best time to visit florence and venice

Venice Travel Tips

Venice vs Florence: which is best?

Venice Travel Guides Last Updated · Jan 4th, 2024 · Maddy [post_comments before=""] -->

This travel guide looks at two of the best cities to visit in Italy: Venice and Florence.

If you’re currently planning your trip to Italy and only have a weekend to spend and you’re comparing Venice vs Florence, which one should you choose?

I know, this is not an easy choice! If I was you, I’d aim to visit both during the same trip, but most likely you won’t have the time. So let me help you make up your mind.

On one side, there’s Florence, a city of art like few others , with beautiful piazzas, world-wide famous museums and the imposing Duomo, dominating the city.

Then there is Venice, the city on the water , where instead of cars and buses, you move around through the dense network of canals. It is like an open-air museum , charming visitors with its squares, the romantic bridges and sinuous gondolas .

What's in this guide?

Venice vs Florence: which is better?

Keep reading to learn more about the best time to visit, things to do, culture and food of these wonderful cities, so you can choose between Florence and Venice.

If you ask me which city I prefer between Venice and Florence, I personally choose Venice . The reason is because I have lost count of how many times I’ve travelled to Venice and it still continues to fascinate me over and over again .

I have found that there’s always something new to see or do in Venice and I just can’t seem to resist its timeless decadent beauty. In any case, it’s not easy to decide between these two cities , as they’re both wonderful places to visit in Italy.

So now you know my personal favourite, let’s begin to compare both in the most objective way, so I can help you make your own final decision and get on your way.

Best time to visit Venice vs Florence

Florence is the capital city of Tuscany and counts on a mild climate , characterised by hot summers and cold but not too harsh winters .

The climate is strongly conditioned by its geographical position, in a valley enclosed by the hills to the south, and by the slopes of the Apennines to the north.

These elements contribute in making the climate more continental than in the coastal towns. You can visit this Renaissance city all year long, but the best time to visit Florence is from April to June and in September and October .

Venice is usually in the top 3 of the most visited cities in Italy, so it should not be a surprise if I tell you that it’s always high season here. The best time to visit Venice though is spring (between Easter and end of June) or early autumn .

The city is beautiful whether you’re visiting it during the summer months or for Christmas with all the festive lights and markets, but winters in Venice are quite cold, foggy and humid . I generally recommend avoiding the hot and humid summers (July and August) but this is undoubtedly the most popular time.

Be aware that during autumn and winter, the city is subject to flooding at certain times (late morning till early afternoon) and that might affect your visit to Venice. Between Florence and Venice, Florence has a more pleasant year-round climate.

🏆 Winner: Florence

Culture in Venice vs Florence

Florence is the beating heart of Renaissance art and it’s a lively and romantic city. With its inimitable charm, the capital city of Tuscany is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy and a great place to move to from abroad .

This is one of the only cities in Italy that can actually satisfy everyone’s needs and especially for those who are considering relocating from other countries. The large green areas are perfect for families with children, universities attract young students from all over the country and beyond and the nightlife is vibrant .

People from Florence and Tuscany are famous for always having a joke ready and a smile on their face, which makes everyone feel very welcomed.

The Florentine’s love their food and you’ll instantly connect with locals by going for a meal in a rustic trattoria. Ask for advice from the waiter and have a chat with locals. I personally recommend the wild boar sauce pappardelle and fiorentina steak. I can almost guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

In Venice everything is more expensive and there’s a clear division between the local life and tourist way of living in the city .

If you want to feel closer to the Venetian lifestyle and get to really know the authentic side of this incredible city, then go on a bacaro tour .

The bacaro is a tavern where you go to drink an ‘ombra de vin’ (i.e. a glass of wine) and eat ciccheti (literally ‘small food’ that are savoury snacks prepared with fresh local and seasonal ingredients). Here you can meet many locals and ask about Venice, places to eat out and hidden gems to visit.

Then you should have an aperitif with a Spritz : In Venice every occasion is good to have an aperitif prepared with white wine, Aperol or Campari and an olive. The Venetian spritz though is prepared with Select! Make sure to try that one too.

Something I love about Venice is about daily life. For example, Venetians still go shopping in small family-owned shops . If they want to get some milk, they go to the milkmen, for fish, fruits and vegetables they will go to the nearest market.

🏆 Winner: Venice

Food in Venice vs Florence

If you are planning a trip to Florence, in addition to the architectural and cultural attractions to not miss, I really recommend joining a gastronomic tour to taste the typical Tuscan and Florentine dishes .

Get ready to immerse yourself in generous-sized portions of food and rich flavours hard to forget . Surprise your taste buds by trying these traditional dishes:

pappardelle with wild boar sauce , ribolitta, pappa al pomodoro, Florentine steak , lampredotto sandwich and the schiacciata bread with cured hams and cheeses from All’Antico Vinaio (very popular place, be prepared to queue!). Most of the Florentine cuisine is based on meat, cheese and vegetarian dishes.

If you’re a fish and seafood lover , then your destination has to be Venice . Authentic Venetian cuisine is made up of simple and nutritious ingredients, rich in flavour and includes both meat, fish and vegetarian dishes.

On your list of traditional dishes to try, add: baccalà mantecato , creamy stockfish cooked for a long time and served with slices of grilled polenta or on top of bread as cicchetto, sarde en saor, bigoli in salsa and squid ink tagliolini or risotto.

These are just some of the best Venetian dishes to try, but I invite you to find out what ‘ andar per bacari ’ is, by joining this cicchetti food tasting tour with a local guide. Unfortunately, in Venice there are a lot of non-authentic restaurants serving non traditional dishes, mainly on the main touristic streets of the city.

On top of this, the level of service is bad and food is not good at all! Make sure to go a bit off-the-beaten-path whilst in Venice and look out for good osterie and trattorie,asking advice to locals.

Cost of Travel in Venice vs Florence

Between Venice vs Florence, the city of bridges and canals is definitely more expensive, do you know why? If you know how Venice was built , you should be aware of the fact that it’s been built on 118 small islands!

This means that everything is transported by water which makes basically all services and products more expensive . For this reason, if you’re travelling on a limited budget then you should go to Florence , where generally accommodation and eating out is cheaper.

That doesn’t mean Florence is a cheap city, because it’s way more expensive than other Tuscan towns and villages. Remember to take into account the money you’ll spend on sightseeing such as museums and guided tours for both cities.

Be aware that when there are important events such as the Carnival and Mostra del Cinema in Venice, prices for the flights and accommodation in the best neighbourhoods increase exponentially.

For both Venice and Florence, finding accommodation months before your arrival is imperative, to allow you to have a wider choice of places to stay and find some good deals.

If you’re looking to stay on a budget, and don’t want to give up on comfort and elegance, I recommend La Fonderia Firenze , where I really liked the spacious bedroom and the rich buffet breakfast that awaits you in the morning.

Whilst in Venice, I recommend staying at Porta da Mar , which is less than 15 minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square and main attractions of the city.

Things to do in Venice vs Florence

Both Venice and Florence are extraordinary art cities and exude elegance and timeless beauty in every corner.

The main activity could simply be visiting world-famous museums like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice .

You can also explore former noble palaces turned into modern or contemporary art museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice or just stroll around their historic city centres for hours.

As a first time visitor, you can’t skip a gondola ride and if you’re spending more than 3 days in Venice , a visit to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello .

Is there anything better than admiring the beauty of Venice and Florence from above? I suggest doing it from the Fondaco dei Tedeschi terrace (for free!) in Venice and from the Santa Maria del Fiore church’s dome in Florence!

For a romantic stroll with your other half, you can walk along the Grand Canal and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge , whilst in Florence walk along the Lungarno to enjoy lovely views of the Ponte Vecchio around sunset time.

If you’re spending more than 3 nights in Florence, make sure to visit other places in Tuscany. If you love tasting food and wines, then the Chianti region with its scenic countryside roads surrounded by vineyards is perfect for you.

Otherwise, visit other art cities and mediaeval villages , by joining this day trip to Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano .

🏆 Winner: Draw

Tourist attractions in Venice vs Florence

Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most interesting cities to visit in Italy for its artistic past and history.

Below are some of the most important attractions to visit:

• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , in Piazza del Duomo you can visit the splendid cathedral and admire its beautiful coloured marbles. You will need to get the admission ticket in advance to visit Giotto’s bell tower, the Baptistery and Brunelleschi’s dome . The dome, with its diameter of 45.5 metres, still holds a record for the largest dome in the world.
• Piazza della Signoria is one of the most famous squares in Florence, overlooked by the Palazzo Vecchio.
• Ponte Vecchio , considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the world, is a great location to enjoy sunsets.
• Galleria degli Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia . The Uffizi houses a rich collection of great works such as ‘The birth of Venus’ by Botticelli. In the Galleria dell’Accademia there is the largest collection of Michelangelo’s statues including the famous David. You can see its artworks by joining this guided tour .
• Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens . By getting this entrance ticket to Palazzo Pitti , you can visit the Gallery of Modern Art and the Palatine Gallery. If you like visiting parks and gardens, then don’t forget to go to the Boboli Gardens , one of the most beautiful examples of Italian gardens.

Here’s what you should include in your Venice itinerary as first time visitor:

• Canal Grande , just walk along the most fascinating and important canal of Venice. It’s 4 kilometres long and divides the city in two. You can either go on a private gondola ride or get a water bus (vaporetto) to admire the ancient Venetian palaces, museums and old churches overlooking the canal.
• St. Mark’s Square is one of the most famous squares in the world. Here’s where you can also visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the St. Mark’s Campanile , the tallest bell tower in the city.
• Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs . The palace was the Doge’s seat during the Serenissima Republic. The Bridge of Sighs connected the palace of the magistrates to the Prisons. I recommend joining this guided tour , to learn all the secrets and curiosities about the Doge’s Palace and have access to the Prisons.
• Rialto Bridge is a covered bridge, 7.5 metres long, from where you can admire beautiful sunsets over the Grand Canal.

Getting Around Venice vs Florence

The best way to explore Florence is on foot. The historic centre is not big and the main attractions are all close one to the other!

You can join this guided walking tour , to find your feet in this city and get precious advice from a local guide.

Florence is also a bike-friendly city, so why don’t explore the city by bike or e-bike? This bike guided tour is a perfect way to explore the city accompanied by a local English speaking guide. For attractions located a bit outside the city centre, you can get the city buses.

The ticket costs €1.50 (duration 90 min), but to save money it is also possible to purchase a 10-journey booklet. I also recommend the hop-on hop-off tourist bus , ideal to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

You can discover Venice’s historic centre on foot or by vaporetto. Venice is a car-free city so cars, buses, trams or motorbikes can’t circulate.

You can use these vehicles on the mainland or to get to Piazzale Roma, not far from the railway station Venice Santa Lucia. Alternatively, you can use the water taxi service, but it’s quite expensive, and I recommend moving around by vaporetto.

The best thing you can do is hire a local guide to show you around, especially the most hidden corners. You can also enjoy a relaxing gondola ride on the Grand Canal and admire the Venetian city from a different perspective. Find out what’s the best way to get to Venice from Marco Polo airport and also from Treviso airport .

After comparing what both cities offer , in terms of things to do, best time to visit them and attractions, you should now have a better idea of which city you will visit during your next Italian escapade.

There are certainly other factors to take into consideration depending on the type of trip you’re planning to take.

Got travel insurance for Venice?

Venice vs Florence: which will you visit?

Venice and Florence are both wonderful Italian cities to visit at least once in life . For this reason, it’s difficult to say one is better than the other.

Simply, you should feel more inspired by one instead of the other , based on the points mentioned above and other factors.

I believe that your final decision should be based on: the time of the year you’re planning to travel to Italy, the type of activities you’re looking to do and the attractions you’re more interested in visiting.

If you have already made up your mind and have decided to go to Venice after all, remember to read all of my Venice insider’s tips before your trip here.

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About Maddy

I love to share tips, advice and resources to help visitors explore Venice and the Veneto region like a local. Learn more about me here.

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When to visit Venice

May 15, 2023 • 4 min read

Find the perfect time for your visit to Venice with our guide to events in the city through the year © LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

There isn't a true low season in Venice . Not really.

The Serenissima is so unique and so famous that the desire to see it with one’s own eyes knows no seasonal limit. Every time of the year has its pros and cons – as well as different activities and events to enjoy up and down the canals – but there isn’t really a bad time to visit.

From festivals like Carnevale to the quieter winter months, we pick through the best times to visit Venice.

May to October hosts the best Venetian festivals

This is when Venice is at its best: with nice weather and sun lasting long past 8pm. The closer to summer it gets, the more tourist numbers and prices rise but the best free things to do in Venice can help you keep within your budget. At the height of summer, the weather crosses the threshold from nice to stiflingly hot – something to be aware of if you’re planning to explore the city on foot .  The crowds arrive for Carnevale (held on Shrove Tuesday) in spring too.

May is almost summer, and the whole city is alive with the knowledge that the warmest months are fast approaching. Events begin to pop up and gather crowds – the chief among all being the Biennale, which has been celebrating visual arts since 1895. June is the start of high season and tourists begin to pour in, especially once schools officially close down for summer break around the middle of the month. If the main tourist spots get too much, consider seeking out one of Venice's less-trafficked neighborhoods .

Even though the weather will begin to feel stifling in July, Venice is still bustling – get yourself a good spot among the other visitors for the Festa del Redentore (third Sunday of July) fireworks. If the crowds really get too much, consider a day trip outside the city . A good way to deal with the sun beating down on your head is to make the most of it while lying down at one of the many beaches of the Lagoon, both in and around Venice . 

September is one of the best months of the year – the heat dwindles, but the weather is still great, and it makes for an excellent set-up to enjoy the last moments of the warm season. Then, come October, fall has arrived. There are some good days, but it’s also when the possibility of acqua alta looms on the horizon. Pack rain boots just in case.

Go in March to April for cooler weather

If you thought the city emptied out after the revelries of the Carnevale, think again. With days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, people are again out and about on the bridges and canals. The spring months are the best choice if you want to do plenty of exploration without too much sun beating down on your head (and don’t mind getting caught in the occasional rain shower).

April is the true start of the spring season. Centuries-old celebrations like St Mark’s Day make for quite the photogenic stay. A trip around Easter time will also ensure you see your fair share of the best Venice has to offer , as the days of the Holy Week are always dotted with celebrations and ceremonies – but keep in mind that schools close in Italy for Easter, and there might be a lot of tourists coming in for a weekend trip.

November to February is the best time for budget travelers

With the exceptions of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the colder months are as empty as they can be in a city like Venice – with school and work in full swing, tourist numbers are much lower than they are in June and July.

A lack of travelers doesn’t mean the city is less lively. The Festa della Madonna della Salute brings the lagoon alive in late November, where stalls line the canals and a candlelit procession crosses a bridge of boats to reach the Salute.

Over Christmas the area around the Rialto Bridge glimmers with lights and markets, but it is in January for the Regata delle Befane – the boat race where participants dress as witches – that visitors will want to find a viewing spot on the infamous Ponte di Rialto.

The costumes continue at the world-famous Carnevale, a riot of color and concealment, the February coming together is the final throes of winter before the mask slips and spring in the city begins to unfurl.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated May 2023

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Venice   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Andreas Koch | EyeEm

Best Times To Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when tourists desert the city. Although the temperatures – which range from the upper 30s to mid-70s – necessitate some layers, the lowered hotel rates and the barren canals make it worth it. Winters are cold with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, while spring brings Venice's most beautiful weather. Summertime is peak season and is characterized by high hotel rates, high temperatures and – you guessed it – plenty of crowds. Although acqua alta  (high water) can occur anytime between late September and April, it's most likely to happen in November and December, so make sure to pack a pair of rain boots if you plan on traveling then. 

Weather in Venice

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Venice

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Florence?

Planning a trip but still unsure when to visit Florence?

Read on for a month-by-month guide to Florence’s weather, major events in Florence and to find out how busy the city is through the year.

Florence in January

January in Florence

Generally, one of the quietest  months to visit Florence, January only has two big events to draw visitors – both part of Epiphany celebrations. With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy the city at your own pace and appreciate its culture and art — no tourists will crowd your view of David or Botticelli's Birth of Venus.

Sales are underway, so pack light and use the colder temperatures as an excuse to go shopping.

Florence weather in January

January is the coldest month of the year , with a typical daytime high of 7℃ (44℉) and a low of 0℃ (32℉) overnight. Despite an occasional snowfall, the sun shines most days. Remember to pack your sunnies, as well as some heavy-duty winter cashmere.

Days are short — a good excuse to begin your aperitivo at 5pm.

How busy is Florence in January?

Winter in Florence is low season for tourism. With fewer crowds at art museums or cookery classes, you may not need to book ahead. You can easily find a table at typical trattorias which are either fully booked or closed all summer, such as Da Camillo, Trattoria Sostanza, Trattoria Omero.

What’s on in Florence in January?

While the rest of the world rediscovers healthy living with juice-cleanses and Dry January, Florence prepares for the feast of the Epiphany. It is a national holiday across Italy. For the Cavalcata dei Magi , participants dress in medieval costume and wind around the streets of Florence singing and dancing. A live nativity and ceremonial mass is held outside of the Duomo.

A glass of juice made from Sicilian blood-oranges — in season each January — will ease your hangover.

Like everywhere in Italy, the first Sunday of the month is also free admission to state-owned museums (Uffizi, Bargello and others) and archaeological sites.

Florence in February

Romantic Florence in February Ponte Vecchio

Still a quiet month to visit Florence, February in Florence is for lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth. With fewer tourists you can see a quieter side to the city. Without a doubt, an ideal period for romantic getaway to one of our Florence villas.

Florence weather in February

February is a cold month , with a typical daytime high of 10℃ (50℉) and overnight lows of 2℃ (36℉). On most days the sun shines, but don’t let that fool you.

You might be lucky to catch a golden winter sunset from the Ponte Vecchio — where better to seal a Valentine’s kiss?

How busy is Florence in February?

Winter in Florence is low season for tourism. If you are arranging a last-minute holiday, you may not need to book activities ahead of time. You can easily find a table at romantic restaurants such as Enoteca Pinchiorri , La Bottega del Buon Caffè and Fuor d’Acqua , which are typically booked all summer.  

What’s on in Florence in February?

Short, cold days call for afternoons buried in a book by the fireplace with a piece of Schiacciata alla Fiorentina.

This sweet pastry prepared during Carnival season resembles a sponge cake with a cream filling. Pasticceria Giorgio is renowned for the best; just ask the Florentines who queue outside.

The first Sunday of the month is free admission to state-owned museums (Uffizi, Bargello and others) and archaeological sites.

Florence in March

Truffle Hunting experience

As Spring draws closer, blue skies and colorful landscapes return. All the more pleasant for long walks in the Florentine countryside. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a mimosa tree in bright-yellow bloom .

Florence weather in March

Alongside warmer temperatures , March is known for occasional showers. An umbrella is your friend.

Dress in layers because the temperature  fluctuates during the day, with a typical daytime high of 16℃ (61℉) and lows of 5℃ (41℉) overnight.  

How busy is Florence in March?

Even late winter in Florence is still low season for tourism. With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures you can join activities like a countryside Fiat 500 Tour or Truffle Hunting , which are either fully booked or too hot to fully enjoy in high summer.

What’s on in Florence in March?

March 8th is International Women’s Day. Italian tradition is to gift the women in your life a yellow mimosa flower, as a sign of respect and solidarity.

