparently have an unwritten agreement that says my feet much touch Florentine soil at least once a year.  It’s worked out for me so far.  Florence cannot be all those things for everyone, but I do hope that people can experience parts of “my” Florence.  It will always be on my list of places you should go.

07/2021 Update:  Updated to include new hotel and tour recommendations!

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Florence Itinerary Suggestions

It will be impossible to see everything in Florence in 3 days.  There are so many amazing landmarks in Florence to visit.  Make your peace with that. The city is walkable, but you’ll want to group attractions together by neighborhood to get the most out of your visit. In this particular case, I focused the 3 days in Florence around the Uffizi area, the Oltrarno, and the area around the Accademia.  If you only have 2 days in Florence, pick one of the museum days and couple it with a visit to the Oltrarno. If you’re looking for a great One Day in Florence Itinerary , Toti and Alessia have a great one on their blog!

I always recommend taking a break during the middle of the day.  This is when it is the hottest and the city is most crowded.  We like getting out to enjoy the city, taking a break in the mid-day, and going out again in the late afternoon/evening.

You will want to make sure you have dinner reservations in advance.  Your hotel can help with booking these.

Day One in Florence

• 9:30 – Start your day at Santa Croce (or Museo Galileo , if science is more your thing) when it opens.
• Head to Piazza della Signoria.  Check out the courtyard of the Palazzo Vecchio and enjoy the Loggia dei Lanzi .  If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, head to Orsanmichele for more religious art.
• 12:00 – Quick lunch at ‘Ino, Da’ Vinattieri, or I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti
• 1:30 – Uffizi Gallery tour
• Gelato o’clock at Gelateria dei Neri, Gelateria Santa Trinita or La Carraia
• Head back to your hotel for a little R&R.
• Watch the sunset over the Ponte Vecchio from one of the other other bridges in Florence.
• 7:30 (or later) – Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Sostanza, Buca dell’Orafo, Trattoria Nella, or Osteria Santo Spirito
• End  your night with a stroll through Florence’s most beautiful piazzas – Piazza della Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Piazza della Signoria.  Enjoy the musicians.  Treat yourself to gelato from Edoardo (next to the Duomo).

Day Two in Florence

• Take the Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno before it gets too busy.  The gold shops won’t be open, but you’ll have the bridge all to yourself.
• 8:15am – Head to the Pitti Palace / Boboli Gardens or the Bardini Gardens and start your day outside.  Enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of Florence before it gets too hot.
• Wander the backstreets of the Oltrarno and check out the artisan workshops.  The shopping is more interesting on this side of the river, unless you’re looking for the designer names.  Make sure to visit Chiesa di Santa Felicita.
• Before grabbing an easy lunch at Raddi, Gusta Pizza, Gusta Panino,  Tamero, or Osteria Santo Spirito , visit the Santo Spirito Church .
• Finish off your lunch with gelato from Santa Trinita or La Carraia and walk back towards the Ponte Vecchio by way of the Arno.
• Head back to your hotel for a midday break.  If you aren’t a mid-day break kind of person, head back across the Arno to the DaVinci Museum .
• 4:00/4:30 – Head to the Duomo for one of the last entries of the day.
• Grab a cab or a bus to the Piazzale Michelangelo / San Minato al Monte for sunset.   You can take a bus, a cab, or walk.  (It’s easier to walk down than it is to walk up.)  If it’s supposed to be rainy, book a tour of the Palazzo Vecchio instead.
• Have a late dinner at the Golden View .  (Book a table overlooking the Ponte Vecchio in advance.)  If you’re too tired from the Piazza Michelangelo climb, you can have an easy dinner at i Bastioni di San Niccolo Pizzeria.

Day Three in Florence

• Head to the Accademia for your pre-booked early morning tour.  Enjoy seeing the David up, close, and personal with (fewer) crowds.  If you can’t do more art, head to the DaVinci Museum instead.
• Head to the Mercato Centrale / leather market for shopping and lunch.  (My favorite lunch in Florence is the 5 euro fresh pasta on the bottom floor of the Mercato Centrale.  You’ll have more options upstairs, but I prefer the fresh pasta.  Find the bakery that sells occhi di bue for a sweet treat.
• Take a mid-afternoon break while the crowds descend on Florence.
• If a break isn’t your thing, head to the DaVinci Museum, the Medici Chapel, or the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella .
• Have your final dinner in Florence with a view by making a reservation at La Reggia degli Etruschi in Fiesole.  Take the bus back to Florence.  You’ll get off in front of Santa Maria Novella, and you can spend your last evening wandering through the magical streets and piazzas of Florence.

Florence Tours – Getting Your Culture Fix in Florence

Florentine museum culture can be daunting for even the most fervent art lovers.  (I know; I’m friends with some of them.)  That being said, I don’t know that you can go to Florence without seeing the museums.  I mean, you can… but will you really understand how incredible the Renaissance is without that perspective?  Probably not.  The Firenze card is a great option if you only have 3 days in Florence, but you will still need/want a reservation for the museums and the Duomo’s cupola.  Even priority access lines can be long in Florence.

Here are a few things I highly recommend for people who want to get the most out of their visit to Florence (and not spend all their time in line).

Uffizi Gallery

BOOK THIS: Skip the Line Uffizi Walking Tour – Our guide, William, was incredible.  In fact, had we not waited so long in our trip to book this tour, we would have hired him for private tours.  The size of the Uffizi is absolutely daunting and we did not have any perspective for Renaissance art.  William walked us through various (read: popular) rooms of the Uffizi, helping us understand not only the art but also the political context in which the Renaissance was born.  Obviously, we saw the “big” works of art like The Birth of Venus, but William also taught us a lot about what makes Renaissance art different. He showed us how these artists were able to take flat paintings to new dimensions using color.

I found this to be a great introduction to the museum, the time period, and the art.  I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Uffizi for the first time.  William’s passion for the subject was contagious and he refused to be deterred by the somewhat sluggish enthusiasm by our group.

The only drawback of this tour is that it begins at 1:30; I recommend going on an empty stomach so as not to experience the post-lunch lag.  If you decide not to do a tour, buy your tickets in advance or have your concierge reserve them. Don’t spend all day in line.  Seriously.  Skip the line.  It’s totally a thing.

Da Vinci Museum

VISIT THIS : Museo Leonardo da Vinci – If you are travel with scientists, engineers, or children, this museum is for you!  It is small, but they have rebuilt some of da Vinci’s contraptions exactly as his drawings called for and it’s incredible to see how progressive he was for his time period.  When I visited the da Vinci Museum, I finally understood what it means to be a “Renaissance scholar.”  I know that we like to classify ourselves as “math people” and “non-math people”, but da Vinci proves that you can do both.  Art and science complement each other.

Bonus/fun fact:  It’s located on via dei Servi and right across the street from my apartment!

Gallery Accademia

BOOK THIS:  Timed Entry Ticket & Galleria dell Accademia Tour – Yet another amazing site that was a block from my apartment.  The original David is housed here, so again, you’ll want to buy tickets in advance. Book a skip the line ticket or have your concierge arrange your visit.  I’ve seen these lines snake for blocks down via Ricasoli during high season so save yourself the headache.  I’ve never not seen a line, regardless of the time of year.  This tour provided more insight on the other works in the museum and ended with the David.  Nothing truly prepared me for what it felt like to see this piece in person.  It’s truly not just another sculpture; it’s hard to imagine how Michelangelo was able to create it.  You need to see this, even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of sculpture.  It’s truly beautiful.

Galileo Museum

VISIT THIS:  Museo Galileo  wasn’t my favorite museum to visit, but I’ve recommended it to other scientist/engineer types and they LOVED it. You’ll have to decide for yourself.  There are some really cool things in here, but there wasn’t as much about Galileo has I had hoped.  It’s tucked away on the back side of the Uffizi and offers beautiful views overlooking the Arno.  I would go when it’s least likely to be crowded because it could feel pretty stuffy. We found after lunch to be a good time for our visit.

Palazzo Vecchio

The  Palazzo Vecchio sits in my favorite Piazza della Signoria, and I never thought about what was inside.  I think someone told me it was city offices, and that was that.  One evening, I saw that the doors were open and I found myself inside a beautiful courtyard.  When it came time to plan another trip to Florence, I booked a tour of the Palazzo Vecchio .  It’s a great tour to get an idea of the historical and political timelines of Florence.   You learn more about the Papal rule, the secret hiding places of the Palazzos, and see the huge rooms where political assemblies were held (and Inferno was filmed).  As you climb the stairs of the Palazzo, you will learn more about the rivalries between Florence, Siena, and Pisa.

