florence weekend trip

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Weekend in Florence: EVERYTHING Wonderful 2 Day Itinerary

A weekend in Florence? Sounds amazing. But I debated whether to write this post – everyone’s already written about Florence! But then, I felt very unprepared in Florence even after reading everything.

Florence is….busy. Florence is home to just 300,000 people and yet the city seems to swell to the millions thanks to all the tourists. But, if you can accept this, Florence is the heart of Italy’s craftsmanship.

Seemingly around every corner someone is doing something amazing. Leatherwork, jewelry, clothing, the level of artisanship is off the charts. Unlike there famous cities the prices aren’t even ridiculous for the level of work involved. But that’s enough about that – let’s get into where to go, eat, and sleep on your weekend in Florence!

Where to Go on a Weekend in Florence

To be honest, the best thing about Florence is walking around. Sure, you can make a list – and you should prioritize one or two things, but the real experience comes from being there. Seeing the architecture, the shops, the art, that’s what you come to Florence for and it’s almost impossible to plan everything ahead.

But if you have a weekend in Florence, these are some of the best things to keep in mind:

Florence Cathedral/Duomo

This is one of the coolest bits of architecture I’ve ever seen in person. For those of you who played the Assassin’s Creed games, it’s like a weird dream coming true? Look up at the bell tower and think about how you climbed that (and then fell…and then climbed it again…and fell – but eventually!).

Going inside the Cathedral depends how long you’re willing to wait. For some reason, it opens quite late at 10:15 which gives even the late risers time to stumble on down and join the line for a half hour before it opens. To be honest, while the pictures of the inside are gorgeous, there are thousands of gorgeous churches in Italy that you don’t have to wait for.

For most, I think the real delight lies in the outside, where incredible bronze doors are visible with no line, mixed with the aforementioned incredible architecture.

Shopping on the Ponte Vecchio

For those of you who have seen a Room with a View, or any other of the many stunning movies made in Italy, it’s a must to cross the River Arno. And Ponte Vecchio has some of the best views of the classic bridges and beautiful buildings that make up the city.

Additionally, this is where most of the jewelry shopping is to be had. There are some absolutely stunning shops here, and if I ever get engaged I’d be tempted to come here for the ring. Some of the prices are outrageous but most were surprisingly…accurate, if not cheap, for the artistry involved.

The Artisans

As I mentioned, most of a weekend in Florence is in the experiences. As you walk around the city, you will encounter the most beautiful pieces of jewelry, art, clothing and more. Ricami Veronica is so much fun – buy an apron or chef’s hat and they’d hand embroider it for you right there!

It’s the coolest thing ever.

I went to probably 10 different glove shops to find the perfect leather gloves with a cashmere lining and fur. I stalked a jewelry website from a company I found, hoping to find the loveliest amber jewelry on sale (it sold out and I’m still bitter about it). Print shops, book shops, trying on amazing jackets in leather works shops – all made by the artisans who call Florence home. Save your spending money for here!

Ever wondered where all the most famous Italian works of art are? Like that painting of Aphrodite with the seashell? It’s all here (except the Statue of David is in the Academia Gallery and you’ll want timed tickets if that interests you).

But if you aren’t terribly interested in spending your few short hours on your weekend in Florence in a museum, don’t worry. The absolutely gorgeous arcades, arches, and hidden courtyards are absolutely chock full of both beautiful art and architecture.

Just being outside the Uffizi was an absolutely highlight.

Boboli Gardens

If you only have a weekend in Florence, this is the place to bookmark. No matter the time of year, these gardens are huge, beautiful, and impressive. Much like Versailles creates an aura that brings you back to the past, these gardens feel real. Especially the cool little mazes, which make it easy to lose crowds and find yourself wandering alone.

The porcelain museum is a fun, quick touch to give you some insight – and the views from outside this area are quintessentially Tuscan.

If you’re planning to do both the Uffizi, Bobble, and some of the other paid attractions such as the Pitti Palace, you should buy a combo ticket for 38euros. It also comes with priority admissions. The Boboli Gardens are 12euros by themselves.

Ice Skating on a Weekend in Florence

Did you know you can go ice skating, outdoors, in Florence? I certainly didn’t! And what a wonderful, random memory it is. In the Florence ice village in the winter months you can rent skates to race around a loopy path around a pond.

I enjoy things like this that keep the different places from running together in my head. I’ll never forget skating (annnnd probably breaking something in my foot) in Florence.

Daytrip to Bologna

If you have more than just a weekend in Florence, I highly recommend tacking on Bologna. It’s not too far away and it’s easy to see most everything in a day.

UNESCO World Heritage porticoes which seem to go on forever, churches within churches, live music around every corner, and a more relaxed college-town feel. Great pastry shops and delicious food are available on every street.

Beware the popular boards of meat and cheese unless you’re used to eating a lot – I’ll never forget my bucket of meat I took as take away! Don’t upgrade the board to have more, at the very least 😛

And that’s all of the things you should do on a weekend in Florence!

Liked “A Weekend in Florence?” Check out my other posts!

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• A Weekend in Florence

Spending a Wonderful Weekend in Florence

Florence's historical center is quite small but it's packed with things to see and do. It's a wonderful "outdoor" museum all on its own, where you can spend all day exploring its streets and architecture without the need of paying a museum ticket.

This makes it an undoubtedly perfect destination for a weekend to spend in the company of your partner, friends or family.

If you are visiting Florence for the first time, you won't want to miss seeing "symbols" of the city: the Uffizi Gallery , Michelangelo's David (the original is the Accademia Gallery ), the Duomo and Brunelleschi's Dome , Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria, as well as trying out delicious local cuisine such as the delicious Florentine steak, ribollita or pappa al pomodoro.

The problem, if we want to see it like that, is that there is way more interesting things to do than we have time for! But you can still see a lot even if you only have 2 days to visit the "cradle of the Renaissance". We recommend that if you're planning to visit museums, you buy your tickets ahead of time to save some of the precious time you have and not have to deal with long lines.

Here are our suggestions on how to organize your weekend, whether you visit as a couple on a romantic getaway , on a short cultural weekend or a weekend trip with your children .

A ROMANTIC GETAWAY

Florence is not only beautiful, it is also a terribly romantic city. Together with your loved one you can enjoy a walk on the Ponte Vecchio and along the Arno river at sunset , enjoying the terrific panoramic view from Piazzale Michelangelo , walking through the most characteristic city neighborhoods such as San Frediano and Santo Spirito .

If you want to surprise your partner, climb to the top of Brunelleschi's cathedral dome or of the Tower of Arnolfo of Palazzo Vecchio : the view will leave you breathless!

During your two-day stay you can visit at least one of the museums in Florence. If the Uffizi seem too challenging an undertaking (considering you should take at least 3-4 hours just to visit the most famous artworks), you can opt for the Accademia or for the Bargello which are smaller museums but with fantastic collections.

Shopping lovers will find delight in visiting both the artisan workshops in the Oltrarno district as well as the designer brand and luxury boutiques and shops on Via Roma and Via Tornabuoni . There are also many other shops, as well as more affordable ones to all budgets, throughout the center. If you want to know more, I suggest you read this article on shopping in Florence .

For a special coffee shop, I suggest Rivoire in Piazza della Signoria or Caffe Gilli and Paskoski in Piazza della Repubblica. You'll enjoy a break in one of the most famous coffee shops in Florence, just know that prices are also higher than average.

If you would like to enjoy a drink before dinner , called an aperitivo in Italy, you can choose the romantic setting at Il Santino in Santo Spirito or one of the other tops spots for aperitifs in Florence .

A CULTURAL WEEKEND

Trying to condense all the art and cultural treasures in Florence into just two days is impossible so the real challenge for your weekend trip is to decide what to see and what to leave out for a future trip.

In addition to the very famous aforementioned Uffizi and Accademia museums and the Duomo, I'd like to bring several other "gems" worth visiting to your attention!

In the historical center : the beautiful Palazzo Pitti and its collections, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella , the small but lovely Brancacci Chapel , the museum of San Marco with its frescoes by Fra Angelico and the Baptistery .

In the outskirts : Just a few kilometers from Florence's center, you can visit the Medici villas of La Petraia (pictured above) and Villa di Castello (unfortunately only the gardens are open to visitors).

For more ideas about Florence's historical and artistic treasures, read this article on what to see in Florence in 2 days .

ART AND FUN WITH CHILDREN

Florence is perfect for children as far as size goes. The historical center is concentrated in a small area, making it easily explorable by foot or with a stroller (with a bit of bumps on the cobblestones still present on some streets, which depending on age, they might enjoy ;-) ).

Only you parents will know the length to which your own children will tolerate being in museums or other similar "boring" places. Yet, there are several Florentine museums who have created programs especially dedicated for the little ones , and even if your short is stay, we think you can take some of them into consideration.

At the very top is Palazzo Vecchio's Muse which has created fun itineraries for children to discover history and the palace. On the weekend, you'll find tours and activities designed just for families (starting from 3-4 years of age and up); you can read the details on the official website .

The Natural History Museum has a fine collection of fossils (including some very impressive reconstructions of mammals) in the section on Palaeontology, while lovers of minerals can satisfy their curiosity in the Mineralogy and Geology section. Read more details on the official website .

The interesting collections of the Archaeological Museum (which houses the famous Chimera found in Arezzo) include the Egyptian Collection which is second only to Turin's Egyptian Museum by number of artifacts.

If you have budding scientists in your household, the extraordinary collection of astronomical and scientific instruments at the Galileo Museum (the Institute and Museum of the History of Science ) may well win them over.

All you need to do now is decide when you're coming to Florence and start planning your weekend in this beautiful city!

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A weekend in Florence: The ultimate itinerary

From city views to the wine bars (and lots of pasta), here's a detailed local's guide to taking on the city

Looking for a city break that excels in food, wine, art and culture in equal measure? With dreamy vistas and medieval history at every turn, the small yet perfectly-formed Tuscan capital is hard to beat for a long weekend of dolce vita living. It’s the birthplace of the Renaissance, but also of negronis, gelato and vodka pasta.

Swarmed by an estimated 15 million visitors each year, the city of Florence  is hardly a well-kept secret. Still, with a little inside knowledge, you can tick off the big-ticket items (hello, Uffizi) and leave plenty of time for spontaneous wine tastings and market strolling during your long weekend.

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best restaurants in Florence 📍  The best things to do in Florence 🛏️ Where to stay in Florence 🏡 The best  Airbnbs in Florence

Phoebe Hunt is a writer based in Florence. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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A local's guide to Florence

How to get there

Florence-Peretola International Airport is 6km outside of the city, connected by fast and frequent trams to the city centre. Tram tickets cost 1.50€ each way, and can be bought from kiosks on the platform.

Trains from Rome, Milan, Pisa and other major European cities arrive at Santa Maria Novella Station , also known as Stazione Centrale, which is located a ten-minute walk from the historic centre. There are taxis (Uber doesn’t exist here) and somewhat unreliable busses to get around town, but Florence is a small city, best enjoyed by foot where possible.

Where to stay

Florence’s beauty extends beyond the galleries and museums into homes across the city, and it’s not uncommon to find a centuries-old fresco casually preserved on an Airbnb wall.

In ultra-central Piazza della Repubblica , newly opened Hotel La Gemma is a luxurious choice with a spa and rooftop terrace. For a more affordable break, there are many kitsch and quirky apartments such as this  Santa Croce flat   which has panoramic views across the city’s terracotta rooftops. Ostello Tasso is one of the best-loved hostels in town, located in a cool neighbourhood just outside the centre. 

Friday: Touchdown in Florence

The Italian art of the passeggiata – a gentle stroll – is the best way to explore Florence. Sliced in half by the river Arno, the north of the city has most of the key cultural attractions, while the bohemian Oltrarno   district south of the river is all about artisan makers, cobbled streets and cosy restaurants. Heading in to the city centre, you can’t miss the looming presence of the Duomo , the giant dome of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral . Climb inside the dome for a vertigo-inducing peep into Florentine history, or head to Piazza Della Signoria and over the Ponte Vecchio – the only bridge to survive Nazi bombings – and continue getting your bearings.

Sunset and Spritz

Once over the Ponte Vecchio, amble along the Arno towards the sleepy San Niccolò neighbourhood and stop in one of the bars for a spritz and some stuzzichini, or bar snacks. As evening approaches, climbing up to Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset is a rite of passage for couples and backpackers alike: perch on the stone steps for a panoramic view over the city below. For dinner, you’re only a short walk down to Santo Spirito  and Borgo San Frediano , where cute wine bars and cosy trattorie like Trattoria Cammillo or Trattoria La Casalinga have a timeless appeal for both locals and tourists. 

📍 Check out more of Florence's coolest neighbourhoods

Saturday: Get your culture fix

Stendhal syndrome

There’s an alleged condition – Stendhal syndrome – in which visitors to Florence become overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the city, resulting in dizziness and a rapid heartbeat. Pace yourself and hit the Uffizi Galleries  first thing, before the crowds arrive. Built by the Medici family, who ruled Florence throughout the 15 th to 18 th centuries, the building is almost as impressive as the artworks crammed within. Be sure to see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Caravaggio’s Medusa, and a handful of Leonardo Da Vinci paintings. Afterwards, reward yourself with a cappuccino on the top floor viewing platform. From here, you can see the Vasari Corridor  – a secret passage once used by the Medici family – which goes all the way through the Uffizi, over the Ponte Vecchio and to the Pitti Palace nearly a kilometre away.

Snacks and souvenirs

Smug with all the culture you’ve consumed, it’s time to head to Mercato Sant’Ambrogio  for a different kind of sightseeing. All year round, this local, colourful and chaotic morning food market is awash with the freshest Italian produce. Sample truffle-infused cheeses, pickled artichokes, persimmons and cherries, picking up some goodies for lunch. Alternatively, stop off at Caffe Cibrèo , one of the neighbourhood’s most iconic restaurants, for a traditional Tuscan lunch of offal and tripe. In winter, try their wickedly rich hot chocolate, so thick you need a spoon to enjoy it.

Religious reckoning

If you’re going to visit one church on this trip, make it Santa Croce , a vast and ornate basilica that houses the graves of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and many other famous Florentines. Afterwards, poke your nose into the artisan leather workshop Scuola del Cuoio , and watch purses, belts and wallets being made by hand. 

🏛️ Check out our guide to the best museums in Florence

Sunday: La Vita Italiana

Your final day in Florence is for eating, drinking and shopping. Begin with a coffee and a cremino – a custard-stuffed pastry – at Perseo  in Piazza della Signoria, where silver platters and old-school glamour abound. If you don’t have the time or inclination to make it to the Accademia Gallery  to see Michelangelo’s original Statue of David, the life-size replica in Piazza della Signoria does the trick, without the need for queueing.

Gathering goodies

For picking up souvenirs, Mercato Centrale is your best bet, selling leather goods, marbled Florentine paper, clothes and knick-knacks galore. Be prepared to haggle. Not far from here, one of Florence’s most unique shopping experiences is Officina Profumo Farmaceutica Santa Maria Novella , which claims to be the oldest pharmacy in the world. Tracing its roots back to 1221, the shop is all dark wood and elaborate frescoes. The deliciously scented candles and lotions are not cheap, but makes for excellent presents. Continue on to Casa del Vino , an adorable wine bar that’s stuck in time, for a glass of Chianti Classico.  Most Sundays, there’s also a wonderful vintage and craft market in Piazza Santo Spirito , a local neighbourhood with a slower pace of life. End your afternoon with a mooch around the Oltrarno followed by a gelato at the best spot in town, Sbrino .

And if you’re staying one more night…

Book tickets to the iconic Teatro del Sale , founded by the late Fabio Picci and his wife Maria Cassi. Bringing together live performance and traditional Tuscan cooking, it makes for a marvellous evening. The theatre is all in Italian, so opt for the live music nights if you can.  

🛍️ Check out our guide to  shopping in Florence

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Plan a weekend in Florence day-by-day

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

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• a-day-by-day-itinerary-for-the-perfect-weekend-in-florence

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 2.01.2022

Spend a weekend in Florence and discover a city which captures the essence of Italy. It's the birthplace of modern Italian language and the seat of the Renaissance . Dante wrote Divina Commedia here and it's also where to see the Duomo and browse the Uffizi . Ready to go? Have a look at how to plan perfect weekend breaks in Florence. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy your essential guide for visiting Italy .

Day 1 of a weekend in Florence

Day 2 of weekend breaks in florence, tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

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From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Tailor-made trips for   Italy

1. Start at the Uffizi Gallery

Make the legendary Galleria degli Uffizi your first stop for its collection of Renaissance masterpieces displayed across a grand, three-floor exhibition space right in the heart of historic Florence .

It's one of the city's many must-do sights and can get incredibly busy, especially in high summer. So with just a weekend to play with, avoid queues and book a small group tour of the Uffizi in advance.

A weekend in Florence is an art history lesson © Lorenzooooo/Shutterstock

2. See Giotto frescoes at Santa Croce

Your next stop should be the church of Santa Croce . Another major site in Florence, it was founded in the 13th century and is perhaps best known for the Pazzi Chapel which contains Giotto's remarkable St. Francis frescoes.

A base close to the historic centre of Florence will make the most of your weekend, so think about booking La Casa di Morfeo . It's a charming boutique hotel and right next to Santa Croce so you can spend more time browsing.

The frescoes in the Church of Santa Croce in Florence © Frnco Volpato/Shutterstock

3. Take a break for lunch

Avoid tourists and bag a bargain picnic lunch of salami, cheese and biscotti at Sant’Ambrogio food market. Alternatively, head to Il Pizzaiuolo on Via dei Macci and treat yourself to the city's best pizza.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Italy or Italy Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Italy expert.

4. Cross Ponte Vecchio in the afternoon

You can't visit Florence without crossing the famous Ponte Vecchio at least once. It's the city's oldest bridge, crosses the River Arno and links the historic centre to the Oltrarno district.

The bridge itself is home to many of the finest jewellers in Italy, and always has been, so its century old shops are wonderful. And Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio is one of the grandest hotels in Florence, should you feel like splashing out.

Ponte Vecchio is a must see on weekend breaks in Florence © fokke baarssen/Shutterstock

5. Palazzo Pitti and its marvellous gardens

Plan to spend a few hours in Palazzo Pitti exploring incredible museums like Galleria Palatina which contains over 500 works from the Medici collection including the world's largest concentration of paintings by Raphael.

You may only have a weekend, but make sure to leave a little time for the Giardino di Boboli. Or you could organise your day wisely and book a guided tour of Palazzo Pitti, see everything and avoid ticket queues.

Palazzo Pitti and Boboli gardens in Florence © Lucy/Shutterstock

6. Fit Cappella Brancacci into a weekend break in Florence

Visit 15th century Capella Brancacci in Santa Maria del Carmine just off Piazza del Carmine. Often called 'the Sistine of the early Renaissance', the Capella is part of the main church and best known for its extraordinary Masaccio frescoes

If early Renaissance Florence appeals to you, stay in the 15th century at Santo Nome di Gesú on Piazza del Carmine, close to Capella Brancacci and a short walk from Palazzo Pitti and Ponte Vecchio.

7. Join Florence for aperitivo then dinner

Do as locals do in Florence and make for the Sante Croce area in time for aperitivo. And if you're here in summer, Sant’Ambrogio's rooftop bars serve up aperitivo with a side of stunning city views.

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa is a great weekend break base and it's just a few minutes walk from Ristorante Oliviero on Via delle Terme, an excellent choice for classic Florentine cooking.

1. Discover the Renaissance at Bargello

The Museo Nazionale del Bargello , or Bargello as it's better known, concentrates on the Renaissance. Visit to see Michelangelo sculptures and works by Cellini, Donatello and Verrocchio or take a guided walking tour of Florence for the in-depth Bargello experience.

Florence - Bargello palace (medieval jail and police station) © Route66/Shutterstock

2. Always do the Duomo in Florence

The Duomo dome is practically the symbol of Florence. Designed by Brunelleschi in the 15th century it remains one of the world's most remarkable feats of engineering, dominates the city and is even more impressive up close.

Climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for unmatched views of Florence and beyond. Or, if you really want to get under the skin of Florence's most famous landmark, take a Duomo small group tour .

Duomo Santa Maria Del Fiore in Florence Italy © Songquan Deng/Shutterstock

3. Visit Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The magnificent Museo dell’Opera del Duomo contains over 750 major works of art, including Michelangelo's The Deposition, more commonly know as the Florentine Pieta.

The Donatella room is another reason to visit, and the museum is also home to important artefacts from the Baptistery di San Giovanni displayed here for conservation purposes. To make the most of your weekend, stay at nearby Hotel Duomo Firenze .

Architectural element with stone relief in Museo dell'Opera del Duomo © Aliaksandr Famin/Shutterstock

5. See the San Lorenzo and Medici tombs

Enormous San Lorenzo Church is another Brunelleschi masterpiece to discover in Florence. Not only does it contain works by Michelangelo and Donatello, its also where you can see the monumental Medici Mausoleum.

Take your time to explore the vast San Lorenzo complex, then visit Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana next door. Or go deeper still, book a tour, and follow in the footsteps of the Medici with local guides.

6. Santa Maria Novella and its museum

Santa Maria Novella's exterior is one of the most distinctive in Italy and many consider the church to be more handsome than any other in Florence , where beautiful churches are certainly not in short supply.

The church façade is by Alberti and, if you've time to explore, you'll discover frescoes by Ghirlandaio decorating the interior. Don't miss the nearby museum and think about staying at Hotel Croce di Malta , a short walk from Santa Maria Novella.

Santa Maria Novella church in Florence © onairda/Shutterstock

7. Head to San Frediano for dinner

Enjoy a leisure last night dinner at iO in San Frediano. Once a traditional Florentine delicatessen, this interesting restaurant is now a slow-food movement hero and specialises in fresh, sustainable and seasonal local ingredients.

Ready to travel to Italy ? Find out about the best time to go and the best places to see and things to do in Italy . For inspiration use the Italy itineraries from The Rough Guide to Italy and our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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2 days in Florence Itinerary: An Epic Weekend in Florence

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Florence is a city everyone needs to visit at least once in their life. It has a special place in my heart as I studied abroad here and have been back more times than I can count. Once you set foot in this Renaissance city, you’ll see why most visitors can’t seem to get enough!  Read my 2 days in Florence itinerary below to make the most of your trip!

2 days in Florence Itinerary: Spend a weekend in Florence

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Firenze is full of culture, charm, art, fashion, and incredible food. The size and walkability of the city center make a weekend in Florence perfectly doable and enjoyable. This itinerary will take you through the best views in Florence , top sights, restaurants, and museums. 