On the first Sunday of the month state-owned museums (Uffizi, Bargello and others) and archaeological sites offer free admission.

Treat someone to a flavorful  experience. The Taste fair is dedicated to excellence in food, wine, objects and ideas that rule contemporary Italian culture.

This is the season to try Italian vegetable, agretti . This underrated succulent — sometimes called “Barba di Frate” (Monk’s Beard) — is known for anti-aging, detoxifying properties.

Florence in April

Traditional Colomba di Pasqua

An exciting time to visit, Florence in April has one of the year’s biggest and loudest events: an exploding wooden cart . Spring promises renewal, a new start, and the end of Lent.

Florentines take everything chocolate seriously. Giant Easter eggs appear in store window displays all over the city.

Florence weather in April

Tuscan farmers survive April via the local motto, “Terzo aprilante, quaranta giorni durante”: if it rains on April 3rd, the rain will continue for another 40 days. Better pack that emergency umbrella.

Temperatures are warmer... but not yet bikini friendly. Expect daytime highs of 20℃ (68℉) and an overnight low of 7℃ (43℉).

How busy is Florence in April?

Easter weekend is packed, but the rest of April is still relatively low season for tourism.

If you come during the holiday weekend, however, we recommend you book major museums (especially the Uffizi ), restaurants, wine tasting and cookery classes in advance.

What’s on in Florence in April?

Florentines take stereotypical Italian loudness to another level with their most exciting festival of the year. The Scoppio del Carro is a folklore Easter Day tradition with 150 white oxen, an antique cart filled with  fireworks and a very big, very loud explosion. Earplugs are recommended.  

Alternatively you can celebrate Easter local-style, with an  abundance of chocolate eggs and traditional Colomba di Pasqua . This sugar-topped sweet bread is similar to Panettone and baked into the shape of a dove.  

Don’t forget the first Sunday of the month , when all state-owned museums (Uffizi, Bargello and others) and archeological sites offer free admission.

Florence in May

Piazza del Duomo

Seated on the steps of Santo Spirito, enjoying the sun, sipping on an Aperol Spritz, can mean only one thing: summer is in the air.

The Birth of Venus sounds exciting. So does climbing 463 steps to the top of the Duomo. But just ask yourself: “What would Frances in Under the Tuscan Sun do?” When in Rome….

Florence weather in May

Expect a daytime high of 24℃ (75℉), ideal to stay outdoors in the Iris and Rose Gardens. Florence’s flowers are in full bloom and nothing looks more Insta-friendly than #mayinbloom.

Make use of longer days to explore the city but carry a jacket: temperatures drop to 13℃ (55℉) overnight.

How busy is Florence in May?

We may fantasize about summer afternoons strolling Florence, but the reality will also require skills in crowd-dodging.

Genuine peak season has not yet begun, but we recommend you book everything in advance. ( Our travel concierges can help. )

What’s on in Florence in May?

One of Italy’s historic classical music festivals, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino takes place in May and June. You can enjoy  concerts, opera and ballet.

Cherries — in season each May — are said to have antioxidant properties. A portion of 15 juicy ones counts as one of your 5-a-day, so multiply by 5 and you’re on track.

Night of the Museums (mid-May) sees museums open past midnight, with free or cheaper admission. If you miss the chance, on the f irst Sunday of the month  state-owned museums (Uffizi, Bargello and more) and archaeological sites offer free entrance.  

Florence in June

Art in Florence - Via CalimalaA busy month to visit Florence, June is the start of summer and the proper high season.

With the month’s big events all outdoors, you have excuses to be out enjoying the sun. Pack a hat, an extra pair of sunnies, and sunscreen.

Florence weather in June

The weather in June is great for outdoor activities . Temperatures are still tolerable, so you get to enjoy the city without drowning in sweat.  

Expect a daytime high of 28℃ (82℉) and lows of 17℃ (63℉) overnight.

How busy is Florence in June?

Summer in Florence is  high season , so expect crowds. This may be the time to relax by your private pool  in a villa near Florence.

We recommend booking all activities in advance, including making restaurant reservations (especially on weekends).

What’s on in Florence in June?

Summer has sprung, so local events and activities take to the streets. Sixty days after Easter, Florence celebrates the Catholic feast of Corpus Christi with a street procession.

Calcio Storico is a violent version football from the 1500s — ruthless and uniquely Florentine. It takes place throughout the month of June, occupying Piazza Santa Croce.  

When the sunshine gets overwhelming, stop by Gelateria della Passera for a thirst-quenching fig gelato. Figs are in season from June to September.

To escape the sun, stop by the Uffizi (or any state-owned museum or archeological site) on the first Sunday of the month  for a free visit.

Florence in July

Cooking Classes at Villa di Petroio  

Florence sits in a basin surrounded by mountains. This specific geography means cool, wet winters and hot, humid summers.

Summer is the busiest and hottest part of the year. As the city fills up with tourists, locals escape to the seaside and mountains.

No major city-wide events take place, so use the time to visit museums, lounge under a tree at the Boboli Garden, or read a book by the pool in your villa near florence.

Florence weather in July

The Florentine heat has officially arrived. You should expect a daytime high of 30℃ (86℉), dropping to 19℃ (66℉) overnight.

To avoid the blistering sun, explore outdoors in the early mornings and late afternoons.

How busy is Florence in July?

Summer in Florence is high season , and July is the busiest month of the year, so expect crowds. We recommend booking all activities in advance. Or just swap cultural activities for a cooking class or wine tasting at a villa near Florence.

What’s on in Florence in July?

Local-oriented events are thin on the ground, so you get to enjoy Florence’s museums at your own pace. On the first Sunday of every month , state-owned museums and archeological sites in Italy offer free entrance.

Most city trattorias have air-conditioning — much-needed after hours in the heat. A plate of prosciutto e melone (Parma ham and melon) works wonders in cooling you down.

Florence in August

Enjoy the large pool and the beautiful views at Villa di Masseto

Oh, Florence, the dog days are not over. They have only just begun.  

August is Florence’s hottest month . Right across central Italy, cities become ovens and those clever locals escape to the mountains and coast.

And who wants to be out in the heat and sun all day? Lounging by the pool at your villa is much more appealing.

Florence weather in August

August is the hottest month of the year , with a regular daytime high of 32℃ (89℉) and low of 20℃ (68℉) overnight.

Humidity is at its highest, so wear loose clothing and drink plenty of water.

How busy is Florence in August?

Summer in Florence is high season . Book all activities and restaurants in advance (or ask our travel concierges to do it for you).

What’s on in Florence in August?

Don’t be surprised to find yourself spending your holiday in the pool.

For a dose of culture, enjoy a free visit to any state-owned museums and archeological sites on the first Sunday of the month. They are all air conditioned!

Many Florentines and visitors escape uphill to Fiesole for Estate Fiesolana . This summer festival features classical music and theatrical performances inside churches, gardens, elegant villas and Fiesole’s outdoor Roman Theatre.

If all else fails, max out on watermelon . Its cooling properties are renowned.

Florence in September

Pasta at I Corbezzoli

As high summer ends, Florence returns to (relative) quiet and calm. Like May, this is an ideal time to enjoy the city , along with its fine late-summer weather.

Florence weather in September

Autumn may be on the way, but Florence weather is still warm . You will be safe packing summer dresses, shorts and sandals. A light jacket for the evening  is a good idea.

Expect a typical daytime high of 27℃ (81℉). Lows of 17℃ (62℉) overnight are standard.

How busy is Florence in September?

September in Florence is shoulder season for tourism. With fewer crowds you may not need to book activities ahead of time.

We recommend you reserve at high-end restaurants . Many close over the summer and only reopen in September.

What’s on in Florence in September?

The Festa della Rificolona is the oldest festival in Florence. It marks the birthday of Jesus’s mother with a procession of colourful papier-mâché lanterns, street performances, live music and food stands.

Culinary king of September is the Porcini mushroom . You will see it on menus everywhere, on pasta, pizza or even alone as a thin-sliced carpaccio.

All year, on every first Sunday of the month , state-owned museums and archeological sites across Italy offer free entrance.

Florence in October  

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Generally, a quiet month to visit, October in Florence signifies change. As the weather adjusts, autumnal colours appear — just in time for the olive harvest.

Don’t worry: driving with the roof down is still doable.

Florence weather in October

Summer dresses and sandals may be out of the question, but don’t forget your sunglasses.

You should expect a daytime high of 23℃ (73℉) with sunshine and blue skies, typically falling to 12℃ (54℉) overnight.

How busy is Florence in October?

Autumn in Florence is the start of  low season for tourism.

With fewer crowds at art museums and cookery classes, you may not need to book ahead. You can easily find a table at typical Florentine trattorias which are either fully booked or closed in summer.

What’s on in Florence in October?

One of the most anticipated periods of the year has arrived: the olive harvest. You must try the new Extra Virgin Olive Oil. All you need is a slice of toast and the willpower to resist finishing the bottle.

Don’t forget every first Sunday of the month, when state-owned museums and archeological sites across Italy offer free entrance.

October also welcomes a new season at Florence’s opera house .

Florence in November  

Another quiet month to visit Florence, November still draws weekenders. With fewer tourists you can appreciate the city’s culture, art, and most importantly... food.

Indeed, food ends up the star of the show: this month marks the annual return of Tartufo Bianco  (White Truffle) season.

Florence weather in November

The temperature drops in November, with a typical daytime high of 15℃ (59℉) and a low of 5℃ (41℉).

The weather is cool and damp . But there’s an upside: this is the perfect climate for truffles.

How busy is Florence in November?

Autumn in Florence is low season for tourism. Excluding Florence Marathon weekend, you should not need to book either activities or restaurants.

What’s on in Florence in November

Firenze Marathon is one of the world’s top 20 marathons. The route passes through and around the historic centre of Florence, close to many prestigious art and architecture sights.

Does 26.22 miles (46 km) sound like a challenge? With just enough sweet bakery treats — the seasonal Schiacciata dei Santi and Castagnaccio — you’ll be running laps around the other competitors.

Florence in December  

Christmas streets in Florence

December is a quiet month, yet there are many cheerful reasons to visit Florence.

Christmas is in the air; carols echo around cobbled streets cheered by Christmas decorations and lights . The air is sweet with the scent of mulling Vin Brulé.  

With fewer tourists, you get Florence to yourself… including all 3,000 calories in a festive Panettone.

Florence weather in December

December is a cold month in Florence. The typical daytime high is  6℃ (43℉), with a low of 0℃ (32℉) overnight.

Days are shorter, but Christmas lights and hot chocolate at Paszkowski compensate.

How busy is Florence in December?

December is a  low season for tourism. With fewer crowds at museums and classes, you may not need to book ahead. You can easily find a table at high-end restaurants and typical trattorias.

What’s on in Florence in December?

If you want to attend Mass, you will find services in most Florence churches. Midnight Mass on the 24th typically begins at 11 pm, with another service on the 25th at 10.30 am.

You can even attend traditional Christmas Eve/Morning Mass at the Duomo , celebrated by the Cardinal of Florence. Our front every year is a life-sized nativity scene, made with terracotta statues created by the artisans of Impruneta .

Although not genuinely Florentine, Christmas markets are in town. One of the biggest is outside Santa Croce. It draws on German traditions in food, wine, and crafts.

To end on something sweet, enjoy a piece Panettone . This festive bread containing candied fruit is best enjoyed with a glass of sweet wine. Buon Natale!

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The Florence Insider

Your guide to travel and experience Florence, Italy

Planning a trip to Florence, Italy. Best tips for a DIY travel

If you are planning your trip to Florence , Italy, this is the right place to start! I have collected on this page all the articles that may be useful for you to plan your trip to Florence and Tuscany.

As always, I made my best to answer the most common questions I get from travelers who are about to plan a trip to Florence , and I hope you find all the information you are looking for. I am keeping this post constantly updated with new information, recommendations and links.

• I am a local licensed tour guide with 10 years of experience! Learn more about me and my job as a tour guide in Florence .

Table of Contents

Start planning your trip to Florence

In this section you’ll find all the things to know in order to plan your travel in advance . Let’s start from the basics: flying into Florence, how many days to spend there, the best time to visit, where to stay and how to get around.

Here are all my best tips for visiting Florence and all the thing to know before traveling there: that’s a good starting point!

Flying into Florence

If you are coming to Florence by plane you have several options, whether you are coming from Europe or from overseas.

When searching for a flight to Florence you can check flights schedules and prices on Skyscanner .

Florence Airport

Florence has an airport, Firenze Peretola , dedicated to Amerigo Vespucci, which is very close to the city center. You can go from the airport to the historic center in a few minutes by public transport (tram) or by taxi. Unfortunately, however, the Florence airport is very small, and does not operate many flights.

I f you are coming from outside of Europe it is very likely that you will have to stop over at another major European airport (usually Paris, Amsterdam or London) and then take a connecting flight to Florence.

The main European low cost airline, Ryanair, does not operate at the Florence airport , but there are other low cost airlines operating in Florence: Vueling and EasyJet.

Other airports near Florence: Pisa and Bologna

Since the Florence airport is so small, it is not always a convenient solution. But there are two valid alternatives: Bologna airport and Pisa airport . Both have the advantages of:

• Being large international airports
• Being less than an hour away from Florence
• Having low cost Ryanair flights

If you land at Pisa Galileo Galilei airport, you can easily reach Florence by public transport. There are both buses and trains (the airport is connected to the train station with a short monorail called Pisamover). Both buses and trains cost around 12 euros and take an hour to reach the Santa Maria Novella station in Florence.

If you land at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi airport you can go to Florence with a bus that leaves right outside the airport (Appennino Shuttle) and reaches Florence in an hour. Or you can take the Marconi Express shuttle which takes you to the Bologna train station in 7 minutes. From here you can take a high-speed train to Florence (around 25 minutes).

Getting to Florence by train

Getting to Florence by train is very easy and fast. If during your trip to Italy you will visit other cities such as Rome or Venice, the quickest and cheapest way to move from one city to another is the train.

Trains in Italy are numerous and reach all cities and towns, except for small villages in the countryside. To reach Florence from Rome, Venice or another Italian city, I recommend using high-speed trains: regional trains are cheaper but travel times are very long, and often one or more trains must be changed along the way.

There are two high-speed train companies in Italy :

• Trenitalia (this company also offers slow regional trains: avoid regionali and Intercity trains. Trenitalia’s high-speed trains are called Frecce )
• Italo (all Italo trains are high speed).

Trenitalia and Italo are both valid, and the prices and services are the same: choose the one that offers you the best time and price.

In any case, the earlier you book, the better : there are different rates and the cheapest ones are the first to run out. Exchange and cancellation rates, first-class seats, silence areas and dining cars are available.

How long does it takes to get to Florence by train

• From Rome to Florence: less than 2 hours ( how to get from Rome to Florence by train )
• From Venice to Florence: approximately 2.5 hours
• From Milan to Florence: 2 hours
• From Naples to Florence: 3 hours

The main train station in Florence is called Firenze Santa Maria Novella (takes the name from the nearby church), and it’s very central, less than 5 minutes away from the Cathedral.

How many days should I spend in Florence?

This is such a big question when planning a trip to Florence. Of course, the more is the better: you could spend a whole month in Florence without having seen it all yet . But I know that most of the travelers are not visiting just Florence during their trip to Italy, but also other cities like Rome and Venice. So planning the right amount of time in each place is really important.

I think you should spend at least 2 days in Florence , 3 days would be even better. Here you can find my piece of advice to figure out how many days to spend in Florence .

What is the best time to travel to Florence?

Summer is crowded, expensive and hot : it’s definitely my least favorite time of the year in Florence. Spring and fall have a lovely weather and are a bit less pricey and crowded. Except for Christmas holidays, winter is the cheapest time of the year for visiting Florence , and the less crowded.

I have wrote a whole about this subject: best time to go to Florence . There you’ll find all the pros and cons of every season of the year!

In case you’re visiting Florence in summer, here’s a useful list of things: what to pack for summer in Florence .

• A useful post: What to do in Florence when it rains

Where to stay

Florence is packed with any kind of accommodation: fancy hotel and cozy bed and breakfasts, cheap hostel and opulent ancient palaces with frescoed ceilings.

The best area to stay in Florence is definitely the historic center: finding an accommodation there, you’ll be close to all the places, monuments and museums that you will visit. If you want to save some money you can choose a hotel outside of the historic center, and then getting there by public transport (or even on foot, the city is really small and distances are short).

Also the Oltrarno district (beyond the Arno river) is a good area, and conveniently close to the center.

For finding the best place to stay read my complete guide to accommodation in Florence : hotels, bed and breakfasts, agriturismo, fancy places and budget stays.

How to get around

Florence is a very walkable city , all the main tourist attractions are concentrated in the historic center. Also the Oltrarno district can be reached on foot in a few minutes. You won’t really need public transportation unless you are planning to get out of the center.

But, in case you need it… here are all the things to know about public transportation in Florence, shared bikes and scooters, taxis and more, all explained in this post about how to get around Florence .

Planning what to see and do during a DIY travel to Florence

There are way too many things to see and do in town to be listed here. But there are a few unmissable museums and places that you should add to your travel plans in Florence.

Here are some helpful posts to get an idea about outdoor places to visit in Florence :

• What to see and do in Florence in 3 days
• Best views of Florence (and where to see them)
• the 10 best gardens of Florence
• The most beautiful squares in Florence
• Fun Vespa tours in Florence and surroundings

Museums and art galleries in Florence

Museums, art and history are the main reasons why so many people are visiting Florence every year. There are some of the most important art museums in the world, literally packed with masterpieces of Renaissance art.

The two most important and unmissable museums are the Uffizi (with paintings by Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raffaello, Botticelli and much more) and the Accademia Gallery (where David by Michelangelo is housed).

• my tips for visiting the Accademia Gallery
• 10 tips for visiting the Uffizi
• What to see at the Uffizi Gallery

Museums in Florence are very popular and they are always crowded, especially Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery (they are the two most visited museums in the whole Italy!). So book your tickets in advance , earlier is the better.

For more information about museums in Florence read:

• Top museums not to miss in Florence
• All Botticelli’s artworks in Florence

Churches to visit in Florence

Some of the most important churches of Florence are so ancient and packed with masterpieces of art, that they are full-fledged museums. The most beautiful and important churches not to miss are:

• The church of Santa Croce (with the graves of Michelangelo, Niccolò Machiavelli and Galileo Galilei)
• The church and museum of Santa Maria Novella (with artworks by Giotto, Brunelleschi, Ghirlandaio, Paolo Uccello, Filippino Lippi and much more).
• The Cathedral (Duomo) of Santa Maria del Fiore. Here is my guide for visiting the Duomo of Florence (and climbing the dome).

One of the most exciting experiences in Florence is the climb to the dome of the Cathedral. This one must be booked as early as you can , as there are only a few spots available every day, and tickets are often sold out several days in advance. Also keep in mind that there are 463 steps and no elevator. For the climb to the dome you must buy the Brunelleschi Pass that costs 30 euro.

Private guided tours

Taking a guided tour is the best way to fully understand the artworks in museums , the most important buildings and places, and the history of city. It’s also a smart way to optimize your time while traveling : you’ll be able to see more things in less time.

I am a local licensed tour guide in Florence with more than 10 years of experience , living and enjoying my city as much as I can. Please take a look to the list of the private guided tours in Florence that I give as a licensed tour guide ! I give both walking tours in the historic center, and guided tours of most of the museums of Florence.