At the end of the tour, you can make your way up the tower to watch the sunset.  It is beautiful.

BOOK THIS TOUR:   Palazzo Vecchio Tour

Florence with a View

What trip to Florence is complete if you don’t include a list of places where you can experience the same views of Florence that the Renaissance painters did?  Sunrises and sunsets in Florence are especially magical, but don’t forget to look the other way to see the reflection on the opposite side of the sky.  You can also see views of the Florentine countryside from the Duomo cupola or Giotto’s bell tower, but I prefer the views below with limited time in Florence.

Piazzale Michelangelo / San Miniato al Monte

Piazzale Michelangelo – I’ve talked about this place before. It remains one of my favorite places to watch the sunset.  You can take a bottle of wine, some snacks (hello Eataly  – you’re so affordable I can’t even be mad that you took over my favorite bookstore), and enjoy the experience along with a couple hundred of your closest friends (take that for what it’s worth). The sunrise can be particularly beautiful and less crowded, but it requires you to get moving pretty early. The Piazza Michelangelo allows you to experience the vibrant colors of sunset that inspired numerous artists from the Renaissance and beyond.

If crowds aren’t your thing, keep climbing to San Miniato al Monte .  It’s considerably less crowded and offers similar views.

Boboli Gardens (and Pitti Palace)

VISIT THIS:  Boboli Gardens / Pitti Palace – If you want to feel like you have this place to yourself, go when they open.  We arrived shortly after opening, and despite a few school groups, we managed to wander around the gardens for a few hours.  At some point, we emerged onto the terrace near the Porcelain Museum and found ourselves staring at the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside.  Absolutely breathtaking.  You don’t even realize how far above the city you get and, all of the sudden, you find a completely difference side of Florence.  One of my favorite experiences ever.  I still love to imagine what it must have been like to live there and have those gardens be your backyard.  (I’m quite intrigued by the idea of the Vasari Corridor that runs from the Uffizi but I’ve yet to explore it.)

Bardini Gardens

Andrea at the St. Regis suggested the Bardini gardens to us.  It’s definitely less busy than the Boboli Gardens, but the views are just as lovely.  In the spring, the wisteria blooms and smells absolutely divine.  Just watch out for the bees.  (I’m allergic; it is both beautiful and terrifying.)  We really enjoyed spending the morning strolling the grounds.

Golden View

EAT & DRINK:  The Golden View Restaurant and Bar – Again, maybe it’s the nostalgia factor (my friends took me here for my 22nd birthday) but there’s something magical about getting a table overlooking the Ponte Vecchio at night.  There’s an extensive menu (something for everyone), live music, energetic ambiance, and a view.  What’s not to love?  (I’ll own the fact that it might be considered a little touristy.  I definitely come for the view though.)

Under-Appreciated Churches of Florence

Santa croce.

VISIT THIS:  Basilica of St. Croce – Everyone comes to Florence to ooh and ahh over il Duomo and its dome (and rightly so) but keep walking and find St. Croce.  It looks quite a bit smaller than the Duomo, but the inside reveals that you can’t judge a basilica by its facade!  In the early morning light, it is positively enchanting.  You have to go inside.  I also love the artists that hang out in the piazza – they don’t get started until mid-morning, but I find their work to be more authentic than the more touristy areas of Florence.

Orsanmichele Church and Museum

You will pass this church multiple times and probably never notice it.  It boasts one of the most beautiful altar pieces I’ve ever seen.  It’s a beautiful place to sit and rest your feet while taking in the fact that it is a former grain storage facility and you can still see the remnants of that.  The stained glass is also particularly beautiful.  Everything you see in Orsanmichele feels life-like, as though you could insert yourself into the art.  It’s truly beautiful.  Make sure to walk around the entire church to see all the sculptures in their niches – they were novel for their time because they are actually outside of their niche, rather than inside of it.  These artists are truly marvels in their own rights.

VISIT THIS:  Orsanmichele Church and Museum

More Things to Do in Florence

Medici chapels and church of san lorenzo.

A few steps from the Mercato Centrale is the Medici Chapel complex.  If you know a lot about Florentine history or the Medici family, I think you can jump right into this museum.  If you don’t (and we didn’t), I would recommend taking this night tour of Florence and then visiting the Medici chapels.  Either way, I don’t recommend it as one of the first things you do in Florence.  I think the ceiling of the Chapel of the Princes is absolutely breathtaking and the sculpture in the New Sacristy is incredible to see.  I’ve never seen the lines be too long, but you can book a skip the line ticket in advance.

BOOK THIS:  Florence evening walking tour

SKIP THE LINE:  Medici Chapel and Church of San Lorenzo

Food Tour of Florence // Wine Tour of Florence

What is Florence without Chianti?  We love this sunset walking tour of Florence .  It crosses both sides of the Arno and introduces you to the different types of Tuscan wine.  It’s the perfect introduction to the Florentine aperitivo and you’ll get to try different crostini with your wines.  While we’ve certainly had better wine tasting experiences in Tuscany , it’s a great way to see more of Florence on foot.

There are also a number of delicious Florence food tours that are worth considering.  I recommend the sunset tour or the Oltrarno tour.  (Almost every single one of our tour guides raves about restaurants on the Oltrarno.  We are still trying to find all of our favorites, but we’ve had some delicious experiences.)

BOOK THIS:  Sunset wine tour of Florence

EAT & DRINK:  Florence food tour

Fiat 500 Tour of the Florence Countryside

If you’re feeling really adventurous or you can’t bear to not enjoy the rolling hills of Tuscany, skip the day trips and book this vintage Fiat 500 driving tour instead.  You need to be able to drive a standard; vintage Fiats have a double clutch system.  Bring your patience and don’t surprise your husband with this tour.  (I know from experience.  Tell him in advance so he can prepare.)  Nico is a great guide and the views are beautiful.  We enjoyed watching the sunset with wine, cheese, and prosciutto.  FYI:  You’ll want to take a cab to and from the location though.

BOOK THIS:  Sunset driving tour outside of Florence

Day Trips from Florence

I don’t think 3 days in Florence is enough to take a day trip.  There is so much to see and do in Florence.  Stay in Florence.  Tuscany is meant to be savored, and I truly believe it deserves its own trip.  There are several tour operators that offer day trips from Florence to San Gimignano, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, and more – but those experiences are too rushed.  You want to explore the Italian hill towns at their best, not their worst.  The best day trip from Florence that I can truly recommend is Fiesole, which is a 20 minute bus ride from the city center.  If you really want to get out of the city center, book a dinner reservation at La Reggia degli Etruschi .

EAT & DRINK:   La Reggia degli Etruschi

Favorite Florence Restaurants

For years, I’ve struggled with putting together a list of my favorite restaurants in Florence .  While I favor authentic flavors, it can be difficult to tell people to get out of the city center completely, especially with only three days to do it.  I think you need to meet people where they are at, and often times, that’s going to be on the side of the river with all the tourist sights.  I’ve had more than a few “meh” meals, but I’ve also found some delicious meals as well.  I’ve also found some kind Florentines who are even kinder when we stumble through in Italian and appreciate their language.  (Seriously – try.)

For Bistecca Fiorentina

With only 3 days in Florence, you need to try bistecca Fiorentina.   Trattoria Sostanza  is my favorite.  The are two competing restaurants that show up on all the “best of” lists ( Buca Mario and Sostanza), but I’ve been coming to Sostanza for over 10 years and they win .  It’s not fancy, it’s not elaborate, it’s not big, and it can be impossible to get into without a reservation… but it’s worth camping out for before they open and begging for a table when they do.  (Just kidding – you don’t have to beg.  They are the nicest and quite friendly.)  If you want ambiance, Buca Mario is a solid option… but Sostanza edges them out for us.  If you’re not a red meat-eater, their petti di pollo al burro (butter chicken) is solid, too.  Many might argue it’s their better dish.

If you need an option to appease those who are not meat eaters, head to Buca dell’Orafo.  There’s more on them below, but they make a delicious bistecca.

EAT & DRINK:  Trattoria Sostanza

EAT & DRINK:  Ristorante Buca dell’Orafo

EAT & DRINK:  Ristorante Buca Mario

For Pasta in Florence

Aimee and I both agree that Trattoria Nella is worth a visit.  (She’s been coming to this restaurant longer than I have been.)  We were lucky enough to get the last table around 9:00pm one evening, and I am so glad we did.  As far as food, we ordered half a liter of wine (so.much.wine.), the misto Toscano (cheese, salami, etc.) as an appetizer, ravioli all noci (walnut ravioli), and penne Nella (penne with a tomato-herb cream sauce).  We really enjoyed our meal.  Service is friendly and leisurely, especially if  you attempt a little Italian.  The ambiance was warm and cozy.  This is a great place to end your day.