Don’t worry, I’ve made sure you’ll have time to take in the atmosphere, hit a few shops, and leisurely sip your wine as you take in the views and beat of the city. 

Continue reading to take all the guesswork out of how to spend a weekend in Florence. Whether this is the only city you’re visiting in Italy or if it’s one of many on your Italy itinerary , you’ll be glad you included Florence. If you’re like me, you’ll probably be booking a return trip sooner than you think!

Planning a trip to Florence Italy Travel Tips

Here are some important travel tips and information about Florence and Italy in general

• Airports: The nearest airport to Florence is in Pisa, called the Pisa Airport or PSA. Locals call it Peretola. It is about 75 minutes from Florence by train or bus – both of which arrive at and depart from the airport terminal.
• Currency : Euro
• Tourist Visa : Visa-free for US and Canadian passport holders for stay up to 90 days. Non-exempt countries need to apply for a Schengen Visa prior to arrival
• Where to stay : Hotel Alessandra or Portrait Firenze – Lungarno Collection
• Recommended tours: Ticket to Michelangelo’s David , Accademia Gallery , Uffizi Gallery
• Day trips from Florence: Day trip to Tuscany with wine and lunch , Cinque Terre day trip , Leaning tower of Pisa day tour

2 Day Florence Itinerary

• Day 1 of 2 Day Florence Itinerary: Accademia Gallery, San Lorenzo Market, Mercato Centrale, Duomo, and candlelit dinner at the center
• Day 2 of 2 Day Florence Itinerary: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Via de Tornabuoni, Pitti Palace
• The sightseeing map included below

Note that from October through March, on the first Sunday of the month, the state museums are free (Uffizi, Accademia, Bargello, Medici Chapels, Pitti Palace, and surrounding gardens), but they are extremely crowded. 

April to October is also a peak tourist season. Regardless of your time of visit do purchase your entry tickets to the museums ahead of time. 

Getting to Florence Italy:

When traveling from the USA or Canada, opt to fly to Rome or Milan and then make connections to Florence. Florence is located in the central part of Italy, in the Tuscany region. 

You can fly using domestic airlines, by car or public transportation. 

If traveling from Europe , you can book a flight to the Pisa Airport ‘PSA’, and then take a taxi or train to arrive in Florence. Travel time is about 75 minutes. 

The Pisa Airport has lots of low-cost flights in and out of the terminals. 

Where to stay in Florence Italy 

For a short weekend in Florence, we recommend the city centre for your accommodation. This neighbourhood is also perfect for first time travellers to Florence.

You will be at the heart of the medieval city, and can easily access the landmark attractions from here. 

• Portrait Firenze – Lungarno Collection: This is a luxury boutique hotel, located in the city centre, offering views of the Arno River and the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge. There is a restaurant on-site here. Click to view photos 
• Hotel Alessandra: Hotel Alessandra offers more affordable rooms than the previous hotel recommendation. But you can’t go wrong with this option due to its location. Plus it is only 250 m from the Uffizi Gallery. Hotel Alessandra is housed inside a 16th-century building. Check out prices and current availability
• Looking for more hotels in Florence: Search deals here

Day 1 of 2 days in Florence Itinerary: Accademia, San Lorenzo Market, Mercato Centrale, Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset and romantic dinner after

Start your day gazing upon one of the most famous works of art in the entire world – Michelangelo’s beloved David. 

Morning in Accademia Gallery

Book your visit to the Accademia in advance as days will often sell out weeks ahead of time. Trust me, you don’t want to put yourself in a position where you’re waiting hours in line in hopes of getting in that day. 

Book the earliest time slot available (usually 9:00 am) to not only beat the crowds but also get an early start on the day. Note that most museums in Florence are closed on Mondays, including the Accademia. 

Grab a coffee and a light snack at one of the many coffee bars you’ll walk by to and from the Accademia. You won’t miss them as they’re usually filled with locals and tourists standing at the bar sipping on espressos and cappuccinos. 

Or go for one of those “Instagrammable” cafes and pop into La Menagere . This newly opened café has the most adorable atmosphere. Prices are higher than a typical Italian café, but it’s a great option if you want to take a minute, sit down, read through your guidebook, etc. Try the Nutella croissant, it’s my favorite!

Now that you’re fueled with Italian espresso, it’s time for a sensory overload walk through two markets. 

Wander the bustling San Lorenzo Market

Start at the bustling San Lorenzo Market. This is a popular spot to buy souvenirs and leather goods. Be prepared for a few pushy salesmen to call at you as you walk by. Many tourists get annoyed by this, but I just laugh and consider it part of the fun. 

Full disclosure, I have never bought anything here nor would I highly recommend it. Unless you have an eye for true quality with leather goods or are just buying a few cheap trinkets…I would shop at the actual shops in Florence instead. If you do buy anything, this is a place to try your hand at haggling the price. 

Whether you buy something or not, you must wander the San Lorenzo Market at least once during your stay in Florence! It really is entertaining.

Head to Mercato Centrale next

The next market on the list is Mercato Centrale, an indoor food market with traditional food stalls on the first floor (meat, produce, cheese, etc.) and an Eataly on the second floor. 

For those not familiar with the Eataly layout, it’s basically a large open space filled with food stations and communal seating. Like a food court, except where the food and drinks are actually really good. 

This would be a great spot to grab a quick snack…or another coffee. You’ll have your pick of options. Pizza, gelato, coffee, wine, sushi, meats and cold cuts, fresh baked bread, truffles, and more! 

Don’t get the gelato here because I’m taking you to my favorite gelato spot in Florence later today.

Visit the Duomo

Leave the market and walk towards the river to arrive at the most iconic sight in Florence. The Duomo , also known as the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. 

Entrance to the cathedral is free. Paid admission is required for other areas including the climb to the Brunelleschi’s dome, Giotto’s bell tower, the Duomo Museum (worthwhile), and the Baptistry. 

If you have the time (and energy) to climb the dome, I highly recommend it. Not only do you get an inside look of the structure of the dome, but the views of Florence from this height are remarkable. 

It’s time for a gelato break. La Strega Nocciola is my favorite spot and it’s not uncommon for me to visit twice in one day. Try the Buontalenti flavor which is a specialty cream of Florence. The lavender is also very good. Actually…who am I kidding…every flavor is amazing!

If you’re gelato obsessed like me, read about the TOP 5 Florence gelato spots !

Trek to Piazzale Michelangelo

Time to burn off your gelato and make the trek to Piazzale Michelangelo . This is the most popular viewpoint to watch the sunset and get some amazing photos of the Florentine skyline. 

Hint : if you prefer to visit without the crowds, go at sunrise tomorrow.

Make your way down from Piazzale Michelangelo and take part in the aperitif tradition. A pre-dinner cocktail and snack. Since you’ve already crossed the river Arno to get to Piazzale Michelangelo, try the Santo Spirito neighborhood for your aperitif. 

Piazza Santo Spirito has several bars lining the square. I recommend sitting on the outside patio of Volume . 

Candlelit Dinner at Ristorante La Giostra

End your first day in Florence at one of my favorite restaurants in the world. If I died tomorrow, this would be my last meal. I’m 100% serious. Ristorante La Giostra has it all. 

A romantic candlelit atmosphere, incredible food and wine, and top-notch service. There’s a good chance you’ll also meet the owner who you won’t forget anytime soon with his quirky personality and the hundred silver bracelets adorning both forearms. 

Don’t let the romantic atmosphere keep you from dining solo. I’ve been there multiple times by myself and felt perfectly comfortable enjoying a meal on my own.

Advanced reservations are a must. Order whatever handmade ravioli they have that day. I’ve had both the pear with ricotta and the pumpkin. Both were divine.

Day 2 of 2 days in Florence Itinerary: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Via de Tornabuoni, Pitti Palace, dinner 

Start your second day in Florence at one of the most famous museums in the world. The Uffizi Gallery  houses the greatest collection of Italian paintings. 

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Gaze upon works by Leonardo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Michelangelo. Like the Accademia, tickets must be reserved in advance . Try to book the earliest time slot (usually around 8:15 am). Two hours should be plenty of time to admire the artwork.

The Uffizi is conveniently located on the Arno river. As you leave the gallery, walk towards the river and turn right. 

Now is the perfect time to wander down the Ponte Vecchio…before it gets swarmed by the afternoon and evening crowds. 

Capture the beauty of Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most photographed sights in Florence. The bridge is lined with gold and jewelry shops and makes for a beautiful backdrop. 

Once you’ve walked the length of the bridge, return to where you started and walk back towards the Uffizi. This is where you’ll want to take photos of the bridge from afar.

Pro tip: Another option to get the best view of the bridge is to visit Ponte Santa Trinita, and capture the bridge from there. 

Piazza della Signoria

After you’ve filled your memory card with Ponte Vecchio photos, go back through the Uffizi walkway to arrive at Piazza della Signoria . This is one of the grandest squares in Europe complete with an outdoor sculpture gallery, the fountain of Neptune, and a towering medieval fortress (Palazzo Vecchio). 

At the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio you’ll see a copy of the David. This is where the original once stood before it was moved indoors for protection. 

The square is alive and bustling with energy at all hours of the day. You can visit one of the expensive cafes surrounding the square…or…do what I do. Grab a giant €5 sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio . 

The most popular panini spot in Florence with over 22,000 reviews on Google Maps. It’s right around the corner from the square. Order your panini (don’t forget to add truffle cream) and walk back to the square. If you’re lucky, you’ll find an empty seat on the carved bench lining the sculpture gallery. 

You’re close to the main shopping streets, so now is the perfect time for a shopping break. 

Explore Via de Tornabuoni

Wander along  Via de Tornabuoni   for all the hottest designer names or go across the river for boutique shops and artisan workshops. 

If you’d rather skip shopping, visit another museum or sight on your list. 

Check out the Pitti Palace

The Bargello is a wonderful sculpture museum, the Pitti Palace houses several museums including a Costume Gallery and has exquisite gardens (the Boboli Gardens), the Galileo Science Museum, and the Museum of San Marco featuring works by Renaissance artist Fra Angelico. 

These would be my top options depending on your interests.

Dinner at Note di Vino

One aperitif is not enough, so we shall repeat the tradition on our second day in Florence. For something different than yesterday, try Note di Vino . You’ll have a view of the Basilica di Santa Croce. 

Order a €5 glass of wine paired with a €10 crostini board. Crostini, little toasts topped with an assortment of ingredients from cheese, to pate, or a truffle paste…this is a typical Italian aperitif snack. Take your time and enjoy the atmosphere on this quaint little street.

End your weekend in Florence with a lively dinner at Trattoria Zaza . I first came to Zaza to celebrate my 22nd birthday years and years ago. This place has exploded in popularity since. 

I was worried the quality would go downhill with its rise in fame, but it hasn’t. My absolute favorite dish is the fresh tagliatelle pasta with a duck ragu truffle sauce. The prices are fantastic and the décor is colorful and quirky. 

Reservations are essential. You’ll see why the moment you walk up. There will be a massive crowd surrounding the outdoor hostess stand, which feels more like a bouncer at a club determining who gets to enter and who must wait. I’m not at all exaggerating. 

If you go for an evening stroll, as I often do in Florence, cross the river one last time and enjoy a late-night gelato scoop at Gelateria La Carraia. They stay open until 12:00 am, so there’s no need to rush. 

My favorite flavor is the white chocolate pistachio and a one scoop cone will cost a grand total of €1…the same price it’s been for the last 15 years or so.

Other attractions in Florence

Here are a few more options for sightseeing in Florence. Feel free to swap any of the above attractions for these,

• Santa Maria Novella: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is a church located close to the central train station. Santa Maria Novella also houses important early Renaissance works of sculpture by Filippo Brunelleschi and Benedetto da Maiano.
• Piazza della Repubblica: This is the ancient heart of Florence and is the site of the Giubbe Rosse café where artists met in the early centuries. 
• Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee) : Medici Chapels are the twin structures housed in the 15th-century Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence’s historic center. They were built as expansions to the church and are the final resting place of the Medici Family.

Day trips from Florence: Extending your two day Florence trip

Road tripping in Italy, and want to explore more. We have a few recommendations for day trips from Florence. 

Cinque Terre from Florence:

You can visit Cinque Terre on a day trip from Florence. It takes 2.50 hours by road. Public transport takes a longer time. So if you are not renting a car, book this day tour with a round trip from Florence and back.

In this long day tour, you will visit the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, and also go hiking to soak in the views of the colorful houses on steep cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. 

Stop for lunch at a restaurant terrace in Corniglia with beautiful sea views, and explore local boutiques nearby. This tour also includes a boat ride along the coast. 

Tuscany Wine Day Trip

Visit the wine valley from Tuscany on an easy day tour. In this tour, you can explore the medieval architecture of Siena and its gothic-style Cathedral, walk the squares, and the grand towers of San Gimignano.

This day tour also includes a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and other impressive marble monuments in Pisa. 

The highlight of the tour is a farmhouse lunch with homemade pasta, cured meats, and local cheeses. – yum!

And the tour ends with a wine tasting of 4 Chianti region wines in a traditional wine estate. Find more information about the tour here

Pisa Day trip from Florence

If the Leaning Tower of Pisa is on your mind, you must pay a visit when you are staying in Florence. 

The distance between Florence and the Leaning Tower of Pisa is 69 km or 42.8 miles. The road distance is 90.3 km or 56 miles. So it will take 1 hour and 15 minutes by road.

If you are not renting a car, day tours and trains are an option.

You can take a train and get to Pisa Centrale in about 1 hour and 20 minutes to explore the tower and structures nearby. Costs are 5€ – 12€. 

Or you can opt for a day tour of 6 hours. Click here for more information

What to pack for a weekend trip to Florence

Here are some essential items to pack for your trip to Florence,

• Anti theft day pack or handbag: Carry a daypack or a hobo to keep your essentials and important documents when you are out and about. We prefer anti theft bags as they are equipped with anti cut and RFID technology. Here is what we recommend – click for the backpack AND here for the handbag .
• Universal Adaptor: Buy your adapter here to charge electronics. Italy uses a different power pins (unlike the ones we use here in North America)
• Power Bank: To charge electronics on the go. Buy yours here
• Comfortable walking shoes: For walking the city center of Florence or for hiking/trekking to scenic viewpoints, carry and wear comfortable walking shoes  
• Outfits: Flowy dresses, clean cut trousers, shirts/tops, hat
• If traveling in the winter , don’t forget to carry winter wear like a wool coat, boots, scarf, gloves and a nice warm hat
• For off season visits (fall and spring), add a warm cardigan and a scarf

Sightseeing Map with stops for 2 day Florence Itinerary

Additional Travel Tips: Florence Itinerary 2 days

Ideally 3 days in Florence will allow you to experience the city at ease. But 2 days in Florence is still enough to explore the city’s highlights – visit 1-2 museums and galleries, shop and dine in one of their amazing restaurants.

Florence is not as expensive as the capital city of Italy – Rome or Milan for that matter. It is possible to explore Florence on a budget. 3 star hotels and hostels with private rooms are available at $65 USD or around that price range. You can use public transport, and eat at local markets to save money. We recommend booking tickets online to secure your entry.

In a short weekend trip to Florence, we do recommend checking out the iconic Duomo, and the central area of Firenze. Pick 1-2 art museums that interest you. Don’t forget cuisines – eat gelatos, dine in a nice restaurant and enjoy your trip!

We recommend staying at the Florence city center for a short visit. This is the medieval and Renaissance centrum of Florence, and from here you can easily explore the Duomo in the north and the River Arno and Ponte Vecchio in the south.

I hope this itinerary for a weekend in Florence, Italy provides a memorable trip. These are the places I’ve been recommending to my family and friends for years. If you’re like me, I’m sure you’ll be planning your return trip after falling in love with Firenze!

About the Guest Writer: Ashley is the owner and creator of  Abroad with Ash . After leaving a career in finance, Ashley began focusing on her travel blog where she provides beneficial advice and insights through firsthand experience, itineraries, city guides, and top 5 lists to help others plan their next adventure. She currently resides in Texas and has a healthy obsession for coffee shops, travel deals, gelato, and Harry Potter. 

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How to Have the Perfect Florence Weekend Trip

I love Florence. It’s an incredibly city with rich history, amazing museums, great food, and beautiful surroundings. Here’s how to have the perfect weekend trip to Florence (including the best pistachio gelato I’ve ever had) and a Florence hidden gem.

Florence is a perfect city for a weekend trip. Whilst you could spend weeks soaking up all of the incredible Renaissance history in Florence, a weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend getting to know this pretty city. Here’s how to have the perfect Florence weekend trip.

How to get to Florence

Your best bet is by train! If you’re in Italy, it doesn’t really make sense to take a plane (expensive and time-consuming) or bus (takes ages). The Frecciarosa trains are high speed and we were able to get from Rome to Florence in just an hour and a half!

You’ll take the train into Firenze Santa Maria Novella, sometimes abbreviated as Firenze S.M.N. This train station is right in the heart of the city and is super convenient to get to.

How to spend your Florence Weekend Trip

Day 1: sightseeing.

Your first day in Florence should be jaw-dropping and awe-inspiring. Florence is the heart of the Renaissance and the history grounded in the city is absolutely breathtaking. This day is designed to show you some of Florence’s main sights.

Start out your day as the Italians start theirs: with a cappucino e cornetto . This has become one of my favourite ways to start the day since moving to Rome. Something so simple, but so GOOD, is a fantastic way to start the day.

Helpful Tips: You can find a simple breakfast like this at any bar. If you want an espresso, simply order a caffe . Don’t order a latte or you will get milk. If you want an American latte, order a caffe latte .

After getting your morning coffee, head into one of Florence’s world-renowned museums. My personal favourite is the Uffizi Gallery (so much art and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus) , but the Academia Gallery is where you’ll find Da Vinci’s David .

If art isn’t your thing, the Museo Leonardo da Vinci is a really neat museum that shows how incredible and innovative da Vinci was. It has prototypes explaining his drawings and models, and an interactive area – I think that’s meant for kids but all of the adults were having a blast, too. Entry costs 7 euros.

Practical Tip: If you’re planning on going to a high profile museum, such as the Uffizi or Academia Gallery, book ahead of time and splurge on the skip-the-line tickets. You’ll wait for hours and waste precious time in Florence otherwise!

Lunch: Quick & Cheap Eats in Florence

After you’ve seen a museum, you’ll probably be looking for a bite to eat! Lunch is a great time for takeaway cheap eats. Florence has some famous ones!

• Osteria All’antico Vinaio – the lines are pretty long at around 2pm; this is a great place for an earlier lunch. If you are arriving at peak time, there are three locations all in a triangle (all right in front of the other), so pick and choose from the shortest line. Expect to pay around 5 euros for your panino.
• Raviolo e Raviolo – this is a sit-down place, but it’s very casual and affordable. I really enjoyed the potato ravioli with ragu, and Phil’s eggplant (melenzane) ravioli was amazing.
• Gusta Pizza was recommended to me by a very dear friend who lived in Florence for a little while. 5 euros for a personal pizza! Sounds fabulous and we were gutted we didn’t get to try this recommendation out.
• San Lorenzo Market – this has so many stalls with food, and is great if you’re also planning on going leather shopping. Kill two birds with one stone.

You can’t visit Florence without seeing the Duomo (and it’s nearly impossible to miss anyway!). I recommend walking up to the top of the Duomo or the Bell Tower. The views are absolutely breathtaking (as are the stairs up to the top), and it’s an experience I really enjoyed.

ALSO writing now because the photo is right above – great gelato recommendation: La Strega Nocciola . My friend said this was the best pistachio gelato she’s ever had and I fully support that statement- this place has the best pistachio gelato I have ever eaten and their lavender is also amazing. You can’t have a Florence weekend trip (or a Florence trip of any length) without stopping here.

I know, I know… history CAN be really boring. BUT Florence has soooo much history and it’s worth knowing a little bit about what you’re seeing. I highly recommend Rick Steve’s Renaissance Walk , which you can download to your phone and listen to on your own. A free walking tour! His humour is incredibly cheesy at some points, and I hate to admit that I laughed at some of the jokes, but he makes history really interesting and you get to know the history of some sights you’d normally just walk right past.

The tour ends at the Ponte Vecchio. From there, it’s a short walk to my favourite viewpoint in Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo. This is the GREATEST golden hour view.

From there, I like walking back down the winding roads down to Porta San Niccolò, where there are good views the whole way down. From there, back over a bridge to the other side of Florence.

If you’re feeling peckish, but it’s still a bit too early to eat by Italian standards (7:30 is when many restaurants open), go for an aperitivo ! Typically, you buy a cocktail, glass of wine, or beer, and you get some food that goes along with it. Sometimes, it’s a full buffet. I recommend outdoor seating with a good view. What a way to end a full day in Florence.

After dinner, you’ll be exhausted! Get a good night’s sleep because the next day has lots of walking!

Food Recommendations (both recommended to me by another friend that spent months in Florence)

• Vini a Vechi
• Coquinarius

Day 2: Florence’s Surroundings

Florence is a relatively compact city, so you probably got a good feel for it the first day. What I love about Florence is that there is so much in its immediate surroundings worth exploring.

We visited a hidden gem, the town of Fiesole. While you can take the bus (#7) up, we decided to walk. It took us a little over an hour and it was quite a bit uphill, but we really enjoyed the walk. There are amazing views from this town, as it’s located on a hillside.

Fiesole has loads of Etruscan ruins. You can visit the ruins for a small fee, as well as the museum, which is loaded with history.

We really enjoyed walking further uphill to Convento San Francesco. Wow – this place is beautiful. First, the view. Second, the library! It is more like a museum! It has 2000-year-old Chinese coins, loads of old artefacts, and A MUMMY.

We really liked Fiesole because we were still so close to Florence. It’s easy to hop back on the bus back into town and to finish up some sightseeing, souvenir shopping, or museum-hopping.

Alternatively, if you feel like you’ve seen enough of Florence and are looking to go a bit further away, there are heaps of cities easily accessible by train or bus. We took a day trip to Pisa and Lucca , which I highly recommend. They’re full of classic Tuscan charm and are worth a trip. If shopping is more your thing, there are some amazing fashion outlets outside of the city. Alternatively, San Gimignano and Siena are also options.

And there you have it! A perfect Florence weekend trip. Have more recommendations to add to this post? Send them my way!

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How To Spend A 3-Day Weekend in Florence

Sean Finelli Last Updated: December 8, 2022

Florence is a Tuscan city celebrated for its Renaissance architecture and artwork, world-renowned leather, and its gelato. Anyone can enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture, but getting to know the real Florence can be difficult in just a few days. That’s why we put together this helpful weekend getaway itinerary. Here’s how to spend three days in Florence!