Remember that all of my tours are customizable according to your plans and taste.

• Here you can find more info about me as tour guide in Florence , my job and my background.

Food and restaurants

Where to eat in Florence? And what to eat? Those are huge questions about such an important subject! Florence is world famous for its cuisine made of local ingredients and traditional recipes such as ribollita soup or Florentine steak. But Florence is also the birthplace of gelato (and we have some of the best gelato places in the whole Italy!), a great place to have a pizza and a vegetarian and vegan heaven.

I wrote several posts about food and where to eat in Florence, and here’s a good start:

• Where to eat on Florence on a budget
• Where to eat Florentine steak
• Vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Florence
• Best gelato in Florence
• Florence best pizza and pizzerias

If you have food intolerances (gluten or lactose for example) do not worry. In Italy the law is very strict regarding food allergies and intolerances: allergens must be reported by law on restaurant menus. Restaurants often have gluten-free options, and if they do, it means they are equipped to avoid contamination in the kitchen. Therefore gluten-free dishes in Italy are safe and truly gluten-free.

Also check my favorite rooftop bars in Florence !

Cooking classes in Florence, Tuscany

Food is a very important part of the Italian culture and lifestyle. And Italian cuisine is as good to eat as it’s easy to make. If you want to learn how to make fresh pasta, pizza, gelato, tiramisu and many other traditional dishes of Italian and Florentine cuisine, take a cooking class and bring home the secrets of a professional Italian chef!

Some cooking classes also include a market tour to choose fresh and seasonal ingredients. Others take place in farmhouses in the Tuscan countryside and include transport to and from Florence. There are also gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian cooking classes, and gelato and pizza making experiences .

You can find them all selected and listed in my blogpost about the best cooking classes in Florence and Tuscany .

Florence travel planner: day trips and excursions outside of town

If you have enough time, I recommend that you take a few days to explore the rest of Tuscany with some day trips. Florence is perfect as a base for discovering the surroundings : the rolling hills of Chianti, the cities of Pisa and Siena and the villages of the countryside.

Planning a day trip from Florence

I wrote a blogpost about the best day trips from Florence ! You’ll find all the information you’ll need to plan each one of them, even without a car. Anyway, the most popular day trips from Florence are:

• Chianti and Siena
• Wine tasting tours in Tuscany
• Pisa and Lucca
• Cinque Terre day trip
• What about a Truffle Hunting experience ?
• Take a Vespa tour from Florence to the countryside!

You can decide to visit those places with an organized tour or on your own , renting a car and driving around on a road trip in Tuscany.

Y ou can also reach the major cities by train (Pisa, Siena, Lucca and La Spezia, that serves as a base for visiting the Cinque Terre). But you will need a car to reach the small villages of the countryside , like the ones in Chianti or San Gimignano, as most of them don’t have a train station.

• How to get from Florence to Pisa
• Getting from Lucca to Florence
• How to get from Florence to Rome by train
• From Venice to Florence (and vice versa)

For more information about organized tours, click the links in this post! For more information about hiring a car in Florence, read below.

Car rental in Florence

Hiring a car is the best way to explore the countryside around Florence and the region of Tuscany , in a totally independent way. You can follow your own itinerary at your own pace, driving along the rolling hills of Tuscany, and then stopping to visit charming villages and spending the nights in country villas, wine estates or agriturismo (farm stay).

Florence is perfect as a base for exploring the surroundings, but you won’t really need to rent a car if you’re only visiting the city. Florence is really small and packed with traffic, so driving around isn’t really a good idea.

Here are all my best tips for renting a car in Florence , how to decide if you really need it and how to save money on it.

Here is a helpful guide to where to park in Florence .

Road trips from Florence

Here are some tips and ideas for a planning a road trip in the surroundings of Florence . Take the chance to explore the Tuscan countryside, the rolling hills of Chianti and the many picture-perfect villages.

• Tuscany in a week . A road trip itinerary that hits all the most beautiful towns and villages of Tuscany, starting and ending in Florence.
• 10 Tuscan Villages you should visit (perfect for a road trip)
• What to see between Florence and Rome

• highlight 1
• What to do in Florence and Tuscany

Hello, The Florence Insider team! I just wanted to take a moment to say how much I enjoyed your article on planning a trip to Florence, Italy. I don’t get to travel, but reading your article made me feel like I was right there in Florence with you.

Your guide on how to plan a trip to Florence is incredibly detailed and informative. I appreciate how you broke down the planning process into easy-to-follow steps, from choosing your dates and transportation to deciding on accommodations and activities. Your suggestions on where to eat and drink, as well as your tips on local customs and etiquette, are also very helpful.

One aspect of your article that I found particularly interesting was the section on off-the-beaten-path experiences in Florence. It’s great to see that you included suggestions for exploring lesser-known areas and attractions, which can be especially valuable for travelers looking to avoid crowds and experience something new.

Overall, your article on planning a trip to Florence, Italy is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore this beautiful city. Your attention to detail and insider tips make it clear that you are experts in Florence travel. Keep up the great work, The Florence Insider team!

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• Climate and Weather

Weather in Florence: the Best Time to Go to Florence

Average temperatures throughout the year

Weather in Florence and Tuscany is generally pretty mild but Florence's location in a valley makes temperatures vary from other areas in Tuscany.

The warmest months are generally July and August , while June and September are both nice with warm weather without it being too hot. Keep in mind that in August many Italians escape the heat of the city: outside of the historical center, a large number of businesses including shops and restaurants close down for at least two weeks if not the entire month as local shop owners take some vacation off. This tradition is changing and most shops in the center will be open in August.

The coolest months are December and January , with January being a bit cooler.

November is the month with the most precipitation on average but October, December, March and April also generally have a good amount of rain. Make sure to dress in layers!

What are the best months to visit Florence?

Visiting tuscany.

Don't forget to check out the best time to visit Tuscany , too!

Considering the weather, we would say Florence's (and Tuscany's) best travel months (also its busiest and most expensive) are April , May , June , September , and October . These months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather .

The most grueling thing about travel in Florence is the summer heat in July and August , when temperatures hit the high 80s and 90s.

We consider t he best time to visit Florence is between May and September when warm weather ushers in art and music festivals , open-air dining and the kind of Italian lifestyle you dream of experiencing..... but there are also advantages to visiting in the mid or low season so make sure to read those here .

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• Florence Weather

Top Experiences in Florence

Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

Questions? The right place to ask is our Forum *

* Questions posted on Comments above will no longer receive replies: please ask on our Forum !

Our Travel Guides

The Best Time to Visit Florence

Italy › Florence › When To Go Updated: March 24, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Florence
• Best Hotels in Florence
• Best Hotels for Families in Florence

When is the best time to visit Florence, Italy?

• Florence Hotel Map

My favorite time to visit Florence is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is typically warm, sunny, and pleasant during these months. For me, it’s an ideal time to explore the city’s renowned landmarks, such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, while avoiding the peak tourist crowds and heat of the summer months (July and August).

My two sons in Florence during a visit in July – not my favorite time to visit but still pretty great.

Weather : The most pleasant weather in Florence is typically from April to June and September to October. During these months, the temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C), with mostly sunny days.

Museums : Florence’s museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, can be visited year-round. However, to avoid long lines and crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to October) or on weekdays when tourist numbers are generally lower.

Shopping : Florence offers great shopping opportunities year-round, especially for leather goods, jewelry, and local crafts. The best shopping deals can be found during the winter and summer sales seasons. In Italy, the winter sales usually start in early January and run through February, while the summer sales typically take place from July to August.

Honeymoon : For a romantic honeymoon, consider visiting Florence during the late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for strolling through charming streets, enjoying outdoor dining, and taking in the iconic sights of the city. These periods are also slightly less crowded than the peak summer months, providing a more intimate experience.

Avoiding crowds : To avoid the largest crowds in Florence, visit during the off-peak season, which typically runs from November to February. During this time, you can expect fewer tourists, shorter lines at popular attractions, and lower prices for accommodations. However, the weather can be cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C).

The wonderful Ville Sull’Arno Hotel in Florence.

Florence Travel Seasons

• High Season (mid-May through July and September) : Summer is high tourist season in Florence, with one exception. During the month of August, the majority of Italians take a holiday away from the city, which means the crowds will mostly be tourists then and it may be possible to find some discounted hotel rates. Between mid-May and July, and through the month of September, airfares and accommodation rates are highest, it’s likely to be hot, and crowds will be at their peak.
• Shoulder Season (March through mid-May, except Easter; October and November) : The shoulder season, especially March, April (outside of Easter week), and October, is considered by many to be the best time to visit Florence. This is when the weather is often pleasant and the hordes of tourists either haven’t arrived or are beginning to diminish.
• Low Season (August and December through February, with the exception of Carnival) : The low season in Florence is generally winter, aside from Carnival (usually in February but sometimes in March). During winter expect smaller crowds and bigger discounts on accommodation and airfare. A winter visit means cooler temperatures, but snow is extremely rare – in most cases, the city can be enjoyed comfortably by preparing for fog and rain. Outside of the winter months, August is also considered the low season, because most Italians take their vacations during this month, which means many small hotels, restaurants, and shops close down.

Florence Weather by Month

• Florence Weather in January : The chilliest month in Florence, January tends to bring fog and rain to the city but it’s unlikely to be so chilly that you’ll need a heavy winter coat. Snow is unlikely, with the average high temperature at 12°C and the low at 3°C. Dressing in layers with the final layer a waterproof jacket, along with a hat and gloves, is a good idea if you plan to visit this month, due to an average of 63mm of precipitation falling over 11 days. While days are shorter now, there is still around nine hours of daylight for enjoying the sights, with sunrise at 7:48am and sunset at 4:48pm on January 1. (Average Max Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 63mm.)
• Florence Weather in February : Things are slowly warming up in February, which also brings slightly less precipitation. While the average high remains at 12°C, the low creeps up a degree to 4°C and there is only 49mm of rainfall on average over 8 days. While about half the month sees gray or foggy days, the other half enjoys more sun. Like last month, pack clothing that can be layered. While it can be chilly, some days may feel warm, so you’ll want to be able to remove an outer layer easily. (Average Max Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 49mm.)
• Florence Weather in March : Weather continues to warm throughout March, with the average high now climbing several degrees to 15°C and the low at 6°C. While precipitation increases again slightly, it oftentimes appears in the form of mist or fog. The more the month progresses, the sunnier the days are likely to be. Days are getting longer too; after the time change on March 31st, the sun rises just before 7 a.m. and won’t set until 7:40 p.m. Plan to pack as you would for January or February, but you probably won’t need to bundle up as much. You may want to bring a few items for warmer weather too, especially when visiting during the second half of March. (Average Max Temperature: 15°C. Average Precipitation: 69mm.)
• Florence Weather in April : April weather in Florence can be somewhat unpredictable, although it’s likely to be much sunnier than it is wet. It will be quite a bit warmer now with the high temperature at around 19°C, though the increase in rain means that you’ll still need clothing that can be worn in layers, along with a waterproof jacket and sunglasses. It may be a good idea to prepare for every type of weather, with April temperatures possibly climbing as high as 25°C, or as low as freezing. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 78mm.)
• Florence in May : May is a fabulous time to be in Florence, temperatures really rising; a full five degrees over last month. On most days it’s likely to feel like summer, with many more bright sunny days than gray ones, and a bit less rain than April sees – a little over 70mm on average. As it can still get quite cool in the evening with the low dipping to 13°C, you’ll need a jacket or sweater for evenings. Pack a variety of clothing for both cooler and warmer weather, like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses along with long pants and long-sleeved shirts and you’ll be prepared for whatever weather hits. (Average Max Temperature: 24°C. Average Precipitation: 72mm.)
• Florence Weather in June : Summer is in full swing now and it can get quite warm in Florence; the average high temperature is now at 28°C. On occasion it can climb into the low 30s, so if you plan to visit this month, packing should be all about keeping stylishly cool. Only 50mm of precipitation falls over 8 days in June, so rain is unlikely to put a damper on your plans. Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and a pair of sunglasses along with lightweight clothing. With the low temperature at 17°C, you may not even need a sweater. (Average Max Temperature: 28°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Florence Weather in July : July and August are the hottest months of the year in Florence. Afternoons frequently reach maximum temperatures of 31°C or higher, and there are few clouds to block the rays of the sun. Rain is few and far between, with only 31mm of precipitation this month. Most comes in the form of thunderstorms that leave as quickly as they arrive. Like last month, pack lightweight clothing and bring items for sun protection. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 31mm.)
• Florence Weather in August : It’s just as hot or slightly hotter in August, the month that most Florentines traveling elsewhere to avoid the scorching heat. The afternoon high averages 31°C and occasionally rises to 40°C. Many businesses, including some shops and restaurants, close down for at least some of August, and visitors might find the streets to be less crowded. You’ll need the same attire now that you would for July, focusing on clothing for keeping cool and protection from the searing sun. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 48mm.)
• Florence Weather in September : Early September continues the warm summer weather, with temperatures beginning to cool just slightly. The average high temperature now drops to 27°C, and the chance of rainfall increases a bit, especially later in the month, though you’re likely to enjoy plenty of sunshine on most days. Low temps dip to 16°C; if you plan to go out late at night, it may be cool. Pack a range of clothing, primarily items for warm weather during the day, along with a jacket or sweater for early mornings and evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 27°C. Average Precipitation: 76mm.)

• Florence Weather in October : Fall has arrived, with cooler temperatures and thinner crowds. October is a great month to visit Florence, as it is still fairly warm earlier in the month, and parks and forests are transformed by autumn’s brilliant foliage. The average high temperature dips a full six degrees down to 21°C, and precipitation increases quite a bit to 96mm over 12 days; pack a waterproof jacket and/or umbrella, as well as pair of sunglasses to be prepared for both sun and rain. (Average Max Temperature: 21°C. Average Precipitation: 96mm.)
• Florence Weather in November : November sees the return of gray, rainy days to Florence, with average precipitation rising to 102mm over 15 days, making this the wettest month of the year. The average high is a crisp 15°C – perfect sweater weather. (Though you’ll likely need a rain jacket on top of it.) Nights can get quite cool too, with the low now a chilly 7°C. If you visit Florence this month be sure to pack waterproof items for cooler weather. Having a waterproof coat and boots can make exploring the city a lot more comfortable. (Average Max Temperature: 15°C. Average Precipitation: 102mm.)
• Florence Weather in December : It continues to get colder in December, with the average high falling another four degrees to 11°C and the low at a brisk 4°C. The chance for rain decreases quite a bit to 72mm of precipitation over 13 days, and the odds of snow are extremely rare right in the city. Pack heavier winter gear now, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Plan your itinerary accordingly for shorter days – there are fewer than nine of daylight on Winter Solstice. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 72mm.)

Florence Events and Festivals

Florence in january.

• New Year’s Day – January 1 is a national holiday celebrated around the country, bringing closures to many attractions, including historic sites and museums as well as some restaurants and shops, though a number of eateries will be open. For the locals, it’s a day to recover from the previous night’s festivities or enjoy get-togethers with family and friends, exchanging New Year’s greetings and dining on traditional foods like raisins, lentils, and cotechino.
• Winter Park – While snow is unlikely to fall naturally in Florence you can still enjoy it at Winter Park throughout the month of January. It includes snow tubing and ice skating along with hot cocoa and roasted chestnuts along the Arno River.
• Winter Sales – One of the biggest events in January is the Winter Sales. They start here every year on January 5th, the eve of Epiphany/La Befana and run for 59 days. Prices are discounted everywhere from big-name fashion designer stores to small boutiques and outlets.
• Epiphany/La Befana – January 6, The Epiphany, is a national holiday marking the 12th day of Christmas and commemorating the day the Three Wise Men arrived with gifts for Jesus at the manger. Locals throughout the country exchange gifts, and in Florence the traditional Procession of the Magic takes place, led by the Three Wise Men on horseback wearing lavish costumes. It marches to Piazza Duomo, where a reading of the story of the Magi takes place followed by a performance by flag throwers.

Florence in February

• Carnival – One of the year’s biggest events, Carnival usually occurs in February, although it can occur any time between late January and early April. While there are festivities throughout the country, Florence is especially renowned for its Children’s Carnival which takes place in Borgo Ognissanti.
• Valentine’s Day – February 14, St. Valentine’s Day, is a relatively new celebration in Italy, but as Florence is such a romantic city, some establishments here have begun to take advantage of that by offering special dinners, flowers, and gifts.
• Chocolate Fair – For 10 days in early to mid-February, this artisanal fair takes place at Piazza Santa Croce. Expect lots of chocolate tasting, as well as a cooking show and a wide range of events based on everyone’s favorite sweet treat.

Florence in March

• Festa della Donna – Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 to honor women, in Florence, across Italy, and beyond. It began following a tragedy in the U.S., but today many Italians use it as an excuse to give small bouquets of mimosa flowers which bloom this time of year. The city of Florence, and other cities, grant free entrance to women for the city and state museums. Some restaurants may also offer special meals for the day.
• Festa di San Giuseppe – Father’s Day is celebrated on March 19 in Italy. It is similar to Father’s Day in many other countries, but it includes the consumption of zeppole, a food that’s similar to a doughnut.
• Feast of the Annunciation – This is the day in which the Catholic Church considered to be the beginning of a “new” year, a tradition that was followed through until 1749, well after the Gregorian calendar went into effect in the late 16th-century. Celebrations will be held throughout the city, with the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata offering the most elaborate.

Florence in April

• Half Marathon Firenze – This traditional Florentine non-competitive half-marathon race mixes sport and culture, while providing a unique artistic and cultural backdrop. It’s hosted on a Sunday in early to mid-April.
• Holy Week and Easter – Celebrated from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday throughout Italy, Holy Week sometimes falls in late March, but most often it occurs in early to mid-April. There will be Easter mass at churches throughout the city and the entire country. In Florence, the highlight is the “Explosion of the Cart” that takes place on Easter Sunday morning in Piazza del Duomo. This is when the cart, an elaborate 17th-century wagon that stands two- to three- stories high, pulled by a pair of oxen decorated in garlands and jam-packed with firework is lit, providing a grand spectacle.
• Liberation Day – Liberation Day, April 25, is a national holiday that will bring many business closures and limited hours to some attractions like museums, although many restaurants will be open. There may be a military demonstration or laying of wreaths at various monuments, and there is usually a variety of special events and museum openings that run late into the night.

Florence in May

• Labor Day – May 1 is a national holiday throughout Italy, including Florence. Labour Day brings closures to businesses and attractions like museums, including many shops and restaurants. Special events and concerts are sometimes hosted and there’s usually a colorful flag-throwing contest in Piazza della Signoria.
• Iris Garden – The Iris Garden by Piazzale Michelangelo at Viale dei Colli will be open throughout the month, with gorgeous irises in bloom. Just below, roses will be bursting in the rose garden that has over 350 different varieties as well.
• Artigianato e Palazzo – This unique artisan crafts fair is held over four days in the gardens of the Palazzo Corsini, which isn’t typically open to the public. Visitors can watch artisans create works by hand in workshops that are set up in orangeries and the garden.