EAT & DRINK:  Trattoria Nella

Buca dell’Orafo Florence

We were huddled under umbrellas in the Piazza delle Signornia on our first night in Florence when we were trying to decide what to do about dinner.  We were at the point of calling it a night and heading back to our hotel.  I took us down a side alleyway and my husband stopped to look at the menu for Buca dell’Orafo .  It was busy and he decided to ask for a table.  They gave it to us.  It was the last one – many people after us were turned away.  (Notice a trend?)

I still dream of the primi pasta course – the penne alle carretteria.  It’s a penne pasta with a spicy tomato sauce.  We ordered it “ bis ” (to split), but we really should have ordered our own. It was so fresh and delicious.  Despite the fact that we thought we weren’t hungry, we opted to split the bistecca fiorentina and roasted potatoes.  It was probably one of the most delicious steaks I’ve ever had.  I was a little nervous because we forgot to tell them that we like our steak the way Italians like it (rare-medium rare), and most places will overcook steak for Americans.  Our fears were completely unfounded.  The steak was perfectly cooked and delicious with olive oil.  When we finally pushed our stomachs up the stairs, it had stopped raining and we headed back to our hotel for a good night’s rest.

For Quick, Cheap Eats in Florence

Florence street food.

You wouldn’t think that the panini shop facing the Duomo would be a good experience, but Panini Toscani  is incredible.  What makes this delicious?  Let’s start with the staff.  They kindly welcome you in and explain the different types of meats and cheese, letting you taste a bit of each one.  The different types of bread are also explained.  (The olive bread is my favorite.)  After you choose your meat and cheese, you can add toppings.  (I recommend the sun-dried tomatoes.)  They warm it up (if you choose) and wrap it to go.  There are a few tables inside and a few outside.  The wine is cheap and the sandwiches are delicious.  This will be my first stop on my next trip to Florence.

EAT & DRINK:  Panini Toscani

Located on a few small streets behind the Piazza delle Signoria is I’Girone de Ghiotti .  You’ll notice all the locals standing outside and push your way inside to order. They have a few popular items, but you can also make your own.  The olive pate is incredible (and the staff agreed that it was a very good choice).  Sun-dried tomatoes are succulent.  The salami had a delicious flavor.  Nothing we ate was bad.  There are stools behind the counter and a small sitting area upstairs.  Either way, you’l want to savor every bit of this fresh panini.  Y’all.  Subway sucks after eating all of these delicious sandwiches.

EAT & DRINK:  I’girone de Ghiotti

If you are feeling adventurous, you can head to the original window at Da’ Vinattieri and order the lamperodotto.  If you aren’t that brave, head to the tiny sandwich shop and make your own panini.  I think they have some of the best prosciutto of all the sandwich shops, and you can even add balsamic vinegar to your panini.  Next time I’ll be trying the truffle cream because it smelled absolutely delicious.

EAT & DRINK:  Da’ Vinattieri

‘Ino is a little intimidating, particularly if you arrive during the lunch rush.  It’s tucked behind the Uffizi gallery and offers delicious, fresh sandwiches on the traditional schiacciata bread.  The menu is actually on the wall facing the cash register.  Your basic Italian skills will be much appreciated.  Tom recommends the prosciutto and pecorino.  I recommend anything with the prosciutto.  We actually went to ‘Ino two days in a row because I liked it so much.  It was so busy that we took it to go and enjoyed it back in our room.  (Yet another benefit to staying at the Hotel Gallery Art.)

EAT & DRINK:  ‘Ino Firenze

One of our tour guides recommended I’Raddi as a great option for lunch.  This small restaurant in the Oltrarno has a takeaway counter, but it also has a small sitting area upstairs.  We opted for a table and a menu on a cold and rainy day.  We loved the Pomodoro e pappas (especially on a cold day).  My mom finally found the coccoli e straticella cheese that she had been pining over for 9 years, and I had a delicious spicy salami panini.  Tom tried to the lampredotto.  Service was very friendly, but you’ll want to practice your Italian.  There’s not a lot of English spoken here – but it’s worth it.  The food is delicious and perfect for lunch or apertivo.

EAT & DRINK:  I Raddi di Santo Spirito

Pizza in Florence

If you find yourself in the Oltarno, Gusta Pizza is a solid option for a hot meal in Florence that won’t break the bank.  Favorited by students (undoubtedly for its prices), there’s usually a line and you’ll have to fight for a shared table (or take it to go).  The pizza is served piping hot and always fresh.  Be prepared for a line though.  The Gusta “franchise” seems to be taking over, and we were disappointed that we didn’t have a chance to try Gusta Panino on our last trip.  (It’s right around the corner in Santo Spirito.)  If you are looking for a great late night option and you don’t want to wait in line, I think that  Munaciello or O’Scugnizzo are good for cheap pizza, as well as a place to sit.

EAT & DRINK:  Gusta Pizza

EAT & DRINK:  ‘O Munaciello

EAT & DRINK:  Pizzeria O’Scugnizzo

Mercato Centrale

I know I’ve said that I don’t trust any fresh pasta to go places in Italy, but there’s always an exception to the rule.  On the first floor of the Mercato Centrale , there’s a fresh pasta place.  ( Not the one on the second floor.  The first floor one.)  You can see them make the pasta on the side of the stall.  And, when you’re done ogling it, you can buy lunch for 5 euro.  This is the best 5 euro meal you will find in Florence.  I recommend anything with the tomato and olive sauce.  Tom recommends the olive oil and parmesan.  Skip the pesto.   We’ve been spoiled by the pesto of Cinque Terre and nothing ever measures up.  There’s a small counter that you eat at.  I could have eaten here for every meal but settled for two.

Bonus:  Go find the bakery that offers Occhi di bue.  It’s the most delicious cookie.  Apricot or Nutella?  Both win in my book.

Pro tip:  You can skip (most of) the crowds of the San Lorenzo market by entering through the back entrance.

EAT & DRINK:   La Primeria by FN Pasta Fresca (1st floor location!)

For a Social Meal

My husband really loves tours when we travel and I really love experiences.  Cooking classes are a great way to do both and bring a souvenir of sorts home.  I’ve taken both a  pizza and gelato class  and a fresh pasta class . Neither disappoint.  These classes are small and very hands on.  At the end of the class, you descend into the wine cellar to enjoy your creations with your new friends and wine.  It’s a great way to meet other people who are visiting Florence and learn new skills at the same time.

BOOK THIS:  Pizza and gelato cooking class in Florence

BOOK THIS:   Fresh pasta cooking class in Florence

Gelato in Florence

I can’t say that I’ve never met a gelato I didn’t love.  There is some seriously bad gelato out there.  Here are a few pro tips as you start your gelato quest though.  One, if it’s piled high and brightly colored, keep walking.  Gelato should be fresh and fresh gelato doesn’t pile high.  Two, expensive gelato is not a marker of good gelato.  Be wary of the places charging six euro for a single cone.  You’re getting ripped off if you pay that much. There’s a gelato place near Orsanmichele that takes the prices off the sign at night and we watched someone pay 14 euro for a cone to go.  FOURTEEN EURO.  No gelato is worth 14 euro.  (Their price during the day is 6 euro.  That’s still too high for a piccolo.

The most expensive gelato that I will tolerate is Edoardo , and he’s right in front of the Duomo.

Gelato is a personal adventure, and I take the journey very seriously.  I think you should try multiple places (and flavors) and see what works for you.  (There’s one place that is in all the travel guides that I think is terrible.)  Tom’s favorite flavors are bacio (hazelnut chocolate) and nocciola (hazelnut).  I love both of those, but I also love the fruit flavors.  I’ve yet to meet a fruity gelato I didn’t love.  I think Tom feels cheated every time I order fruit flavors.  That being said, here are a few of my favorite gelaterias in Florence.

Vivoli is a cult classic.  It’s near Santa Croce, and I’ve been coming here since 2004.  The service is gruff.  You pay before you order.  If you take too long to decide on your flavor combination, they move on.  Like many of my favorite Florentine memories, I come to Vivoli for my bacio e nocciola.  There’s a bench across the street where I will sit and watch the world go by.  I used to say that the beautiful of Florence is that nothing changes, but then the Turkish restaurant below my apartment closed and I was thrown off.  Vivoli is a reminder that the best parts of Florence don’t change.