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post and our dedicated guide to Florence to help you plan your trip. Looking for the best way to see Florence and understand its rich history? Then you won’t want to miss our popular tours in Florence .

How To Spend Three Days in Florence

Florence is the ultimate Renaissance city. It’s where the Medici family famously ruled, where artists and writers developed their ideas and talents, and where one of the world’s most famous statues can be found. It also happens to be in the heart of Tuscany, which has long been a land of rolling hills and enchanting vineyards and farms.

A weekend in Florence is an experience not soon forgotten. However, with so much to do and see, it can be hard to decide how to spend three days in Florence. In this detailed three-day itinerary for visiting Florence, you’ll explore the most important places in the city and eat delicious Florentine food and wine.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out the best Florence tours to take and why .

Day 1: Florence Itinerary

10 am—arrival.

This marks the beginning of your journey. Since you only have three days in Florence, we recommend booking a flight that lands early in the morning.

If you’re flying from the US, we always recommend sleeping on the plane to avoid losing time on your trip. T he Florence airport is small, which means there are sometimes delays in the morning, often due to the fog.

10:45 am—Head into Florence

There are quite a few ways to travel from the airport to your accommodation. Uber isn’t available in Florence, but you won’t need it because the city is quite small.

Other options such as buses and taxis are available as well. In addition, Florence recently built a tramway system from the airport to the city that costs just €1.50. This public transportation system will take passengers directly into the heart of Florence in just 20 minutes. 

11:15 am—Arrive at Accommodation

Hotels and Airbnbs are both popular options when staying in Florence. Most Airbnbs in Florence are located in the city while hotels may be just outside it.

Many hotels offer shuttle services into the city to ensure visitors can effortlessly explore Florence. Check out our guide to where to stay in Florence for more info.

12 pm—Lunch on Via de’Neri

One of the most famous streets in the city’s center, Via de’Neri offers visitors a myriad of delicious panino options.

Many tourists venture to All’antico Vinaio , an must-try sandwich shop with impeccable panino options. It may also be worth your time to grab a cappuccino for the busy day ahead!

12:30 pm—Ponte Vecchio

Since there ‘ s little seating on Via de’Neri, it’s worth walking 3 minutes toward Fiume Arno, the main waterway from Florence to Pisa. Here, you can sit in the sun on the edge of the river a nd people- watch.

From the river, you can walk toward Ponte Vecchio, the oldest Florentine bridge dat ing all the way back to the 10th century . It became popul ar for butcher shops and goldsmiths in the 16th century.

Today, the bridge is one of the most famous landmarks—a connector to both sides of the city. There are boutiques filled with souvenir sellers and jewelers, so plan some time to explore here on your first day in Florence.

3 pm—Explore the Oltrarno

Cross over the Ponte Vecchio and explore the local neighborhoods in what many people call the “other side of Florence.” This side of Florence is widely known as the less touristy side, but there are still beautiful landmarks to see.

Explore Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens for the perfect dose of Italian history and outdoor exploring. You can also visit the Bardini Gardens for its beautiful Tuscan landscape.

6:30 pm—Aperitivo

Aperitivo —otherwise known as Italian happy hour — is an ordinary component of the Italian lifestyle. My favorite place is Sei Divino. They offer an abundance of meats, cheeses, and classic Italian cuisines paired with wine and aperitif that you won’t want to miss. Even if you’re tired from the day, it’s worth pampering yourself as the Italians do.

8 pm—Dinner

Wherever you eat in Florence, we recommend making a reservation to ensure you and your group can be accommodated. Listed below are two exquisite options .

La Giostra is situated five minutes away from the Duomo. This restaurant hosts the perfect mix of an elegant ambiance and unbelievable flavors. With hundreds of celebrity pictures on the walls and string lights hanging from the ceiling, this establishment is filled with luxury. I would make a reservation well in advance since it can fill up quickly.

Trattoria Z à Zà is your place if you’re looking for more of a laid-back vibe with endless authentic Florentine options. From homemade truffle sauce to their special cheesecake, this establishment can please everyone looking to try something different off the menu.

If you’d like even more options, check out our guide to more tasty Florence restaurants .

10 pm—Gelato Time

If you’re not too full from your meal, you have to stop at Edoardo —famous for their creamy gelato and impeccable customer service. From cappuccino to pistachio, Edoardo provides the best choices to make sure your night ends sweetly.

When spending a weekend in Florence, plan to eat as much gelato as possible since most believe Florence to be the place where gelato was invented. We promise it will be worth every calorie.

Day 2: Florence Itinerary

6:30 am—Piazzale Michelangelo

You might not be an early bird, but watching the sunrise from Piazzale Michelangelo is worth the wake-up call. This vantage point gives you views of the entire city of Florence.

Enjoying the views at sunrise amidst the sleeping Renaissance city is priceless. There’s a tiny shop at the top of the hill, so grab a cappuccino while you’re up there!

8 am—Piazza della Signoria

Walk down the hill and back into the center of the city toward Piazza della Signoria, the main square next to Palazzo Vecchio.

Here you’ll encounter rich political history, beautiful Renaissance statues, and the hustle of early-morning locals. Spend some time taking in the nine statues situated in the square, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the newly-restored Fountain of Neptune.

9 am—Accademia Gallery

Our bestselling Florence tour includes a skip-the-line visit to the Accademia Gallery and then visits the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and other sites around Florence.

You want to maximize your three-day trip to Florence and booking a tour is one of the best ways to do that. Not to mention, you’ll learn so much more from your local guide than you would on your own.

Although most notable for displaying Michelangelo’s David , this gallery is home to many other Renaissance exhibits and artwork important to the social, political, and economic movements of 14th-century Florence. 

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Florence tours to take and why .

11 am—Visit the Duomo

While on your Accademia Gallery and Florence tour, you’ll then head to the Florence Duomo , which is the massive cathedral in the center of Florence.

On this tour, your guide will elaborate on the history of the creation of the Florence Duomo, Bell Tower, and Baptistery. You’ll also learn how incredible the famous red dome actually is.

12 pm—San Lorenzo Market

Leather is Florence’s most popular commodity, so you should spend some time becoming familiar with its smell and texture. The Leather Market, otherwise known as the outdoor San Lorenzo Market, houses hundreds of shops and authentic Florence leather designs. Enjoy shopping and learning more about the creation of leather!

The indoor market is known as the Central Market , which is the perfect home for all my fellow foodies out there traveling to Florence. This market offers hundreds of food stands with culinary delicacies. Eat some lunch and enjoy the bustling atmosphere before moving on.

1:30 pm—Uffizi Gallery

As one of the most renowned art museums in Florence, the Uffizi Gallery is located adjacent to the Piazza della Signoria, so it’s quick and easy to find. This gallery is home to important Renaissance artists, such as Giotto, Cimabue, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.

The best way to see the gallery, though, is through our Uffizi Gallery tour , which will allow you to skip the lines and gain valuable insight into the museum’s masterpieces from an expert guide.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if an Uffizi Gallery tour is worth it .

5 pm—Evening Food Tour

As part of your Florence itinerary, you’ll want to book a food tour. Why? This 3-hour tour takes you on a journey through Florence’s finest cuisines and is the perfect way to end your day.

From wine and truffles to local pasta recipes and creamy gelato, you’ll t aste everything Florence has to offer from some of the city’s finest chefs.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Florence Guide for more info.

Popular Florence Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David

Michelangelo is considered the greatest Renaissance artist and the David statue is widely known as his masterpiece. Join our English-speaking guide as you skip the line at the Accademia Gallery to see David . Then venture out to see the center of Florence including the Duomo (outside), Baptistry Doors, leather market, and Ponte Vecchio. Admissions included.

Top-Rated Tour

Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour

The Uffizi Gallery is the most-visited museum in Florence for good reason. Join our licensed, English-speaking Uffizi guide for a journey through the Medician Renaissance. Learn all the stories behind the very art that brought our world out of the darkness as you look upon pieces like the Birth of Venus. All admissions included.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Florence tours to take and why .

Day 3: Florence Itinerary

9 am—light breakfast.

Italians aren’t as keen on breakfast as Americans are, so don’t expect to find a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich at your nearest shop. Instead, munch on a cornetto (croissant) and sip on some freshly squeezed orange juice.

Every street in the city has a coffee shop, otherwise known as a bar, which means that you’ll have no trouble finding your breakfast.

10 am—Santa Maria Novella

Italy is known for its ornate, grandiose churches, and Florence proudly carries that reputation as well. Santa Maria Novella is a Gothic-style church built in the 13th century by Leon Battista Alberti. His inspiration stemmed from Brunelleschi’s modular, symmetric architecture.

Today, it remains one of the most important churches in Florence and houses exquisite artworks important to the development of the city. It’s worth stopping to take photos to add to your collection of amazing places to see in Florence.

11:30 am—Medici Palace

Plan to shop on your walk back from Santa Maria Novella because there are authentic boutiques lining the cobblestone streets here. While walking, head toward the Medici Palace to discover the tension between politics and art in 15th-century Florence.

You can purchase a ticket to see the museums (€10 or less) and explore the beautiful art and architecture. The Medici family played a pivotal role in building Florence into what it is today.

1 pm—Lunch at La Fettunta

Although there is a myriad of places to eat lunch, I recommend venturing back to Via de’Neri and sitting down at La Fettunta .

From red and white wines to Porchetta and grilled vegetables, you can find everything authentically Italian at this quaint shop. Although, if you’re in the mood for another panini, their store next door sells a range of delightful options.

2:30 pm—Gucci Gardens

Gucci’s history stems from 1920s Florence when Guccio Gucci revolutionized the meaning of luggage with his red, green, and gold creation. In 2011, Florence opened the first Gucci Museum to display the most admired pieces of his collection from historical luggage to 21st-century clothing.

Spend some time enjoying the history and iconic fashion pieces. After this visit, give yourself time to head to the airport and savor these three days in Florence. Safe travels home!

Where To Stay in Florence

Florence has a small historical center packed with iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the best neighborhoods in this beautiful city.

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• 2 Days in Florence Itinerary: How to See Florence in 2 Days

Florence is truly a magnificent destination no matter the time of year. It’s home to fantastic art, history, and of course, food! Truth be told, a weekend in Florence is all the time you need if you plan your trip ahead of time.

If you find yourself visiting Italy, be sure to add Florence to your Italy bucket list . It’s located right in the heart of Tuscany, one of the most beautiful regions in the entire country. From its lush rolling hills to its excellent wine, you’ll truly have the trip of a lifetime.

Although there are tons of activities in Florence that you won’t want to miss out on, you can easily cover a lot with just a small amount of time because of the size of the city.

So if you want to see the best of the city but you only have a limited time, you are in the right place! If you follow this 2 days in Florence itinerary you will be able to see all the beauty Florence has to offer in just 2 days.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your 2 Days in Florence Itinerary

You can find an overview of the recommended 2 days in Florence itinerary below. Each day includes some of the must-visit spots that you absolutely can’t miss out on.

The first day will involve exploring the downtown area, while the second day will consist of some museum visits.

For each day, you’ll want to make sure you purchase your tickets well in advance for the attractions. Don’t worry, I’ve included a quick reminder for each place you should buy a ticket in advance so you don’t forget!

Breakdown of your Florence itinerary

• Day 1 – Piazza della Repubblica, Duomo, lunch at Osteria All’antico Vinaio, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Fontana del Porcellino, Ponte Vecchio, gelato at La Carraia
• Day 2 – Piazzale Michelangelo, Giardino delle Rose, Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, Boboli Gardens & Pitti Palace, dinner at Osteria del Fiore, gelato at GROM

Map for the best sights to see in Florence in 2 days

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you will need for this Florence itinerary.

I marked your 2 days in Florence with different colors – I used blue for the first day and magenta for the second day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1 of Your 2 Days in Florence

Walk around the piazza della repubblica.

To start this Florence in 2 days itinerary, head straight to the Piazza della Repubblica! This is one of the most-visited plazas in all of Florence and it gets crazy busy later in the day so visiting right in the morning is a perfect time!

There are a few cafes and restaurants scattered across the plaza, so you can even grab a cup of the best coffee in the world while exploring the plaza. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see the sunrise while you’re here.

Piazza della Repubblica is considered one of Florence’s main squares, which is why it’s so heavily visited. Be sure to keep your eye out for the 15th-century Column of Abundance, which is where the Roman forum once was. You can’t miss it!

Climb to the top of the Duomo

Truth be told, if you only manage to do one thing off of this Florence itinerary, make sure you climb to the top of the Duomo. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Florence in 2 days!

The Duomo is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and dates back to the 13th century. The Duomo is considered one of the world’s marvels and was the most giant dome of its kind for a while.

Tickets should be purchased ahead of time to climb to the top of the Duomo. Tickets are sold with time entry, so make sure you show up at least 10-15 minutes before your time to ensure that you can go inside. You’ll be let in with a group of others as you get ready to climb the 463 stairs.

The entrance fee starts from €18 and your ticket will also get you into the other attractions that make up the cathedral. Book your ticket here or if you’re interested in visiting the Dome with a local guide, be sure to check out this guided tour with skip-the-line tickets.

The Duomo is honestly not super challenging to climb, as there are a few spots where you can stop and take a break on the way up.

One of those spots is right under the dome, where you can get an in-depth look at all of the frescoes painted inside the church! This is certainly one of the most beautiful parts of the entire climb.

Once you get to the very top, you’ll be able to see all of Florence from above, even out to the rolling hills of Tuscany. There is a pretty thick bar all around the top, so if you’re scared of heights, rest assured that you’ll be safe.

Keep in mind that there can be a pretty big crowd at the top, so you might have to spend 20-30 minutes just to get all around the very top. However, it’s truly worth it!

Grab a quick lunch at Osteria All’antico Vinaio

Osteria All’antico Vinaio is hands-down the best sandwich shop in all of Florence. It has over 20,000 reviews on Google alone! The restaurant is usually open between 10 am and 10.30 pm but depending on the time of day, you might have to wait in a long line.

That’s why the best time to visit is right around the time it opens! If you visit any time afternoon, you might have to wait a while until you get served.

This sandwich shop dates back to 1989 and was born inside of an old wine cellar, which only adds to the shop’s appeal. No matter what type of sandwich you want, they have it on the menu here.

There isn’t a whole lot of seating, so plan on ordering and taking it to a nearby piazza to enjoy it (Piazza della Signoria is a very close walk from here).

Explore the inside of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Cathedral, dates back to the 13th century. It’s the most prominent church in all of Florence and dominates the city’s skyline, so it’s impossible to miss it.

The Duomo is part of the cathedral and while you do have to pay for the Duomo, you can enter the cathedral for free!

Because the cathedral is free to visit, the line tends to be a bit longer. Depending on the day of the week that you’re visiting and following this 2 day Florence itinerary, you’re going to probably wait in line for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

However, it’s completely worth it! The inside is gorgeous. Take the time to go downstairs and explore the underground area a bit too. You’ll be able even to see the ancient ruins of Florence down there!

Scrub the snout of Fontana del Porcellino

Fontana del Porcellino is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence. It’s actually a bronze fountain of a wild boar located in Mercato Nuovo (or otherwise known as Mercato del Porcellino), close to Ponte Vecchio.

The boar statue was sculpted by Pietro Tacca, based on a Hellenistic marble statue that was gifted to Cosimo I by Pope Pius IV in Rome. If you’re interested in seeing the original marble figure, you can see it in the Uffizi Gallery on your second day of this Florence itinerary.

There are two traditions you can try while visiting Fontana del Porcellino. The first one is to put a coin inside the mouth of the boar and let it slide down hoping that it ends down in the grate lying under the statue. If you’re successful, it means you will have very good luck!

The second one is to scrub the snout of the boar to ensure your return the Florence. Now you know why the boar’s nose is so shiny!

Depending on how much time you have left until sunset, you can also take a quick or an extended walk around Mercato Nuovo. It’s a covered leather market where you can find many belts, bags, and even some T-shirts and souvenirs. If you’re planning to buy a nice Italian leather bag, this is the place to do it!

Stroll across Ponte Vecchio at sunset

Ponte Vecchio is the most iconic bridge in all of Florence. It’s most well-known for being home to a bunch of shops that line the bridge. Historically, this was a great place to go for produce and meat. Now, it’s home to souvenir shops, jewelry shops, and the like.

Ponte Vecchio was the very first bridge to cross the Arno River. It was actually the only bridge on the river until 1218 and after the bridge was destroyed in a flood, it got rebuilt in 1345.

While it was initially built to help fortify the city and provide more defense, it quickly grew into something of its own.

Walking across Ponte Vecchio is definitely one of the top things to do in Florence. The bridge also offers an incredible view of the sunset and you can also snap a photo of Ponte Vecchio during sunset from the other bridge nearby.

If you’re craving something sweet, be sure to check out Gelateria La Carraia  close to Ponte Vecchio. It’s one of the best places for gelato in Florence for a good reason, their ice cream is just heavenly!

Day 2 of Your 2 Days in Florence

Catch the sunrise at piazzale michelangelo.

Piazzale Michelangelo is the number one place to view Florence from above. Yes, that means it’s even better than the view from the Duomo because you can see the Duomo from this view!

Most people stop here for sunset, so go against the grain and stop here for sunrise.

You can either walk up a steep hill (it won’t take more than 30 minutes maximum), take a bus, or drive to the top. All of them are viable options.

Seeing the panoramic view from Piazzale Michelangelo is truly one of the best things to do in Florence in 2 days!

Giardino delle Rose

Giardino delle Rose is a beautiful rose garden located right below piazza Michelangelo. The garden is free to visit and it’s a great option to have a peaceful break from the bustling city life and admire the beauty of nature.

Giardino delle Rose was created in 1865 and it’s home to more than 400 varieties of roses. If you haven’t had breakfast yet, it’s also a great place for a picnic!

See art at the Uffizi Gallery

With 2 days in Florence, you absolutely must pay a visit to the Uffizi Gallery. This art museum opened in the 16th century and it’s not only home to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, but you can also admire many incredible artworks from Leonardo, Raffaello, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio.

Tickets should be purchased well in advance and cost between €10-16 depending on the time of year, you can book your tickets here .

Since you’ll be seeing many amazing artworks in the museum, it’s also worth considering taking a guided tour where you can learn all about the inside stories behind the artworks.

Plan on spending at least a few hours here, but don’t spend too long, or else you won’t get through the rest of the fun activities on this Florence itinerary!

Check out the sculptures at Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is one of the most important historic squares in Florence and since it’s located right behind the Uffizi Gallery, it’s worth taking a stroll in the square after you’ve seen everything you wanted inside the museum.

Piazza della Signoria is home to many unique artworks such as the Fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati and the Equestrian Monument of Cosimo I by Giambologna and you can also find a copy of Michelangelo’s David at the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio.

The original David statue is located in Galleria dell’Accademia but due to the time limit, I didn’t include it in this 2 days in Florence itinerary. If you happen to have some extra free time during your weekend in Florence, feel free to include the museum in your Florence itinerary as well.

Keep in mind that it’s important to book your tickets well in advance! An adult ticket costs €20, you can book it here .

But back to Piazza della Signoria! On the right side of Palazzo Vecchio, you can also find an open-air sculpture gallery called Loggia dei Lanzi.

The gallery was designed by Orcanga in 1376 and now it’s home to many amazing statues like the statue of Perseo holding Medusa’s head or the Rape of the Sabines.

If you have some extra time, it’s also worth checking out the museum inside Palazzo Vecchio!

Embrace the beauty at Boboli Gardens & Pitti Palace

Boboli Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in Florence. It was built in the 16th century for the royal Medici family and wasn’t open to the public until the late 18th century.

It was one of the first royal Italian gardens and was the inspiration for many other parks that came after!

The Boboli Gardens are located right near the Pitti Palace, also known as the Palazzo Pitti. It was built in the 15th century and was home to the Medicis and the Pittis for quite a while. Tickets cost €10 for the Pitti Palace and €6 for the Boboli Gardens.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a ticket that covers the entrance to both, so tickets have to be purchased separately in advance. You can book your tickets here !

Eat dinner at Osteria del Fiore

To finish off this 2 days in Florence itinerary, stop by Osteria del Fiore for dinner! This is an excellent Tuscan restaurant located right next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, so you can have a great view while dining on fine Italian food.

The pricing here is mid-range. To ensure that you will get a table, try to beat the dinner rush by visiting around 5 pm if you can! As a bonus, Osteria del Fiore is right next to GROM , a top-visited gelato shop in Florence. Treat yourself to a sweet dessert after dinner while you watch the sunset over the cathedral!

Useful Info for Spending 2 Days in Florence

Where to stay in florence.

This 2 days in Florence itinerary wouldn’t be complete without going over some of the best accommodations!

Due to the size and popularity of the city, you can easily find a place to stay no matter your budget. That’s one of the many things that makes Florence such a hot destination.

Because you will only be spending two days in Florence, I recommend that you try to stay closer to the city center and the downtown area. This way, you’ll be close to all the top spots to visit and you’ll be able to save time and money with transportation.

In case you want to know more about each neighborhood in the city to find out which one is the best for you, check out my in-depth guide about the best areas to stay in Florence .

Do you prefer booking Airbnbs on your travels? Then check out my article about the best apartments and Airbnbs in Florence !

For a quick solution, below you can find a few of the best hotels to stay in for your weekend in Florence, depending on your budget.

• Luxury: The St. Regis Florence
• Mid-range: Brunelleschi Hotel
• Budget: Locanda Dei Guelfi

How to get to Florence

Since Florence is one of Italy’s main cities, it’s quite easy to get there and you have a lot of options to choose from.

For international visitors, flying is often the most straightforward method. Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport, located within the city, provides easy access to central Florence via a 15-minute T1 tram ride.

Alternatively, Galileo Galilei International Airport in Pisa serves as a viable option for potentially cheaper flights, with Florence just an hour away by train from Pisa Centrale Station.

If you’re in central Europe already or are traveling around Italy, you might opt to take the train. Italy has tons of high-speed trains, and they’re genuinely cost-effective. All the trains are relatively comfortable and offer incredible views from the window too!

If you’re road-tripping in Italy, you can also choose to drive to Florence. However, in this case, you need to be aware of the ZTL zones (restricted traffic zones) which are strictly monitored in the city center. It’s best to park your car outside of these zones and take public transportation or walk to your destination.

Best time to visit Florence

Many people who have visited Italy will agree that the ultimate best time to visit Florence is during the summer months of May to August. During this time, the weather is superb but keep in mind that this is the busiest time to visit.

That means that prices might be a bit higher for hotels/accommodations as well as transportation to and from the city but in exchange, you’ll be able to see the city at its most beautiful time.