Florence in June

• Republic Day – Celebrated on June 2 each year, this annual Italian national holiday marks the day Italy became a Republic in 1946, following the Second World War and the fall of Fascism. While it is somewhat like Independence Day in other nations, there are no fireworks, but in Florence there is a parade, flag ceremony, and singing at the Piazza della Signoria.
• Tuscan Sun Festival – Formerly hosted in Cortona, this popular summer arts festival now takes place in Florence annually in June, bringing well-known musicians and artists together for a week of art, music, wine, cuisine, and wellness. There are art exhibitions, cooking demos, and pre-concert receptions that include locally-made products and Tuscan wine.
• San Giovanni Feast Day – Celebrated on June 24 each year, in Florence this day brings a medieval tournament that’s followed by drinking, feasting, and music. Along the Arno River there will be rowboats that carry lit candles followed by fireworks.
• Saints Peter and Paul Day – A national religious holiday, this day is celebrated on June 29 each year throughout the country honoring two of Catholicism’s most important saints. The general population enjoys the day off and most businesses will be closed.

Florence in July

• Florence Dance Festival – Held throughout July, the Florence Dance Festival features important international dance companies inspired by great historical figures, hosted at the historical Teatro Verdi and the Teatro Romano.
• Florence Folks Festival – For four days in Late July, this popular urban event features free concerts, including local and international music, along with lots of food and drink.
• Festival of the Unicorn – This unique event that takes place in late July every year includes a Fantasy Festival with more than 100 shows daily, eight themed areas, comics, concerts, cosplay, a medieval market, themed venues, role-playing games, an Elf parade, and more.

Florence in August

• Feast of San Lorenzo – This annual event takes place at the Piazza San Lorenzo on August 10, a time when locals and visitors are given lasagna and watermelon following a historical parade through the city center.
• Ferragosto – August 15 marks the beginning of the summer holiday for most Italians. It’s also a national religious holiday of Assumption, celebrating the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. While there may be some closures, most museums and cultural sites are open.

Florence in September

• Festival of the Lanterns – The Festival of the Lanterns is hosted annually on September 7. One of the most traditional and largest festivals in Florence, it features a fair, as well as boat and lantern parades.
• Nativity of Virgin Mary – The cornerstone of the present Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore, was laid on September 8, 1296, the feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. In her honor, the terrace around the base of the cupola opens to visitors, can walk around freely and enjoy the view of the city’s rooftops and surrounding hills.
• Carro Matto/Crazy Cart – Every year on the last Saturday of September, downtown Florence comes to life with one of autumn’s most popular events, Carro Matto, which translates to “crazy cart.” A large wooden wagon is loaded up with a pyramid construction made up of round glass wine bottles. It’s pulled by oxen from the Piazza del Duomo to the Palagio di Parte Guelfa and back, before receiving a blessing from the city’s religious leaders. It ends with a performance of the Florentine Republic historical parade and flag throwing.
• The Grape Festival of Impruneta – Held in the pretty village of Impruneta, just minutes from the city of Florence, the Grape Festival takes place on the last Sunday of September each year in the main square, the Piazza Buondelmonti. Four neighborhoods challenge each other for the best float inspired by wine, with the event concluded with a parade, music, and dancing performances.

Florence in October

• Festa di Santa Reparata – On October 8, this festival celebrates the co-patron saints Santa Reparata and San Giovanni Battista. A procession takes place with participants donning medieval dress, traveling from Piazza di Parte Guelfa to the saint’s crypt at the cathedral.
• Festival Delle Mongolfiere – For two consecutive weekends in mid-October, this festival is all about hot air balloons, kites, food and fun. It brings the opportunity to fly high above the city in a hot air balloon, along with music and other festivities.
• Florence Biennale – Mid to late-October in odd-numbered years, venues around Florence will bring contemporary artists in music, film, visual arts and performances for 10 days of events and exhibitions.
• Halloween – While Halloween isn’t traditionally celebrated in Florence, or the rest of Italy, the holiday has managed to make its way into bars, clubs and other venues which host parties, costume contests and the like.

Florence in November

• All Saints Day – This national holiday falls on November 1. Locals throughout the country, including Florentines, often visit the graves of loved ones who’ve passed.
• Winter Park – Winter Park opens along the Arno River in November and will remain open through February for ice skating, winter games, food, and other fun.
• Firenze Marathon – Taking place on the last Sunday in November, this marathon crosses the city center, passing some of the most famous sights in Florence. The second most popular national race after the Roma Marathon, it includes a family marathon so that people of all ages can join in.

Florence in December

• Feast of the Immaculate Conception – This national and religious holiday falls on December 8 every year. While schools and public offices will be closed, most restaurants and shops will be open as this day is viewed as the official start to the holiday shopping season. An art and food fair is usually held in Florence.
• Christmas Eve/Christmas Day/Santo Stefano – On Christmas Eve, Florentines are usually enjoying Christmas dinner with their families before going to Midnight Mass at the local church. Families and friends come together on Christmas Day for a large day-long feast. Then on December 26 the national holiday of Santo Stefano is celebrated, giving Italians another day off. While most places are closed on Christmas Day, tourists can usually find some bars and ethnic restaurants open.
• New Year’s Eve – One of the top cities in Italy to celebrate New Year’s Eve, there will be numerous events and free entertainment organized in the main squares, including live music and fireworks displays.
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When is the best time to visit Florence? Find out

Things to do in Florence Florence Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination in Italy, and it rightly deserves to be and timing your visit can greatly affect your experience. While the city doesn't face extreme temperatures like some Northern European cities, it's still worth considering the weather and tourist crowds. The iconic Duomo is always bustling, but there are quieter periods to explore its charm. Our comprehensive month-on-month guide can help you pinpoint the best time to immerse yourself in Florence's rich culture and history. From sunny strolls along the Arno River to admiring Renaissance art, planning your visit wisely ensures a memorable trip to this enchanting city.

Best time to visit Florence: Know before you plan your trip

The best time to visit Florence is from April to June and September to October . April to June sees spring, with mellow weather and the landscapes awash with peculiar flowers all along the Tuscan countryside. September and October, the months of autumn are also great months to visit Florence with a magical nip in the weather and a lot of outdoor events to participate in.

Best time to visit Florence: Based on traveler persona

Best time for Sightseeing: March to May and September to November Best time for Backpacking: November to March Best time for Honeymooners: April to June and September to November Best time to enjoy festivals in Florence: June to October

Florence through the year

• High Season in Florence is during the summer, from Mid-May to July, although the weather is not the best. September is also high season due to the ideal weather and its proximity to the international tourist season. August is also high international tourist season but there are fewer local tourists as they head to the mountains or the beaches. Airfares and accommodation rates spike during this period.
• Shoulder Season in Florence is from March to Mid-May and October and November. These months cover spring and autumn seasons, and have pleasant weather conditions. If dates are not a concern, this is the best time to travel to Florence. There are festivals like Easter and Harvest festivals that liven up the city and countryside.
• Low Season in Florence is during the winter months of December to February, although many travelers love visiting during the Christmas celebrations. The airfares are cheap and accommodations offer low prices and discounts. There is little chance of snow, which makes it ideal for travelers who do not enjoy extreme conditions but wish to save on travel expenses.

Best season to visit Florence

Florence is a city known for its art and architecture which can be enjoyed all year round. The weather in Florence are not the least bit extreme, pulling in travelers from around the world year round. Here's how each season in Florence looks like.

Florence in Spring

Spring is quite marked in Florence, you will notice the weather getting warmer, days longer and the skies clearer. It is a lovely time to explore the famous Italian Renaissance Gardens of Bobboli and Bardini and watch the Irises bloom. April and May fall in the spring season and while it is shoulder tourist season it is definitely one of the best seasons to visit Florence.

Florence in Summer

Florence experiences hot summer with temperatures soaring in the months of July and August. These are also the busiest tourist months as international travelers pour in during school vacations. These months make for the best time to grab a gelato and walk the cobbled streets of sweltering Florence. The city also hosts several summer festivals themed around dance, music and art. Despite the heat it is a lively time in Florence!

Florence in Autumn

The months of September and October are one of the best times of the year to visit Florence. It is a respite after the summer heat with spurts of rainfall. Autumn is the harvest season for grapes and olives and a visit to the villages in Tuscany is a must-do on your Florence autumn itinerary.

Florence in Winter

If you don’t enjoy the snow then Florence in winter is your go to destination. It rarely snows in the city and even if it does it’s a light snow which often turns to rain, although the past few years have been unpredictable. The temperatures do not go into minus and it’s quite bearable with the right clothing. Florence is a sight to behold during Christmas with its markets, festivities and decor, making it one of the top places to visit during Christmas.

A month on month guide to visiting Florence

Follow our detailed guide to pick a month for your Florence exploits.

Florence in January

Average Temperature: 2°C to 11°C

Florence in January experiences one of the coldest months of the year. You will have to wrap yourself up in warm and waterproof clothing, but there is no need to worry about snow. It is also the tourist low season but the festivities in Florence are not yet done! The Epiphany or Befana is a grand event that celebrates the gifts of the Three Wise Men and the biggest event is held at the Piazza Duomo. The winter park is on at the Obi Hall, where you can find a skating rink and snow activities, and shopaholics will love the winter sales with discounts everywhere!

Florence In February

Average Temperature: 3°C to 12°C

Winter is easing its grip on Florence in february but you can still experience foggy mornings and evenings with the occasional rain. The later part of the month can open up with soft sunny days that make Florence sparkle and shine. The highlight of the month is the Carnival which is one of the best in Europe and takes place over two weeks, a unique feature is the Children’s Carnival at Borgo Ognissanti. It is also the season of classical music and opera; you can find shows at the Teatro Verde and Opera del Duomo. The Cambia Della Guardia is an interesting costume parade at Palazzo Vecchio which re-enacts the Battle of Siege.

Recommended Experiences in Florence during Winters

Florence In March

Average Temperature: 5°C to 16°C

It is the start of spring in Florence, so be prepared for longer sunny days as the month progresses. There is still a chill in the air in the mornings and evenings but the days are comfortable, you won’t need as many layers of warm clothing. The flowers are in full bloom and you will find locals honouring the women in the life with the gifting of yellow mimosa flowers on Festa Della Donna. Take your dad along for the trip as it is Festa di San Giuseppe or Father’ day in Italy! Since the weather is good, you can enjoy a Segway tour or a Vespa tour of the city and explore the attractions.

Florence In April

Average Temperature: 8°C to 19°C

April is one of the best months of the year to visit Florence as the weather is simply perfect! Yes, there are a few rainy days but on an average the weather is spectacular. The countryside is blooming and you must make a visit to Borgo San Lorenzo for the spring festival and enjoy a wine tour in Tuscany. Florence is gearing up for the celebrations of Holy Week and Easter as well as the Liberation Day. April is also the perfect month to get outdoorsy with marathons like Vivicitta and Ecomarathon, and the Florence Bike Festival. Make sure you attend the International Handicrafts Fair where you can pick up authentic Florentine craftwork.

Florence In May

Average Temperature: 12°C to 24°C

May is one of the best months to visit Florence; however the tourists hordes have not yet trickled in as schools don’t close until June/July in most parts of the world. The weather is almost perfect in Florence in May as the days are long and sunny without the heat that starts in June. One of the most awaited events is the blooming of Irises at the Iris Garden. It is a good idea to spend time outdoors among Florence’s parks like the Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini, and Parco delle Cascine. Join the locals celebrate Labour Day and Giorno Della Mamma or Mother’s Day in May.

Recommended Experiences in Florence during Spring

Florence In June

Average Temperature: 16°C to 29°C

Florence is on the cusp of summer in June, the days get longer with as much as 11 hours of sunshine. Chances of rain go down drastically which means clear skies and sunny days that are ideal for sightseeing. Tourists start making a beeline for the city and it is a good idea to invest in Skip the Line tickets at attractions in Florence in June to avoid the serpentine queues. The highlight of the month is the Italian Republic Day when you can witness parades, events and patriotic fervor. Other exciting events are the Festa Di San Giovanni and wine-tasting event Mostra Del Chianti.

Florence In July

Average Temperature: 18°C to 32°C

Florence in July experiences one of its hottest and busiest months of the year. Climate change is rearing its ugly head and temperatures are soaring reaching up to 40°C with the occasional heat wave. Yet, that does not stop tourists who are seeking to discover the secrets of this spectacular city. The days are long, so it’s best to spend the hot afternoons inside the beautiful cathedrals and art galleries like Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell'Accademia , and stroll the city in the mornings and evenings. Events like Fiesole Summerfest, Florence Dance Festival and Saint Anne’s Feast Day take place during the month, giving you a taste of the local zest.

Florence In August

August marks summer vacation in Italy and Florentines head for their vacations leaving tourists to run the city, who are flocking in high numbers. Most of the large establishments are open, with the exception of the family-run restaurants and hotels. August is the peak of summer and the temperatures are quite high, so slather oodles of sunscreen and put on your floral, breezy clothes! The city’s exquisite galleries and museums are a refuge and the evenings are filled with cultural outdoor activities like Estate Fiesolana. Don’t miss out on the Feast of San Lorenzo and keep a look out for the Perseid meteor showers!

Recommended Experiences in Florence during Summer

Florence In September

Average Temperature: 15°C to 27°C

The weather gets pleasant as September kicks in, but there is higher humidity in the air and increased chances of rain towards the end of the month. It is high tourist season so make the most of your time in the city with discounted online tickets in advance. It is the ideal time to take quick day trips from Florence , especially to Tuscany for the Vendemmia or the grape harvest season. Chianti , Pisa , Siena , Cinque Terre , and Lucca also make for great day trip destinations from Florence. The most awaited event of the month is Salamarzana which celebrates medieval history with live enactments, live music and more.

Florence In October

Average Temperature: 11°C to 21°C

Finally winter is knocking on the doors, with magically chilly air in hand. International tourists have long gone and only weekends might seem busy. It is the best time to explore the countryside and enjoy the brisk weather while you search for truffles and chestnuts! Impruneta, Marradi and Vicchio are festivals held around the countryside, while you can also hitch a ride in a hot air balloon at the Festival Dell Mongolfiere. The highlight of the month is however the Florence Biennale which is an art and culture extravaganza.

Florence In November

Average Temperature: 6°C to 15°C

Winter in Florence is wet and cold, it rains almost every other day and its best to keep a raincoat and umbrella handy while walking about the city in November. However, the cold does not put a damper on things to do in Florence. You can enjoy the short queues at tourist attractions like the Florence Duomo , Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery and leisurely meal in restaurants savouring seasonal specials like freshly pressed olive oil, and white truffles. It is a great time to pick up holiday souvenirs at antique fairs like the Fortezza da Basso and Largo Pietro Annigoni. Make sure you pay a visit to the winter park at Arno River where the city has an ice skating rink!

Florence In December

Average Temperature: 3°C to 11°C

Florence is one of the best cities in Italy to experience the festivities of Christmas. While the weather has now turned to grey and cloudy, the chance of rain reduces with almost no chance of snow. However, it is the sweater season and it is best to layer up. Since the days are short, make sure you wake up early and get up and about before the sun sets. The best features of Florence in December are the Christmas events starting from Christmas markets in Piazza Santa Croce and Piazza Santissima Annunziata, to viewing the Christmas tree and nativity scene displays in Piazza del Duomo.

Florence Duomo Guided Tours

Florence itinerary: for one day.

Whether you're visiting Florence in May or November, here's a handy one day itinerary to experiencing the best of Florence in just 24 hours! Read our handcrafted Florence 1 day itinerary .

If you're planning a slightly more relaxed and longer day trip to Florence, check out our Florence 3 day itinerary .

Accademia Gallery

Mercato Centrale

Duomo Florence

Palazzo Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria

Uffizi Gallery

Ponte Vecchio

Piazzale Michelangelo

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Should I Travel To Venice Or Florence – Which Trip Is Better?

Home > Blog > Should I Travel To Venice Or Florence – Which Trip Is Better?

Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations and it’s not hard to see why. With ancient ruins, cultural wonders and incredible food, it has everything one could desire when it comes to a vacation destination. However, establishing which Italian city to visit presents its challenges. 

Florence is the better choice because it offers a much more authentic experience and has a longer shoulder season, which means fewer crowds. However, if you want to explore historic wonders and go island hopping , then Venice is the choice for you. 

In this article, we compare and contrast these Italian hotspots to help you decide whether to visit Venice or Florence. For both cities, we discuss the best times to visit, the landscape, cultural attractions, local cuisine and nightlife, providing a full breakdown of what you can expect in Florence and Venice.

How Far is Venice from Florence?

The distance between Venice and Florence is around 160 miles when travelling by car, but depending on your mode of transport this can vary slightly. You can get from Florence to Venice by train, as both cities are very well connected via Italy’s rail network. A high-speed train service can get you from Florence to Venice in approximately 2 hours. 

Alternatively, you can take a bus to get between them, but this could take longer depending on the route. You can also opt to fly between Venice and Florence as they both have large airports . However, when factoring in cost and sustainability, it is much more effective to travel between them by other means. If you want to visit both Venice and Florence on an amazing Italian vacation, be sure to check out our 9 day Rome, Florence and Venice tour , where all transport is handled for you by our expert team.

The Best Time to Visit:  Florence vs Venice

The best time to visit Italy will largely depend on your own preferences and desires. Florence and Venice have similar tourist seasons, with both getting very crowded during the peak summer months of July and August. It is advisable to visit Venice or Florence during the shoulder seasons as there are fewer crowds and cheaper prices. 

However, the best time to visit these Italian cities is slightly different and we expand on each of them below.

The Weather in Florence

The best time to visit Florence is during springtime, between April and June . The weather in Florence during this time is much milder, with flowers bursting into bloom adding to the atmosphere. Average daytime temperatures in Florence range from 59°F to 77°F, which is perfect for exploring museums and visiting the lush gardens. 

The shoulder season in Florence is also much longer than in other parts of Italy as it extends into September and October . During fall, Florence enjoys pleasant weather and fewer tourists. This is one of the best times to visit Florence if you want to enjoy outdoor activities or explore the verdant vineyards of Tuscany.

The Weather in Venice

Much like Florence, spring is one of the best times to visit Venice as summer can bring scorching heat to the lagoon. The weather is crisp with the promise of summer and tourists have yet to fill up the narrow alleys and canals. Temperatures in April and June in Venice range from 57°F to 72°F, which is ideal for exploring the city. 

It is also worth noting that Venice has a significant flood season, known as ‘acqua alta’. This period of high water lasts from October to January, with November having the highest chance of flooding. You should avoid visiting Venice around this time of year as it could severely impact your travel plans and always check local weather forecasts.

Italian Landscapes:  Venice vs Florence

Venice and Florence are some of the most popular cities in Italy, with each boasting distinct features which add to their charm. They have very different landscapes as Venice is on the Adriatic coast and Florence is landlocked, but both are brimming with beauty. 

Venice – The City of Canals

The most striking feature of Venice is its iconic canals and waterways. The main thoroughfare is the Grand Canal, which is lined with historic buildings and palaces. This historic architecture dominates Venice’s skyline, with Gothic and Renaissance buildings rising directly from the edge of the glistening water. There are also some examples of Byzantine architecture, which makes the experience much more varied when compared to Florence. 

The benefit of visiting Venice is that you can explore its many islands , which offer a welcome escape from the bustling city. You can take a tour of the Venetian Lagoon and visit incredible sites like Murano, which is famous for glassmaking, and Burano, which has colourful houses and incredible photo opportunities.