EAT & DRINK:  Vivoli

Gelateria dei Neri

Near the end of all the cheap delicious eats on Via dei Neri is Gelateria dei Neri .  Like almost every other establishment on Via dei Neri, there is almost always a line at the gelateria.  Like Vivoli, I come here for my cult classic of bacio.  I think they have the best bacio in Florence.  I’m very happy to get un piccolo cono con bacio, solemente, per favore and make my way back to the Piazza delle Signoria or to Piazza Santa Croce.

EAT & DRINK:  Gelateria dei Neri

Gelateria Santa Trinita

Right across the Santa Trinita bridge (with the best views of the Ponte Vecchio) is the delicious Gelateria Santa Trinita .  This gelateria is the best value in Florence.  It’s also my personal favorite.  I particularly like the fruit flavors here.  Where it’s fragola (strawberry) e limon (lemon), mandarino (tangerine) e lampone (rasperry), or arancia (orange) and fruiti di bosco (mixed berries), I will mix and match fruits until my heart is content.  The bonus of Santa Trinita is that you can stand along the bridge and admire the Ponte Vecchio at any time of day, though sunset and evenings are my favorites.  (We also counted down the New Year on this bridge – magical.)

EAT & DRINK:  Gelateria Santa Trinita

A block away from Gelateria Santa Trinita and across the Ponte al Carraia is La Carraia , and it’s Tom’s favorite gelato.  La Carraia tends to have more exotic flavors, but they make a really delicious bacio.  I wanted to try their green apple, but sometimes you have to make the husband happy.  (Believe it or not, we share our gelato… because we eat so much of it in Florence.  I stopped counting but Tom gave me a count one day, and I was appalled.  Good thing we walk a lot.)  The best thing about La Carraia is that they are open until midnight, so whether we’re staying at the Hotel Gallery Art or the St. Regis, we can get a gelato fix.  (It’s equidistant from both.)

EAT & DRINK:  La Carraia Gelateria

If you find yourself deep in the Oltrarno, it’s worth finding Sbrino .  Sbrino does not open early because all the gelato is made fresh daily.  It stays open late and you can find it because of the lights outside (or the line).  It has the most imaginative flavors I’ve ever seen in Florence.  On our last trip, we tried a white chocolate hazelnut bit of goodness.  It was so good that Tom wanted to go back after dinner and get it again.  I also think that Sbrino has the friendliest staff of any of the gelaterias.

EAT & DRINK:  Sbrino Gelatifico Contadino

Where to Stay in Florence

St. regis florence.

After realizing that my Florence apartment will never again be my home, I have made the deliberate choice that the St. Regis Florence  could be my home away from home.  Every single room I have stayed in is beautiful.  No two rooms at the St. Regis Florence are the same.  The staff is, without question, the best in the business.  We always feel so welcome by everyone – from the doorman to the front office manager.  I love that the location is slightly removed from the crowds. I love being able to listen to the Arno rush by my room. On New Year’s Eve, we redeemed points and we had a room with a Duomo view.  I didn’t hate it either.  😉

Whenever I was sad or lonely during my study abroad semester , I would sit on the banks of the Arno. Sometimes I would write in my journal.  It would remind me that life is beautiful and there is so much yet to be explored.  I’ve always chosen the river view rooms at the St. Regis for that constant reminder.  There are plenty of posts that recap the rooms of the St. Regis, but it’s always the first place I check when I start planning a trip to Italy.

STAY:  St. Regis Florence

Gallery Hotel Art

This hotel might be the best kept secret in Florence hotels.  We stumbled upon it when the St. Regis was completely sold out for April and Tom wanted to stay somewhere more central because of my hip issues.  Despite its prime location, the room rates are incredibly reasonable.  The Gallery Hotel Art is set right off the Ponte Vecchio on a quiet square.  Our room (110) did not have any sort of a view, but it was quiet.  (I did miss the natural light in the afternoon though.)  You can read my entire review of the Gallery Hotel Art.   (If you are looking for more upscale options, check out my full review of the Hotel Lungarno and others owned by the same group!)

This hotel (and a few others) are owned by Salvatore Ferragamo and the design elements are on point.  My favorite part is the striped curtains (and the blackout shutters), but the large bathroom with dual sinks and the soaking tub are great, too.  The bath amenities smell incredible, and I certainly hoarded them to bring home and relieve my best vacation life.  It’s worth nothing that you receive spa privileges at the Continentale , and they literally called someone in when I asked for a massage and they didn’t have anyone available.  How’s that for five-star service?

While I’m loathe to admit it (because I love the St. Regis so much), this hotel is beautiful and convenient for sightseeing.  You’re less than a 5 minute walk from the Piazza della Signoria and the Piazza della Repubblica.  You can be in the Oltrarno in less than 10 minutes.  It was particularly nice, given my hip pain issues.  If you’re someone who likes being in the middle of everything, the Gallery Hotel Art is definitely worth checking out.

STAY:  Gallery Hotel Art

Arte Boutique Hotel

We stayed at the Arte Boutique Hotel in Florence in June 2021 when the St. Regis wasn’t open yet.  I chose this hotel because of its location.  The unique design of the rooms also appealed to me.  The art is absolutely amazing, and it works really well with the bright accents in the room.  The hotel is two blocks from the Duomo, two blocks from the Accademia, and two blocks from the apartment I lived in when I studied abroad.  It’s a great value, particularly given its premier location.

We booked a king deluxe room that included a sofa that could be converted to a bed.  (We were assigned room 8.)  While the room was on the smaller side for Florence, it was perfect for what we needed between the two of us.  (It would be tough to have 2 adults and an older child in this room.)  I found the linens to be nice and the bed to be pretty comfortable.  We had a large wardrobe with plenty of hanging and storage space.  The room offers a mini-fridge, tea service and a safe.  I didn’t have any trouble doing zoom calls with the wifi and the desk was nice for working.  Our room had a slight view of Giotto’s bell tower.  

The bathroom had a walk-in shower, a single sink and a heated towel rack.  Our shower offered a rain showerhead, as well as a hand shower.  (The water pressure with the hand shower was very good.)  It was separated from the room by a pocket door, which was really nice for maximizing space.        

The staff here is absolutely lovely.  They were so helpful and always eager to assist with anything we needed.  Our room rate did not include breakfast, but the breakfast room and small hotel bar have a nice interior courtyard with a view. Everything was very clean and very well maintained.  There is an elevator in the building and the rooms have AC.  

Valet parking was 25 euros per night.  They picked up the car from us after we checked in and delivered it quickly when we were ready to check out.

STAY HERE:   Arte Boutique Hotel           

Travel Tips for Getting To and Around Florence  

By plane or by train.

I have flown directly into FLR at 10:00pm and grabbed a cab to the city centre.  Easy enough.  You can also take the tram from the airport to the train station.  It’s very easy and the ride is quite smooth.  It takes about 20 minutes.

In 2010, I flew into Pisa and boarded the Terrevision bus to Florence Santa Maria Novella (the main train station).  We arrived around midnight, so we snagged a cab to our hotel.  There’s a taxi line outside the main entrance to SMN.  Just exit the platforms and keep walking straight ahead and out the main doors.  In 2015, 2016 and 2017, we arrived via train from Rome (easy trip), from Pisa (even easier trip), and from Siena (not-as-easy trip) and grabbed a cab to the St. Regis.

Arrival is basically the only time when I use cabs because cobblestones shred plastic wheels.  When I studied abroad, I walked to/from the train station to my apartment with my weekender bag.  It doesn’t take more than 10-15 minutes to get most places. Despite throngs of tourists, it’s manageable.  It’s even more manageable now that the city center is mostly a pedestrian zone.

In 2018 and 2019, we drove into Florence.  In spring 2018, we dropped off the car at the Hertz office right down the street from our hotel.  When we came for New Year’s Eve, we used the valet service at the St. Regis .  And, when we returned in 2019, we used the valet service at the Gallery Hotel Art .  In all cases it, was very easy.  They registered our car so we were not charged for being in the ZTL zones.  Getting out of Florence from the Gallery Hotel Art was more difficult, but that’s because Tom thought he knew more than the map.  We took a very scenic route through the city center.  😉

The best way to experience Florence is to walk. I love ducking down small streets to see where they lead, climbing through winding streets that lead to the Piazzale Michelangelo , and watching the world go by in large piazzas.  Florence does all of that extremely well. The city is a complex maze of one way streets. You’ll miss a lot of Florence’s charm if you don’t explore it thoroughly on foot. Wander. Explore. Get lost. You’ll never be far from home because Florence just isn’t that big.

