Things to see in Florence
Florence is a city that captivates at first sight. Whether you have just one day or a whole weekend, there is always something extraordinary to see and do. This guide will help you make the most of your itinerary, whether you want to explore the city's artistic wonders or get lost in its historic streets.
Tips to Save Time and Money
If you want to optimize your itinerary and save on attractions, consider purchasing a combo pass. The Florence Pass, for example, gives you skip-the-line access to top museums, discounts on other attractions, and even includes an audio guide app to explore the city independently. Also, look into combined guided tours that offer great packages to visit multiple attractions in a single day.
What to Do in Florence in 1 Day
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, where you can admire masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Purchasing a combo ticket that also includes entry to the Accademia Gallery and Brunelleschi's Dome is a smart way to save time and money.
Afternoon: After the Uffizi, head to the Florence Cathedral. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, with its extraordinary dome designed by Brunelleschi, is a must-see. Climbing to the top offers a breathtaking view of the city. Don't forget to visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of Florence’s oldest monuments, renowned for its bronze doors.
Evening: Take a stroll along the Ponte Vecchio and soak in the romantic atmosphere of the Arno River. End your day in Piazza della Signoria, where you can admire the Palazzo Vecchio and the statues that decorate the square. If you still have energy, stop by the Mercato del Porcellino to pick up a souvenir.
What to Do in Florence in 2 Days
With two days, you can explore Florence at a more relaxed pace and dive deeper into your visit. On the first day, add a visit to the Boboli Gardens, a green oasis offering stunning views of the city. Don't miss the Pitti Palace, with its art collections and royal apartments. If you love contemporary art, the Museo Novecento might be a pleasant surprise.
On the second day, discover the Oltrarno, Florence’s artisan district. Visit the San Lorenzo Market to taste Tuscan specialties and shop for local products. If you are an art enthusiast, consider a guided tour including the Basilica of Santa Croce, the resting place of luminaries such as Michelangelo and Galileo. For shopping, explore the boutiques of Via de' Tornabuoni or browse the Mercato Centrale.
What to Do in Florence in 3 Days
Three days in Florence allow you to explore the surroundings as well. Dedicate the third day to a day trip to Pisa and Siena or a tour of Chianti to taste Tuscan wines. If you prefer to stay in the city, a hop-on hop-off bus tour is a stress-free way to explore every corner. Consider a walk to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset for a stunning panoramic view of the city.
If you love history, visit the Bargello Museum, home to one of the most important collections of Renaissance sculpture. For garden enthusiasts, besides the Boboli Gardens, the lesser-known but charming Rose Garden offers a perfect spot for a relaxing break.