The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you still want to have great weather but not as many people. During this time, prices will be a bit more regular, and you won’t have to wait in super long lines to get into top attractions like the Duomo. However, you’ll still have to purchase your tickets ahead of time for some sites!

To avoid all crowds, visit the city in winter. Florence is still beautiful in the winter but keep in mind that opening hours for some attractions might be a bit shorter. By visiting in the winter, you will save a fair amount of money on accommodations.

How to get around Florence

It’s super easy to get around the city if you’re spending a weekend in Florence! Truthfully, the easiest way to get around Florence is just by walking as a lot of top must-visit attractions are within a few blocks of each other.

Just make sure you wear appropriate footwear or it won’t be fun at all. Italy is known for its cobblestone streets, after all!

The bus is also a reasonably affordable way to get around the city if you’d rather not walk everywhere. However, keep in mind that the bus can get stuck in traffic and could end up taking as long as if you were to walk!

The average one-way bus ticket costs €1.5 and can be purchased at the local convenience stores or at Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Books of ten can be purchased for a discount!

As I mentioned before, getting around Florence with a car is not recommended. Parking is generally hard to come by and you need to pay attention to the ZTL zones as well. Taxis are also a possibility but can be pricey if you get stuck in traffic.

Try to opt for one of the other transportation options if you can! This will ensure you have the best experience possible for your 2 days in Florence.

Planning a trip to Florence?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Florence. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• 8 Best Areas to Stay in Florence, Italy
• 15 Best Apartment Rentals and Airbnbs in Florence, Italy

Other Amazing Destinations in Italy: Cinque Terre | Dolomites | Lake Como | Lake Garda | Rome | Venice

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2 thoughts on “2 Days in Florence Itinerary: How to See Florence in 2 Days”

Very nice, though just for accuracy’s sake, the Duomo IS the cathedral, not just part of it. You might be thinking it’s the “dome,” but Duomo isn’t dome, it’s the church itself.

Thanks so much for correcting me!

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2 Days in Florence Itinerary: A Weekend of Art & Culture

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Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region of Italy, is without a doubt one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, if not the world. Filled with iconic landmarks, a first-time visitor may find it a bit daunting to fully experience this alluring city on a short weekend trip. But our 2 days in Florence itinerary will help you with that!  

Because if you plan in advance there is every possibility that you will enjoy every moment of the limited time you have at your disposal. This specially crafted two day Florence itinerary will guide you through the best ways to see the highlights of the city which became the Cradle of Renaissance in the 15th century.

2 days in Florence itinerary: A weekend of art, history & culture 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Snapshot: Florence 2 day itinerary

• Galleria dell’Accademia,
• Piazza del Duomo,
• Florence Cathedral, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Baptistery,
• Piazza Della Signoria,
• Palazzo Vecchio,
• Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens,

Basilica of Santa Croce

• Uffizi Gallery,
• Ponte Vecchio bridge,
• Museo Galileo,
• Piazza della Repubblica,

Piazzale Michelangelo

Getting to Florence

Florence is a city located in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is known for its art and architecture, including its medieval and Renaissance churches and palaces. Florence was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and is a popular tourist destination – it attracts millions of visitors each year.

Read : Perfect Tuscany Itinerary for 7 days | 3 days in Florence itinerary

To kick start your Florence 2 day itinerary, plan to arrive in the city the night before. 

When traveling internationally, you can either touch down in Rome (largest airport – Roma Fiumicino Airport) or Milan (Milan Malpensa Airport) . 

And then from there hop on a high-speed train to get to Florence. 

• Rome to Florence is 1.50 hours by train
• Milan to Florence is 2 hours by train

If you wish to fly to Tuscany internationally, your options are Pisa (Galileo Galilei International Airport) and Florence (Amerigo Vespucci Airport). In order to get to the city centre from the airport, you can ride a shuttle bus, or take a private transfer. 

• Florence airport to Center hotel: Private transfer from airport to hotel. Shared taxi. Note that you can only carry 1 luggage and carry-on. Book your transfer here
• Transfer by Deluxe Van: From Florence Airport to/from Florence City Center, click to reserve your spot

Where to stay in Florence? Best areas in Florence for sightseeing 

For hotels and accommodation in Florence, we recommend staying in a central area, close to the Duomo with views . You can book a place with terrace access or a rooftop pool in Florence .  Like La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B with an awesome terrace.

The Arno River divides Florence into two halves. The city center is located in the northern part where most of the top spots are found, and where you will be spending most of your time.

Another hotel, especially for first-time visitors, that occupies a great location between the Central Train Station and the Duomo is Hotel Baglioni .  

Situated in the San Giovanni district, the hotel has a fine rooftop restaurant, good internet connectivity, and is close to Galleria Dell’accademia , Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Vecchio .

Hotel Vasari is another option. We stayed here on one of our trips, and it is conveniently located between the centre and the train station. 

A popular 4-Star choice for families is the spacious FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli at an easy walking distance from the historic sites. Though we have not stayed there, it is said their complimentary breakfast spread features delicious Tuscany favorites and traditional Florentine pastries. 

If you are unable to get an affordable room in the San Giovanni district, the Santa Croce district is a viable second option. Here you will find lovely dining outlets and lots of shops selling leather products. The only drawback is that the train station is a bit far, about thirty minutes away by walk.

Really quick, here are the recommended hotels for Florence in 2 days,

• La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B : La Terrazza is our favorite place to stay in Florence. It has gorgeous suites and comes with rooftop access. Their breakfast is amazing too. Book your stay here
• Grand Hotel Cavour Florence: Grand Hotel is an upscale 4-star hotel in Florence, with a rooftop bar. The best part – the hotel is part of a heritage property, dating back to the 13th century. Click to view photos and prices
• Hotel Baglioni: Enjoy views of the Duomo in this stunning hotel located close to the train station and the centre. Book your stay here
• Hotel Vasari: This is a budget 3-star hotel located near the Santa Maria Novella Florence station and is about a 15-minute walk from Palazzo Vecchio. The property is slightly dated, but its location is nice for transportation and sightseeing. Take a look at the availability here

You don’t need a car to explore Florence on a weekend. But we would strongly recommend buying the tickets for the most visited attractions in advance. 

Florence draws millions of tourists each year and there is no such thing as a low season. The waiting lines are huge, plus tickets for some popular attractions come with a fixed time slot.

If you happen to visit during the peak summer period, you may have to spend hours standing in a line in the scorching heat. Additionally, you will waste so much time you will miss out on other attractions in your two days in Florence.

TOP PICKS: Uffizi Gallery | Galleria dell’Accademia | Florence Cathedral with Dome tour

Day 1 of 2 days in Florence itinerary: Galleria dell’Accademia, Piazza del Duomo, Florence Cathedral, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Baptistery, Piazza Della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, Basilica of Santa Croce

Begin your first day early by enjoying some of the most delectable Italian pastries at Vecchio Forno . Do not forget to sample their croissants too as they are considered to be the best in the city.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Then head out as soon as possible to the Galleria dell’Accademia if you want to beat the crowds. There are also cafes close to the galleria if you prefer to grab breakfast nearby (like the Ristorante Accademia). 

The gallery opens at 09:00 am so take advantage of your early start to comfortably admire the most famous work of Michelangelo, the 17′ high marble statue of David. 

Book a guided tour to learn more about the place and also get priority access to the museum. You won’t need more than an hour to see everything, but this tour will cover all the exhibit areas including the historical significance of the works of art. 

Florence Cathedral or Duomo

The most iconic landmark in Florence is undoubtedly the Duomo, also known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, located on Piazza del Duomo. 

The cathedral forms a part of the great complex which includes Giotto’s Bell Tower, Baptistry of San Giovanni, Opera Museum, Crypt of Santa Reparata, and Brunelleschi’s Dome. 

While the cathedral is free to visit, you need to pay for admission to climb the tower or visit the Baptistry. The 463 odd narrow steps leading to the top may sound taxing but is worth every drop of sweat once you set your eyes on the views from the top.

You can buy an entry ticket to the Duomo , which also includes access to the bell tower. 

Alternatively, you can also book a 2 hour guided tour of the Duomo complex. This includes an expert local guide who will take you around sharing stories and the history of the stunning Duomo and the Baptistery. 

By now you are sure to be tired and hungry, so it is time to savor an authentic Italian meal. The Ravioli e’ Raviolo serves some of the best fresh ravioli in Florence. Not only are they extremely delicious, but you can also choose from a wide range of sauces to create your own meal.

Highlights of Piazza della Signoria

Up next is the beautiful art gallery from the 14th century, Loggia del Lanzi, also known as the Loggia della Signoria is worth a look. It is located adjacent to Piazza dei Signori and Piazza Vecchio . 

The beautiful 14th century gallery is home to a number of prominent statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Today it serves as an open air museum for masterworks of sculpture. An easy free stop in the piazza to rest your weary feet.

Continue walking by the dei Calzaiuoli, the street by the bell tower, to visit the Palazzo Vecchio , or the Old Palace area, the center of Florence’s political rulers for centuries.

Pitti Palace

Get on the Vasari Corridor to connect to Palazzo Pitti from Palazzo Vecchio. 

The Pitti Palace houses some of the most important museums in Florence. The Palatine Gallery is the main gallery of Palazzo Pitti and it contains a large collection of over 500 Renaissance paintings. 

Spend an hour or two exploring the palazzo and its major galleries. 

Grab one of these tickets for the Pitti Palace,

• Entry ticket to the palace
• Guided tour of the palace

Behind the palace lie the famous 111 acres of  Boboli Gardens , another place of historical importance for Florence. This open-air museum and park is home to trees dating back hundreds of years which offer respite to visitors from the harsh sun during summers. 

There are large fountains (like the Fountain of Neptune) and decorated caves inside the gardens, which are worth exploring. 

The gardens were once a part of the powerful Medici family’s residence and are situated on a steep hill. Walk all the way to the top if you want to enjoy some remarkable views of the city and the surroundings (Note: You will need a separate ticket to visit the gardens)

Ticket options are,

• Timed entry to Boboli Gardens
• Boboli Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour
• (Combined tour) Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and Palatina Gallery Tour

You might also like: Medici Family History tour

Utilize the rest of the afternoon by paying a visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce , the second largest church after the Duomo. The church is located on Piazza di Santa Croce, around 800m southeast of the Duomo. 

This 13th-century building is the resting place of many well-known Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei and Machiavelli and we found the interiors even better than the Duomo.

The piazza is a nice hub for people to hang out, so you might find it a bit crowded in the evenings – but the vibe is amazing. Would still recommend it to anyone visiting Florence.

Finish a satisfactory first day by treating yourself to an equally satisfying dinner at Bentu & Soi on Piazza del Pigneto. Their Sardinian dishes are excellent and the service is impeccable. 

The wine and the delicious seafood soup which includes mussels, clams, prawns, lobsters and octopus is unbelievably tasty.

Another restaurant renowned for its Florentine dishes is Trattoria Nerone, located a few meters away from the Duomo. Its cozy and carnival interiors have been delighting customers for years. 

We found it the best for traditional rustic Tuscan cuisine and the vast collection of fine local and international wines.

Read: Most beautiful cities in Italy

Day 2 of 2 day Florence itinerary: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Museo Galileo, Piazza della Repubblica, Piazzale Michelangelo

Get up early on your second morning for breakfast at the popular La Loggia degli Albizi , famous for its ham and cheese with croissants. On your way try and walk by the Duomo before 8 am. 

Not only will you admire its beauty but will find the cathedral square almost deserted.

Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most visited museums in Florence, located in the historic city center. The lines here will be long at all times and tickets are valid for certain time slots only. 

That said, it is an institution not to be missed as it holds a large collection of priceless works, especially from the period of the Italian Renaissance, by great artists like Michelangelo and Leonarda da Vinci among others. 

So be prepared to visit the museum first thing on the second morning, but book a ticket in advance online (timed entry) or book a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Ticket options include,

• Timed entry to the Uffizi Gallery
• Uffizi Gallery Guided tour
• Uffizi Gallery Skip-the-Line Audio Guided Tour with Host

Ponte Vecchio

Dating back to the 14th century, the Ponte Vecchio, meaning the Old Bridge, is a closed-spandrel segmental-arched bridge and one of the oldest bridges in Florence spanning the Arno River. 

The special feature here is the Vasari Corridor that passes over the bridge and the number of shops that have been here since medieval times. 

Ponte Vecchio is said to be the most romantic spot in Florence, as it provides great views of the river and the bridge itself. 

The bridge resisted severe damage due to flooding in 1966, but it survived somehow and is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

You can cross Ponte Vecchio admiring shops and later head to the Ponte Santa Trìnita . This is the oldest elliptic arch bridge in the world and offers a great angle to capture the Ponte Vecchio. 

For some of the best locally sourced Tuscan food and fine wine in an informal vintage environment, stop for lunch at La Prosciutteria Firenze located on Via dei Neri. This quaint place serves the best nibble boards for a great price prepared in the traditions of the past.

Along the way, you will also find cute cafes where you can stop for a gelato (or two!)

Museo Galileo

If you are a science fan, then the Museo Galileo is the place to go. It is located along the River Arno and close to the Uffizi Gallery. 

The 11th century building known as Palazzo Castellani, where the museum is housed, holds a virtual treasure trove of scientific instruments you can set your sights upon.

The collection dates back from the Medici and Lorraine Grand Dukes’ era and includes some originals belonging to the great astronomer himself. Book your entry ticket here

(Note you can swap the museum for a visit to the Medici Chapel and Mercanto Centrale – market instead. Or visit the Mercato Nuovo, new leather market close to the next sightseeing stop – Piazza della Repubblica)

Next, walk the pretty Piazza della Repubblica. This is the Roman heart of Florence and the main square in the city. The Column of Abundance, dating back to 1431, situated here marks the point where once the Roman forum stood. 

Today the square serves as an impromptu stage for shows by street artists, especially after sunset. The historical cafes used to be the meeting points of the artists and writers of the past.

On your last evening in Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for some stunning views of all the places you have visited. It is a twenty minutes detour from the city center, but well worth the effort. Try and be there before sunset, even though it will be crowded. 

We suggest you climb a bit further to the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte, for better views and no crowds at all.

After soaking in the views of the city, head to the Ristorante il Granaio Firenze located at Via dei Tavolini, one of the most famous streets in the heart of the city. It is a perfect place to end your last evening in a friendly and intimate atmosphere. 

Alternate ideas for your two days in Florence itinerary

2 days in Florence is not enough to explore it all, but you can surely make the most of your visit by picking your favorites (based on your personal interest). 

Here are some options to swap (or add) to your itinerary above. 

So if you like Tuscan cuisine , we recommend an authentic evening food and wine tour . The best thing we liked about this excursion was that you get to explore some local outlets which excel in wines and other local specialties. 

The cost is all-inclusive and you get to sample the finest meats, cheese, focaccia, and wines in the company of an expert. You can book the tour here

You might like this combined tour: Market visit and a cooking workshop

If you have time left after the visit to the Accademia Gallery on day one of the itinerary, you must visit the 15th-century Basilica of Santissima Annunziata. Inside the building is where the Miraculous Annunciation is said to have occurred. 

It is said the painting of the face of the Virgin Mary was made by the hand of an angel as the original artist Friar Bartolomeo had fallen asleep. 

Another church worth visiting (or at least stopping by on your 2 day itinerary for Florence) is the Santa Maria Novella . It is conveniently located opposite the main railway station. 

This is also the first great basilica in Florence, chronologically. 

For history buffs, the Medici Chapel, the final resting place of the Medici family, is a must. Some famous members buried here include Lorenzo the Magnificent and his brother Giuliano. 

The building itself is very impressive with fine architecture and many statues made by Michelangelo. Here is an entry ticket 

If you are looking for a fun-filled family activity the San Lorenzo market district is a great place for buying things for your friends back home without denting the pocket. 

The indoor Mercato Centrale market, built in 1874, is still a favorite with the locals for buying fresh groceries. 

It is home to food stalls and the outdoor market that retails leather, clothing, and souvenirs. 

A visit to both these outlets offers the perfect respite from the hectic sightseeing museum tours of Florence. Mercato Centrale and Medici Chapel are a 2 minute walk away. 

Extending your Florence 2 day itinerary: Day trips from Florence

Once you have had your fill of the amazing sights of Florence, you can use it as a base for exploring more of Tuscany, which can be covered on a day trip. 

You can reach these locations listed above, by bus or train. If you plan to stop on the way, it is better to go by car or on a guided tour.

Siena: 

The vibrant streets of Siena are just an hour’s drive away from Florence and are a mecca for architecture lovers. 

Siena is a beautiful city located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. It’s home to stunning architecture, delicious food, and plenty of things to do. The Duomo is one of the most iconic landmarks in Siena. This beautiful cathedral is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

Piazza del Campo is another must-see in Siena. This square is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the city, as well as a number of popular restaurants and bars.

You can read our 1 day in Siena itinerary for inspiration. 

Prefer a tour instead? Here is a recommend half day tour (opt for a tour, if you don’t have access to a car, as public transport take 1.50 to 2 hours to get there)

Pisa: 

Pisa takes about ninety minutes to reach by road and an hour by train from Florence. This is an easy day trip idea from Florence to check out the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. 

Visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, climb to the tower first, and then explore the Monumental Graveyard, the Cathedral, and the Baptistry. 

Do try to get there as soon as gates open in the morning, to explore the wonderful landmark without the crowds. Here is a day tour of Pisa to book

Chianti Region: 

Chianti is world-famous for its fine wines and is located in close proximity between Florence and Siena. 

The hills here are studded with vineyards, wineries, and charming medieval villages. You can enjoy some wine tasting here apart from other local products.

Tuscany Bike Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting : Explore the Tuscan countryside and go wine tasting on a bike. This one is a full day tour, and will be an amazing experience! Book it here

Horseback riding tour : If you want to explore the Tuscany countryside in an unforgettable way, a horseback riding adventure will give you the best opportunity to enjoy the authentic attractions of the Chianti region. 

San Gimignano: 

San Gimignano is a town in Tuscany with origins dating back to the 7th century. It is famous for its medieval architecture, especially its towers. There were about 72 tall towers that were built between the 12th and 14th centuries, today only a few remain. 

Other than the towers, there are restaurants and wine bars, as well as a few museums and a Gothic cathedral. 

Take note that the only public transport available to access is by bus. The downside of going by bus is the time taken and the infrequency of service. It is better to hire a car and add Siena, Chianti, and even a wine tasting stop for this day trip.

Or book this combined tour of Siena, Chianti and San Gimignano.

Read : How to spend one day in San Gimignano

Things to do in Florence Itinerary 2 days: Sightseeing Map

Is 2 days enough for Florence?

Florence has so much to offer, that full 2 days may not be enough. In order to make the most of a weekend in Florence, you must focus on the core highlights (Duomo, Ufizzi Gallery, and Galleria dell’Accademia) and pay for an entry ticket to explore it intimately. Ensure you book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment on your planned days of travel. 

After this, pick 1-3 attractions based on your interest (we recommend the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens), and then quickly visit Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, etc. (open attractions).

As Florence is compact, most likely you will see many attractions along the way. And you may have to admire many of them from outside only, which incidentally is also a visual treat as they are so aesthetically and architecturally beautiful to behold. 

If you have an extra day or two, you can then visit the inside of all museums and churches listed above (like Santa Maria Novella, Medici Chapel, and more). 

How many days in Florence is enough?

As a first time visitor to Florence, 3 days is enough to get a glimpse of the iconic landmarks like the Duomo complex, Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Renaissance museums – Uffizi and Accademia, and Piazza della Signoria. 

In 3 days, you can also set aside time to unwind with delicious Tuscan food or go wine tasting! 

Of course, the more time you have the better. If you are an art fan, you must plan for extra time to intimately visit some of the other top galleries, churches, former palaces, and more. 

Travel Tips for Florence Italy 

One of the best things about Florence is that it is a relatively small city, so you can easily walk to most of the major attractions. However, if you do need to take a taxi, they are very inexpensive and plentiful. 

In addition, the food in Florence is absolutely amazing! There are so many restaurants to choose from. 

And of course, no trip to Florence would be complete without sampling some of the world-famous wine. My favorite memory is drinking wine from the rooftop of our hotel, overlooking the beautiful cityscape.

Now here are some quick tips for Florence,

• Florence is located in central-northern Italy. Italy is an EU member and follows the Schengen agreement (for visa purposes)
• Euro is the official currency in Italy. 
• When dining in Florence, opt to eat like locals do – by standing at the bar, rather than ‘sit down’. This ‘ sit down’ or coperto is a fee. It varies from 1 to even 5 €, and it is applied in most famous and touristy places. Italians and visitors, all have to pay this fee – it is pretty normal!
• Most people speak Italian in Florence , including shop owners, and servers. So it is a good idea to brush up on some phrases. 

Other Florence Tips: 

No matter how many days you intend to stay in the birthplace of the Renaissance, the best way to explore the city is by foot. It takes just thirty minutes to get from one end of Florence to another, which allows you the perfect opportunity to discover the little things like narrow roads and beautiful frescoes on the way which makes Florence so special.

If you are planning to visit Florence in the summer, buy skip-the-line tickets for every attraction on your bucket list. 

Having said that, there are three sights for which you must book tickets in advance, no matter the time of the year, unless you want to spend hours and hours waiting in long lines. These are Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell’Accademia, and Florence Cathedral.

Florence has quite a number of city passes which can really save you a lot of money and unnecessary waiting in lines. 

The most recommended one is the Florence Pass , which at €89 allows you priority access to Uffizi Gallery, Galleria Dell’accademia, and a guided tour of the amazing Brunelleschi’s Dome. You can indicate the date and time slots you want at the time of booking.

Before coming to Florence, ensure you have Euros in a big stash. ATMs in the Tuscan region charge an unusually high fee on MasterCard and Visa. 

Carrying enough cash will save on commission fees and exchange rates. You will need cash to pay in trattorias, souvenirs, etc. 

Safety and security

Petty crimes like purse snatching and pickpocketing are quite rife in Florence. It is advisable to keep your cash, cards, and passport safely tucked in and out of sight at all times under your clothing. 

One should be especially careful at the popular attractions like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery when waiting to get in and indoors as well.

Budget for 2 day Florence itinerary 

As budgeting plays a huge role in planning a trip, we have laid down the average cost for your Florence two-day vacation. 