The Best Florence Souvenir

One of my favorite things we’ve done in Florence is book a portrait session with Cristiano from Facibeni Fotographia .  We were not disappointed with the results.  He did a fantastic job capturing us at all my favorite places in my beautiful city.  These portrait sessions (we booked  L’amour de Paris  for our honeymoon and Ksenia in Venice for our 4th anniversary) are some of my favorite souvenirs.  It’s a fun way to get advice from a local on places to go, things to see, and what their favorite experiences are, too.  Cristiano is actually who convinced us to go to Budapest when we weren’t entirely sure about going (and I’m so glad he did)!

Download DIY tours of the most popular sites in Florence.  Rick Steves offers free audio walking tours of the Accademia, the Bargello Museum, the San Marco Museum, the Uffizi Gallery, and a city walking tour .  If you want to teach yourself a little Italian, I’ve been using the DK Eyewitness Phrase Book and CD since 2004.  I’m a believer.

Tom and I love a good travel guide for trip planning purposes.  I prefer pocket-sized books that fit easily into my day bag, my carry-on bag, or even Tom’s pocket.  Thus, Florence and Tuscany Day-by-Day and Top 10 Florence & Tuscany are my favorite guides.  My most recent purchase is the DK Florence and Tuscany Travel Guide .  Tom prefers the Rick Steves guide to Florence because of the history and walking tour maps.

There is no shortage of Florence content on this blog.  Feel free to click around to get more ideas on how to plan the perfect trip to Florence.

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Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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22 comments.

Florence seems utterly gorgeous! If I ever get to visit, I’ll definitely stay at your “home”/hotel 😉 I totally love the pictures of it!

Ahh, that hotel is gorgeous! That canopy over the bed, is beautiful!

It’s all so amazing!!!!

OMG I think I might need to cancel our current hotel reservations for Florence and change hotels to Hotel California!! Stunning rooms!! #WednesdayWanderlust

Such a great guide to Florence. It’s always good to read about a place from someone who’s lived there and knows all its ins and outs. Florence is one of my favourite cities and I agree with you about the Santa Croce – the interior is amazing although the exterior of the Duomo always takes my breath away. Great tip about the guide for when you visit the Uffizi. #WanderfulWednesday

Florence looks gorgeous! The architecture of the buildings and churches are just so charming. I’d love to visit Palazzo Vecchio one day. Love that you arranged a photo shoot to capture the beauty of this place with you two in it.

Ok I’m officially hungry now! Can I just hop in your suitcase on your next fabulous trip across the pond?

Thanks so much for this great post.  We are headed to Florence soon so I was so excited to hear all of the recommendations that you gave.  I’ll be pinning it for future reference.  

Your photos are absolutely magical and made me want to go to Florence pronto! The views from both the Boboli and Bardini gardens are stunning. I realise that I still have so much to discover in Italy. 

Great tips! I used to live in Florence, so I really appreciate the gelato section. Such a magical city, and you go a great job of helping people get around.

Wow! The Bardini Gardens look beautiful. We missed out on them when we visited. I love that you’ve included so many gelato places. One of my favorite things about Italy!! 

I had a hard time finding good gelato spots in Florence without any prior research. Clearly I didn’t look hard enough as your recommendations look delicious! We liked Gusta pizza, but my favorite was O’Vesuvio. We went since it was the Jersey Shore place, but it was actually extremely good!

I love this comprehensive guide! I’ve been to Florence for 2 days and it definitely wasn’t enough time! I wish I could’ve also visited the Da Vinci Museum. It looks amazing! Thanks for sharing this. This guide will help me planning my second trip 🙂

Oh wow this is such a comprehensive guide! Firenze is on my bucket list! xoxo

the description given here is awesome. highly appreciated. thank you. keep smiling u both, forever

Such a great post!!! I visited many years ago, but have been dreaming of returning.

Grazie mille for this in-depth review. My wife is Turinese and I live there halftime. I agree with most everything you say, but I’d swap your third day suggestion of going to Rivoli with Veneria. Veneria is so cool, especially when the garden is in bloom. I’d say it is no more difficult to reach on the Veneria Express (from Palazzo Reale or Porta Susa), or the 11 or… I think the 72 (both with a walk at the end).

I was in Florence in Aug 2017 for some personal work. Although i did not visit many places but Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, The Uffizi, Galleria dell’Accademia. I was planning for Rome but due to lack time drop it. Hope to return soon.

You’ll need to stay in Florence for at least 3 days if you want to see everything the city has to offer. Four days in Florence will give you a little more time to see the city if you’d like to travel more slowly.

I was thoroughly impressed by your article. The way you approached the topic was refreshing, and I enjoyed the depth of analysis and research you put into it. Your writing style was engaging and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read. Thank you for sharing your valuable insights, and I can’t wait to see what you write next.

Your information has been incredibly helpful to me, and I am so grateful for the time and effort you put into gathering and presenting it. Your expertise and knowledge on the subject are truly impressive, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from you. Thank you so much for your generosity and support.

Great post. It’s very well organized and quite informative. Keep it up.

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2 days in Florence: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

How to spend 2 days in florence: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 2 days in Florence and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Florence in 2 days.

I will start this guide with my best tips to avoid the long waiting lines (often more than 2 hours!) in front of the most visited tourist sites such as Florence Cathedral and Brunelleschi Dome.

Then, I will give you my optimized 2-day itinerary to make the most of your stay in the Barcelona .

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Florence in 2 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Florence Pass

Visiting florence in 2 days: the must-sees, one last tip for a perfect 2-day stay in florence, a. the accademia gallery, b. the duomo of florence, c. the monuments of piazza del duomo, d. the basilica di santa maria novella, e. the basilica di san lorenzo and the medici chapels, f. san lorenzo market, a. the uffizi gallery, b. the ponte vecchio, c. piazza della signoria / palazzo vecchio, d. the bargello palace museum, e. the basilica of santa croce, where to stay in florence, visiting florence in 2 days with family, more things to do and see in florence in 2 days, map of your 2-day itinerary in florence, planning a 2-day trip to florence: flight prices, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, my best tips to save time at florence’s must-see attractions.

Florence , much like Rome , Milan , Pisa, Venice , is one of Italy ‘s most touristy cities, so you should expect long lines, sometimes several hours long, to access iconic monuments and museums.

For example, Florence’s Duomo , the Uffizi Gallery , or the Accademia Gallery , considered must-visit places for a 2-day trip in Florence, are crowded right from their opening.

But don’t worry, there are several tricks to optimize your 2-day visit to Florence and not waste your time in line.

Here are the 2 most effective solutions to avoid queueing during your weekend in Florence:

The first solution to save time during your 2-day trip to Florence: buy the Florence Pass.

It includes access to the most important monuments and museums in Florence such as:

• Brunelleschi’s Dome
• The Uffizi Gallery + Audioguide
• The Accademia Gallery + Audioguide
• An audio guide of Florence with over 70 points of interest: perfect to learn everything about the city!
• A 10% discount on a bunch of other activities in Florence

So to not worry and make the most of your 2-day stay in Florence, do as I did and purchase the Florence Pass 😉!

You can directly buy the Florence Pass by clicking the following button:

2. Skip-the-line tickets for Florence tourist attractions

The second solution to optimize your 2-day visit to Florence is to purchase a skip-the-line ticket for each site you want to visit.

This allows you to only book fast-track entries appropriate for your Florence itinerary. There are options available for many of the monuments/museums to see.

Similarly, if you also want the services of a guide for certain sites, you can book guided tours of Florence , including some in French.

You can also reserve several activities for your 2 days in Florence.

Here, I’ll give you all the tickets that are interesting and that match my itinerary.