Florence – The Gateway to Tuscany

Similar to Venice, Florence is made up of historic buildings and landmarks which make it one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. The compact city center is filled with some of the most famous landmarks in Florence, such as the Florence Cathedral and the Palazzo Vecchio. The Arno River flows through the city and can be crossed via the iconic Ponte Vecchio. 

The buildings in Florence are heavily influenced by the Renaissance, as this is the supposed birthplace of the historic movement. Tourist attractions like Pitti Palace and the Medici Chapels showcase the city’s fascinating artistic heritage. These classical designs can be found all over Florence which makes it a great place for sightseeing in Italy.  

Surrounding Florence, visitors can explore the rolling hills of Tuscany . You can view this lush landscape from Giotto’s Campanile and get some mesmerising photos. Alternatively, Florence is well connected to other towns in the region meaning you can easily embark on vineyard tours and day trips to destinations like San Gimignano.

Culture & History: Florence vs Venice

Both Venice and Florence are brimming with cultural experiences and historical sites, which makes them excellent destinations on an Italian tour. However, these cities showcase very different artistic styles and cultural influences. Florence is synonymous with the Renaissance and is famous for producing artists like da Vinci, whereas Venice has more Gothic styles in architecture. 

Below, we highlight the different cultural and historical highlights of Florence and Venice to help you decide which city is best for you.

Florence – An Art and History Lovers Delight

If you love exploring artistic heritage while on vacation then some of the best things to see in Florence are the exceptional collections of the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries . Many masterpieces from the Renaissance are housed in these historic institutions, making them great places to visit for those who want to learn more about Florence’s artistic legacy. 

One of the most important elements of Florence’s history is the influence of the Medici family. Starting as wealthy merchants in the 15th century, the Medici family were patrons of the arts and contributed heavily to the flourishing of Florence during the Renaissance. Sites like the Medici Chapels and the Palazzo Medici Riccardi stand as testaments to their influence and impact on the city.

Alongside its artistic and historical offerings, one of the best things to do in Florence is to visit the elegant Florence Cathedral (Duomo). The iconic dome immediately draws the eye and is a symbol of Florence. On your visit, you can also explore the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile to learn more about Florence’s architectural history.

Venice – Where Romance & Architecture Collide

While Florence has some impressive landmarks, Venice is not much different. Top attractions in Venice like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace offer tremendous insight into the city’s history and culture. The ornate details of these buildings showcase the wealth and influence that Venice enjoyed when it was a powerful maritime republic.

Another of Venice’s landmarks that offers amazing cultural insight is the Rialto Bridge. Here visitors can take in some of the best views of the Grand Canal and explore an exciting array of shops and cafes to connect with locals. It is also visually breathtaking, with stone reliefs and statues adorning its features for the perfect scenic experience.

It’s no secret that Venice is one of the most romantic places in Italy. The meandering canals and narrow lanes, plus the gorgeous architecture at every corner create a truly enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for couples visiting Italy. Be sure to explore Venice’s hidden gems on a gondola ride for a more authentic cultural treat.

Cuisine:  Florence vs Venice

The main difference between the cuisine of Florence and Venice comes down to their locations. Florence is known for its decadent dishes that are inspired by the rustic Tuscan hills, while Venice takes full advantage of its coastal position with extravagant seafood. They are both excellent destinations for foodies and we dive into the details below. 

Florence – Enjoy the Bounties of Tuscany

Although the weather in Florence in November may not be as inviting as the warm summer months,  this is a great time to visit for sensational culinary experiences . The harvest will be in full swing by this time meaning you can enjoy artisanal delicacies, like truffles and olive oil. Florence also gets some of its best wines from Tuscany and you’ll often see locals sipping on glasses of red Chianti. 

We highly recommend trying Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a juicy steak seasoned with olive oil and rosemary. It’s a classic Florentine dish that has to be tried on your visit. Other foods in Florence that are worth sampling include, Ribollita (a hearty Tuscan soup) and Lampredotto (a sandwich filled with slow-cooked beef).

Venice – Savour the Freshest Seafood

Venice’s location on the Adriatic Sea has heavily influenced its cuisine, with fish and other seafood dominating its culinary offering. Popular dishes in Venice include Risotto al Nero di Seppia (squid ink risotto) and Sarde in Saor (sweet and sour sardines). Another staple food in Venice is Polenta, a cornmeal-based dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

The best food in Venice can be found in authentic trattorias, where you can try unique dishes that locals love. The San Polo area of Venice has a fabulous selection of restaurants, many of which source their produce from the lively Rialto Market. We’d also suggest that you avoid dining in tourist-heavy areas, as your experience will be muted in comparison.

Nightlife & Entertainment: Venice vs Florence

While nightlife in Italy may not appeal to every visitor, Venice and Florence have a fabulous evening scene which makes them great places to explore once the sun goes down. Those seeking thrilling bars and sumptuous beverages will find Florence fulfils their needs while travelers seeking a more relaxed evening will be blown away by Venice.

Venice – Opera and Aperitivo

There is some incredible nightlife in Venice that will suit a variety of travellers. Whether you wish to visit the best bacari bars or experience cultural showcases, there is something for everyone in the City of Canals. With a strong aperitivo culture, you can start the evening early and try some incredible cocktails.

Some of the best nightlife in Venice can be found in Campo Santa Margherita, a spirited square in the Dorsoduro district. It’s a popular evening spot for both locals and tourists alike, with various bars and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is truly energetic and you can enjoy comfortable conversation alongside live music.

Those seeking evening entertainment that doesn’t involve bar hopping should visit the Teatro La Fenice Opera House. This historic venue hosts countless operas, ballets and classical music shows which are an extravagant way to spend an evening in Venice. They have an extensive schedule, so they are guaranteed to have something that will pique your interest.

Florence – Piazzas and Parties

The nightlife in Florence is mainly centered around its historic Piazzas, which come to life in the evening. There are a variety of bars and clubs which make for perfect evening entertainment in Florence and cater to a range of tastes. It is much livelier than Venice which enjoys a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. 

Piazza Santa Croce is a vibrant square surrounded by historic buildings. In the evenings, many come here to meet and enjoy drinks at the numerous bars and cafes. There are a variety of different venues here, including jazz bars and clubs with themed parties and acclaimed DJs, so you are certain to find somewhere special. 

Likewise, Piazza Santo Spirito in the Oltrarno district is a haven for anyone who wants to enjoy the brilliant bohemian atmosphere. There are several bars surrounding the square, including quirky cocktail bars and laid-back blues bars with live music. Located near the square is the Blob Club, one of the top nightclubs in Florence and the premier place to dance the night away.

Both Venice and Florence have a wealth of attractions and sights that are certainly worth experiencing, which makes them rather hard to compare. They both have incredible architecture and historical sites which allow visitors to experience their rich culture.

However, the main differences between them come down to their locations. Florence is ideal for those who want to explore Tuscany and avoid the summer crowds. It also has a much livelier evening scene which is perfect for visitors who enjoy nightlife. 

On the other hand, Venice is better suited to travelers who want to discover the different islands and make the most of the coastal cuisine. It provides a more laid-back evening experience and has a plethora of historic sites that are more varied than the ones found in Florence. Nevertheless, a visit to either of these Italian cities will leave you with fond memories and a yearning to discover more.  

Thinking about a show stopping vacation to Florence or Venice? Get in touch with our experts at Italy4Real for friendly advice and bespoke itineraries.

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

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What to Do in Florence for 3 Days 

Unlocking the Secrets to Snagging the Best Airfare Deals to Europe

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Florence or Venice: Which Italian City to Visit?

Last Updated on April 13, 2023

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Florence and Venice are two of the most popular cities in Italy. Venice is known for its historic canals and glass-blown artwork while Florence is famous for its architecture, wine region, and food. If you have a finite amount of time to explore Italy, you might find yourself wondering whether to visit Florence or Venice. 

Florence might be your choice if you’re an art and history lover, Venice might be the better option if you’re after a romantic escape. However, both cities are fascinating and they have characteristics that make visiting each one a very unique experience.

Keep reading for a list of everything you need to know when deciding whether to visit Venice vs Florence.  

Table of Contents

Centrally located in Italy, Florence is the largest city in the Tuscany region. It’s well known for food, history, and culture, making it a favorite destination for tourists. Florence is also the gateway city to exploring the wine regions and natural spaces of Tuscany. 

Accessibility 

If you’re arriving by train, you’ll come into Florence through the Stazione Santa Maria Novella. There are other train stations in the city, but this one is the biggest and most centrally located, so it’s probably where you’ll hop off to begin your Florence adventure. You can view schedules here.

The Florence airport is about five miles from the city center and can be accessed by taxi, bus, tram, or rental car. 

Taxis are available in the city center, but there is no rideshare service like you’d find in other Italian cities. If you have a rental car (you can find one on Rentalcars.com ), you won’t be allowed to drive in the center of Florence. Those streets are reserved for residents only. 

Most of the main attractions in Florence are accessible by foot. Anywhere from five to twenty minutes of walking will take you throughout the main neighborhoods. It’s also the best way to stumble upon hidden gems, find quaint cafes, and wander into local artisan shops.

Navigating Florence is usually easy with clearly marked signs and an intuitive layout, however, you should still use a map or GPS to help navigate. Overall, getting around Florence is easy and affordable. 

Affordability

The busiest months in Florence are during the summer. You should expect prices across the board to increase from roughly June through August and be more affordable if visiting Florence in winter.

When it comes to lodging and eating in Florence, you can really spend any amount of money.

However, Florence is generally more budget-friendly for travelers than Venice. Many activities are affordable and there is a lot to see just walking around the city, which is entirely free. If you opt for a high-end visit to Tuscany or private tours, expect to pay more for your stay in Florence. 

It’s also worth noting that Florence has more variety in terms of what kind of experience you can have. For example, you have more flexibility to splurge in one area and save in another. You will probably visit nicer restaurants and stay in nicer accommodations in Florence for a lesser price than Venice.

Florence is also a larger city, which grants its visitors more options when they’re deciding where to eat. If you wander from the tourist-oriented city center, you will find cheaper lodging and dining. 

Things To Do In Florence

One of the biggest differences between Venice and Florence is the sheer number of things to do. You could easily spend several days in Florence , exploring the city and Tuscany, and have plenty to see and do. It’s very worth your time to spend at least two days getting to know Florence with another day spent venturing into the region. 

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is by far the most stunning of attractions in Florence. This impressive cathedral stands out against the skyline and sits in the middle of the city. You can go inside the cathedral, but expect to wait in a long line unless you visit as soon as it opens. You can organise a guided tour here.

Ponte Vecchio is a classic spot to visit while wandering Florence. This medieval bridge is lined with colorful jewelry shops with excellent views of the city and river. 

Lovers of art museums will find themselves right at home in Florence. The Uffizi Gallery, housing Renaissance masterpieces throughout the ages, is the most popular. You can buy tickets here.

The Accademia Gallery, where Michelangelo’s David lives ( pre-book tickets here ), and Pitti Palace ( pre-book tickets here ) are two other main museums in Florence, but there are many more. While wandering the city, you can also expect to come across pop-up exhibits for various artists. Florence has a rich history of art, artists, and architecture. 

Aside from these, make sure you visit Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, and Piazza del Duomo. There are gardens, vegetable markets, science museums, plazas, and even tombs to explore. 

If you have time during your visit to Florence, take a day trip to Pisa , and a tour of Tuscany. Whether you’re a lover of wine or not, this famous wine region of Italy is beautiful with rolling green hills and stunning vineyards.

You can learn about the history of wine and olive oil production in the country. Pisa is just a short train ride away or can be visited on a guided tour.

From the train station in Pisa, walk about twenty minutes to reach the Leaning Tower of Pisa and surrounding museums. These are two iconic destinations that are easily accessible from Florence. 

You can also take day trips to cities like Lucca and Siena if you have the time, as well.

Where to Stay in Florence

Hotel Bellavista – This mid-range hotel is a great option for visitors looking for a comfortable and convenient choice in the Tuscan capital. Located close to the train station within easy walking distance of all Florence has to offer, they have a range of different rooms available and an option to include breakfast.

25hours Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those looking for a plush stay in Florence. They offer a number of rooms perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape. There is also breakfast included in the nightly rate and there is a fitness centre, restaurant and bar on site. 

Ostello Bello Firenze – If you’re looking for a great social atmosphere or are travelling on a tight budget, this highly-rated hostel is an excellent option. They have both dorms and private rooms available, good common areas and a fantastic location for exploring the best Florence has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Florence hotels!

Venice is arguably one of the most famous cities in Europe. Known as the “City of Canals”, Venice is filled with beautiful architecture, gondolas, and a fascinating history. It has over 118 islands that make up the city, making it one of the most interesting cities to explore on foot. 

Accessibility

The easiest way to reach Venice is by train at the Santa Lucia Train Station. From the train station, you can easily walk to your accommodation.

There is a small airport, Marco Polo Venice Airport, that you’ll have to take a bus or boat from to get into Venice proper. You can book a bus here or a boat here.

Getting around Venice is as unique as the city itself. In short, there are three main ways to get around Venice: buses, walking, and vaporettos. 

Walking tops out as the best way to get around Venice. The walk from Santa Lucia to St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is usually 20 – 30 minutes. When exploring Venice by foot, it’s wise to have a map or GPS at your disposal.

The streets are relatively well-marked, but they twist and curve to create a maze-like city. With all the narrow alleys and random dead ends, it’s easy to get lost. That said, Venice is one of the coolest cities to get lost in. 

Buses are mainly to reach Venice from the mainland. Once in Venice itself, you won’t see any cars. Instead, most people use vaporettos to get around. These are essentially water buses that go between all the main points of interest throughout Venice.

It connects the six areas of Venice as well as the other island in the Lagoon. Purchasing single-ride tickets can add up very quickly. Instead, consider buying an unlimited multi-day transportation pass. 

The other ferry option is the traghetto. This is a lesser-known option, but worth it for the more affordable price point. It helps visitors cross the Grand Canal easily and cheaply, costing around a quarter of the price of a vaporetto ticket.

Water taxis and gondolas are the two most expensive ways to get around the city. Gondolas are mainly tourist attractions, running from €80-100 for half an hour. Water taxis can transport up to ten people, but tend to be spendy and the prices usually jump at night. 

Venice is generally more expensive than Florence. Unsurprisingly, Venice sees millions of visitors every year–more so than other parts of Italy. It’s because of this that prices tend to be higher.

Venice is also a much smaller city compared to Florence, so there are fewer options for lodging. This leads property owners to increase the per night cost of a room to sell to the tourists willing to pay the most.

Similar to Florence, restaurants, cafes, shops, and accommodations near St. Mark’s Square will have higher prices than other parts of Venice. However, expect to pay more for nearly everything in Venice than Florence. 

Things To Do In Venice

Venice is a historic and elegant city with plenty of sites to see. You’ll probably recognize many of the highlights from their appearances in pop culture.

Start with the Rialto Bridge. This intricately-designed marble footbridge spans the Grand Canal. It’s a great place for a view of the Grand Canal, especially for sunrise or sunset.

St. Mark’s Square is the largest and most popular public square in Venice. It’s surrounded by shops and restaurants while being home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here.

While exploring Venice, you’ll want to make sure to visit Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Signs. The palace boasts the Venetian Gothic style and was historically the palace of the Doge of Venice, a high authority figure in the former Republic of Venice. You can buy tickets here.

It dates back to 1340. The connecting Bridge of Sighs is a white marble bridge built high above the canal between the Doge’s Palace and a prison. The bridge was built to transport prisoners from interrogation rooms in the palace to their cells in the prison. 

Those who love the arts will appreciate the beauty of the Teatro La Fenice and enjoy wandering the art collection at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection of modern art.

If you have an afternoon to spend venturing out of the center of Venice, hop on a vaporetto to visit Burano or Murano. These little islands are known for their lace and glass-blown art, respectively.

They are colorful and charming parts of Venice that are well worth a few hours of your time and just a short ride from the main part of Venice. 

If you have a few days to spend in Venice, you could also opt to go on a day trip to nearby Verona or go wine tasting in the famous Prosecco region.

Where to Stay in Venice

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – Situated within reach of the iconic Rialto Bridge, this lovely boutique hotel is perfect for those after the ideal romantic escape in Vence. There are a handful of chic and comfortable rooms available, a bar on site, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Ca’ Angeli – Located in the central San Polo neighborhood, this wonderful hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxe place to stay in Venice. They offer only a handful of beautiful, clean and comfortable rooms and they also have a great breakfast available each morning.

Combo Venezia — This hostel in the cool Cannaregio neighborhood is a great choice for budget and solo travelers to Venice. As one of the city’s highest-rated hostels, they have both private rooms and dorm beds available and great shared spaces and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

Venice vs Florence: The Verdict

So, should you visit Venice or Florence? The two cities each have their own unique characteristics that make them memorable, however, there are several differences that might make one better than the other for your trip to Italy. 

If you want art, history, and other cultural museums, Florence is your place. Here, you’ll generally find more to do, especially if you plan a day trip or two out of the city. Florence also had more options for incredible food due to being a larger city.

Those traveling on a budget should head to Florence as well. Again, because Florence is a larger city with more options for lodging and dining, there will be more flexibility for all budgets. 

If you find yourself wanting a city that captures the romance that Italy is famous for, go to Venice. With the canals, music, gondolas, and architecture, you are bound to feel the warm sentiments that come from wandering these picturesque streets. 

When it comes to crowds, Venice is almost always packed with tourists. The city receives millions of visitors every year from all over the world. This, coupled with the narrow streets and limited space, quickly makes Venice incredibly dense with tourists.

Florence also sees a lot of visitors, especially during the summer months, but is more spread out, so it won’t feel nearly as crowded as Venice. It’s easier and cheaper to get around Florence, with more options for exploring small towns and regions around the city.

Whether you should visit Florence vs Venice should be based on how much time you have, budget, and the activities you’d like to do. Florence has more to do while Venice is the romantic, picturesque pocket of Italy you’ve seen in movies. No matter which city you choose to visit, it’s certain to be a trip you won’t forget. 

Are you trying to decide between visiting Venice or Florence? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

Nice guide ! Only one clarification.. Venice is not so smaller than Florence… The city center of Venice is much larger unlike the Florence ones, where you can walk from the train station to the major square in 10 min. (in Venice you have to walk 30/40 min and there is also the lido, murano and burano islands.). And you have not mentioned the large part of the main land of Venice, wich is the suburban area where a lot of tourists can book cheaper rooms and find other modern museums. Hope my opinion can be usefull for anyone 🙂 Btw, thank you for you amazing work as usual!! 🙂

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• Top Things to do
• Florence Tours
• Attractions
• Uffizi Gallery
• Duomo Florence
• Accademia Gallery
• Boboli Gardens
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Palazzo Pitti
• Bargello National Museum
• Medici Chapel
• Florence To Chianti Tours
• Florence To Cinque Terre Tours
• Hzero - The Miniature Railway
• San Marco Museum
• Basilica of Santa Croce
• Walking Tours
• Guided Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Theme Parks
• Water Parks

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Many treasures of Renaissance art and architecture may be found in Florence , the capital of Italy's Tuscany province. The Duomo, a cathedral with a terracotta-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi and a bell tower designed by Giotto, is one of the city's most prominent attractions. The city also has various museums and art galleries, like the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti, and continues to have an impact on art, culture, and politics. If you’re planning to visit the stunning city, you need to visit at the right time. Read on to discover the best time to visit Florence.

What's the Best Time to Visit Florence?