Even though Italy is a popular travel destination it is not as costly as Paris or London. Here are a few budgeting tips to keep in mind:

• Summer is the most expensive time to visit Florence, so if traveling in high season book your accommodation at least six months in advance to get the best deal.
• You will need to plan for spending an average of €125 per day for your trip to Florence. While fancy meals will cost €25, transport will cost about €18. You can save money on food by eating in trattorias (local informal cafes, without sitting down). 
• Accommodation for a single person is €69 per night and for a couple in a reasonable hotel will come to €140 per night. 
• If you are traveling with a group or as a family with kids, the kids tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared.
• Typical prices of transportation are €8 (taxi within city),€25 (taxi from airport),€5 (bus from airport) and €5 (full day bus pass).

Is Florence Italy worth visiting?

After reading about our experience of traveling to Florence and visiting some of the highlights like the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo Cathedral, and piazzas with food and wine tasting, hopefully, you have been inspired to visit this amazing city for yourself. 

While we could go on forever describing all of the wonderful things there are to see and do in Florence, we will conclude by saying that it is truly a one-of-a-kind city and you will not regret adding it to your travel bucket list!

If you liked our two day Florence blog, then you will also enjoy the following Italy guides, 

• Rome : Rome in one day | Rome Instagram Spots | Rome 3 day itinerary
• Milan: One day in Milan | Visiting Milan Cathedral | How many days in Milan
• Venice : One day in Venice | 2 days in Venice itinerary | Gondola ride in Venice
• Italy: 7 days in Italy | 10 days in Italy itinerary | What to wear in Italy | Italy in November

Pin: How to spend a weekend in Florence: Itinerary and guide 

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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A Total Trip: what I spent on a long weekend in Florence

Oct 31, 2023 • 7 min read

Florence is a rich tapestry of art, culture, food and fashion ©Trifonov_Evgeniy/Getty Images/iStockphoto

In our A Total Trip series, writers document what they spent on a recent getaway. In this edition, writer Conall Molloy, shows us what he spent on a culturally-rich weekend in Florence.

My fiancée and I are fortunate to work remotely and this September, having spent several months working from Barcelona, we craved a change of pace.

We were ready to expand our minds and immerse ourselves in a different culture. We wanted to walk through Renaissance history, admire some art, and – if at all possible – drink excellent wine. We wanted Florence .

In the end, we stayed for six weeks. Despite our long trip, we could have spent another six weeks taking in the city's abundance of museums, galleries and cultural sights. Rather than calculating the costs of a six-week stay, I've broken down the expenses from our favorite weekend.

Pre-trip spending

We stayed in an Airbnb for the entire trip. It cost €41.14 each per night. That included a city tax of €5.50 each for the first seven nights. Our cottage was in Oltrarno , the opposite side of the river Arno from Florence's historical center. The neighborhood was up-and-coming and plenty of young Florentines frequented its bars that were open late.

The airport is small but well-connected, with a regular tram line that takes you to the heart of things. We took a taxi for €30 because of our bags and the slightly longer journey to Oltrarno.

Total three nights accommodation: €153.42

Day-to-day spending

Breakfast: We ate breakfast at the Airbnb before we strolled to the historic center. A bowl of gluten-free cornflakes (€3.60 for a box) and a carton of milk (€1) sustained us until lunch. However, we did have a quick espresso (€1 each) from Bar D’Angolo on our way to do some sightseeing.

Sightseeing: Our first stop was the Gucci Garden (€7 each) on Piazza Della Signoria. The two of us have a keen, albeit aspirational, interest in high fashion and we wanted to learn more about the city's best-known luxury brand. We spent a wonderful 90 minutes exploring the collection, which included Met Gala gowns, a hall of classic handbags, and influential outfits from fashion history. The boutique also sold exclusive Gucci items found only in Florence.

After the museum, we explored the Piazza and wandered beneath the wide, open arches of Loggia Dei Lanzi . You don't have to spend any money to admire the history of Florence – it was everywhere we looked: statues from the Roman Empire; or a replica of Michaelangelo’s David in its original location. You can admire the beauty of the Renaissance period without spending a cent.

Lunch: We shared a substantial charcuterie board with two other diners at Tuscan Taste in Oltrarno. All the food was locally sourced and our server even told us the origins of each piece of meat and cheese as well as the best order to eat it in.

However, we were here for the wine. Staff handed us a pre-loaded card with €50 in credit and let us loose on their comprehensive selection. A special machine even dispensed each glass, which allowed us to control the exact amount we drank. This meant we could try various bottles without going over budget.

My share of the lunch cost €16.70 for the wine and €13.50 for the meat and cheese, a total of €30.20 .

Dinner: For dinner, we made our way to Osteria Del Tegolaio , a small convivial restaurant in the vibrant Santo Spirito district, one of the best neighborhoods in Florence . We shared a caprese salad, a carbonara, a potato ravioli with ragú and a bottle of white wine, along with some laughs with the waitstaff, for €38.75 each.

Drinks: In the mood for a nightcap, we stumbled across Rasputin , a secret cocktail bar accessible via a hard-to-spot bell next to a nondescript doorway.

With sleeve garters and styled mustaches, staff took the bar's 1920s theme seriously. It had some strict rules, too. Do not approach the bar or other tables and do not photograph anything other than the drinks. The signature cocktails were delicious, but at €21 a drink, we decided to call it a night after one.

Total spend on Friday: €102.55

Breakfast: With a busy day planned, we stuck to cornflakes and an espresso ( €1 ) for breakfast before crossing the Arno.

Sightseeing: To see as much culture as we could, we purchased a Passepartout 5-Day Ticket ( €39 each ), which gave us access to the Uffizi Gallery , the Boboli Gardens and the Pitti Palace museums for five days. For three fantastic hours, we moved through the Uffizi's phenomenal collection. We saw Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Medusa . The sheer number of remarkable works on display gave me a newfound appreciation for the qualities that define a masterpiece.

Back over the river, we strolled along Via de' Tornabuoni , home to Florence's luxury shops. Much like during our time in the Uffizi, we admired pieces in the boutiques and acknowledged that they were far beyond our price range and kept walking.

Lunch: We ate at Sgrano Street Food . My fiancée is coeliac, so finding places we both can eat is often a challenge. Florence made it easy, though. They took food intolerances incredibly seriously. Sgrano served traditional focaccia sandwiches, beers, wines and salads – all without gluten. We both had gargantuan fresh mozzarella and mortadella ham sandwiches with pistachio cream (we saved half each for later).  With a bottle of Coca-Cola and a large bottle of water, it cost €14.50 each .

Drinks: On our way home, we stopped at Pitti Express , a small café-bar in Oltrarno. The barman entertained his customers with gruff charm – knowing winks and exaggerated eye-rolls. He kept us very happy indeed, with a €3 glass of chianti and a €5 limoncello spritz each.

Dinner: Our dinner reservation for that night was Hostaria il Desco , a family-run restaurant near the city’s historical center. I had a fantastic homemade pappardelle pasta with a wild boar ragú, while my fiancée had spaghetti with red-wine-soaked pancetta, tomatoes and pecorino shavings. For dessert, we opted for a cheesecake and tiramisú. With the bottle of white wine we split, my share came to €28.50 .

Drinks: We ended our night at Bar D’Angolo again. At sunset, it became a trendy spot for the cool and the well-dressed. Sipping our Aperol spritzes ( €5 each ), we watched people spill out of the tiny bar to chat the night away lounging atop parked mopeds and leaning against the wall.

Total spend on Saturday:  €96 (including our Passepartout Ticket)

Sightseeing: We planned to use our museum ticket again on Sunday and started with the Boboli Gardens. The sprawling complex had stunning views of the rolling Tuscan Hills, dramatic statues and carefully maintained fruit trees. Previously, we'd seen queues outside the gates as we walked by and whilst there were crowds here, inside it felt as if we had the park to ourselves.

We wandered through the gardens to the Pitti Palace, the imposing historical home of Florence's former leaders such as the Medici family, Napoleon, and the Hapsburgs. Now several museums, three were open during our visit: the Palatine Gallery, an impressive assemblage of the Medici’s art collection, displayed in highly decorated rooms; the Gallery of Modern Art, home to Florentine works from the 18th to the early 20th centuries; and the Museum of Costume and Fashion.

After a quick lunch (we ate our leftover Sgrano from yesterday, which tasted just as good), we walked to the Bardini Gardens , a lesser-visited but still exceptional park further down the Arno. Entry wasn’t included with our Passepartout ticket, so we paid €11 each to get in. The view of Florence and the gorgeous terrace bar at the top of the hill were well worth the admission price. We bought an Aperol spritz and a large water bottle for €11.75 each .

Dinner: Whisper it... having grown slightly tired of pizza and pasta, we ate dinner at the Chinese fusion restaurant, Pine & Apple instead. Amongst plush upholstered seating and intimate mood lighting, we enjoyed spare ribs on a bed of homemade spicy breadcrumbs, a raspberry sweet-and-sour prawn dish, and a complimentary glass of prosecco. We also shared a bottle of wine. My half of the meal cost €32.50 .

Sightseeing: To finish the weekend, we walked uphill to Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset. With spectacular views over the river, as the sun dipped behind the Ponte Vecchio , we saw a couple get engaged to the resounding cheers. An €8 Aperol Spritz from a bar in the square capped off our evening, and we headed home.

Total Spend on Sunday: €63.25

The final tally

Overall spend: on the ground (€261.80) + accommodation for three nights (€153.42) = €415.22 (US $438.86) 

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• Weekend Guide

A Luxury Guide to a Long Weekend in Florence

The capital of Tuscany is awash with bountiful culture, boutique shopping and high-end cuisine.

By Sophie Killip

Once the center of the Roman empire and forever intriguing visitors with its history and culture, when it comes to visiting Europe, Italy is often first on the list of countries to explore. Several of its cities are renowned for their fashion, food or historical interest – but one of the best locations for a weekend break where all of these things harmoniously come together is Florence .

Thanks to its superb architecture and the expansive collections of Renaissance artworks found here, Florence city center was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Nowadays, the Tuscan capital offers visitors everything from culture and history to Michelin-starred dining and high-end, designer fashion. No matter your reason for travel, there is something to fall in love with in Florence.

Here at Elite Traveler , we’ve scoured the city to find the best hotels, eateries and activities for you to enjoy while spending a long weekend in Florence. Whether you want to be living and breathing the city, soaking up the Tuscan sun at a vineyard in the nearby hills or tasting one of the region’s traditional dishes, we’ve got you covered. For the best experience in Florence, choose to avoid the peak summer season – late spring or early fall offer fewer crowds and a more comfortable temperature.

[See also: The Most Beautiful Wineries to Visit in Italy]

Where to Stay

Villa La Massa

©Villa Massa

Situated four miles east of Florence’s city center, Villa La Massa is the ideal hotel for those looking to make the most of a long weekend in Tuscany. Set across extensive grounds and giving the feeling of a country estate, the hotel offers the best of both worlds; guests can spend the day exploring the city before escaping to the countryside to lounge by the pool or enjoy an alfresco dinner beside the Arno River.

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Villa La Massa’s country estate feeling is intensified by the fact the hotel occupies a 16 th -century Medici villa and its various outbuildings, including The Mill and La Limonata (where lemons were stored for winter). Each of the 51 rooms and suites are individually styled, with its own character and original features including frescoes on many of the ceilings. The interiors work in harmony with the hotel’s heritage, exuding classic Florentine luxury combined with 21st-century amenities.

The hotel has a range of five-star facilities including a riverside restaurant, Il Verrocchio, which changes throughout the day to offer everything from light lunches to a six-course dinner tasting menu. There is also a second pool-side restaurant for outdoor dining, a charming bar in the main house, a basement gym and an indulgent spa. With everything Villa La Massa has to offer, it would be easy to forgo visiting Florence entirely – but the hotel offers regular shuttles and private transfers, making the 15-minute trip into town a breeze.

villalamassa.com

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Hotel Savoy

The Presidential Suite suites has its own sitting room and panoramic views across the city / ©Hotel Savoy

If you’re looking for the heart of the action, the Hotel Savoy is the place to stay during a long weekend in Florence. The city-center hotel overlooks the famous Piazza della Repubblica and is only moments away from other attractions, including Florence’s prime retail street – Via Tornabuoni – which is lined with designer stores. As a Rocco Forte Hotel, Hotel Savoy has a natural grandeur to it; its interiors are a collaboration between Laudemia Pucci (daughter of Emilio Pucci) and Rocco Forte Hotel’s director of design, Olga Polizzi.

Hotel Savoy features a delightful restaurant and a large underground gym for guests to use although it lacks a spa or any kind of communal guest lounge. Instead, the designers have opted to put more space into the 60 guest rooms, which – even at entry-level – have room for at least a sofa or armchair. Opt for the enormous Presidential Suite or choose one of the Grand View suites for your stay. Situated on the fourth floor, these suites have their own sitting rooms and panoramic views across the city with the Duomo as a neighbor.

roccofortehotels.com

[See also: Gucci Opens Stylish Cocktail Bar in Florence]

Belmond Villa San Michele

Belmond Villa San Michele can be found nestled on a wooded hillside five miles north of central Florence / ©Belmond

Offering sweeping views of Florence and the surrounding countryside, Belmond Villa San Michele can be found nestled on a wooded hillside five miles north of central Florence. Despite being further away from the main sights of the city (it’s a 20-minute drive) the hotel’s location means that the summer temperatures are more palatable than in Florence itself. The main hotel building was formerly a monastery originally dating from the 1500s and many of the original features have been preserved, becoming part of the hotel’s charm.

Villa San Michele features a total of 45 guest rooms split between the main house and the garden annexes, each with its own character and charm. Other facilities at the hotel include the pool and immaculate gardens, a small gym, a wellness suite for spa treatments, an elegant bar and two restaurants. Guests are also able to enjoy a range of experiences at Villa San Michele including cocktail making and wine tastings, rafting down the Arno River or private visits to the city’s museums.

belmond.com

Portrait Firenze

The majority of the hotel’s 37 guest suites have floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river / ©Portrait Firenze

Set in a prime location on the north bank of the Arno River, the five-star Portrait Firenze is only moments away from the Ponte Vecchio and several of Florence’s other iconic buildings and galleries. A member of the Lungarno Collection of luxury Italian hotels, Portrait Firenze exudes a feeling of modest sophistication; its modern-classic interiors were designed by local Florentine designer Michele Bonan and inspired by the city’s fashionable 50s and 60s.

Despite its city center location, Portrait Firenze offers guests a private, boutique experience that ensures comfort at every step – from the discreet entrance and the sitting-room reception area to the pre-arrival form enquiring about guests’ preferred flowers, newspapers, breakfasts and pillows. The majority of the hotel’s 37 guest suites have floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river and are generously sized, which makes up for the fact that the Portrait Firenze’s public areas are limited to the reception room and restaurant.

lungarnocollection.com

[See also: Irene Forte Launches Eco-Friendly Spas in Italy]

Safari Wine Tour and Wine Tasting

The rolling hills of Tuscany are renowned for their wines, with perfect conditions for endless vineyards of both red and white grape varieties. As the capital city of the region, whether you’re after a Chianti or a Chardonnay, Florence is a perfect base from which to explore the variety of wineries that the surrounding countryside has to offer. For something a little different to the usual wine tour and tasting, opt for a visit to Valle Picciola.

Step aboard the estate’s open-top Jeep for a 30-minute tour of the Vallepicciola vineyards / ©Valle Picciola

A working winery set within the Chianti Classico region, Valle Picciola is an hour’s drive from Florence or ten minutes from the smaller city of Siena. The modern winery estate has taken tours to the next level with its option of a Wine Safari Experience. Step aboard the estate’s open-top Jeep for a 30-minute tour of the Vallepicciola vineyards with your own personal driver and guide. The experience also includes a tour of the winery’s cellars and a private tasting of seven estate red wines, coupled with local cheeses and charcuterie.

If staying at Villa La Massa, this trip can be organized by the concierge team.

vallepicciola.com

Art Experiences with Studio Iguarnieri

Said to have been the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has had a major influence on the art world for centuries with countless artists having called the city home – including the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello and Michelangelo.

There is a plethora of art galleries across Florence that are worth a visit on your next weekend break, including the Uffizi Gallery (home to a vast collection of Renaissance pieces such as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus ) and Academia Gallery (where you can find Michelangelo’s David ).

If pursuing the city’s art galleries sparks your imagination, head over to Studio Iguarnieri to find a creative outlet. Situated moments away from the city center in a beautiful townhouse beside the Arno River, Studio Iguarnieri is one of the best spots for discovering local Florentine art and also offers a range of Art Experiences.

These include lessons on alfresco painting, working with watercolors to one-hour taster sessions at a location of your choice (our session took place in the beautiful gardens at Villa la Massa). True art lovers will enjoy ‘A Day with the Master’, which includes lessons, lunch and visits to the city’s galleries guided by one of the studio’s resident artists.

If staying at Villa La Massa, these art experiences can be organized by the concierge team and the taster session can take place on-site at the hotel.

iguarnieri.it

Sightseeing in Florence

The Bardini Gardens or the Iris Gardens feature an abundance of beautiful plants / ©Getty

As one of the world’s centers of art and culture, it’s impossible to visit Florence without making time to discover the sights the city has to offer. We have already mentioned two of the major art galleries but other landmarks worth visiting on a weekend trip include Florence’s famous cathedral, the Duomo, the Piazza della Signoria, the beautiful Boboli Gardens and the Ponte Vecchio, the city’s legendary old bridge that connects the Uffizi to Palazzo Pitti. Florence also provides a wealth of alternative sights to visit if you prefer to avoid the crowds that can always be found at these top attractions.

Though the Duomo features the iconic dome that can be seen across the city, the smaller Cappelle Medicee – Medici Chapel – features a similar structure and is a celebration of the Medici family, who were once Grand Dukes of Tuscany. The Bardini Gardens or the Iris Gardens feature an abundance of beautiful plants without the heavy footfall that the Boboli Gardens is accustomed to.

Or if it’s views over the city you’re looking for, ignore the guides that suggest Piazzale Michaelangelo. Instead, head slightly further up the hill to Dan Miniato Church for better views and the chance to explore the church itself.

If staying at the hotel, the concierge team at Villa La Massa can arrange any private tours of Florence’s attractions, including travel to and from the city.

What to Eat

Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience at one of Florence’s seven Michelin-starred restaurants or in the mood for an authentic or traditional Florentine dish, dining in the city has never been better than it is now. With a varied, dynamic food scene thanks to an influx of international chefs and restaurateurs, Florence has become a hub for foodies as well as those interested in history and culture.

For Florence’s signature meat dish, Bistecca al Fiorentina , head to Regina Bistecca. Set to the north of the Duomo, the restaurant features high ceilings and modern finishes – and offers T-bone steak priced by weight. At the understated, elegant Michelin-starred La Bottega del Buon Caffè, expect seasonal farm-to-table dishes paired with a curated wine list and views from the floor-to-ceiling windows out towards the Arno. For other traditional Tuscan fare with views across the river, we love Trattoria Cammillo, which has been owned and run by the same family since 1945.

reginabistecca.com, borgointhecity.com

[See also: Inside the New Hotel Castello di Reschio]

Sophie Killip

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See Florence in a week

If you’ve got a week to spend in Florence you’ll have enough time to really get a feel for the city. But as the birthplace of the Renaissance there’s no shortage of things to keep you occupied. From Brunelleschi’s Dome to the world-famous Uffizi, atmospheric trattorias to bustling markets.

So here we show you how to organise your sightseeing, allowing you to dig a little deeper into the city each day. We’ve also got tips on the best tours, and where to wine and dine yourselves. Ready? Lets go.

Florence in a week – a complete itinerary

Day 1 – the cathedral complex.

On your first day in Florence , so we recommend taking an  early morning   walk  along the  Lungarno . There are some lovely views of the river and plenty to look at along the way. Stop for a nice  cappuccino  at one of the bar-pasticcerie near the  Ponte Vecchio  and enjoy the sight of the old bridge waking up. Stroll up towards the  Mercato Nuovo , stopping to touch the  Porcellino  for luck.

=> Discover the  20 Best Florentine experiences !

It’s time to explore the Cathedral Complex , the absolute highlight of the city. The entrance to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is free but  you must book in advance  and buy a ticket if you want to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome and/or Giotto’s bell tower. The views alone make this trip worthwhile! Visit the Museum Opera del Duomo to learn all the secrets of Florence Cathedral.

This great (and good value for money) guided Tour of the Duomo Complex will allow you to access the Cathedral’s hidden terraces , and includes the visit to the Crypt . A full immersion into the fascinating world of Florence’s Duomo.

SEE FLORENCE FROM ABOVE: If you have time at the end of the day, make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo to see the magnificent view over the city. Best enjoyed at sunset!

=> Anyone looking for a compact travel guide with a map should consider  Rick Steves Florence  . Detailed, easy to read, is a good accessible guide to have with you.

DAY 2 – See the David and San Lorenzo

Start the day with a coffee and a pastry at the bustling Robiglio Cafe in Via dei Servi. Then head over to the Accademia Gallery to meet Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Statue of David . Remember to book ahead, to shorten the waiting time (you can do so on the official site ). To learn all David’s secrets, we recommend that you join a Guided Tour led by an art expert .

At lunch head to San Lorenzo to check out the indoor Food Market . Grab a panino from one of the downstairs stalls or head upstairs for more seating and a browse around the modern open space food heaven . Once you’ve given your eyes and your stomach a workout, head out to the outdoor market in San Lorenzo to look around this historic market.

EXTRA TIME: If you want to continue the Michelangelo theme today we can recommend a trip to the Medici Chapels with the new Sacristy (designed by Michelangelo), which is just around the corner, annexed to San Lorenzo Church. The visit will probably take you less than an hour.

=> 7 Unmissable Museums in Florence

DAY 3 – Delve into the Uffizi

On the third day it’s time to visit the  Uffizi Gallery . This has some of the most important collections of Renaissance art in the world. Once again it’s a good idea to  book a Guided Tour of the Uffizi in advance so you can skip the queues and enjoy a tour with a professional tour guide.

Stop for a rest at the Uffizi Gallery Cafe where you can can enjoy a view over  Piazza Signoria from above. Once you’ve finished the tour you can explore Piazza Signoria and in particular the collection of sculptures in the  Loggia dei Lanzi .

=> Discover the Highlights of the Uffizi, including Botticelli and Da Vinci .

BONUS ATTRACTION: don’t miss the small Church of Orsanmichele , a real jewel located off Via Calzaiuoli.

In the afternoon, head along to Santa Croce to see  Santa Croce church  and square . Inside the church there are  tombs  of such great names as Galileo and  Michelangelo . Don’t miss the Pazzi Chapel.

If you decide to stay in the Santa Croce area you’ll find a lot of artisan leather shops , and the Scuola del Cuoio where you can watch the artisans at work. Santa Croce is a lively spot in the evening too, filled with lots of bars and eateries.