For more information and to make your reservations, click on the orange links below (I will also include them throughout the article):

• Guided walking tour of historical center of Florence in French
• Climb to Brunelleschi’s Dome – Florence Duomo
• Guided tour in French of Florence’s dome
• Guided tour of the dome + baptistery + Opera del Duomo museum + 1 ticket to climb Giotto’s bell tower
• Skip-the-line entry to the Accademia Gallery
• Guided tour in French of the Accademia Gallery
• Skip-the-line entry to the Uffizi Gallery
• Guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery in French
• The Florence Pass: skip-the-line entry to the Accademia and Uffizi galleries + Access to the Duomo’s dome + 1 audio guide of Florence
• Skip-the-line Palazzo Vecchio ticket
• Guided tour of Basilica of Santa Croce
• Skip-the-line ticket to the Bargello Museum
• Skip-the-line ticket for the Medici Chapels
• Medici-themed guided tour in French

If you want to see and book other tours and activities to visit Florence in 48 hours , I recommend these 2 websites (click on the links):

• GetYourGuide

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Florence is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Florence by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Florence.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Florence, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

2 Days in Florence: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now start your 2-day itinerary in Florence!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Florence for 2 full days and that you will be using the Florence Pass or have purchased skip-the-line tickets in advance. It’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip 😄.

So,  what are the best places to visit in Florence in 2 days?

Day 1 of this Florence Itinerary

Visits for Day 1:

A. The Accademia Gallery B. The Duomo Dome C. Monuments of Piazza del Duomo D. The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella E. The Basilica of San Lorenzo/Medici Chapels F. The San Lorenzo Market

Let’s start your 2-day stay in Florence with one of the must-visit museums of the Tuscan capital: the Accademia Gallery.

This is where you can admire the famous Michelangelo’s David, one of the most renowned sculptures in the world. A magnificent work of art that is particularly impressive at over 5 meters tall and represents David before his battle with Goliath.

Created in the 1500s, this iconic sculpture is considered a symbol of the Italian Renaissance. It took Michelangelo 3 years to carve this masterpiece from a 5-ton block of marble.

In addition to this masterpiece, the Accademia Gallery in Florence displays numerous works by great Florentine masters, musical instruments and even Russian icons.

There is always a long queue in front of the museum, even at opening time. It is therefore imperative to book your skip-the-line ticket in advance so as not to waste time during the first visit of your weekend in Florence.

Here are the different options available to you (click on the orange links or green button to book):

• Get the Florence Pass that I have already told you about
• Priority Entry with Timed Entrance:
• Book a guided tour which includes fast-track museum access and explanations from a French-speaking guide!
• Get the Florence Pass which includes priority entry to the Galleria dell’Accademia as well as the Uffizi Gallery + Access to the Duomo dome + A downloadable audio guide of Florence.

After your visit to the gallery, head to Piazza del Duomo , just a 500-meter walk away.

You’ll arrive at the foot of the impressive Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral , also known as the Duomo of Florence. It took nearly 140 years to build the edifice, which is now one of the largest cathedrals in the world (after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London ).

Its exterior of white and green marble is magnificent, but the most famous element is undoubtedly its renowned dome (or Brunelleschi’s dome), whose dimensions are impressive: 45 meters in diameter and 115 meters high.

Not to mention the beautiful interior paintings that adorn the full circumference, depicting scenes from The Last Judgment.

To get a closer look and later access the outside of the dome, at the top of the cathedral, you will have to climb a staircase of 463 steps.

The reward is well worth it when you reach the top, as you will be greeted with a view of the entire city!

I explain everything in my detailed article: Visit the Florence Cathedral .

Note that you can enter the cathedral for free if you don’t want to climb to the dome. But it’s really not worth lining up for that since there’s nothing to see inside. It’s very austere, and all the works/sculptures that were once there have been moved to the Opera Museum.

Please note, to access the dome and the roof of the cathedral, it is mandatory to book your ticket in advance. The access is very narrow, so only a small number of people are allowed to climb per time slot.

Here are the different types of tickets (again, the orange links or green button are for booking):

• Get the Florence Pass which includes access to the dome + priority entry to the Galleria dell’Accademia as well as the Uffizi Gallery + A downloadable audio guide of Florence.
• Simple ticket for the dome:
• Guided tour in French of the Florence dome:
• Guided tour in French of the dome + Baptistery + Opera Museum + Ticket for the bell tower:

Since you’re already at Piazza del Duomo , let’s continue this two-day journey in Florence with the discovery of other buildings located in the square.

You will find:

1) Giotto’s Campanile is actually the bell tower of the Florence Cathedral. You can climb to the top if you’re ready to tackle another 414 steps (after the dome, your calves will probably feel it! 😅). Note that the view isn’t as expansive as from the dome.

2) The Baptistery of San Giovanni is where many emblematic figures of the city, including the famous poet and writer Dante, were baptized.

3) The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo houses all the sculptures and artworks that were previously inside the cathedral. Everything is superbly highlighted there. If you have the time, I recommend you prioritize this visit over the other monuments.

The museum also boasts a beautiful terrace with a clear view of the dome.

To visit the monuments of Piazza del Duomo during this two-day tour of Florence, you can also choose a guided tour in French.

On the agenda: guided tour of the dome + baptistery + Museo dell’Opera del Duomo + 1 ticket to climb Giotto’s campanile (with open access – without guide).

To book, just click the button below:

Let’s continue your two-day itinerary in Florence by going to see the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.

It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo to get there.

Built in the 13th century , the basilica is famed for its sumptuous frescoes created by some of the greatest Italian masters of the time, including Brunelleschi (the same who painted the dome of Florence’s Duomo) and Giotto.

To visit the interior of the basilica with an audio guide in French, you can get your skip-the-line ticket by clicking the button below:

Only 5 minutes on foot separate the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella from the next visit of the day: the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence.

This is where you’ll find the Medici Chapels, the resting place of members from Florence’s most famous family. The Medicis played a pivotal role not only in the history of the city but also in that of the entire region of Tuscany.

The tombs of the family members are grouped in three richly decorated chapels , part of which was built by Michelangelo himself:

• The New Sacristy
• The Chapel of the Princes
• The Treasury Chapel.

As this site is part of the must-visit places in Florence over two days , I strongly advise you to get your skip-the-line tickets to visit the Medici Chapels and the Basilica di San Lorenzo online:

As I mentioned, the Medicis have left a significant mark on the history of Florence.

If, during your two-day trip to Florence, you want to learn more about one of Italy’s most powerful families , I recommend booking a guided tour in French “following the footsteps of the Medicis”:

To conclude this first day of your two-day visit to Florence, I suggest going to dine at San Lorenzo Market.

In addition to a traditional market with stalls of fruits and vegetables, the place also features a food court. Here, you’ll find several restaurants offering local cuisine (pizzas, pasta, and more).

The concept is great because you can choose a dish from any of the restaurants and then sit at the tables located in the center of the market. No more arguments over choosing a restaurant, as everyone can eat whatever they like!

San Lorenzo Market is open daily , both during the day and in the evening.

Day 2 of the Weekend in Florence

Visits for day 2:

A. The Uffizi Gallery B. The Ponte Vecchio C. Piazza della Signoria / Palazzo Vecchio D. The Bargello Museum Palace E. The Basilica of Santa Croce

It would be impossible to visit Florence in two days without planning to discover the Uffizi Gallery.

Just like the Accademia Gallery and the Duomo, it’s a can’t-miss visit.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of paintings by the greatest Italian artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo.

The place is simply vast, and the artworks are superbly presented.

I cannot stress enough that you should not even consider visiting the Uffizi Gallery in Florence without a skip-the-line ticket. There’s at least a one-hour wait from the opening, and it only gets longer throughout the day.

Here are your different options (click on the links or the green button to book):

• Get the Florence Pass that I mentioned earlier
• Skip-the-line ticket with the option to select a time slot:
• Guided tour in a small group and in French:
• Purchase the Florence Pass which includes priority entrance to the Uffizi Gallery + Academy Gallery + Access to Duomo’s dome + A Florence audio guide to download.

Leaving the Uffizi Museum, walk along the Arno River for a brief stretch, and you’ll arrive at the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most famous bridge.

Built in 1345 , it has a very particular architecture as small houses are constructed on it . Once butchers’ shops, today they host several gold jewelry stores.

Gentlemen, it’s time to reach for your wallet (or perhaps take a detour! 😆).

For a great photo of the Ponte Vecchio , head to:

• the Ponte Alle Grazie
• the San Trinita bridge
• The viewpoint from the Hotel Lungarno’s bar.

Let’s continue our 48-hour Florence itinerary with Piazza della Signoria, just a 5-minute walk from the bridge.

There you’ll discover one of the city’s most beautiful squares.

In the center stands an impressive fountain featuring Neptune on his chariot, and around it, you can admire numerous sculptures and beautiful, traditional buildings including the Palazzo Vecchio.

The Medici family lived in this palace before upgrading to the larger Palazzo Pitti.