Best Months for Staying Outdoors in Florence : April and May

Best Months for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping : April, May, September, and October

Best Months for Honeymooners : April, May, September, and October

Best Months for Budget Travellers : August, December, January, and February

Best Months for Shopaholics : July and August

High Season

When: mid-may to july, september.

What to Expect:

• Summer is the busiest tourist season in Florence, except for August, when most Italians go on vacation.
• Airfares and hotel rates are at their peak between mid-May and July, as well as until September.
• The weather will most likely be hot, and the crowds will be thick.

Shoulder Season

When: march to mid-may, october, and november.

• Many people believe the shoulder season, notably March, April, and October, to be the greatest time to visit Florence.
• The throngs of tourists have either not arrived or are starting to dwindle.
• This is the time of year when the weather is usually pleasant.

When: August and December to February

• Florence's low season is usually winter but the weather doesn’t get too harsh.
• Expect fewer crowds and better lodging and airfare deals during the winter.
• Prepare for fog and rain during a winter visit, which means colder temperatures.

Seasons in Florence

March - May

Average Temperatures: 5 - 24°C

Spring arrives in Florence, with the weather becoming warmer, the days becoming longer, and the skies becoming brighter. It's a beautiful time of year to visit the iconic Italian Renaissance Gardens of Boboli and Bardini. The spring season runs from April to May, and while it is peak tourist season, it is still one of the greatest times to visit Florence.

Tips : Given the pleasant weather, this is the perfect time to stroll around beautiful Florence

June - August

Average Temperatures: 16 - 32°C

Florence has a torrid summer, with temperatures reaching record highs in July and August. International travelers come in during school vacations, making these the biggest holiday months. These are the finest months to get a gelato and stroll around hot Florence's cobblestone streets. Numerous summer events focused on dance, music, and art are also held in the city.

Tips : Apply sunscreen liberally before stepping out, especially if you visit in July and August

September - December

Average Temperatures: 6 - 27°C

The months of September and October are some of the best for visiting Florence. It's a welcome relief from the summer heat, with occasional showers. The changing colors of the leaves on the trees in the town's parks, avenues, and streets, as well as the glittering reflections in the Arno River, all make a visit to Florence at this time of year worthwhile.

Tips : Autumn is the harvest season for wine. Visit a vineyard and drink world-class Tuscan wines if you have the opportunity.

January - February

Average Temperatures: 22 - 12°C

Florence in the winter is your go-to location if you don't like snow. Although it seldom snows in the city, when it does, it is usually light snow that quickly turns to rain. The temperatures do not drop below freezing, and with proper clothes, you can have a pleasant time. Florence is one of the best locations to visit during Christmas because of its markets, festivities, and decorations, making it one of the best places to visit during the holiday season.

Tips : Rainy winter weather is the perfect excuse to spend the day in the wonderful museums of Florence.

Recommended Attractions in Florence

1. Uffizi Gallery

3. Accademia Gallery

4. Boboli Gardens

5. Palazzo Pitti

6. Museo del Bargello

7. Medici Chapel

Best time to visit florence: month on month guide.

Average Temperature : 2 - 11°C

January is the coldest month in Florence, with fog and rain, but it's unlikely to be so cold that you'll require a heavy winter coat. It's also the off-season for tourists, but the festivities in Florence aren't over yet! The Epiphany, also known as Befana, is a large celebration commemorating the Three Wise Men's gifts, with the main ceremony taking place at Piazza Duomo.

Things to do: 

• Visit Uffizi Gallery
• Tour Palazzo Pitti
• Witness the grandeur of Duomo Florence
• Discover Fortezza da Basso

Travel Tips : Dress in layers, with a waterproof jacket as the final layer, as well as a cap and gloves.

Average Temperature : 3- 12°C

In February, the weather begins warming up, resulting in slightly less precipitation. While the average high temperature remains at 12°C, the low temperature rises to 4°C, and just 49mm of rain falls on average over eight days. The month's highlight is the Carnival, which is one of the best in Europe and lasts two weeks. It's also a classical music and opera season, with performances at the Teatro Verde and the Opera del Duomo.

• Go for a Florence Segway guided tour
• Explore Palazzo Pitti
• Embark on a day trip to Chianti
• Head to Fortezza Antiquaria

Travel Tips : As February isn't the busiest month, you can visit all of Florence's museums at your leisure.

Average Temperature: 5 - 16°C

The weather remains warm through March, with the average high reaching 15°C and the low reaching 6°C. While the amount of precipitation increases significantly, it usually comes in the form of fog or mist. The flowers are in full bloom, and during Festa Della Donna, locals honor the women in their lives by offering yellow mimosa flowers.

• Visit Duomo Florence
• Make your way to Accademia Gallery
• Go for a day trip to Siena
• Explore Uffizi Gallery

Travel Tips : If you're visiting around the second half of March, you might want to bring a few items for the warmer weather.

Average Temperature : 8 - 19°C

The weather in April in Florence might be a little variable, but it's more likely to be sunny than rainy. With a peak temperature of roughly 19°C, it will be much warmer now. Florence is getting ready for Holy Week, Easter, and Liberation Day celebrations. With marathons like Vivicitta and Eco-marathon, as well as the Florence Bike Festival, April is a great month to get outside.

• Go for a Tuscan wine tour
• Explore Siena Cathedral
• Spend half a day at Boboli Garden

Travel Tips : Attend the International Handicrafts Fair to purchase genuine Florentine handicrafts.

May is a fantastic month to visit Florence, with temperatures up to 5 degrees higher than last month. It will most certainly feel like summer on most days, with many more bright sunny days than dreary ones. The blossoming of Irises at the Iris Garden is one of the most anticipated occasions. Spending time at Florence's parks, such as the Giardino Bardini, Boboli Gardens, and Parco Delle Cascine is a fantastic option.

• Day trip to Chianti

Travel Tips : In May, join the locals in commemorating Labour Day and Giorno Della Mamma.

Average Temperature : 16 - 29°C

Summer is already in full swing, and Florence can get rather hot; with an average high of about 28°C. It can go into the low 30s on occasion, so if you're going this month, make sure you're prepared to stay cool. The Italian Republic Day is the centerpiece of the month, with parades, celebrations, and patriotic fervor. The Festa Di San Giovanni and the wine-tasting extravaganza Mostra Del Chianti are two more exciting events.

• Explore Accademia Gallery
• Day trip to Siena
• Go for the Florence Segway guided tour
• Attend Festa Di San Giovanni

Travel Tips : To avoid the long lines at attractions in Florence in June, it is a good idea to purchase skip-the-line tickets.

Average Temperature : 18 - 32°C

In Florence, July is one of the warmest months of the year. There are seldom clouds to impede the sun's rays, and afternoons routinely reach maximum temperatures of 31°C or more. Because the days are long, it's preferable to spend the scorching afternoons inside the city's stunning cathedrals and art galleries, such as the Uffizi and Galleria dell'Accademia, and explore the city in the mornings and evenings.

• Try the Florence Segway guided tour

Travel Tips : Visit Florence's rooftop bars for a memorable experience while also being less crowded during this season.

Average Temperature : 18 - 31°C

In August, when most Florentines move elsewhere to avoid the blazing heat, it's equally as hot or somewhat hotter. The midday high averages 31°C and can reach 40°C on rare occasions. Many businesses, including some shops and restaurants, close for at least part of August, making the streets less busy for visitors. The city's magnificent galleries and museums provide a haven, while evenings are filled with cultural outdoor activities such as Estate Fiesolana.

• Go for a Red Legend-Ferrari Museum tour
• Day trip to Pisa
• Explore Duomo Florence
• Visit Accademia Gallery

Travel Tips : Since Bilancino Lake is less busy than other beaches, you can rent paddle boats or canoes.

Average Temperature : 15 - 27°C

The pleasant summer weather continues in early September, with temperatures beginning to cool slightly. The average high drops to 27°C, with a slight rise in the possibility of rain. It's the best time of year to go on simple day trips from Florence, particularly to Tuscany during Vendemmia, or wine harvest season. Day trips from Florence are also possible to Siena, Chianti, Cinque Terre, and Pisa.

• Tour Accademia Gallery
• Day trip to Cinque Terre
• Embark on a walking Food & Art tour

Travel Tips : It's best to visit indoor attractions like museums and art galleries in the afternoons to avoid the searing heat of the sun.

Average Temperature : 11 - 21°C

Autumn brings cooler weather and fewer people. October is an excellent month to visit Florence since the weather is still pleasant early in the month and the parks and woodlands are transformed by the gorgeous foliage of autumn. It's the perfect time to go exploring in the countryside and take advantage of the cool weather! Some of the festivals in the countryside you can experience include Marradi, Vicchio, and Impruneta.

Things to do:

• Florence Segway guided tour
• Tour Duomo Florence

Travel Tips : As October is Italy's harvest season, you'll be able to sample a variety of intriguing seasonal dishes

Average Temperature : 6 - 15°C

The wettest month of the year, November, brings back grey, rainy days to Florence, with average precipitation reaching 102mm over 15 days. The maximum temperature is a chilly 15°C, ideal for wearing a sweater. You can expect short lines at tourist destinations such as the Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia Gallery. Enjoy as well as unhurried meals in restaurants featuring seasonal specialties such as freshly pressed olive oil and white truffles are available.

• Discover Duomo Florence

Travel Tips : Pay a visit to the city's ice skating rink in the Arno River winter park!

Average Temperature : 3 - 11°C

In December, the average high temperature drops 4 degrees to 11°C, and the low temperature drops to a chilly 4°C. Because the days are short, you should get up early and get out of the house before the sunsets. Christmas events, ranging from Christmas markets in Piazza Santissima Annunziata to visiting the Christmas tree and nativity scene presentations in Piazza del Duomo, are the highlights of visiting Florence in December.

• Explore Boboli Gardens
• Head to Palazzo Pitti

Travel Tips : Winter clothing, such as a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots, should be packed now.

Top Things to do in Florence

Hacks & tricks to visit florence.

• You'll get the greatest bang for your buck and the chance to travel without the crowds during the chilly low season, which runs from November to March. Accommodation costs might be as much as 50% less than in the high season.
• Millions of tourists visit Florence each year, putting a strain on the city's livability. Clean up after yourself, and avoid sitting with your food on random steps.
• Many smaller pubs and shops still don't take credit cards or demand a fee to use them. It's better and much easier to have a small sum of money.
• Step out of Florence and discover the beautiful heart of Tuscany, which is filled with historic villages and old vineyards, and olive groves.
• Take a food tour and enjoy a gourmet feast as you slowly dine your way from one establishment to the next.
• The further you walk away from the historic district, the less expensive items become. Staying in a less-traveled suburb or off-the-beaten-path neighborhood and commuting to the city center will save you a lot of money.

Know More About the Best Time to Visit Florence

The best time to visit Florence is between May and September when the weather is mild, bringing art festivals, open-air restaurants, and beautiful sunshine.

The high season in Florence is from mid-May to July and September.

The hottest month of the year in Florence in July.

The coldest month in Florence in January.

It rains the most in November in Florence.

The best time to go sight-seeing in Florence is April and May or September and October

Florence is less crowded in November, February, and March.

You can get budget deals in Florence in August, December, January, and February.

You can swim at the beach in Florence in May but note that the temperature can be as low as 15.5°C.

You can visit Uffizi Gallery , Duomo Florence , and eat gelato in the evening in Florence in summer.

You can visit the many palaces in the city, visit Accademia Gallery , and enjoy authentic Tuscan winter food in Florence in winter.

You can spend a day at La Citè, attend the Gelato Festival, and enjoy a picnic at Le Cascine Park in Florence in spring.

You can go for a day trip to Tuscany, visit the famous theatres of the city, and visit beaches like Marina di Pisa in Florence in autumn.

The best time to visit Florence with kids is May and September.

The best time to visit Florence for couples is April, May, September, and October.

The best time to visit Florence while traveling solo is from April to October.

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Venice vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Venice or Florence?
• Which is Cheaper, Venice or Florence? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Venice or Florence?

• When to Visit Venice or Florence?

Should you visit Venice or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Florence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice is a magical, historic, and beautiful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice and Florence: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Good public transit
• Impressive beauty
• Quaint atmosphere
• Home to St. Mark's Basilica
• Less popular for food
• Less popular for nightlife
• Popular for food and cuisine
• Active nightlife
• Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)
• Public transit not as usable

Is there more to do in Venice or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence than Venice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Florence is more popular for its food and nightlife, while Venice is known for its shopping and quaint atmosphere. Venice is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Venice different from Florence?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Venice. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Venice or Florence?

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Florence and Venice.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Venice or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Florence is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Venice and Florence are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Florence?

Venice is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Families?

Venice is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Couples?

Both Venice and Florence are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Students?

For students, both Venice and Florence are terrific places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Is Venice or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Venice is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Venice can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Venice or Florence a more walkable city?

Venice and Florence are terrific when it comes to walkability.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Florence or Venice?

How long in venice or florence.

Both Venice and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Venice than Florence. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Venice, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Venice if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.

• How many days in Venice or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay Venice 2-7   Florence   2-7

One day in Venice or Florence?

The beautiful city of Venice offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Venice or Florence?

Venice is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or Florence?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or Florence?

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy .

Which place is cheaper, Florence or Venice?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Venice Prices Italy Prices Florence Prices Italy Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Venice € 229 Florence € 154

The average daily cost (per person) in Venice is €229, while the average daily cost in Florence is €154. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Venice and Florence in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Venice € 120 Florence € 87
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Venice € 240 Florence € 174

Compare Hotels in Venice and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Venice or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Venice

Hotels in Florence

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Venice € 27 Florence € 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Venice

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Venice:

• Venice 12 Hour Transport Pass € 16
• Vaporetto Ride € 6.50
• 1 Day Travel Card € 18
• 7 Day Transport Card (for Two) € 101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Venice

Also for Venice, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Malpensa Airport (MXP):1-Way Private Transfer to Venice Port: $1,366
• From Milan: One-Way Transfer to/from Venice Cruise Port: $1,158
• Luxury Private Transfer Between Siena and Venice: $1,144
• Trieste: Round Trip Transfer to Piazzale Roma in Venice: $1,042
• Venice Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Florence: $1,040
• Ravenna Port or City: 1- Way Transfer to Venice + water taxi: $1,022
• One-Way Transfer to Florence Airport or Hotel: $1,016
• Bologna Airport:1-Way Private Transfer to Venice+water taxi: $827
• Marco Polo Airport to Cortina D’Ampezzo Transfer: $817
• Transfer from Trieste Cruise Terminal to Marco Polo Airport: $787
• Transfer from Airport to Trieste Cruise Terminal: $787
• Venice Airport:1-Way Transfer to Ravenna City or Cruise Port: $745

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:

• Taxi Ride Within City € 8.00
• Taxi from Airport € 25
• In City Parking (Full Day) € 30
• Bus Pass (Full Day) € 5.00
• Bus From Airport € 5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Transfer Between Florence and Rome with Sightseeing Stop: $1,171
• From Amalfi Coast Transfer with a Stop in Pompeii: $1,171
• Private Transfer from Cinque Terre to Florence or Siena: $889
• Private Round-Trip Transfer to Pisa: $564
• From Private Transfer to Siena: $394
• From Private Transfer to Livorno Port: $384
• Transfer from Livorno Port to Accommodation: $384
• Private Transfer from San Casciano in Val di Pesa to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $293
• Florence Airport(FLR) to Chianciano - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $293
• Private Transfer from Firenze (FLR) Airport to Castelfalfi: $292
• Private Transfer from Firenze (FLR) Airport to San Casciano in Val di Pesa: $292
• Private Transfer from Florence city centre to Pisa Airport: $291

Is it cheaper to fly into Venice or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Venice change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Venice € 65 Florence € 36

Typical Food Prices in Venice

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Venice:

• Panini Sandwich € 4.00
• Gelato € 6.00
• Artichoke & Mushroom Pizza € 7.90
• Expresso € 1.95
• Slice of Pizza € 2.23
• Three Course Dinner (for Two) € 79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Venice

For Venice, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Hard Rock Cafe Venice with Set Lunch or Dinner: $32
• Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings: $47
• Venice Street Food Tour with a Native & Top Rated Expert: $48
• Venice Street Food Tour with Local Guide with Local Food Market Visit: $48
• Street Food Tour of Venice in 2.5 hours: $48
• Secret Street Food Tour of Venice in 2,5 hours: $48
• Small Group Venice Street Food Tour with Expert Local Guide: $48
• Eating Venice Street Food Tour with Guided Tasting and Sightseeing: $48
• Guided City Highlights and Street Food Tour: $51
• Venetian Dinner: $62
• Venetian Dinner: $67

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:

• Panini Sandwich € 6.50
• Casual Lunch (for Two) € 17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
• Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $33
• Virtual Italian Meatballs Cooking Class, Live from Tuscany: $37
• Florence Bike Tour with Hands-On Pasta Gelato and Cooking Class : $38
• Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class: $40
• Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $40
• Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $42
• Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
• Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $47
• Florence Food Tour with Antico Vinaio skip the line & optional local market: $60
• Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Venice € 101 Florence € 30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Venice

For Venice, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Venice Boat Ride € 15
• Bell tower of St. Mark Entrance Fee € 8.00
• Gondola Ride (for Group) € 80
• Secret Itinerary Tour- Doge's Palace € 16
• The Jewish Museum Admission € 3.00
• The Glass Museum in Murano € 8.00

Tours and Activities in Venice

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Venice.

• Doge's Palace and Correr Museum Skip the Line Private Tour: $282
• Friendinvenice Early Morning Venice Private Tour: $283
• From Vicenza Private Tour: $282
• Private Grand Canal 1-Hour Boat Tour: $293
• Small-group Saint Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-line Tour: $53
• Private 2-Hour Doge's Palace Tour: $216
•  Friendinvenice, how to experience the true Venice, private tour: $125
• 1-hour panoramic tour of Venice by boat: $27
• 2 Hour Night Kayak Tour in Venice, premium experience with sunset: $152
• 2 Hours Private Guided Tour of the Doge's Palace: $130
• 2-Hour Venice with Kids and Family Friendly Private Guided Tour: $273
• 2-hour Venice Guided Walking Tour with Gondola ride: $283

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Admission to Uffizi € 11
• Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi € 4.00
• Firenze Card (for Two) € 100
• Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two) € 20
• Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee € 6.00
• Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee € 7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.