=> 12 Cool Things you have to do in Florence !

DAY 4 – Pitti Palace & the Oltrarno

You can dedicate the day to  Palazzo Pitti  and the Boboli gardens .  Palazzo Pitti is home to the Galleria Palatina, with its collection of  Renaissance paintings , and the Royal Apartments. After you’ve had a look around, take a wander in the vast  Boboli gardens  behind the palace filled with statues and peace.

After lunch take a walk to the  Oltrarno . This is a lovely area to while away the afternoon, and it still has many of the original  Florentine artisan shops  that have been a feature of the area for centuries. The heart of the Oltrarno is  Santo Spirito  which is a lively area and a perfect spot for an  evening  aperitivo .

NIGHTLIFE: Discover the  best restaurants and bars in San Frediano neighbourhood  in the Oltrarno, recently labelled by the Lonely Planet as one of the coolest  quartieri in the world!

=>  Where to taste the Best ice cream in Florence .

DAY 5 – Palazzo Vecchio & Shopping

This morning we’re sending you on a visit to see Palazzo Vecchio , the old seat of government that dates back to the 14th century, and was completely revamped by the Medici. You’ll have walked past this building already, but we can highly recommend seeing its magnificent rooms including the Hall of the 500 . If you can, go on the Secret Passages Tour which will gets you into hidden passages and secret rooms that are closed to the general public.

If you want to spend an afternoon walking around, try out the area behind Piazza Signoria , the Medieval heart of Florence around Via Santa Margherita. For some shopping head for Via dei Calzaiuoli, luxurious Via Tournabuoni, lively Via del Corso and Borgo Albizi.

Alternatively if you can’t get enough of those museums, make your way to the Bargello Museum . This ex town hall (and at one time a prison) is Florence’s museum of Renaissance sculpture including early work by Michelangelo.

SOME TOP FLORENTINE RESTAURANTS : Coco Lezzone, Gustavino, Il Latini, Cinghiale Bianco, Trattoria Da Burde, Perseus, Buca Lapi.

DAY 6 – Frescoes & Views

Start the day with some frescos. Choose to visit the atmospheric former covent of San Marco with its touching and intimate frescoes by Beato Angelico. Or head to the beautifully decorated Santa Maria Novella Church where you’ll find some remarkable Renaissance frescoes and a beautiful courtyard. To know more about fresco-spotting in Florence, check out the best frescoes in Florence .

If you haven’t been already, end the day on a high note with a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo . From the Oltrarno walk along the river, to San Niccolo tower and up along Le Rampe. This is a lovely walk and the view of Florence from the Piazzale is breathtaking particularly around sunset .

SECRET GARDEN: If you’ve already been up to Piazzale at this point, head instead for the Giardino Bardini . An Italian Renaissance Garden with lovely shady spots, fantastic views and even a restaurant.

=> Discover Florence’s most beautiful gardens .

DAY 7 – Get a taste of Tuscany

On the last day (or on one of them) we suggest heading out of Florence and seeing a little of the countryside that surrounds the city. There are many tours that will pick you up in Florence and take you on wine and food tasting excursions in the Chianti area , like this Chianti Afternoon Wine Tour . It’s a great and easy way to experience Tuscany while you enjoy a glass of their delicious nectar.

If you’d like to explore more of Tuscany, and see Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano, check out these 1-Day Guided Tours of Tuscany from Florence !

Best Florence Walking Tours

A walking tour of Florence is a good way to get your bearings in the city. They usually last a couple of hours, and take you past the main sights. If you’re interested in history, there are themed  Tours about the Renaissance period and the Medici family .

=> Learn some curiosities about the Medici family , that ruled Florence for 300 year.

=> Top 8 Artworks to see at the Bargello Museum in Florence

For Food lovers, there’s a very special Gourmet Walking Tour of Florence that introduces you to some of the traditional treats of this city!

=> 8 Good Reasons to visit the Uffizi Gallery and Where to see Contemporary Art in Tuscany !

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A weekend in Florence: travel guide, attractions and things to do

Everything you need to know for a city break in the beautiful capital of italy’s tuscany region, why you should visit florence.

F lorence, or Firenze, is “always at the top of the most beautiful places in Italy list”, said Rough Guides . This city in Tuscany “has it all”, from world famous museums and glorious architecture to the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio. It’s also home to “historic” markets, “magnificent” gardens and some of the world’s top art collections. If you want to see “probably the finest collection in the entire city”, book an immersive private tour of the Uffizi Gallery. 

• SEE MORE Hotel Savoy Florence review: reignite your passion for luxury travel
• SEE MORE Relais Santa Croce by Baglioni review: a palazzo fit for a Florentine noble

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is “nothing if not historic”, said Condé Nast Traveler . It attracts around 10 million visitors each year who visit for the city’s “frozen-in-time” palaces, “legendary” attractions, and tourist-friendly Tuscan cuisine and gelato stands. “Ever up for reinvention”, Florence is “modernising” and behind those “classic façades” you’ll find “smart design and influential spaces”. If you’re “still dreaming of your last visit there 20 years ago”, then it’s “time to go back”. There’s plenty more to see.

Top attractions and things to do

When in Florence, of course you must visit the Duomo – one of the “most impressive pieces of architecture in the world” – and Michelangelo’s statue of “David” in the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze, said Sofia Gymer on TheWeek.co.uk . You should also visit the Piazza Santa Croce, where the stunning Basilica of Santa Croce resides. With a “striking façade” of coloured marble and an interior “brimming with religious artistic masterpieces”, it’s known for housing the tombs of some of the most famous Italians – the real titans of history. Step inside its cool interior to escape the midday sun and visit the resting places of Galileo Galilei, Michelangelo and Macchiavelli, just to name a few. Do make sure you have a scarf or jacket to cover your shoulders though – this is a requirement for most churches in Florence.

Florence Cathedral 

The Duomo complex incorporating the Baptistery and Giotto’s Bell Tower dominates Florence’s skyline in all its pastel glory. Elaborately decorated in white, pink and green marble, the Duomo took its time to become the iconic structure it is today. Started in 1296, its striking dome – the world’s largest brick dome – was added in 1436 by celebrated architect Filippo Brunelleschi. The striking Gothic Revival façade for which the cathedral is known was only finished in the 19th century. The cathedral and its buildings occupy a large pedestrian piazza, so that visitors have room in which to walk around and admire its splendour. Inside, the décor is fairly stark, and its main appeal are a mosaic floor and the underground remains of a 7th century cathedral.

Giotto’s Bell Tower

The pastel Gothic bell tower next to the cathedral juts nearly 85m into the sky and it’s just 15 square metres at its base. Its pastel marble encrustations match those of the duomo. If your knees are up to it, you can book a ticket to climb its 414 steps. On the way up, pause to catch your breath and admire some of 16 statues situated in various niches along the way – they’re copies of the originals by Italian Renaissance masters such as Donatello and Pisano. The view from the top makes the climb worth it – you’re rewarded with one of the best views of Florence’s red roofs, narrow streets and the Tuscan hills beyond.

Uffizi Gallery

This world-class art museum on the banks of the Arno is an attraction that every visitor must carve out time for. Its collection boasts sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the Modern period, but it’s best known for its Italian Renaissance works. For a close-up glimpse of Sandro Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” (1482-85) and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Annunciation” (c. 1472–75), arrive early to avoid the throngs of art lovers. The 16th century horseshoe-shaped building is itself a work of art, with wide, airy halls perfectly designed to showcase its treasures. The place with the most wow-factor is the Tribuna, an octagonal room of scarlet whose dome is decorated with thousands of shells.

Hotel Savoy/Rocco Forte Hotels

Ponte Vecchio

The world-famous symbol of Florence is its oldest bridge, dating from 1345, which crosses the Arno at its narrowest point of 84m. The bridge was always home to shops, but the stench that arose from the butchers, fishmongers and tanneries that originally traded on the edifice prompted Duke Ferdinand de Medici to evict them in 1593 in favour of jewellers and goldsmiths. The situation remains the same today, so it’s the place to head for if you’re looking for a sparkly souvenir. Plus, its central piazza affords guests great views of the river. The bridge’s “back shops”, visible from the east, were added in the 17th century.

Boboli Gardens

Stroll in one of the finest Italianate gardens in the world in the 111-acre grounds of the Pitti Palace, home of the Medici grand dukes of Tuscany. On a peaceful walk among cypress, evergreen oak trees and box hedges you’ll come across garden sculptures that encompasses Roman antiquities as well as works by 16th and 17th century artists. Its pièce de resistance is the awe-inspiring Buontalenti Grotto, a cave-like structure of three rooms featuring fantastical statues, zodiac signs and sculptures. At the gardens’ highest point, it provides a stunning vista of Florence.

Rocco Forte Hotels

Best hotels in Florence 

There are 11 hotels which have been given 9/10 ratings by the experts in The Telegraph . Topping the list is Portrait Firenze, an “exceptional” hotel with a “centralissima” location and a “discreetly luxurious atmosphere”. The hotel’s “sleek and sophisticated” design will “appeal to style hounds”, but the space in the suites and the in-room kitchens make it “an attractive choice for families too”.

Iconic cities “attract travellers with high expectations”, said Travel + Leisure . And the best hotels in Florence “don’t disappoint”. The five best hotels in Florence, according to Travel + Leisure readers, are Portrait Firenze, Hotel Savoy, Helvetia & Bristol Firenze, Hotel Lungarno, and Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. 

Baglioni Hotels & Resorts

The Relais Santa Croce by Baglioni is “a palazzo fit for a Florentine noble”, said Sofia Gymer on TheWeek.co.uk . Located in the heart of the ancient Santa Croce district, the hotel’s 24 luxurious rooms and suites are “spacious and thoughtful”, with the “sumptuous” signature suites – Da Verrazzano and De Pepi – each adorned with “magnificent fully frescoed ceilings”. 

Hotel Savoy, part of the Rocco Forte Hotels collection, is a “haven” of Italian style that makes the “perfect base to explore the city from”, said Vicki Power on TheWeek.co.uk . Sipping a Campari on the terrace of Hotel Savoy is “a rite of passage for any Italophile”. But don’t make an aperitivo at the Savoy’s Irene Bar “your only acquaintance with this grande dame of Florence hotels”. It’s a “historic” five-star establishment “steeped in history and oozing class”. 

Enoteca Pinchiorri/Facebook

Best restaurants and bars in Florence

Eating, drinking and “embracing la dolce vita” in Florence has “honestly never been so tantalising or diverse”, said Nicola Williams on Lonely Planet . Amid the “breathtaking kaleidoscope” of street tripe carts, wine bars, historical cafes and old-school eateries, there are “spectacular” openings and a “new generation of bold women chefs” reinterpreting culinary traditions. 

Florence has 11 Michelin-starred restaurants – one three-star, one two-star and nine one-star – and nine restaurants that have been awarded a Bib Gourmand . The cuisine at three-star Enoteca Pinchiorri, located in the Baglioni Relais Santa Croce, is “striking for its opulent and grandiose style”, said the Michelin Guide , which “impresses without becoming overly fussy or excessive”. The two-star Santa Elisabetta is “one of the most interesting gourmet restaurants in Florence”, said the Guide . There are just a few tables here, so guests are “advised to book well in advance”.

Ranked at No.39, Locale Firenze is a new entry on The World’s 50 Best Bars list. Hosted in the “historical” Palazzo Concini, this bar is “like a time machine taking guests on a journey through centuries across its two floors”, each a nod to Florentine culture. And the drinks list is “as distinctive as the venue and its atmosphere”. 

Florence’s “rapidly expanding” bar and cocktail scene gives visitors the chance to enjoy happy hours, traditional Italian aperitivo or late-night drinks, said Lauren Caramico on Romeing Firenze . Atrium Bar at the Four Seasons is where “chic meets old-world charm” while Rasputin, a “secret bar located somewhere in Florence”, offers a “speakeasy-style concept, space, and attitude”.

How to get to Florence

Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola, formally known as the “Amerigo Vespucci” airport, is the main aviation gateway in Florence and located just a few miles from the city centre. This makes it “easy to arrange your own transport if needs be”, said The Getaway Lounge . And in terms of public transport, you can take a bus or a tram. There are direct flights to Florence from London Gatwick, London City and Edinburgh airports in the UK. 

6 easy must-do weekend trips from Florence

Florence hardly needs an introduction. This charming town, with its Renaissance architecture, world-leading art galleries, incredible museums, and spectacular food scene, is one of the highlights of any trip to Italy and one of the most visited cities by international tourists in the entire world. If you haven't been to this Tuscan city yet, chances are good that you will end up there at some point in your life. And you've you have been there before, you'll know exactly why it's so special.

In some ways, the entire city of Florence can feel like one big art gallery. But this is a living city where you'll also find lively markets, spectacular restaurants, and great nightlife once the sun goes down. There's enough to do in Florence to keep you busy no matter how long you're in town, especially if you're interested in history, art, or great food.

However, one of the things that makes Italy such a great country to explore is that every region and almost every town offers you something different. And with an excellent rail network that makes it easy to travel on high-speed trains between cities and slower regional trains to areas more off the beaten path, it would be a shame not to take advantage of day trips or weekend trips from Florence. There's so much to see in this region that if you can find the time to explore outside the city itself, you definitely should. Florence Train Station can be the starting point of some great weekend trips from Florence, or you can rent a car and explore on four wheels.

However you choose to travel, you'll have a much easier time if you leave your bags behind at a Florence luggage storage . Bounce has locations in Florence and in hundreds of cities all over Italy, so you can always find a place to leave your bags behind and travel light.

San Gimignano

This beautiful town is almost worth visiting for the wine alone. However, the ancient history and gorgeous scenery make this one of the most popular weekend trips from Florence, and it's close enough to the city to consider for a day trip, too.

Distance from Florence:

San Gimignano lies 60 km south of Florence, so you can reach it by car in around one hour. It's also possible to take bus line 130, which will take closer to two hours.

Our activity recommendations:

Piazza del Duomo San Gimignano: The ancient heart of the city is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the town. As well as the Duomo or Cathedral, this piazza contains the Torri Gemelle dei Salvucci, the Palazzo Nuovo del Podestà, and the Torre Grossa , the tallest of many towers in what is sometimes referred to as the Manhattan of the Middle Ages.

Town Hall: San Gimignano's palatial town hall has some incredible works of art, including some that date back to the 13th century. This is also where you can climb the Torre Grossa for an incredible view of the city and the surrounding countryside.

San Gimignano wine: San Gimignano is justifiably famous for its wine. Located close to the legendary Chianti Valley, the city is surrounded by vineyards where you can try local vintages and learn more about pairing wine with food.

Best season to visit:

There is no bad time to visit San Gimignano, thanks to everything there is to do in the city. However, if you're a serious wine fan, you might want to consider visiting during the fall harvest season to learn more about the wine production process.

Montepulciano

Tuscany is packed with medieval hilltop towns that were once miniature fortresses but now provide incredible places to visit on weekend trips from Florence. Like San Gimignano, Montepulciano is a beautiful medieval town where you can easily lose yourself among the narrow streets and historic buildings. And like San Gimignano, it's also a place to sample incredible wine along with your history.

It's just over a hundred kilometers from the center of Florence to Montepulciano, requiring a drive of around an hour. You can also visit the town on a bus tour from Florence if you don't feel like driving. Either way, it's close enough for a day trip as well as a longer weekend excursion.

Il Corso: The main road through the center of the town, just wandering along il Corso is a great way to soak up the atmosphere and see some of the city's most beautiful buildings. Look out for the famous clock tower and its figure of Pulchinella, who strikes the bell on the hour.

Piazza Grande: The main piazza of Montepulciano occupies the highest spot in the whole town, and it functions like a living room for the entire city. Grab a glass of wine or a meal from one of the cafés and restaurants and relax as you soak up the lively atmosphere of this city square. You won't be the only one.

There's no bad time to visit Montepulciano. Although it's nice to wander the streets on a sunny day, those aren't in short supply in the summer, spring, and fall. Winters can be cold and windy, but that just gives you a good excuse to retreat to a wine bar or enjoy a delicious meal.

Once the major rival of Florence itself, the medieval town of Siena is a perfect place to explore. It has much of the historical and architectural charm that Florence does, but often without the huge tourist crowds you'll find in the city. A great venue for day trips or longer weekend trips from Florence, Siena offers a more laid-back experience of Tuscan history, art, and culture.

Siena sits only around 70 km from Florence, so you can reach the city within an hour's drive. It's also possible to take a regional train between the two cities, which will take around an hour and a half.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: There's no missing this one. The spiritual heart of Siena is one of its most spectacular buildings, with its ornate Baroque façade and its black-and-white striped tower. First built in the 13th century, this cathedral is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside and simply has to be seen on any trip to the city.

Palazzo Pubblico: Also built back in the 13th century as the headquarters of the government of Siena, this outstanding palace is another of Siena's many magnificent medieval buildings. Wander through the museum's interior to learn more about the history of what was once an autonomous city-state, and climb the tower for magnificent views.

Siena National Gallery: This museum of art has been awarded National status because of its historical and cultural importance. It offers an outstanding collection of art by local artists from the 12th to the 16th centuries, so you can trace the evolution of art in this region and see the Italian Renaissance happen almost right before your eyes.

Any time will do. Many of Siena's top attractions are indoors, so don't let bad weather put you off seeing this fascinating historical town.

In many ways, the region of Tuscany is just one beautiful village after another once you leave Florence itself. Montalcino is another gorgeous town that makes for a great weekend getaway set among the rolling hills of the region, and this is another trip that will be of particular interest to wine lovers.

Montalcino lies south of Siena and is a solid 140 km from Florence, meaning you have to drive for around an hour and a half to get here. It's also possible to take the train, but the service is sporadic, taking more than three hours to make the same journey.

Brunello wine: Montalcino is perhaps best known for its famous local wine, Brunello. If you know anything about Italian wine, you've probably tried this variety for yourself, but there's nothing quite like sampling it in the vineyards where it's produced. And if you haven't tried it before, you're in for a treat. This region also produces other wines like the dessert wine Moscadello, so a wine tour of this region is sure to be a highlight of any Italian trip.

Montalcino Fortress: Built in the 14th century when Montalcino was under the control of Siena, this impressive fortress became a refuge for local families when the city was besieged by the powerful Medici family in 1555. You can learn more about the Game of Thrones-style struggle between Italian noble families in this fascinating and atmospheric place.

This medieval village is a beautiful place to visit no matter when you get the chance to see it for yourself. Don't let cold weather deter you from exploring the excellent wine and fascinating history here.

Another of Tuscany's beautiful medieval hilltop towns, Cortona flew under the radar for many years until it was made famous in the popular book Under the Tuscan Sun. Since then, legions of tourists have discovered the historic charm and laid-back atmosphere of this beautiful city for themselves. Surrounded by its historical stone walls, the city remains a great place to explore history and enjoy a slower pace of life than you'll find in Florence.

At around 100 km from Florence, you can drive to Cortona in just over an hour or take the train for a journey time of just over an hour and a half.

Convento delle Celle: Founded by St. Francis of Assisi back in 1211, this beautiful old building located next to a stream is one of the top tourist attractions in town. Here, you can learn more about the life of St. Francis and the hermits who followed in his footsteps, and enjoy beautiful views over the surrounding region.

Museo dell'Accadémia Etrusca e della Città di Cortona: This stunning archaeological museum holds artifacts from both Roman and Egyptian civilizations, but is perhaps best known for its collection of Etruscan antiquities which predate the Roman Empire. This is a great place to learn about this vanished civilization and ponder how different the world might have been if it were the Etruscans, not the Romans, who ended up dominating Europe for a thousand years.

Like most of the historic hilltop villages around Florence, there's no bad time to visit Cortona.

Cinque Terre

The beautiful and internationally renowned coastal villages of the Amalfi coast are located well south of Naples, which makes them almost five hours from Florence and a little too far for an easy weekend trip. However, you don't have to go all the way to southern Italy to enjoy coastal beauty. One of the most beautiful places in Italy — and therefore one of the most beautiful places in the world — the five coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre are almost too stunning to be real.

You can reach this famous region by train from Florence in around two and a half hours. You can also drive in about two hours but be warned that the narrow streets of these villages aren't a great place for cars.

Hiking: Until the railway was built in the 19th century, the only way to get from one village to the next was by walking along a narrow coastal trail. Now, this trail is popular with hikers as it winds along the cliffs, giving incredible views of the ocean and the beautiful villages that cling to the rocks.

Seafood: Before the advent of mass tourism, fishing was the main industry in these parts, and it's still an important part of local culture and cuisine. You'll find no end of seafood restaurants in any of the five villages, which will serve you delicious seafood straight from the sea, prepared according to traditional and local recipes.

If you want to go hiking, summer is a tempting time to visit the Cinque Terre. The spring and fall shoulder seasons can also be a good time to visit, with fewer crowds, but be warned that many restaurants close down in the off-season.

If you only have a short time in Florence, for example, 3 days in the city , you'll want to stay local and enjoy what the city has to offer. But if you have a little more time on your hands, you can branch out and explore some of the beautiful hilltop villages or head to the coast.

Leave your bags behind and head out on the best day trips from Florence or these stunning weekend getaways, and you'll get to see more of what makes Tuscany such a desirable location for people from around the world.

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Amazing day trips from Florence

The best day trips and weekend getaways from Florence

We all know Florence, it is one of the most beautiful and artistically impactful cities in Italy. You could spend a whole year there and it still wouldn’t be enough to uncover all of its marvels. Located in Tuscany , one of the most stunning Italian regions right in the heart of Italy, you’ll find that Firenze is a great base to explore Tuscany and the nearby regions. Today we’ll talk to you about the best day trips from Florence to make your Tuscan stay even more unforgettable. 

INSPIRATION Train Travel in Tuscany

How to arrive: Train to Castellina in Chianti (90-110 min) or Car (40 min). Consider renting a car in Florence Tour Suggestion: Chianti: Authentic Wine Tasting Experience from Florence

Does the Chianti region need an introduction? If you’re a wine lover you’ve come across a Chianti wine at least once in your life (and if you haven’t, this is definitely a place you have to cross off your list). This region is one of the most amazing and unique winemaking areas. Picture this: you’re in Florence, you’re surrounded by art, amazing restaurants, food and great company. On your second day in Florence, you decide to take a day trip to the Chianti region. Can you picture the breathtakingly beautiful scenery? At the end of the car ride, you’ll end up visiting vineyards and wine estates, tasting the most amazing wine with cured meats and cheese boards to complete your experience. 