Today, the Palazzo Vecchio houses Florence’s City Hall but you can still visit the interior, which is home to stunning paintings and frescoes. It’s also possible to climb to the top of the tower for a marvelous view.

You need to book your skip-the-line ticket (+ audio guide) in advance by clicking here:

Let’s continue with another palace to visit during your 2 days in Florence: the Bargello Palace.

It’s just a 3-minute walk from the Piazza della Signoria.

You can admire the exterior (though you may have had your fill of museums by now, since Florence is full of fascinating ones) or go inside for a visit. There you’ll find numerous sculptures by Donatello and Michelangelo.

Remember to purchase your skip-the-line ticket by clicking on the green button below:

Last on the agenda for your weekend in Florence is a visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce.

It’s only about 5 minutes on foot from the Bargello to get there.

In the basilica, considered the largest Franciscan church in the world , you’ll find the tombs of many famous Italians such as Dante, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo.

Also worthwhile is a stroll through the inner garden to admire its architecture, a blend of different styles and truly beautiful.

And there you have it, all my tips for visiting Florence in 2 days!

After a good meal in an authentic Italian trattoria, spend one more night at the hotel before catching your flight home the next day. And since we’re talking hotels, you can find my selection just below!

To learn more about the basilica’s history, there’s nothing better than a guided tour in French:

There’s one more question to address: do you know where to stay during your weekend in Florence?

It’s very useful to know how to visit Florence in 2 days , but it’s just as practical to book your accommodation in advance. Demand is high in Florence and hotels with the best value for money fill up fast.

To help you, I have prepared my selection of the city’s best hotels.

So, where to stay for these 48 hours in Florence?

• Plus Florence: A youth hostel just 1 km from the Piazza del Duomo. Dormitory bed from 25€, breakfast for 7.50€. It’s also possible to stay in a double room starting at 80€ per night. Strong points: the swimming pool, the terrace with a view of the dome, the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms and dorms. A great budget-friendly accommodation option for a 2-night stay in Florence!
• Hotel St. James: Located near the Accademia Gallery. Spacious double rooms starting at 80€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the perfect location, private parking, warm welcome.
• TSH Florence Lavagnini: Situated a 15-minute walk from the Cathedral. Modern and colorful double rooms from 95€, breakfast at 12€. Strong points: the rooftop with a stunning view of Florence, the swimming pool, architecture and design, the offered services. This is our top pick for great value for money in Florence!
• c-hotels Ambasciatori: Located next to the Santa Maria Novella church. Warm and super comfortable double rooms starting at 160€, breakfast for 10€. Strong points: the superb location, excellent breakfast, friendly staff. An outstanding accommodation choice in Florence!
• Horto Convento: Located 1 km away from the Pitti Palace. Tastefully decorated modern double rooms from 170€, including breakfast. Strong points: the garden with terrace, the tranquility, the delicious breakfast, the hotel’s charm.
• NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa: A 5-star hotel 300 meters away from Ponte Vecchio. Simplistically decorated double rooms from 315€. Strong points: the kindness of the staff, the excellent breakfast. This is our luxury stay recommendation in Florence.
• Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: This 5-star hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Uffizi Gallery and offers sumptuous rooms combining modern elements with Renaissance flair. Starting at 750€, breakfast for 48€. Strong points: the Spa, the Michelin-starred restaurant, the magnificent park. One of the best luxury hotels in Florence!

Wondering what to do in Florence in 2 days with kids?

If you’re planning a weekend in Florence with family , you might need to tailor the itinerary a bit, especially if you have young kids who may get bored in the museums.

Note that these museums are often free for those under 18 years old.

Here are a few visits and activities I recommend:

• Checking out Piazza del Duomo
• A stroll in the Boboli and Bardini gardens
• Visiting the Leonardo da Vinci Museum
• Exploring the Galileo Museum, the museum of the history of science
• Tasting a delicious Italian ice cream!
• Taking a carousel ride in Piazza della Repubblica
• Attending a family-friendly guided tour of Florence complete with treasure hunt
• Taking a family pizza-making class
• Visiting Parco delle Cascine, which features playgrounds and an outdoor swimming pool.

If you wish to modify my itinerary a bit or add something to complete your 2-day visit plan in Florence , I suggest you read my complete guide to the city.

It has everything you need to wrap up those two days in Florence.

You can read it by clicking directly on this link: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Florence.

To help you visualize your routes during these 2 days in Florence, I’ve created a map listing places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking on the button at the top left with a small arrow. This will allow you to view the itineraries for each day.

Florence has an international airport.

Since flight prices to Italy vary a lot, it is a good idea to compare them as early as possible. To do so, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. This ensures you get the best fare.

Pisa Airport is just one hour from Florence by train, so it may also be worthwhile to compare prices . Flight fares are generally lower for arrivals in Pisa.

You can then check the schedules and book your train tickets to Florence directly by clicking on the button below:

If you are considering renting a car for your 2-day stay in Florence , I recommend comparing prices on the website Booking.com Cars .

There, you will find all the available rental companies and even better, cancellation or modification is free of charge!

Now you know how to visit Florence in 2 days!

Need help organizing your 2-day itinerary in Florence? Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments.

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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1 DAY IN FLORENCE – Secret tips from a local

Are you going to Florence (Firenze) in Italy and you only have 1 day to discover it? That indeed is a tricky task, but here we come to help you plan your perfect itinerary!

I have spoken with Antonia Fest , a Florence expert, to get you covered!

In this guide, we will show you hour-by-hour how to see the best of Florence in 1 day and truly make the most of your limited time in this magical city!

To make the planning easier we have selected the best hotels, restaurants, and activities including those secret spots only locals know about. 

Let’s dive in!

Table of contents

Florence – basic facts, 1 day in florence – itinerary, where to stay in florence, final tips for your 1 day in florence.

Florence is one of the most visited cities in the world . And it doesn’t matter if you are young or old, traveling on a budget or seeking a luxurious escape, a solo traveler, or a family, Florence will have something for everyone!

Why is it so special ? First of all, it is the main city in Tuscany, a world-famous region in Italy. Secondly, its history, architecture, and art will impress anyone! Lastly, its food and wine will make any trip an enjoyable experience.

But let me tell you one thing. This 1 day in Florence will certainly not be enough time to fully explore the city, but it is more than enough time to fall in love with it!

So what are we waiting for? Let’s dive in and plan the perfect one-day in Florence for you!

IS 1 DAY IN FLORENCE ENOUGH?

It is without a doubt not enough to have 1 day to see all that Florence has to offer but it is a good start to get to know it. On this action-packed day , you will be able to cover the most iconic landmarks, restaurants as well as views . 

In the itinerary below, we have done our best to cut all that is unnecessary and worked on logistics from getting from one place to another to help you fall in love with Florence by showing you the best of it in 24 hours.

GETTING THERE

Florence is located in the central part of Italy in the famous region of Tuscany (Toscana in Italian). There are many ways of getting to Florence:

If you come from outside of Italy then it will be easiest for you to fly to Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR). It is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the city center, making it very accessible either by taxi (around 25 EUR) or public transportation.

In case you cannot find a direct flight to Florence or the direct flight is too expensive (which is often the case) try flying either to Pisa or Rome.

Florence is very easy to reach by train from other cities both in Italy and Europe, especially if you only plan on spending 1 day here. The main train station in Florence is called Santa Maria Novella . If you travel across Italy then you will be very easily and quickly able to get to Florence from major Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, Venice as well and Naples, making it a convenient and environmentally friendly way to travel.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

As anywhere in Italy avoid at all costs July and particularly August . It will be not only overcrowded but also overpriced! So when should you go? Ideally from May until mid-October . That said if you are lucky with the weather mid-April can be amazing and much emptier than other months. If you do come in April make sure to avoid Easter and the days around it, as it will be expensive and again overcrowded.

PRO TIP : If you do decide to come in late spring or summer try coming during the week , avoiding the weekends.

The secret to experiencing Florence in 1 day is getting an early start and finishing off late so make sure you have an early night the day before are full of energy and have comfortable shoes on! Off we go!

Either have breakfast at your hotel or if you prefer something more authentic, head to Piazza Santo Spirito for a more immersive experience. Any of the cafes that line the square will serve up the perfect cappuccino and cornetto (croissant). Our favorite is Cafe Volume . Take a seat outside and watch Florentine life pass by.

You cannot visit Florence without going to the Uffizi Galleries by the Piazza della Signoria. This museum hosts some of the world’s most important artworks by Renaissance artists. Don’t miss Botticelli’s ‘Birth of Venus,’ Caravaggio’s ‘Medusa’ or Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Annunciation.’