• 2.5 Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Beauty and Art of Florence: $16
• Accademia Gallery Skip the line Tickets : $34
• Express Early Morning Uffizi Small Group Tour I Max 6 People: $141
• Florence Duomo: VIP After-Hours Dome Tour with Terrace Access: $174
• Florence FoodTour with Local Guide: $191
• Florence Gourmet FoodTour with Friendly Guide: $191
• Florence Walking FoodTour: $191
• Uffizi Skip-the-Line Entry & Guided Tour: $71
• Semi-Private Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour: $71
• Tour Private of Florence in electric car : $42
• 1 Hour Accademia Guided Tour: $33
• 1 Hour guided tour: Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo's David: $38
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Venice € 24 Florence € 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Venice

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Venice:

• 1/2 Liter Wine € 5.20
• Beer € 4.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Venice

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Venice:

• Guided Tour and wine tasting 5 wines to discover the Conegliano Valdobbiadene: $27
• Guided Visit and Wine Tasting at the Winery in Veneto: $27
• Wine Tasting in Venice: $37
• Wine Tasting in Venice: $39
• Wine tasting Asolo Prosecco at Tenuta Baron: $59
• Food and Wine Tasting Bar Tour & Evening Guided Tour: $71
• Venetian Style Carnival Pub Crawl: $73
• Venetian Style Carnival Pub Crawl: $82
• Eat, drink and repeat: Wine tasting tour in Venice: $97
• Authentic Neighborhood Cicchetti Food & Wine Tour: $116
• Evening in Venice with a local: food and wine tasting tour: $116
• Prosecco: Wine tour & tasting along the Unesco hills: $117

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:

• Glass of Chianti € 4.20
• Bottle of Wine € 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
• Winery tour and wine tasting of organic Chianti wines and extra virgin oil: $22
• Wine Tasting Activity at Chianti Rufina: $23
• Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $24
• Wine Tasting Experience near Florence: $27
• 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
• Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
• Cellar Wine Tour: $33
• Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
• Winery tour & wine tasting in Montalcino: $43
• Chianti Rufina Lunch and Wine Tasting Experience: $44
• 60-Minute Wine Tasting Tour: $48

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Venice and Florence, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice than you might in Florence.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Venice Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive? .

Florence has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Venice or Florence?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Venice or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Venice is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 23°C (73°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Venice. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Venice usually receives more rain than Florence. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Venice 23°C (73°F)   Florence   25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Venice or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Venice during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Venice is cooler than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than Florence. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Venice 14°C (57°F)   Florence   16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Venice or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Florence. Many visitors come to Venice in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Venice can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Venice is much colder than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Venice usually receives less rain than Florence. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Venice 3°C (37°F)   Florence   7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Venice or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Venice as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Venice for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

In April, Venice is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 13°C (55°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than Florence. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Venice 13°C (55°F)   Florence   14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Venice

Related articles for venice, related articles for florence.

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When's The Best Time To Visit Venice

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 11.04.2024

Venice ’s tourist season is very nearly an all-year affair . Peak season is from Easter to early October when hotel rooms are virtually impossible to come by at short notice; if possible, try to avoid July and August , when the crowds are at their fullest, the climate can be oppressive, and many restaurants and bars take their annual break. The other two popular spells are Carnevale (leading up to Lent) and the weeks on each side of Christmas; again, hotels tend to be heavily booked, especially for Carnevale

Key takeaways

• When's the best time to visit Venice?

What are the travel season(s) in Venice

What are the best months to visit venice, when is rainy season in venice, visit the carnival of venice, tips for travelling to venice, tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

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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

• Spring ( March to May) and autumn (September to November ) are the most favourable periods to visit Venice, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller, allowing you to explore its canals and architecture more closely.
• Acqua alta , or flood season, occurs from October to January , presenting a unique aspect of Venice with its flooded streets and squares, offering a different perspective on the city's charm.
• The Venice Carnival , a world-famous event, usually takes place in February , transforming the city into a colourful scene of masquerades, elaborate costumes and cultural festivities.
• Venice is hot and crowded in the summer ( June to August ), but there are opportunities to enjoy lively festivals, al fresco dining along the canals and spectacular sunsets over the lagoon.

When's the best time to visit Venice?

For the ideal combination of comparative peace and pleasant climate, the two or three weeks immediately preceding Easter are perhaps the best time of year. Climatically, the months at the end of the high season are erratic: some November and December days are so clear that the Dolomites seem to start on the edge of the mainland, but others bring torrential rain or fog so dense you can’t see across the Canal Grande. 

However, the desertion of the streets in winter is magical, and the sight of the Piazza under floodwater is unforgettable. This acqua alta, as Venice’s seasonal flooding is called, is common between October and March, and you should anticipate a few inconvenient days in the course of a winter visit.

Here are some highlights:

• Spring : Ideal weather and Venice Biennale.
• Summer : Vibrant festivals and outdoor dining.
• Autumn : Serene beauty and the Venice Film Festival.
• Winter : Carnival of Venice and unique acqua alta scenes.

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

In Venice, the tourist seasons are characterised as follows:

High Season

From June to August, from late December to early January (Christmas and New Year's Eve), and a fortnight at Easter. Venice is at its busiest during this period, with warm summer weather attracting tourists to its canals and events such as Easter creating a festive atmosphere. Expect crowded attractions, higher accommodation prices and a lively city pulse.

Shoulder Season

Occurs in April, May, September and October. These months are characterised by milder weather and coincide with events such as the Venice Biennale art exhibition, which alternates with the Architecture Biennale, which begins in May. 

At this time, the city is less crowded than in high season, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of Venice's historic streets and canals. Accommodation prices are moderately high but more affordable than in high season.

Lasts from November to March, with the exception of the Christmas, New Year and Carnival periods. This season is characterised by cooler temperatures, potential acqua alta (especially from November to January) and a calmer atmosphere of the city. 

The number of tourists decreases significantly, resulting in lower prices and a more soulful experience of Venice. This period offers a unique opportunity to explore the city without the crowds of tourists, although some businesses may operate on reduced hours or be closed.

When planning a trip to Venice it is important not only to consider the weather conditions but also to find suitable accommodation. Our guide to the best places to stay in Venice will help you solve this issue .

St Mark's Square from the Grand canal. Venice, Italy © volkova natalia/Shutterstock

Venice, a city of great beauty and historical significance, offers its visitors unique experiences throughout the year. However, some months stand out for their perfect combination of pleasant weather, relatively smaller crowds and the city's vibrant cultural calendar. These months capture the essence of Venice and will make your visit unforgettable.

Weather in Venice in April

April marks the beginning of spring in Venice. The weather becomes comfortably mild and the city begins to blossom with colour, making it an ideal time for photography and nature lovers. Easter celebrations add to the festive atmosphere and you can enjoy open cafes and restaurants without the summer crowds. April also sees the opening of the Biennale art or architecture exhibitions, depending on the year, and the start of a wave of cultural events.

Weather in Venice in May

May is probably one of the best times to visit Venice. The weather is warm but not yet hot, allowing you to explore the city's narrow streets and countless bridges for long periods. The city is alive with colour, from fresh greenery to clear blue skies, perfect for leisurely gondola rides. Also in May, Venice often hosts the Biennale, making it a magnet for art lovers from all over the world.

Weather in Venice in September

As the summer heat begins to subside, September welcomes visitors with comfortable temperatures and a light, pleasant atmosphere. The city breathes a sigh of relief as the peak tourist season comes to an end, allowing for more relaxed cultural and historical sightseeing. Among other things, the Venice Film Festival, held in early September, attracts film lovers and adds a glamorous touch to the city's already enchanting atmosphere.

Weather in Venice in October

October is the month that showcases the tranquil beauty of Venice. Temperatures cool down and the summer crowds eventually dissipate, offering a more intimate introduction to the city. The change of season brings stunning autumn colours, creating picturesque scenes around every corner. This is a great time if you want to immerse yourself in the rich history and art of Venice without the hustle and bustle of high season. In addition, the mist over the canals adds a mysterious charm to the Venetian scenery.

Venice landmark, Burano island canal, colorful houses and boats, Italy © StevanZZ/Shutterstock

The closest equivalent to the rainy season in Venice is mostly in the fall: the rainiest month is November, as well as October and April. These months often see acqua alta, or floodwaters, causing flooding in some parts of the city. This phenomenon, while unique and fascinating to observe, can affect the movement and accessibility of Venice. 

If you plan to visit during these periods, you should be prepared for possible disruptions and the opportunity to see the city from an unusual perspective as its waterways and streets merge together.

The Venice Carnival is a world-famous festival that transforms the city into a land of wonder, history, mystery, and beauty. It usually takes place in February and concludes with Lent, so guests from all over the world come to take part in its extravaganza.

It is important to book accommodation in advance, as the city is flooded with people wanting to experience the magic of Carnival. While most of Venice's attractions remain open, expect them to be more crowded than usual.

The appeal of Carnival lies not only in its historic costumes and elaborate masks but also in the variety of entertainment it offers:

• Majestic masquerade balls in ancient Venetian palaces.
• Street performances that enliven the city's narrow streets
• Gondola parades along the famous canals.
• Impressive art exhibitions and live music events.

However, the influx of tourists during this period means that popular destinations can be extremely busy and airfares and hotel prices can rise significantly. It is therefore advisable to plan your Venice Carnival adventure well in advance to ensure you have an enjoyable time in the colorful atmosphere of the festivities.

Venice offers a wide list of things to do at any time of the year. If you're feeling confused and don't know where to start planning your itinerary, check out our list of the best things to do in Venice for all tastes .

Masked man by the water at Venice Carnival, Italy, Europe – copyright Kiki Deere

Plan your visit during shoulder season

Visiting Venice during the "shoulder" months of March, April and October can enhance your experience. During these periods, the weather is milder, the crowds are smaller and the beauty of the city is more tranquil. You'll get fewer queues at the main attractions and a calmer atmosphere for exploring the winding streets and canals.

Embrace the Acqua Alta

The Acqua alta , or high water, is a unique phenomenon in Venice that usually occurs between October and January. Instead of seeing it as an inconvenience, embrace this aspect of Venetian life. Put on waterproof boots and walk on the elevated platforms to see the city in a whole new light. It's an experience unique to Venice that you won't want to miss.

Get lost in the backstreets

One of the best ways to get to know Venice is to wander its less-visited paths. Venture beyond the main tourist spots, such as St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, to discover hidden gems. Here you'll find quieter canals, charming local shops and authentic Venetian restaurants, giving you a glimpse into the daily lives of the residents.

Use Public Transportation Wisely

Venice's public transport system , primarily the vaporettos (water buses), is an efficient way to get around the city. If you are staying for a few days, consider purchasing a pass to save on the cost of individual tickets. Remember that gondola rides, although iconic, are more for the experience than as a practical way to get around, and they can be expensive.

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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Venice or Florence? Which Italian Bucket-List Spot Is Best?

If you’re considering Venice or Florence for your Italian adventure this year but can’t quite pick the city for you, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will delve into both towns to highlight seven key things. From the general vibe of each city to the sort of sightseeing you can look forward to in both, it’ll pick out some of the main considerations among travelers heading to the land of risotto and Roman ruins.

The truth is that both places are pretty darn incredible. There’s Venice, the fabled City of Canals, carved through by mighty waterways and decorated with opulent Renaissance palaces. Then there’s Florence , the onetime stomping ground of Michelangelo, where colossal art galleries roll on past the impossibly romantic Arno River. We’ve got wanderlust for both!

The best thing would be to check off the two in the same journey. There are now fast trains linking Venice and Florence in a little over two hours. But, if that’s simply not an option and you have to pick, read on for some insights that can help you make the decision…

Table of Contents

Venice or Florence for sights and attractions?

Florence rolls down the Arezzo hills of northern Tuscany to meet the winding Arno River. As it does so, it offers up a glimpse of some of the most romantic and iconic sights in the country. Top of the list is surely that illustrious Duomo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower. It looms high above with its tiled domes and marble-fronted façades, showcasing Giotto’s Campanile (perhaps the world’s loveliest belltower?) and hiding works by Michelangelo, no less.

Talking of Michelangelo, you can venture from the cathedral going north to hit the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze in San Marco, where the legendary statue of David is housed. Alternatively, go in the other direction, where the Uffizi Gallery hosts even more priceless work by the likes of da Vinci and Botticelli. Finally, Florence also comes with the gorgeous Ponte Vecchio bridge (a photo op if there ever was one) and lookout points at the Piazzale Michelangelo that take in the serrated Tuscan mountains and the city alike.

Venice hardly needs an introduction. For sightseers, there’s barely a moment to blink as you weave down the Grand Canal and under the carved Ponte di Rialto bridge where Shakespeare set some of his scenes.

The whole city converges on the mighty Piazza San Marco, which reigns as the largest medieval city square in Europe. Begin there, because the landmarks come thick and fast – the campanile towering overhead, the great Doge’s Palace on the side, then St Mark’s Basilica and its orientalist motifs and filigreed domes. Escaping all that, you can cross to the glass workshops of Murano, sun yourself on the city lidos, or spy out collections at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum or the National Archaeological Museum Venice (both are excellent).

Winner: Draw. Sorry, but these are two of Italy’s most iconic cities, filled with some of Italy’s most iconic sights.

Venice or Florence for food?

Of course, food is a major consideration when you’re planning that jaunt to Italy. The good news is that both of these cities offer a taste of the Mediterranean kitchen that you’re looking for. However, they aren’t carbon copies of each other. Nope, one draws on the rustic region of Tuscany , known for its simple peasant cooking and rich wine, while the other pulls in influences from the Alps and the Adriatic Sea.

The flavors in Florence are all about the hearty countryside of the surrounding region: Tuscany. Expect big game meats, rich red-wine sauces, highland herbs, along with heavy pastas and crispy breads packed with porchetta. It’s not for nothing that this part of the country is hailed as a culinary mecca, so be sure to sample some local stuff:

• Lampredotto – Don’t be put off by the fact that this crispy-bread sarnie is made from a cow’s fourth stomach. It’s a salty, filling surprise after it’s been broiled in veg broth and doused in herbs.
• Pappa al pomodoro – Two of Tuscany’s top ingredients go into this thick soup: Bread and tomatoes. It comes with a strong seasoning of basil and thyme and can be served hot or cold.
• Tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo – The Tuscan capital is one of the top places to sample the bounty of the forest, which is why this pasta dish is packed with mushrooms and truffles. It’s best eaten in August when the porcini is in season. 

There’s a more delicate balance of flavors up in Venice. Seafood from the Adriatic joins the bubbly tipples of the Prosecco region (heard of that?), and there are hints of German and Austrian cooking to boot. Some of the dishes you simply must sample while wandering the famous City of Canals include:

• Sarde in saor – Vinegar-doused sardines fished from the Adriatic.
• Risotto al nero di seppia – Combining squid ink from the sea and the rice harvest of the Veneto area, this strong and punchy dish is typical of Venice.
• Spritz – Not a dish but a drink, the ubiquitous Spritz is now the tipple of choice for skiers and sun worshippers all over. It was actually invented in Venice, though, so sample it as the locals d – with Campari instead of Aperol.

Winner: Florence – Tuscan food is just something else!

Venice or Florence for general vibe?

Venice has been in the headlines a lot in recent years because of over tourism . Locals have decried the floods of travelers and the environmental damage being done to their floating city by massive cruise ships that pull up in the summer months, and regulations have since been put in place to stop such large vessels entering the town. But it’s not just the ships – Venice is one of the most-visited city break destinations on the continent, drawing millions upon millions to its water-logged streets.

You can certainly see that. Perhaps here more than anywhere else in Italy are the hordes of photo-snapping folks more noticeably, largely because there’s not loads of space on offer between the Adriatic and the sloshing canals. Unless you visit in the middle of winter then you simply have to get used to places being packed and a certain lack of local authenticity. But then there’s really nowhere on the planet quite like Venice.

Florence does have an old core that’s a real magnet for tourists. It lies on the north side of the Arno River, roughly going from the banks to the center of San Marco area. However, it’s hardly ever as busy as Venice and is still an indelibly lived-in place. Yes, there are queues ringing around the Uffizi Galleries and the Accademia Gallery but you can still find space in an al fresco café to people watch with just the locals for company.

On top of that, Florence is actually the beating hub of Tuscany and an important economic and university town to boot. It’s got areas that buzz with everyday life in a way that the archipelago of Venice could only dream of. Check out Sant’Ambrogio for the regional markets selling cheese, wine, and crunchy bread. Go to San Frediano for cocktail joints in old warehouses.

Winner: Florence. Venice is VERY touristy. Florence feels much more like a real, lived-in Italian city.

Venice or Florence for nightlife?

There’s some decent partying to carry you through in both of these towns. However, we’d say it’s just a bit livelier in Florence overall…

Yep, the capital of Tuscany has a trio of neighborhoods that give it some extra energy once the sun has disappeared behind the Arezzo mountains on the horizon. The first is Santa Croce, really the main artery of the party scene in the city. There, you can wander the Via de Benci and the Corso de Tintori – both are long runs of eateries and cocktail bars. Later, move over to the hipster-student favourite San Frediano for edgier venues and more gritty rock pubs. There’s also Santo Spirito, which is great for al fresco drinks and aperitivo on the piazzas.

Don’t totally discount Venice for nightlife, though. The town does have some great choices. The best of them is the heart of the student district on the western side of the Grand Canal. Cue the wide, open Campo Santa Margherita, a rare, paved square that’s nowhere near the waterways but comes rammed with vibrant beer halls and wine taps. The party scene continues northwards from there going all the way to narrow Salizada San Pantalon. You can also find some good nightlife by the markets under the Palazzo dei Camerlenghi by the Rialto Bridge.

Winner: Florence.

Venice or Florence for ease of travel?

Florence has an airport but it’s not the biggest in Tuscany. Look for it in Peretola on the north-western side of town. A number of carriers jet in, including premium flag carriers like Lufthansa (with a handy connection to the hub in Frankfurt) and Air France (with a similarly handy link to CDG).

There is a noticeable shortage of low-cost flights on offer into Florence, though, as the budget end of the market is mainly directed to nearby Pisa. That said, be sure to check out Vueling, who have affordable flights in from Gatwick, Madrid, and Prague to name just a few. We’d say the very best way to arrive in Florence is on a high-speed train. They come in daily from Venice (yep!), Milan, and Rome and can hit 300km/hour. Driving is also made easy because the main motorway that runs the spine of Italy, from Calabria in the south to the South Tyrol in the north, runs right through the city.

Venice certainly isn’t as central for those coming by car from, say, Rome . It’s tucked into the far north-eastern corner of Italy, a long (but beautiful) 6-hour drive from the capital. However, it does boast two major airports. The first is mainly given over to low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet. That’s in Treviso to the north.

The other – the sprawling Venice Marco Polo Airport – is for larger carriers and hosts arrivals from the Middle East and North America, as well as loads of European hubs. There’s also another fantastic way to get to Venice: Boat. Ferries come in from Croatia and Greece alike and offer a way to link up other sun-splashed countries on the Adriatic with this incredible cityscape.

Winner: Draw. Venice has boats and two airports, but Florence is more central in Italy.

Venice or Florence for budget?

We’ll just go right ahead and say it: Neither Venice nor Florence are great destinations if you’re traveling on a budget . Both towns are up there with Rome and Milan among the priciest spots on the whole of The Boot. Of course, there are ways you can cut the cost – eating in local markets, staying in hostels – but you might be better off considering a smaller regional town further south in Italy if you’re on a really tight shoestring.

Venice, especially, is notorious for its inflated rates in the middle of the season. They skyrocket when the cruise ships (which are now supposed to have stopped completely) and the package tourists arrive en masse. We looked for a hostel stay for a single night in August back in 2018 and there was virtually nothing below €80 ($93)!

A lot of the problem is that Venice’s old town (the area known as the Venice Lagoon) is limited by the size of the islands. There’s no space for new development and new hotels. That’s both part of the charm but also keeps the accommodations in a captive market. The only alternative is to stay over in Mestre on the mainland but remember that you’ll have to catch the train each morning to see the main sights.

It’s a similar story in Florence, where the main UNESCO downtown area is home to hotels that can quadruple in price during the main season between May and August. Thankfully, Florence isn’t on an island, so you can break a little south or north to find some cheaper stays that are still near the landmarks – areas like Sant’Ambrogio and boho San Lorenzo are both good options.

You can also get to more local neighborhoods like Campo di Marte and Santo Spirito by foot, where the eateries will cost just a fraction of what they do in the center.