San Gimignano and Siena

How to arrive: Train to Siena (90 min) or Car (60 min) Tour Suggestion: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano with Lunch and Wine in Chianti

Just an hour away from Florence lies the stunning San Gimignano. This beautiful town is home to the delicious Saffron and Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, so if you’re a wine lover this is a great stop for you. But apart from the food and wine specialties, San Gimignano is known for its 14 medieval towers and medieval architecture . If you’re on a strict time schedule and you’d like to fit in two destinations in one day, after San Gimignano you could  head over towards the medieval town of Siena , this beauty is best known for the famous “Palio di Siena” horse race, which takes place twice every summer. Don’t forget to visit the Siena Cathedral and the Palazzo Comunale which are located on the Piazza del Campo , the most famous tourist attraction in the entire town. Here you will find a myriad of different restaurants to pick from and souvenir shops. 

Montepulciano

How to arrive: Train (130-180 min) or Car (85 min) Tour Suggestion: Ask us!

This hilltop Tuscan town is famous for being a winemaking area and for its Rosso di Montepulciano red wine . Endless vineyards surround the beautiful town of Montepulciano but there is more to this gem than its wine. The views of the rolling Tuscan hills are worth the trip. During your time here, don’t forget to visit the church of San Biagio, this church is not very famous among tourists so you just picked up on an interesting tip. The Piazza Comunale, where you will find Montepulciano’s most famous monuments, is also a must visit!

How to arrive: Train (60-80 min) or Car (65 min) Tour Suggestion: Half Day private tour of Pisa

Since you’re in Italy, it would be a shame not to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa for yourself! And the good news is that you don’t even need a car: Pisa is easily reached by hopping on a regional train at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella train station. If you’re not acquainted with the story, the Torre di Pisa is famed for its inclination of 3.9 degrees (previously of 5.5 degree) and for having been where Galileo Galileo dropped two cannonballs of different weight from the tower to prove that mass does not affect the speed of falling objects. The famed landmark is located in Piazza del Miracoli where you’ll also find the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Monumental Graveyard. 

How to arrive: Train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme (110 min) or Car (90 min) Tour Suggestion: Val D’Orcia: Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour from Florence

Situated in the stunning Val d’Orcia region , Pienza is a must-visit borgo that dominates the valley, offering endless views of the rolling Tuscan hills . Although the atmosphere and the views themselves are enough of a reason to visit this charming town, Pienza is actually renowned worldwide for its millennial tradition in cheese making, resulting in the famous pecorino di Pienza. While you’re here, don’t miss out on dining in Pienza’s characteristic restaurants, tasting the famed pecorino with some honey and sampling the region’s wines. You deserve it. 

How to arrive: Train to Buonconvento – 10 km from Montalcino (150 min) or Car (100 min) Tour Suggestion: Brunello di Montalcino Full-Day Wine Tour with Tastings

Just a few kilometers from Pienza, Montalcino is a Medieval village completely surrounded by 13th century fortified walls. Gaze out onto the rolling Tuscan hills, the olive groves and vineyards, stop by for lunch in one of its charming restaurants and don’t even think about leaving before you’ve had a glass (or two) of its famous Brunello di Montalcino red wine (one of the Super Tuscans)! 

How to arrive: Train (80-100 min) or Car (60 min) Tour Suggestion: Ask us!

Enclosed within its famous Renaissance-era walls, Lucca is a small, yet richly artistic city between Pisa and Florence. Panoramic views from medieval towers, strolls atop old defensive walls, and museums housing masterpieces of Italian art supply visitors with unforgettable experiences and sights in Lucca.  Encircled by Lucca’s walls is a refined, cultivated city with incredible museums, churches, piazzas, and palaces. You won’t miss any of Lucca’s medieval towers, such as the Torre Guinigi and Torre delle Ore (Clock Tower). From atop of the Torre Guinigi, which you’ll spot from the bundle of trees on its roof, you’ll get a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

How to arrive: Train (60-90 min) or Car (60 min)

Coming from Florence, you probably appreciate art and culture, or maybe you’re trying to get away from it for the day. Either way, Arezzo is the birthplace of the world-renowned artists Giorgio Vasari and Pietro della Francesca , and hence is filled with art! From the beautiful Piazza Grande filled with stalls, to the many cathedrals, there are various gems to visit. Don’t forget to visit the fortress, it offers a 360-degree view of the town of Arezzo! If you want to combine another destination with Arezzo, we recommend Cortona. 

How to arrive: Train (80 min) or Car (90 min) Tour Suggestion: Assisi and Cortona Full-Day Guided Tour from Florence

If you’ve ever seen the movie “ Under The Tuscan Sun ” starring Diane Lane and wished to swap your lives with hers, this is the place that will give you a glimpse of the life she created for herself. Cortona is a classic and delightful Tuscan hill top town with the most spectacular view of the Tuscan fields and the Lago Trasimeno. It was built in historical stone walls to give you that true and authentic Tuscan vibe. Walk down the streets of the centro storico, marvel at the churches and don’t miss out on the Giardini Parterre. Don’t miss out.

How to arrive: Car (80 min)

Situated in between Florence, Pisa and Siena, Volterra is a charming town known for its Etruscan origins. Here, you’ll be able to admire the thousand-year-old Etruscan arch, visit the Etruscan museum but also appreciate the town’s Medieval, Roman and Renaissance architecture and artworks. 

Capalbio (Giardino dei Tarocchi)

How to arrive: Train (210 min) or Car (150 min)

Bordering Lazio and close to Argentario, Capalbio is renowned for its beautiful borgo and for its coast, boasting crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. If you head on a day trip to Capalbio, make sure to visit the beautiful Giardino dei Tarocchi , or Garden of Tarot Cards, just a few kilometers from the center. Created by the French artist Niki de Snate Phalle, the garden is popular for the large sculptures depicting 22 Major Arcanes of the tarot cards. Truly a must-visit!

How to arrive: train to Orbetello (190-220 min) or car (135 min)

Tuscany is home to Mount Argentario , one of the most beautiful and popular seaside escapes in Italy . There are two strips of sand, known as the Giannella and the Feniglia, connecting the Argentario to the mainland, which are filled with great beach establishments and restaurants. But the hotspots at Argentario are Porto Santo Stefano, the main port of Argentario, with ferries that head to the Giglio island, and Porto Ercole, smaller but more chic. Both of these towns are surrounded by stunning beach coves which you can visit by hiring a boat for the day. If you want to spend a day soaking under the sun, this is a great place to head to! If you’re searching for a more exclusive stay head to Hotel Torre di Cala Piccola or Hotel Pellicano and stay the night!

English-Speaking Urgent Care in Now in Italy!

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The Roads Beyond

The best weekend trips from florence: your escape plan.

Looking for the best weekend trips from Florence? Whether you’re a tourist eager to explore beyond the city crowds, an exchange student seeking new experiences, or an expat in Florence in search of nearby gems, I’ve got your weekend break covered.

Below you will find a list of some of the best weekend trips from Florence. From the well-known to the off-the-beaten-path, all easily accessible by train or car . They are all organized according to how close to Florence they are .

Table of Contents

The Best Weekend Breaks from Florence

From the historic city of Bologna, offering an authentic taste of Italy minus the tourist crowds, to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa just an hour away, this weekend getaway guide has it all.

Venture further to the medieval magic of Siena, the “Town of Fine Towers” in San Gimignano, the captivating Orvieto perched on a volcanic butte, and the charming streets of Modena.

For a serene lakeside retreat, Lake Garda is a popular choice, and the timeless romance of Venice is just a train ride away.

Bologna is the perfect destination for a weekend trip from Florence. It is underrated and offers a much more authentic feel of Italy and the Italian way of life. Not to mention the lack of the crowds of tourists flooding Florence.

Bologna is compact and easy to explore on foot. Start at Piazza Maggiore. Many of  Bologna’s attractions  are located there. Enter the Basilica di San Petronio to see the world’s longest sundial and the oldest organ still in use . Stop by the Salaborsa City Library to see the archaeological excavations of the ancient Roman city.

Step out of Piazza Maggiore and stroll through Quadrilatero to discover why Bologna is the culinary capital of Italy. Sign up for a cooking class and learn how to make tagliatelle al ragù.

Head to the Archigimnasio and the Anatomical Theater to visit the oldest university in the Western world .

As you stroll through the medieval streets of the city, the porticoes of Bologna will shelter you from the sun and rain. The porticoes of Bologna are more than 60 km of arcades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the porticoes are wooden and have kept their authentic appearance since the 16th century. Others are amazingly beautiful.

You may have seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Bologna has not one, but two leaning towers. If you’re in shape, you can climb one of them and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Tip: Get your tickets in advance.

Bologna also has canals. Not as many as in Venice, but just as stunningly beautiful.

Whether you are a foodie, a history or architecture buff, or a photography enthusiast, you will enjoy your two days in Bologna .

Trip duration from Florence to Bologna : You can get to Bologna in less than 40 minutes by train.

By Maria from Map and Camera

Just a short train ride away, Pisa is one of the easiest weekend trips from Florence.

Pisa is famously home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa . This UNESCO World Heritage Site made famous by Galileo was built in 1173!

Being one of Italy’s and Europe’s most iconic landmarks , one of the best things about staying in Pisa, is that you can wake up early to avoid the crowds and day trippers that swarm the Piazza dei Miracoli to see the famed campanile (bell tower).

Climbing the tower for the slightly skewed view of the city and piazza is a must (booking a skip the line tour!)

Yet Pisa is not just about its leaning wonder. This Tuscan city has a delightful dining scene , too. Take a walking food tour to discover the secrets of the city from a local.

A must try is the Michelin guide recommended Erbaluigia. If you’re looking for more casual bites, the unassuming I Porci Comodi serves the most delicious Tuscan sandwiches.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River and admire the historic Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss Murale Tuttomondo di Keith Haring. Visit the Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest in the world .

For a touch of culture, visit the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, where you’ll find an impressive collection of Tuscan art. As the sun sets, enjoy an apéritif as you watch the world go by.

Pisa is more than a day-trip destination; when evening falls, the crowds disperse, and you’ll find a more authentic side of the city.

Trip duration from Florence to Pisa : The train from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Pisa Centrale takes just one hour. Take a look at this post for all the information you need on how to get from Florence to Pisa , including train options and guided tours.

By Kaz from  The Honeymoon Guide

Personally, I find Modena to be one of the best weekend breaks from Florence. This small city has a lot of charm, and has a couple of pretty interesting sites to visit.

Walking around the historic center and admiring its buildings all painted in yellow, melon and ochre is a great way to start exploring the city. Its streets are full of restaurants and cafes, and they become especially lively on the weekends.

If you are a foodie, you will love this city, as Modena is considered one of the top gastronomical destinations in Italy . Spend the weekend exploring its food scene at the stalls in the old Albinelli market . And if you have the chance, book a table at Osteria Francescana, one of the top restaurants in Italy .

You can also take a balsamic vinegar tour and tasting at one of the acetaias (production houses) in the area. Or try the original parmiggiano reggiano cheese , which comes from this area.

And if you are into cars, visiting the Ferrari museum will be an unforgettable experience. You will be able to see the Ferrari models through the years and learn more about Enzo Ferrari.

Something else you shouldn’t miss in this weekend trip is the Luciano Pavarotti’s House . Pavarotti was born in Modena, and he spent the last years of his life in that house. The visit showscases, photos, paintings, personal items while you listen to some of his amous operas.

With so many things to do in Modena , this is one of the best weekend trips from Florence.

Trip duration from Florence to Modena : The journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes by train.

Siena makes for one of the best weekend trips from Florence in the Tuscan area. This city is a popular  Tuscany day trip from Florence  but a weekend stay allows you to enjoy this medieval town and its mesmerising architecture.

The most famous attraction here is the Il Campo, which is the heart of the city. The brick pavement of this piazza and the 9 sections are just breathtaking. You have to allow some time to soak in the vibe at Piazza del Campo .

The Duomo in Siena is as striking as the one in Florence . The white and dark-green, almost black striped church has Gothic architecture. There is stunning art, statues and mosaics to be seen in the church. For those interested in museums, there is Museo dell’Opera del Duomo to explore.

For wonderful views of the city, there is no better place than Torre del Mangia, but you will have to climb the 500-odd steps of this tower.Leave some time to just meander around the narrow lanes, browse through shops, sit at a bar in the evening and have a delicious meal. 

Trip duration from Florence to Siena : It is such a popular destination that you have a dozen options of trains from Florence to Siena through the day. The time taken is about 1.5 hours. Of course, you can drive to this lovely town as well but a train just makes the journey easier.

By Shweta from Zest in a Tote

San Gimignano

The medieval walled city of  San Gimignano  is a great weekend trip from Florence. The city is well-preserved and the historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with many buildings dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

San Gimignano is known as the “Town of Fine Towers” and its tallest tower, Torre Grosse, is one of the best-known towers in Tuscany. You can climb up its 218 steps for amazing views of the nearby Tuscan countryside.

Walking the walls of the city to admire the architecture, as well as the views of the surrounding hills, is a must-do when in San Gimignano. Right off the main square (Piazza della Cisterna) is the city’s Duomo, another great place to stop while exploring San Gimignano.

While you can find good gelato pretty much anywhere in Italy, the owner of Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano has been crowned the world champion of gelato-making multiple times . The gelateria is especially well known for its creative flavors like saffron and chestnut.

Trip duration from Florence to San Gimignano : San Gimignano is about 1.5 hours from Florence via train (to Poggibonsi) and bus.

By Adrienne from Destinations and Desserts

The medieval gem of the Umbria region, Orvieto, a beautiful town near Rome , is one of the best weekend trips from Florence that will keep you occupied for a couple of days. Significantly less touristy than its Tuscan counterpart, Orvieto packs a punch.

Firstly, what sets Orvieto apart is its striking position atop a steep volcanic butte , offering a dramatic setting that offers sweeping views over the Umbrian countryside. Meanwhile, the tangled cobblestoned alleyways invite you to explore the town’s millennia-old history layer by layer.

The town’s crown jewel is definitely Duomo di Orvieto, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. The cathedral will captivate you with its elaborate façade details and stunning frescoes. The interior is equally impressive, featuring more beautiful frescoes, particularly the “Judgment Day” by Luca Signorelli. Make sure to return at dusk to appreciate the exteriors of Duomo illuminated by magnificent lighting.

Do not miss the intriguing Orvieto Underground, a labyrinth of ancient caves and tunnels , that will bring you 3000 years back to the Etruscan times.

For panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside, climb Torre del Moro, located in the very heart of Orvieto.

Also visit Pozzo di San Patrizio ( St. Patrick’s Well ). This 16th-century architectural marvel is known for its double helix spiral staircase. Designed to supply water in times of siege, it’s a testament to the ingenuity of Renaissance engineering. On the way out, pass by Albornoz Fortress (Fortezza Albornoziana) gardens that are free to visit and provide a peaceful retreat and offer another vantage point for admiring the cityscape.

Trip duration from Florence to Orvieto : If you are  renting a car to drive in Tuscany , Orvieto is a scenic 2-hour journey from Florence. Alternatively, within two hours you can also reach Orvieto by bus or a more comfortable train ride. 

By Ausra from The Road Reel

Garda Lake is one of the best weekend getaways from Florence. The scenic lake is located in between some stunning mountain ranges. It is famous for its crystal-clear blue water and cute little towns lakeside .

One of the best places to go at the Garda Lake is Sirmione. The picturesque little village has a stunning medieval castle and a spa with thermal water that supposedly has healing qualities. 

Depending on the time of your trip, you can enjoy water sports, hiking, or swimming at Lake Garda. Since it is the biggest lake in Italy, the possibilities are endless.

One of the best tips is to get a hotel with a nice view over the lake. Especially properties that are located a bit on the hills have amazing panoramic views. While most people go in summer for water activities, it is also super charming during Christmas times.

The Garda Lake is super close to famous cities like Verona or Milan. This makes it a great spot for a  Northern Italy road trip  as well.

Trip duration from Florence to Lake Garda : You can get to Desenzano del Garda/Sirmione in two hours by train.

By Sabrina from Shades of Summr

If you were having a hard time deciding whether to visit Florence or Venice , don’t worry, you can visit both as they are just a train ride away from each other!

Venice is one of the most wonderful weekend trips from Florence. You can easily reach Venice by the direct Freccia Rossa, which is Italy’s fast train service. The route takes just over two hours and tickets start at 50 euros each way. There are plenty of daily trains.

Venice is a compact, walkable city, easy to explore in one weekend. In fact, Venice is pedestrian only , as the city is built on water.

The main attractions in Venice are Piazza San Marco with the San Marco Basilica, and Rialto Bridge . But Venice is so much more than this, so don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and get lost on the small alleyways and narrow paths. They will lead to some of  the best gelato in Venice , which are not on the main roads.

Dorsoduro is a great area to stay in overnight. This is the student area, with cheaper restaurants and typical Venetian bars called Bacari. This is where you will also find more affordable accommodation options.

Some of the hidden gems in Venice include the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, with its impressive external staircase, and San Zaccaria church, with its flooded crypt .

One of the most romantic things to do in Venice is go on a gondola ride . However, keep in mind that for 30 minutes you will pay a minimum of 80 euros. A cheaper option is to cross the Grand Canal by traghetto, a shared service used in places where there are no bridges. This is a large gondola that costs 2 euros for tourists that offers a taster of how it is to be on a gondola.

Trip duration from Florence to Venice: You can get to Venice in two hours and 10 minutes by the high-speed train.

By Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Escape the bustling streets of Florence for a weekend of relaxation, stunning natural beauty, and ancient history in Saturnia, Italy. The small town is famously known for its therapeutic hot springs and picturesque landscapes. 

Once you arrive at Saturnia, a must-do is taking a dip in the  iconic Saturnia Hot Springs , also known as Cascate del Mulino. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany, these cascading powder blue hot springs maintain a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, offering a soothing and relaxing soak. The natural springs are rich in minerals and are believed to provide many therapeutic and health benefits. 

The Saturnia Hot Springs are free to visit. Make sure to remove all of your jewelry before getting into the hot spring. With the high sulfur content in the pools, your jewelry, especially silver, will quickly tarnish.

Afterward, explore the historic town of Saturnia and visit the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena and the Archeological Museum of Saturnia. Or treat yourself to a luxurious spa day and spend the afternoon relaxing in the thermal pools at Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort. 

Saturnia is a little off the beaten path, but this unique and one-of-a-kind destination is absolutely worth the visit! 

Trip duration from Florence to Saturnia: You can get to Saturnia in 3 hours by car. To break up the road trip, you can visit Siena, a medieval city known for its Piazza del Campo square and famous horse race. 

By Alisha from Travel Today Work Tomorrow

Final Thoughts

I hope that this weekend trips from Florence guide will be helpful for getting some ideas and planning your trip. Besides the charming Italian towns mentioned in this guide, there are some other beautiful and interesting locations that you could consider.

For example, exploring Cinque Terre , or the visiting the Amalfi coast if you are looking for destinations by the sea. Or getting to know bigger cities such as Milan or Rome . There are so many amazing destinations in that area of Italy!

Despite how beautiful Florence is, especially if you are traveling to Florence during the summer , going on a day or weekend trip, can be a great idea to have a respite from the crowds.

But if you’re considering leaving Florence just to escape the crowds, thinking you’ve already visited every significant attraction, think again! Take a look at this post about unique things to do in Florence , mostly away from the large tourist crowds.

I share travel tips and experiences based on my trips. I love countries with delicious food, night bazaars, nature, interesting birds, archaeological sites and beautiful temples

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11 Weekend Trips to Take While Studying Abroad in Florence

By Jess Dante Feb 13, 2017, 04:28 am 2

Studying abroad in Florence? Awesome— I bet you’re starting to think about planning your weekend trips. There’s so much choice but it’s hard to know what will make a good weekend trip from Florence for study abroad students. So I’ve put together this VERY comprehensive list of great places to visit for a weekend during your study abroad semester in Florence.

*This post contains some affiliate links (this doesn’t affect the price you pay).

Tips for booking weekend trips from Florence

Generally speaking, you want to book your weekend trips as far in advance as you can for cheaper prices. If you have a group of friends who you’ll be studying abroad with that you think you’ll want to travel with too, it might be worth booking your first weekend trip together before you get to Florence, or booking any trips that will get filled up fast, like Oktoberfest and Springfest (more on that later). Be sure to check your program calendar before booking to make sure there’s nothing already planned for you.

Besides that, don’t book any other weekend trips until you get to Florence. There’s a good chance you’ll find new friends that you’d prefer to travel with, or just find out that your US friends aren’t good travel buddies for you. You might also hear about events in Florence that you want to stick around for. Once you find the people you want to travel with and get a handle on your schedule, reference this list, and get booking ASAP!

Pin this so you have it saved for when you’re ready to start planning: 

Useful tools for booking weekend trips while studying abroad

When booking flights, check StudentUniverse and STA Travel for student prices, and also Skyscanner and Kayak and find the lowest price across those four sites.

When booking trains, use RailEurope. You can pay in USD and can see options that use multiple different train operators.

When booking buses , use GoEuro  and Rome2Rio .

Figuring out the best way to get from Florence to anywhere in Europe, use Rome2Rio.

For easy travel packages with other study abroad students, use Bus2alps . You can use the promo code TheAbroadGuide for a 5% discount. A great option for solo travelers.

For booking apartments, use Airbnb  (that link will give you a $31 discount) and Booking.com.

For booking hostels, use  Booking.com or Hostelworld .

When splitting travel costs between friends, use the app Splitwise .

Ok, now onto the best weekend trips to take while studying abroad in Florence!

For a weekend trip that’s incredibly easy to get to, Bologna is a great option. Located just 35 minutes from Florence if you take the fast train (or about an hour if you opt for the cheaper slow train), this is the place for foodies, as the region is considered the gastronomic center of the country. Bologna is the birthplace of Tagliatelle al Ragu (pasta with bolognese sauce– YUM), but you should also try piadine (flatbread-ish sandwiches), Parmigiano Reggiano, and other local delicacies while you’re there.

Bologna is one of Italy’s biggest university towns, so it’s a great place to meet both Italian students as well as other international ones. Get ready to practice your Italian and have some decently-priced cocktails at one of the many student bars around the city.

Here are more ideas for what to do while in Bologna for two days.

How to get there:

Direct train from Florence to Bologna. Book the fast train in advance for cheaper rates (takes 35 minutes), or around 1 hour 30 minutes for the cheaper train (buy tickets at the station, don’t forget to validate!) Book fast train tickets on Rail Europe for youth rates (up to 25 years) in dollars.

Read this post about how to navigate Italy’s train system before you travel.