TIP: Make sure to book your ticket ahead so you don’t waste precious time standing in line. Also, as one of the top sites in Florence, it can be very crowded – the earlier you go the better (doors open at 8:15) and weekdays are generally quieter.

You could spend a lifetime in the Uffizi but there is still plenty to see! Enjoy a post-culture snack at Procacci on Via Tornabuoni. This little jewel is a wine and truffle bar that makes little brioche sandwiche s filled with truffle paste which is a secret recipe. It is the perfect mid-morning snack to keep you going!

For art lovers head to Collezione Roberto Casam onti just down the road from Procacci. Sometimes it’s nice to get a breath of more modern air in this distinctly Renaissance city. Enjoy the likes of Basquiat, Marina Abramović, and Maurizio Cattelan. Located in a historic sixteenth-century palazzo.

TIP: The gallery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and is open from 11:15 – 19:00 on all other days.

Alternatively, if you’d like a break from art altogether, a visit to a local market will give you a true taste of local Florentine life . The Mercato Cent rale is great for exploring the various produce stalls on the lower floor as well as buying some treats to take home. On the upper floor, a range of food stands serving a whole variety of freshly prepared Florentine delicacies await. For a more authentic experience of market life, head to the Mercato di Sant’Ambro gio . This is where all the real locals do their weekly shop. If you’re already feeling peckish, Trattoria da Rocca is a cheap and cheerful spot located within the market hall. Here not only the food but also the atmosphere and the service are faultless.

Get ready to work up your appetite and walk to the other side of town. Located just outside the medieval city walls, this is the friendliest, coziest, does-it-best trattoria. At Alla Vecchia Bettola you will sit at communal tables whilst lively waiters navigate the narrow spaces to serve up some of the most delicious Tuscan treats . Their specialty is the ‘ Penne alla Bettola ’, a silky smooth tomato pasta which no words are good enough to describe! Make sure to try their tiramisu. In case it’s booked up, a strong alternative is l’Brindellone . It is very rustic, and unpretentious, and serves bold Tuscan food. The truffle pasta is a must and you will like how little it costs !

After lunch, head to the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens , which was home to the old rulers of Florence – the Medici family. Even if you only have 1 day in Florence you just cannot miss this place! This impressive structure holds countless masterpieces in lavish rooms which reflect the years in which the Medicis held influence. The expansive and luscious Boboli gardens are also the site of beautiful treasures such as a Tiffany-blue house, a breathtaking grotto, and a glorious view of the city !

Head to Sbrino for some of the best and most underrated gelato in town. The ice cream is made with 100% natural ingredients which range from indulgent chocolatey and nutty flavours to seasonal fruits and more!

Time for some shopping therapy and there is nowhere better than the Officina Profumo – Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella on Via della Scala. This is a historic perfumery and herbalist shop, dating back to 1221. It is the perfect place to purchase some souvenirs but even if you don’t buy anything, the store itself is a sight to behold.

Another classic Florentine souvenir is an item made of the finest leather. You will find plenty of market stalls around the city that sell any leather product you can think of (San Lorenzo market or Mercato del Porcellino) but the shops are arguably better value and quality . Benhea rt is a great option as it sells a huge variety of products and the staff know what they’re talking about! Also, perhaps you want to feel like Florentine royalty in a pair of chic furlane slippers . Heart to Heart in Via Santo Spirito sells every color and style in their shop along with some other high-quality garments and accessories. On the same road, a little further down is Ortigia , an iconic scent shop with beautiful packaging and even more beautiful scents, all inspired by the Italian south.

One of the highlights of visiting Florence even in 1 day is the sunset . As the sun sets and golden hour begins to bathe Florence in that characteristic light, make sure to find a great spot for your aperitivo . If you can’t get a seat at the terrace bar at Palazzo Guadagni you can try your luck on the rooftop of H otel Continentale which shoulders the Ponte Vecchio.

TIP: Booking in advance is advised.

For those who prefer to keep their feet at ground level, the Piazza Santo Spirito is always buzzing with life and a great way to drink like and with the locals .

Dinner must be at Trattoria Sostanza . It doesn’t get more authentic than this tiny, hole-in-the-wall trattoria which looks and smells exactly how you would imagine an old-school local Italian restaurant. You must order the artichoke omelette and the butter chicken which arrives at your table still sizzling.

TIP: There are two seatings at dinner (19.30 or 21.00). But the later slot is always better as you don’t need to rush through your meal. Also, make sure to book in advance.

In case that’s booked up, find a table at La Giostra instead. A very different atmosphere to Sostanza, this is one of the most romantic spots in Florence. Fairy lights adorn the ceiling and glow upon happy diners enjoying beautifully prepared and presented food. When in Florence, you have to try a Bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine T-Bone steak), and La Giostra is known for the quality of theirs. 

To round up a perfect day in Florence, enjoy a drink at one of the many eligible spots in town. For true class, head to the A trium Bar at the Four Seasons – a luxurious space with unparalleled cocktails. For a more low-key experience, Il Santino is a cozy wine bar frequented by locals .

If you’re looking for modern cocktails in a historic setting, Locale will blow you away with its inventive drinks list that contrasts beautifully with the 16th-century palazzo interiors. Finally, Piazza Santo Spirito is again the faithful spot that will never let you down as it is buzzing with life every night of the week.

If you’re still full of energy, head over to Jazz Club Firence next to the Florence Cathedral. Live music performances and an intimate dancefloor promise a great end to the night!

Even if you stay in Florence for 1 day, we assume you will sleep there. Luckily, Florence has a place to stay for every budget , but please find below our top choices for staying in this magical city.

PALAZZO GUADAGNI

By now, this hotel’s terrace is famous for its prime spot to enjoy aperitivo at golden hour. That said, one should not overlook Palazzo Guadagni for its services beyond its Aperol Spritz. Situated at the social hub of the city, it is ideally located on the corner of Piazza Santo Spirito .

Right in front of the hotel, there is a host of bars and restaurants which both locals and tourists frequent. The rooms are spacious, characterful, and charming, the staff is more than accommodating. Above all, the crowning glory is the view from the bedrooms (and terrace bar) overlooking the Piazza Santo Spirito and beyond!

HOTEL TORRE DI BELLOSGUARDO

This fairytale hotel is located on the outskirts of Florence . Even though it is about a 20-minute walk from the city walls it is worth adding in the extra steps. Hotel Torre Belvedere is a medieval palazzo that has maintained all the character of its bygone days.

A bonus is the swimming pool overlooking the stunning panorama of Florence! And if it wasn’t enough the hotel has olive groves and vineyards on all sides. Make sure to also have a drink in the sun-drenched conservatory. It is beautiful and in the evening it is full with candles! Book it here.

FOUR SEASONS

Nothing other than an institution, the Four Seasons is the ultimate luxury hotel experience . Although it is right in the heart of Florence, the ornate rooms breathe the tranquillity of a Tuscan countryside escape . What is better than waking up under 17th-century frescoed ceilings, and indulging in a perfectly crafted cappuccino (or two!) before exploring Florence?

Whether you are staying overnight or dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant you will have a faultless Florentine experience. The service is impeccable, the interiors are a treat for the eyes, and every one of your needs are met.

TIP: Make sure you come and see Four Seasons even if you aren’t staying here overnight! You can for example have a drink at Atrium Bar .

HOTEL LUNGARNO

If you want to enjoy Florence in classic style, look no further than the Hotel Lungarno. It belongs to the Ferragamo family, who are also an important Florentine fashion house.

You will find it right along the river on one of Florence’s best streets . The bonus is that the bedrooms overlook the magnificent Ponte Vecchio! Book here.

PALAZZO D’OLTRARNO – RESIDENZE D’EPOCA

Palazzo D’Oltrarno used to be a noble residence for the Florentine elite. However, it is the perfect option for a more budget-friendly yet comfortable stay! There are 6 massive bedrooms and the location is ideal in Borgo San Frediano. This means that you will be close to a bunch of cool new restaurants and bars as well as Santo Spirito. Book it here .

Florence truly is a special place and you will fall in love with the city, even if you only have 1 day to discover it!

Please consider the following points to make the most of your trip:

• Try to visit Florence outside of peak seasons as it gets extremely overcrowded and hence expensive.
• Booking early is key! This applies to hotels, museums, and restaurants.
• Start your day early and beat the queues. It would be a pity to waste time queuing if you only have 1 day in Florence!

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