Where to stay:

There aren’t any stand-out hostels in Bologna but you can get a basic hotel room for under $50 per person, and the nice part is you get all of the “extras” that you haven’t been getting at hostels — cleaning each day, fresh and free towels, free breakfast, etc. If you’re pinching pennies, only stay one night, and have two full days of eating and exploring before returning to Florence.

Cristina Rossi B&B – great location, you can walk to just about everywhere you’ll want to visit.

Hotel University – I stayed here with friends and it’s a lovely, basic hotel (with TVs) that has decent breakfast and friendly staff. Just around the corner is The Church, a bar that used to be, you guessed it, a church. Book a triple room for a cheaper price per person.

Hotel Accademia – really great location, has rooms with four twin beds, and although a little pricier (starting around $45/night), it would be a treat to stay in, plus free breakfast and private bathroom!

Also check Airbnb for other accommodation options.

2. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a really popular beach destination for both study abroad students and visitors from all over the world. People love it because the area has a really great mix of culture of sunshine/beach time. This is also where the world-famous Blue Grotto is, the beaches of Positano, and visitors love getting a pair of custom leather sandals made here. The area is made up of a bunch of small towns, so there’s plenty to explore.

Tip: For a town that’s a bit off the beaten path here, visit Ravello. Insane views! Tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons for less crowds — try April and October.

Book a high-speed train to Naples , which direct is just under 3 hours. Once you arrive, visit the Circumvesuviana Line ticket booth and get a ticket to your final destination. If you have class on Thursday afternoon, you’ll want to take the first train from Florence at 8am on Friday. Remember that the earlier you book, then generally the cheaper the price will be.

If you’d rather not deal with trains and want to wake up on the Amalfi Coast on Friday morning, Bus2alps can get you down there by bus on Thursday night and organize pretty much everything else for you. Use promo code TheAbroadGuide for a 5% discount.

Seven Hostel – probably the most famous hostel in the area. It’s close to the beach and the train station, has a rooftop lounge and bar, and is a bit luxurious. Book by the bed or they even have private rooms.

Hostel Brikette – this is what you picture when you think of an Italian seaside hostel– cute, quaint design with unbeatable views of the sea from their terrace.

If you love Florence, you’ll really enjoy Verona. They’re fairly similar but have some differences that make it worth the trip. There are loads of world-famous cultural attractions to visit (although I personally think you should skip the overrated Romeo and Juliet balcony, as it’s not even real!) but you can also experience the local side of the city if you just venture off the path a bit.

Super easy– book a high-speed, direct train to Verona on RailEurope.

B&B The Lions – a quaint B&B in a good location.

Casa Carega – a modern apartment in a great location for up to three people, quite reasonably priced.

The city isn’t known for its hostels, and most of the decent hotel options are most likely out of your budget, so definitely check Airbnb for better prices for a private room or entire apartment, especially if you’re traveling in a larger group. Your host should be able to also recommend some cool, budget-friendly things for you to do and see, and there’s always the bonus of saving money on food if you’ve got a kitchen in your rental.

4. Interlaken

Lots of people who study abroad visit Interlaken and say it’s one of their favorite, if not THE favorite, places they visited in Europe. It’s insanely gorgeous, and is a great representation of Switzerland. It’s also a great place for adventure activity lovers, and what study abroad student isn’t into adventure? No matter what time of the year you visit, there are so many cool activities you can do, like skydiving, skiing the Alps, or canyon jumping (I did this — free-falling 100+ feet was INSANE).

The downside of Interlaken is the price. The country as a whole is very expensive and this town is too. If you’re super-budget conscious, it’s doable, you just have to be creative with your time– go for a free hike, explore the town, cook at the hostel, etc. I’d also recommend using the company mentioned below, because they take students there most weekends, they’ve negotiated decent prices for their passengers.

If you’re keen to get there on your own, train is the “easiest” option, since the closest airport to Interlaken is Geneva. To get there by train, you’ll need to get yourself to Milan, then change one more time before you make it to Interlaken’s station.

How I got there was with Bus2alps . We left late on Thursday, so I slept on the coach bus and arrived early Friday morning. After a quick nap, I was up and ready for exploring that morning. It was way easier and less stressful than taking three trains. Use promo code TheAbroadGuide for a 5% discount on your trip.

Balmer’s Hostel (in our best cheap hostels post ) – this is where I chose to stay, and if you’re looking to party, this is the place to stay. If you want something quieter, look at my next option. But the hostel is huge, the atmosphere is busy and fun, and it’s like you’re staying in a ski lodge, complete with a hammock room. Just know that the rooms are tiny, so your bed might be right next to someone else’s, but you can get pretty cheap beds here if you opt for a larger room!

Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof – more of a modern hotel than Balmer’s is, this place is pretty nice and offers a lot of extras for guests, which makes up for the higher price tag. Great location too.

YouthHostel Interlaken – more like a luxe hotel than a hostel!

Jess is the Editor-in-Chief of The Abroad Guide. After studying abroad in Belgium during her junior year of college, she caught the travel bug. Her experiences include volunteering in Nicaragua, backpacking through Europe, and a year-long adventure in Italy, and she's now settled in London.

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2 thoughts on “ 11 weekend trips to take while studying abroad in florence ”.

Ah love this! I went to Springfest with Stoke Travel when I was studying abroad in Barca! Absolutely one of my favourite weekends of my study abroad! Really wish I made it to Cinque Terre though!

Thanks for commenting Erin!

Comments are closed.

I’m Jess, the founder of The Abroad Guide. Since 2013 myself and a team of writers have been sharing our best tips for study abroad students, as well as travel advice and info on living and working abroad. Originally from New York, I studied abroad in Antwerp, Belgium, lived in Florence, Italy, and now live and work in London.

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21 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ Detailed Travel Advice)

Nestled in central Italy and well-connected as the capital of Tuscany, there is arguably nowhere better to use as a base for day trips in all of central Italy than Florence–and as you’ll see, the best day trips from Florence are incredibly diverse, perfect for a wide variety of travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a food-centered trip, a little sun and sea air, a taste of one of Italy’s largest cities, or a classic Tuscan countryside escape, we’ve got a Florence day trip here for you.

We’ve put together this guide to the best day trips from Florence based on a cumulative several months traveling in Tuscany and its surrounding region over a period of years, including one trip where we based ourselves in Florence for a solid month.

Though the bulk of this guide is structured based on the given destination’s distance from Florence, we’ve also included a few memorable countryside experiences toward the bottom and a reliable, tried-and-true option for those looking for a quick decision toward the top.

Here’s where the find the best day trips from Florence !

Table of Contents

How to Reach Your Florence Day Trip Destination

Quick decision: an epic & easy day trip from florence, day trips within 1 hour of florence, day trips within 2 hours of florence, day trips within 3 hours of florence, epic experiences outside of florence.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

While there are plenty of Florence day trip guides on the internet, many of them tend to gloss over one of the most important details: how to get there!

The bulk of these day trips from Florence can be completed by train, and the time estimates we’ve used to structure this guide are based on taking the fast train (not regional train–more on that below) to and from your destination.

In a few cases, you’ll need to take a car and/or bus to reach the destination, and we’ve noted those where applicable.

If you’d like to rent a car for the day to explore on a mini road trip, we highly recommend it (though we suggest reading over the tips in our Tuscany road trip guide before grabbing the keys). You can search for car rental prices in Florence through Discover Cars here .

Check prices for rental cars in Florence today!

The Differences Between Fast & Regional Trains in Italy

In Italy, including in Florence, you’ll find two types of trains: fast trains, for which ticket prices are flexible, and regional trains, for which they’re set.

When taking a fast train, you’ll want to book in advance, as prices can change as your day trip gets closer. Naturally, these tickets also tend to be more expensive overall than regional tickets.

Regional trains are cheaper, have fares set by the government (therefore you can simply purchase tickets as you leave for the day), stop more along the route, and are slower.

When traveling to Bologna from Florence, for example, you have the choice between taking the fast train (about 40 minutes each way) or the regional train (about 1.5 hours each way) on your day trip.

Therefore, we’ve listed Bologna as a day trip located less than one hour from Florence… but if you don’t book your ticket in advance, you may find that it’s quite expensive to take the fast train at the last minute! We recommend using Omio to search for fast train tickets (it will search tickets and compare prices both for Trenitalia, Italy’s national train company, and Italo, a private company that offers some routes, as well as bus routes).

While some of these day trips from Florence are easy to use the regional trains for and generally don’t require train tickets to be purchased in advance (like Pisa), others (like Rome) require a fast train ticket to even be feasible. 

If you have your heart set on a particular day trip, we recommend researching exact train times and prices as soon as possible to get a realistic look at what your day will look like.

Check fast train ticket prices for your day trips from Florence today!

Does choosing between 21 day trips from Florence feel a bit overwhelming? Want to make a quick, easy, reliable choice that is bound to be unforgettable?

Enter this full Tuscany day trip , which covers a visit to Siena, a wine tasting in the Chianti countryside, and a trip to the beautiful village of San Gimignano, all in one day!

This is a one-stop-shop day trip from Florence, and includes a little bit of everything: a Tuscan city, some delicious local food and wine, and a trip to a small village with incredible views of the rolling hills of Tuscany, making it an easy choice for those looking for a small taste of several different things that Tuscany has to offer.

With over 900 near-perfect reviews on Walks of Italy alone, this day trip is a tried-and-true crowd pleaser–don’t forget to save room after lunch for some of the best gelato in Italy from Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano!

Book this full Tuscany day trip from Florence today!

Perhaps the most iconic of all these Florence day trips, heading to the Leaning Tower of Pisa to snap cheesy-but-fun selfies while holding up the tower is on plenty of Tuscany bucket lists.

Truthfully, Pisa is really a better half-day trip than full day trip, and for that reason we recommend combining it with Lucca–but if you’re the type to savor a destination, you may like to do it as a standalone trip!

A guided tour isn’t really necessary here, though if you prefer one, this is a great option .

Pisa is an easy regional train ride away from Florence, but if you want to climb the tower, we recommend pre-booking tickets in advance to ensure you get a chance to head to the top. Once you finish up at the tower, be sure to spend some time in the rest of the complex visiting the stunning Pisa Cathedral and baptistery!

Booking your Pisa Complex skip-the-line tickets OR your full Pisa day trip now!

For a day trip from Florence that’s not as well-established on the tourist circuit as somewhere like Pisa (though it is far from unknown), head to the beautiful Tuscan city of Arezzo.

Located less than an hour south of Florence by train, Arezzo is easy to reach and easy to enjoy, boasting gorgeous churches, beautiful views over the Tuscan countryside, and plenty to do.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Medici Fortress, pay a visit to the archaeological museum (complete with the remains of a Roman amphitheatre), admire the remarkable frescoes in the Church of San Francesco, and climb to the top of the clock tower at the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici for some incredible views.

Arezzo is also known for its antiquing, so if you’d like to do a little shopping for antiques during your trip to Tuscany, this is the place to do it!

As the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Bologna is known primarily for its absolutely phenomenal food–and if your plan for one of your day trips from Florence is simply to eat your heart out, this is the place to do it!

The Emilia-Romagna region is the original birthplace of many of the dishes that are synonymous with Italian food abroad, though most people who visit agree that the original versions are far tastier.

Parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, mortadella (aka bologna), and tagliatelle al ragu (aka spaghetti bolognese) are just a few of the delicacies worth sampling on a day trip to Bologna.

In between meals, consider heading to the top of Asinelli Tower for some amazing views of the city, hunting down Bologna’s hidden canals, visiting the anatomical theatre and library of Archiginnasio, and strolling through Bologna’s markets.

Prefer to focus your day trip solely on food and to track down some of Emilia-Romagna’s delicacies at their source? 

This day trip from Florence includes a visit to a parmigiano-reggiano storehouse (visiting one of these is still one of our favorite travel experiences in Italy!), a trip to a small farm that produces traditional balsamic vinegar, and a visit to Bologna… with a chance to eat just about everywhere along the way.

Book your food tour of Emilia-Romagna from Florence today!

Located high above Florence in the Tuscan countryside, Fiesole is unique among these Florence day trips in that it’s only located an hour from Florence… on foot!

That’s right, an hour’s hike is one of the most popular ways to visit Fiesole from Florence–but don’t worry, for those less inclined, you can easily take a quick bus ride up as well.

Once you’re in Fiesole (and manage to tear your eyes away from the stunning views of Florence below), be sure to visit the local Roman ruins (including an amphitheatre), check out the incredible Monastery of San Francesco, the remains of walls left behind by the Etruscans, and of course Fiesole’s beautiful cathedral.

As the second-largest city in Tuscany, Siena was once the military rival of Florence, and today is known for its incredible beauty (especially its Duomo, which is arguably even prettier than Florence’s) and its biannual Palio di Siena horse race.

On a day trip to Siena, don’t miss an opportunity to admire Siena from above (our favorite angle is from the top of the Opera della Metropolitana), to tour the Duomo (if you can fit in the behind-the-scenes rooftop tour, absolutely do), visit the Piazza di Campo, and sit down for a leisurely and delicious lunch–we can heartily recommend Antica Trattoria Papei if you’re looking for a place to eat.

Siena can easily be reached from Florence by train, car, or bus.

Often combined with Pisa for a two-destinations-in-one day tour from Florence, Lucca is a laid-back and beautiful Tuscan town that is perfect for walking around and enjoying the ambiance of Tuscany without skipping from one sight to the next.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll (or bike) along the top of Lucca’s medieval fortified town walls–it’s the only city in Tuscany where you can walk the entire route!

Be sure to also stop by the beautiful oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which began life as a Roman amphitheater, climb the Guinigi Tower, and duck into at least a couple of Lucca’s one hundred (no exaggeration) churches.

Depending on the timing of your visit, you may also be able to experience a local festival !

Prefer to take a guided tour to Lucca? This fun tour will show you the best of both Pisa and Lucca in one day!

In many ways, Florence and Verona have lots in common: they’re both beautiful Italian cities set on rivers, both have a plethora of art and history to explore, and both have delicious cuisines.

In the details, though, they are very different: the food is different, the architecture is different, the history is different–and yet, both Verona and Florence rank among our favorite cities in Italy.

Come to Verona for a chance to tour a gorgeous Roman arena in the center of town, for stunning views from Castel San Pietro, visit the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe, and, perhaps most famously, indulge in a little bit of Romeo and Juliet tourism in the hometown of these legendary star-crossed lovers.

San Gimignano

Easily one of the most popular day trips from Florence, San Gimignano is known for its soaring towers, beautiful views, prime location in Tuscany (once upon a time, it sat along a Roman trading route, enriching the town), and its delicious gelato–popular Gelateria Dondoli is known as some of the best gelato in all of Italy!

Though you can’t take a train directly to San Gimignano, you can travel there independently by car or bus.

However, San Gimignano is easy to combine with a trip to the Chianti countryside and wine tasting, making it an excellent town to experience as part of a guided day tour from Florence!

This classic Tuscany day trip is an excellent option for getting a taste of San Gimignano!

Ah, Rome: I must admit that I’m a bit biased in that I’m hesitant to recommend Rome as a Florence day trip, simply because I love it so much that I have a hard time seeing how one day could be enough.

However, all trips to Italy require hard choices about where to go and where to skip, and if you are hoping to taste the Eternal City but don’t have longer than a day to spend there, it’s absolutely worth going!

With one day in Rome, you can pay a visit to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, stroll past the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, briefly visit Vatican City, admire the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, and visit Campo de’ Fiori.

We have a full recommended one day in Rome itinerary here.

The only realistic way to take a day trip to Rome from Florence is via the fast train, which takes 1.5 hours vs more than 3 hours each way on the regional train, so if you have your heart set on this day trip, be sure to reserve your tickets in advance!

Purchase train tickets for your day trip to Rome today!

Val d’Orcia + Surrounding Villages

The rolling hills and endless fields of the Val d’Orcia are often considered the most beautiful place in Tuscany–and with good reason.

This part of Tuscany is truly a feast for the eyes, and exactly where to come if you are looking for the idyllic Tuscan countryside of movies and postcards.

Combine stunning countryside with adorable Tuscan villages and wine tasting in this epic day trip , which includes visits to the towns of Pienza , Montalcino, and Montepulciano (which happens to be one of my favorite villages in Tuscany).

If you would rather avoid taking a guided tour, you certainly can–but you’ll definitely need to rent a car to effectively make the trip happen (and have someone willing to forgo the wine and act as your group’s designated driver!).

Book your day trip to Val d’Orcia today!

Dating back to the Etruscans and far less crowded than many of these best day trips from Florence, Volterra is a delightful Tuscan hilltop town with a plethora of interesting sites and history.

Pay a visit to the Piazza dei Priori, stroll through remaining Etruscan walls and gates, check out the city’s Roman ruins, and visit the beautiful local cathedral and baptistery.

Twilight fans will recognize Volterra as the seat of power of the Volturi, though if you’re hunting down filming locations, you’re in the wrong place: Montepulciano actually stood in for Volterra in the films.

Unlike most of these Florence day trips, Volterra is not reachable directly by train. While driving is the easiest way to reach Volterra, you can also transfer from a train to a bus and get to Volterra in about 2.5 hours each way.

Shop rental cars for your Volterra day trip today!

Italy’s fashion capital is located less than 2 hours from Florence by train, making it a simple and fun day trip that will give you a taste of an Italian city that feels very different from Florence.

Milan’s major sights, like its famous Duomo (don’t forget to check out the rooftop–it’s absolutely fabulous), the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Castello Sforzesco, and the La Scala Opera House are all within a comfortable walk of each other, making Milan an excellent place to see over the course of a day.

If you’d like to see The Last Supper, you will absolutely need to plan in advance: we recommend booking a tour like this if you’d like to see Da Vinci’s famous painting on your trip to Milan.

Book your visit to the The Last Supper now!

Located just barely over 2 hours from Florence by train, Orvieto is a dream of a hilltop town in the Italian region of Umbria, offering gorgeous views, a beautiful town center, plenty of interesting things to do, and some unique local foods definitely worth trying (starting with pigeon–yes pigeon–and Orvieto Classico wine).

While you’re in Orvieto, definitely stop by the Duomo (including the fascinating Cappella di San Brizio inside), step inside St. Patrick’s Well, visit the Orvieto underground, tour the Etruscan necropolis, and climb the Torre del Moro for beautiful views over the city.

As the birthplace of Saint Francis, one of the patron saints of Italy, Assisi is an enormously popular Florence day trip for Catholic travelers–but even if you’re not a practicing Catholic, the history and beauty of Assisi is sure to draw you in.

No trip to Assisi could be complete without a visit to the UNESCO-recognized St. Francis Basilica–but once you wrap up there, be sure to also check out Assisi’s Roman Forum, the Rocca Maggiore fort, the Roman Temple of Minerva located in the center of town, and the Cathedral of San Rufino.

While Assisi is a meaningful and interesting Florence day trip, it’s also a bit long, with most journeys take well over 2 hours each way–so be prepared for a long day!

This Assisi day trip takes care of transportation concerns and also includes a stop in beautiful Cortona!

Cinque Terre

There’s no doubt that Cinque Terre is one of the most sought-after day trips from Florence: these delightful Ligurian fishing villages have captured hearts around the world, and it’s no surprise–they’re truly incredibly beautiful.

However, as a day trip from Florence, they’re a bit of a stretch to get to, requiring you to time the fast trains, spend lots of your day in transition, and dedicate a huge amount of energy to logistics on what is already a very full day. 

We go into detail on that in this post , so I won’t repeat myself too much here, but I will say that we absolutely recommend booking an organized tour to Cinque Terre if you want to accomplish a visit as a day trip from Florence.

Your day will be much simpler for it, and you’ll be able to spend all of your energy focused on gorgeous views and tasty seafood instead of fretting about logistics.

Book your  day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence  today!

Rather than focus on a specific town or city, these best day trips from Florence are all about having unforgettable experiences in Tuscany–including some of our favorite Tuscany travel experiences of all time!

One of our all-time favorite experiences in Tuscany is taking a day trip to the countryside via Vespa.

There’s truly nothing like the feeling of zipping along country lanes and admiring passing villas, olive orchards, and vineyards from the back of a Vespa.

This tour will take you up to San Miniato al Monte for some truly incredible views of Florence before a ride through the countryside, and is a completely phenomenal experience, and if you’re looking for an idyllic day trip in Tuscany, you can’t go wrong with this one!

Book your vintage Vespa day tour from Florence now!

Tuscan Cooking Class

Want to try your hand at some Tuscan cooking?

Taking a cooking class in Tuscany is one of the most popular things to do when visiting the region, but while there are plenty of classes you can take within Florence, we personally think cooking in a farmhouse in the countryside is far more idyllic!

This cooking class is an all-day affair at a Tuscan farmhouse, includes transportation to and from Florence, and is an excellent way to combine a day outside the city while sampling plenty of delicious food (and learning how to replicate it at home!).

We adored this Tuscan cooking class and can highly recommend it!

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Tuscany is a special experience: trails wind through vineyards, past orchards and farmhouses, and along small country lanes.

Admiring the views of the Tuscan countryside is, of course, one of the more popular things to do on a day trip from Florence, wherever you choose to go, and it’s even more special while on horseback.

This tour combines horseback riding with a wine tour, making it the perfect Tuscany day trip combination!

Schedule your horseback ride in Tuscany now!

Wine Tour + Tasting

Prefer to skip the cities and focus solely on delightful Tuscan wine?

This popular Chianti day trip will take you right to two different vineyards, where you will tour their wine cellars, learn a bit about the wine process, and then move right on to tasting the local wines.

A trip to the Chianti countryside is a quick-and-easy option when looking for day trips from Florence that will offer you a chance to see the Tuscan countryside, enjoy some of the local delicacies, and not have to dedicate too much time away from the city.

Book your Chianti wine tour today!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “21 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ Detailed Travel Advice)”

Thanks for an interesting read. Just wondering why you excluded Venice from the list as a train takes 2 hours and 5 minutes from Florence?

A few reasons, starting with the fact that if I included all possible day trips from Florence here, this already giant post would be the size of a book, lol.

Another reason is that while I adore Venice, I’m not blind to the fact that it’s a bit controversial with many visitors and that plenty of people leave unsatisfied due to the crowds and hassle of getting in and out of the city (from the train station, it’s still a long walk or crowded waterbus ride to the main sights). I don’t want to recommend something that I think has a high chance of leaving people disappointed with a city as special as Venice, which a day trip that involves 4+ hours on a train is likely to do.

I would never tell someone not to go if that’s what they want or have planned, but it doesn’t make my list of top day trip choices from Florence, either. 🙂

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.