Winner: Florence, because at least you can escape the uber-pricy tourist areas on foot.

Venice or Florence for history?

You’re not going to be short on history whichever one of these cities you choose to go to. Both have played very important roles in the development of modern Italy. Both are chock full of fascinating sights and attractions that tell of great golden ages. Venice is famous for its onetime trading empire, which stretched as far as the eastern Aegean Sea. You can visit the place where that was run from by dropping into the Doge’s Palace on Piazzetta San Marco. Nearby St Mark’s Basilica showcases incredible eastern design influences, while the striking Correr Museum is also there, offering collections that chronicle the history of the city itself from the earliest years.

Florence was established by a certain Julius Caesar some 2,000 years ago. However, its golden age was when the Medici rose to power in Italy throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. They are the people who brought riches to the town and constructed many of the fantastic palazzos and churches seen today. It was also them who made Florence a hub for artists, which is why you can come here to see masterworks like The Birth of Venus and Michelangelo’s David . Florence is also a fine jump-off point for seeing many of the historic Etruscan-era hilltowns of surrounding Tuscany.

Winner: Draw. Both towns have oodles of history.

Venice or Florence for day trips and exploring Italy?

Lots of travelers will see a ticket to Venice or Florence as a steppingstone into the Italian countryside. We can hardly blame them. Yes, the cities are awesome for culture buffs, but there’s so much beckoning once you break away from the UNESCO sites that it’s hard to ignore the draw of the daytrip.

Let’s start with Venice. Smaller outings here can whisk you away from the bustle of Piazza San Marco to the quieter outskirts of the Venice Lagoon. Perhaps a trip to Murano – the city’s famous glassmaking quarter – is in order? Or would you prefer the glitzy walks of the Venice Lido for sunbathing and swimming? They can both be reached on the local vaporetto taxi boats, so are super-easy to plan. For those eager to escape further afield, consider:

• Prosecco (1.5-hour drive) – Wine lovers can head east to sample the tipples in this growing region on the Slovenian border.
• Belluno (1.2-hour drive) – Welcome to the Dolomites. This charming mountain town is on the cusp of some of the most dramatic hiking territory in the world!
• Padua (0.5-hour drive) – Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some of the most stunning frescoed churches and palaces in Italy make Padua one for the art lovers.

Florence is the gateway to northern Tuscany, which is one of the most romantic and wonderful corners of the whole of Italy, no doubt about it. Go south to see rolling farms speckled with Mediterranean cypress trees. Go north to hit the Appenines for wild swimming, hiking, and eco farms. Some of the highlights in this region include:

• Pisa (1.5-hour drive) – See the Leaning Tower of Pisa in another of Tuscany’s most alluring destinations.
• San Gimignano (1-hour drive) – Prepare to be enchanted by this fairy-tale hill town. Espresso on the piazza, anyone?
• Chianti (1.2-hour drive) – The red-wine mecca of Italy, Chianti is a fertile valley between the mountains and the hills that has some of the best cellar doors around.

Winner: Draw. It’s Tuscany versus the Alps.

Venice or Florence for romance?

Here’s a tricky one, since both of these Italian towns are known for their romantic side. Honeymooners hitting Venice will be faced with an overload of heart-string-pulling things to do. Hardly a day goes by when there’s not a proposal near the Rialto Bridge, while long, languishing lunches on frutti de mare pasta near the Venice Lido can be followed by relaxing punt trips in a traditional gondola. There are also plenty of uber-lovely hotels in Venice for romantic travelers, like the Hotel Danieli ($$$) and the exquisite Hilton Molino ($$$) .

Florence has the looks and the charm to match all that, but you will need to forgo the gondola rides in these parts. Instead, a honeymoon to this Italian city will be about seeing the priceless artworks of the Uffizi Gallery and then scaling the lookout points of Piazzale Michelangelo to see the sunset on the Ponte Vecchio bridge and the River Arno. The other real draw to Florence is that you can stay in greater Tuscany where there are lovely agriturismo hotels with farm-to-table eateries and swimming pools.

Winner: Venice but only just. Remember that Florence is a ticket to Tuscany, one of the most romantic parts of Italy.

Venice or Florence for families?

There’s no doubt that every member of the family will be wowed by Venice. The town is one you’ll never forget. Little ones and older generations alike are often totally enchanted by the maze of canals and hidden piazzas. Then they spot the larger sights – the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica and others – and those enchantments hit new highs. On the downside, Venice is VERY expensive for family holidays and can be hard to get around if you’re traveling as a full crew.

Florence doesn’t have those latter issues so much. Yes, it’s still pricy but nowhere near the level of Venice during the main holidaying seasons (when you’re most likely to be on the road if traveling with kids). You also get some fantastic chilled-orientated draws here, like the Galileo Museum, which focuses on the amazing discoveries of its namesake back in the 16 th and 17 th centuries. The other reason we like Florence for families is the food. Venice is more orientated towards seafood and expensive dining. Florence is a chance to sample the hearty pastas of Tuscany, which tends to be better for all age groups.

Winner: Florence, but not by a HUGE distance.

Venice or Florence for solo travelers?

If you’re going it alone and want somewhere that’s easy to reach, loaded with top hostels, and well-suited for meeting other people, then Florence should be your pick here. We’ve traveled alone to Venice and noticed a distinct lack of quality dorm accommodation aimed at solo globetrotters (we ended up staying in an old nun’s convent for $25/night – not ideal!). Florence, though, has proper backpacker stays with common rooms and on-site bars. They are great for mingling with other travelers and fining company to explore with.

On top of that, it can be harder to tap into the more local scene in Venice. Much of it carries on over in the new town area of Mestre back on the mainland, while the main nightlife hubs are quite far from the tourist hotspots of St Marks. In Florence, they are worked into the fabric of the city, and you can simply wander from one neighborhood to the next to sample local trattoria, find student bars that buzz on weekends, and family-owned restaurants that will give a warm welcome no matter if you’re alone or in a big group.

Winner: Florence. It’s the more lived-in and backpacker-ready city here.

The verdict

So, will it be Venice or Florence? We think you’ll be amazed by both these locations. However, they are quite different.

Venice is a northern Italian city that’s got strong links to the sea, with seafood-infused dishes and salty canals instead of cobbled lanes. Florence is a buzzy, lived-in metropolis with a center that brims with amazing art and architecture. It’s also the gateway to uber-romantic Tuscany.

Overall, we’d say it’s totally down to personal choice, although the best option of all would be to hop on the high-speed train and experience both places in the same jaunt.

How long should I spend in Venice or Florence?

We think three or four days is just about perfect for vacationing in both these towns. They each have an abundance of art and churches, handsome street scenes and great galleries. A long weekend is usually enough to get through all the highlights without getting overwhelmed. After that, you could consider extending your trip by adding on adventures to places nearby, whether that’s the Dolomites from Venice or the rolling hills of Tuscany from Florence.

What’s the best time of year to visit Venice or Florence?

The peak season in both these towns is the middle of the summer, but we wouldn’t actually say that’s the best time to come. That honor goes to the autumn. The months of September and October remain warm in Italy but are way less busy than the time from June to August. They also see harvest festivals hit Tuscany and the cruise ship traffic drop away in Venice.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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How to Travel From Venice to Florence by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Venice and Florence are two of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, one for its picturesque canals and the other for its Renaissance art and architecture. The two tourist-centric destinations, separated by about 258 kilometers (160 miles), are connected by a fast and efficient rail service and the famous autostrada , where it's perfectly acceptable to drive at 130 kilometers (80 miles) per hour . It would take about three hours to drive it, but that's not counting the time you'll want to spend in places like Padua , Ferrara , and  Bologna along the way. Flying takes about the same amount of time, but it's expensive and there are no direct routes. The two-hour train is a popular transportation option and there's a bus for the budget-conscious, too.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Venice to Florence? 

The bus makes it easy to adhere to a budget whilst traveling through the Italian countryside. FlixBus departs several times a day from the Venetian island of Tronchetto (which you may have to ferry to for $9 and 20 minutes of your time). The most direct route takes just over three hours to get to Florence's Piazzale Montelungo, but longer trips can take more than seven hours and require messy transfers. Tickets start around $10. Considering the minimal price difference between taking the bus and the train (a much faster journey)—which can be bridged by that ferry ticket to Tronchetto anyway—most people choose to travel by rail instead.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Venice to Florence? 

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes a mere two hours (sometimes more, sometimes less), making it even faster than driving (especially when you factor in the train's city center-to-city center service). Between the two available services—Trenitalia Frecce and ItaloTreno—trains depart every hour and a half between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start at around $20 and can be booked via Rail Europe .

How Long Does It Take to Drive? 

Driving can easily wind up being the most expensive transportation option—what with the cost of parking, fuel, and renting a car, if necessary—but it offers the most potential for adventure along the way. The most direct route between Venice and Florence is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which is a 257-kilometer (160-mile) route that takes about three hours of driving time.

How Long Is the Flight? 

There are no airlines that fly directly between Venice and Florence , but Italy's flag carrier Alitalia offers frequent flights to and from both destinations, stopping in Rome. The flight to Rome from Venice Marco Polo is about an hour and 10 minutes, then from Rome to Florence is another 55 minutes. The layover at Rome Fiumicino typically lasts about an hour, too, making the entire journey about three hours (as long as it would take to drive). The real downfall is the price: Tickets start around $286. Florence has only one airport and it's about a 15-minute drive from the center.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Florence? 

The best time to travel to Florence from Venice is before or after the summer high season, when transportation will be booked up and, therefore, most expensive. April, September, and October tend to be quiet and cheap times to travel while still offering mild weather and tourist-centric activities. Book your train ticket well in advance (up to 60 days) for the lowest price. Otherwise, if you're traveling on short notice, it's recommended to opt for off-peak trains, which Rail Europe says are "more affordable than morning and evening trains along with those running on holiday eves, Friday, and Sunday afternoon."

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Florence? 

If you're looking to see some authentic Italian countryside along the route, take Po Valley, the country's agricultural heartland, instead of the autostrada. This route, running between Verona and Parma, is a short detour adding about 150 kilometers (93 miles) and an hour and a half onto the trip. On the upside, though, you won't pass any tolls and you'll be treated to some marvelous natural scenery along the way. If you'd still rather take the autostrada, then be sure to make pit stops in historic Padua, artsy Ferrara, and the culinary haven of Bologna for some Tagliatelle al Ragu.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport? 

The easiest and cheapest way to get to the city center from the Florence Peretola Airport is by tram. The Tramvia line T1 connects the airport to Santa Maria Novella (SMN)—Florence's centerpiece—in about 15 minutes and for about $1.63 per ticket. You can purchase tickets at the station, which is located just outside of baggage claim. Alternatively, you can take the Volainbus , a special bus shuttle that goes to SMN, but it takes slightly longer (around 20 minutes) and costs more ($6.50), too.

What Is There to Do in Florence? 

Florence was once one of the wealthiest European cities during medieval times (earning the nickname "the Athens of the Middle Ages") and you can still tell it today just by looking at the richness of its Renaissance-era architecture and monuments. The famous Uffizi Gallery—housing works by Raphael, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli—is a good representation of this, as is every building you'll see as you stroll through the city. Sitting at the heart of Tuscany , Florence is also known for its wine and food. You will find it tough to resist the olives and Chianti on every menu.

Venice and Florence are 258 kilometers (160 miles) apart.

The most direct route is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which will take about three hours.

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes two hours. Tickets start at around $20.

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The Ultimate 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary by Train

A trip from Rome to Venice through the Tuscan hills of Italy is fantastic for families, couples, solo travelers, and literally anyone ( and their mama ) visiting Italy for the first time.

What’s more, this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary hits a lot of the major historic and art-rich places we learned about in school, doesn’t break the bank, and is great all year round.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Itinerary Overview

I’m Mariana, and I’ve spent months traveling through Italy, hiking in the Dolomites, visiting the sites, and drinking Aperol on as many Italian beaches as possible.

I’ve also done this Rome to Venice route a few times, and from my experience, here’s the best route and time in each place: 

• 3 Days in Rome  – Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman History
• 2 Days in Florence  – Cathedral, Best Art Museum in Italy, Michelin Experience, a day tour to San Gimignano & Leaning Tower of Pisa
• 2 Days in Venice  – Gondola Ride, Basilica and Palazzo, Glass Blowing

Highly-rated accommodation in Rome: Domus Æterna – Re di Roma or D.R.Rome Spanish Luxury Suites .

Highly-rated accommodation in Florence: Atelier delle Grazie , San Giuliano Inn , or B&B Stupido Hotel .

Highly-rated accommodation in Venice: Venice Suite Dorsoduro or Palazzetto Barnaba .

My favorite time to  visit Italy is in the spring  and autumn when the vineyards are showing off.

Surprisingly, this whole trip is best done via train, and that’s how I recommend it. Renting a car would actually be more of a hassle on the tiny and busy streets of all these cities, and the train system is so cheap, nice, and well-connected, it would be a shame not to use it.

Book your train tickets in advance on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

So let’s jump into what to do and see, a few local tips for each city, and my travel recommendations. 

A 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

You can actually do this route starting in Rome or Venice (Venice-Florence-Rome), as both have great airports and train stations connecting each other. I’ve always started in Rome, so this is the way I recommend it.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

I’m pretty sure Rome is the most visited city in Europe, and so there’s a reason why I recommend at least 3 days (minimum) in the city center. 

Rome is a fantastic blend of historical sites, art, beautiful people, and culinary experiences that make it a great start to the trip.

I’m going to share the top things to see today, but remember to take time to simply enjoy the “dolce vita” – the sweet life – that Rome preaches:

1. Pantheon:  This ancient temple, now a church, is renowned for its perfect proportions and its oculus, an opening in the dome that shines light inside the interior beautifully.  You will have to cover your shoulders for this one! You can also book a guided Pantheon tour.

2. Trevi Fountain:  One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece. Tradition says that throwing a coin into the fountain ensures you fall in love with an Italian by the end of the trip. You can explore it with this free Rome walking tour.

3. Piazza Navona:  Known for its baroque architecture, street artists, and cafes, Piazza Navona is a charming place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Rome. This is a great lunch and dinner spot!

4. Spanish Steps:  A great spot for people-watching, the Spanish Steps are a famous meeting place and lead to the Trinità dei Monti church (a must-see).

No trip to Rome is complete without stuffing your face full of Italian food. Try dishes like Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and authentic gelato. Don’t worry, you can walk it off after!

Day 2: Explore the Vatican

Today is all about the Catholic Church. It will take a full day to explore the Vatican City and Trastevere neighborhood across the river, and I highly recommend booking your Vatican tours ahead of time.

Here’s what’s on the daily agenda:

1. Vatican City:  Home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City is a must. Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica are ‘wow’! Book your tour here or purchase a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Explore Trastevere:  This picturesque neighborhood is known for its narrow cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and traditional Roman trattorias. It’s a great area to have lunch and dinner.

3. Walk Along the Tiber River:  Especially in the evening, a stroll along the Tiber is a peaceful break from the crazy city streets.

Day 3: Explore Rome

On your last day in Rome, you’re going to do as much as you can during the day, and then catch a late afternoon train (2 hrs) to Florence:

1. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum:  Explore the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s ancient power and engineering. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ruins are also great! You can book a tour to visit both sites with a guide or get a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Galleria Borghese:  Set in the beautiful Villa Borghese Park, this museum houses a substantial collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Be sure to purchase your ticket in advance .

In the afternoon, take the 2-hour train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station and get ready for the next leg of this Italian trip.

Day 4: Explore Florence

No rest for the wicked! I’ve done all of these things in one day, with the help of 7 espressos along the way:

1. Uffizi Gallery Tour:  Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You MUST get a ticket and timeslot ahead of time.

2. Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore:  Florence’s most iconic landmark. While you can go in, the lines are insane, so just passing by it and having a coffee is fine.

3. Ponte Vecchio:  The oldest bridge in Florence, known for its jewelry shops and picturesque views over the Arno River.

4. Accademia Gallery:  Famous for Michelangelo’s David, this gallery also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures. You can buy your ticket in advance.

5. Beautiful piazzas:  Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria. You can explore them with the free Florence walking tour.

6. Boboli Gardens:  Behind the Pitti Palace, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape with stunning views of the city. If you have to skip out on anything, maybe scrap these.

I was shocked by how many Michelin restaurants there are in Florence and was glad to take advantage of the foodie nature of this city. Make a reservation ahead of time – a usual nice dinner with wine goes to €100-150.

DAY 5: DAY TRIP TO PISA & SAN GIMIGNIANO

Really close to Florence is the cutest little Tuscan town, San Gimignano, followed by the city of Pisa further west.

The best way to visit both of these is by booking a tour – this way, you get the history buff tour guide and the transportation. I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but it’s a full day.

Book your Pisa & San Gimignano tour !

Day 6: Explore Venice

I left Florence on the early morning train and headed to Venice. It took about 2 hours – make sure you grab a coffee and breakfast to go for the train ride.

Venice blew my mind! I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was much more romantic and charming than I realized. Here are the top things to do in Venice, which you can split over the two days:

1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco):  The heart of Venice, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace. The square is a hub of activity and a perfect starting point for your visit.

2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale):  Explore this symbol of Venice’s wealth and power, with its magnificent rooms, artwork, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. You can also book a tour of the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica.

3. Rialto Bridge and Market: Visit the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, a lively area filled with shops, and the nearby Rialto Market, known for its fresh produce and seafood.

4. Grand Canal Tour:  Take a gondola or Vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal to witness the magic of Venetian architecture and life along the waterways. A gondola ride is about an hour and should cost about €80.

If possible, attend a performance or take a tour of the famous and beautifully restored opera house, and wander the less-traveled paths and canals to discover hidden squares and charming cafés away from the crowds.

Day 7: Explore Venice

On the last day of this Rome to Venice trip, it’s all about going beyond the touristy sites.

For lunch, make sure you sample local goodies like Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), any of the fresh seafood on the menu, and traditional dishes like risotto nero (squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Murano and Burano Islands nearby. Murano is famous for its glass-making, while Burano is known for its lace-making and brightly colored houses. Vaporettos (water taxis) are your friend for these trips. You can also book an excursion.

From here, you can either take the train back to Rome the next morning or fly on to your next destination – or home!

Getting From Rome to Venice

Traveling from Rome to Venice can be done in several ways, each with its own pros and cons. I recommend doing this Italy itinerary by train, but I wanted to show you what’s possible.

✅The best way to do this trip is by train.  Italy’s high-speed trains, like Frecciarossa, connect Rome to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, with so many stops along the way to break up the trip – like Florence and Bologna.

Trains are punctual, fast, and allow you to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The downside is the lack of flexibility; you’re limited to the train schedule and routes, and there’s less opportunity for spontaneous exploration.

✅Driving is the most flexible way to get from Rome to Venice.  You have the freedom to stop in cute little towns and scenic spots along the way – and there are plenty.

However, driving in Italy can be challenging due to traffic, especially in cities, and parking can be expensive and tough to find.

What’s more, navigating the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in places like Rome, Florence, and Venice requires planning to avoid fines.

✅Flying is the quickest way to travel between Rome and Venice , with the flight time being just over an hour. However, when you factor in the time for airport transfers, security checks, and waiting at the airport, it may not save much time compared to the train.

Also, you miss out on the scenic journey and the chance to visit places between the two cities.

Each mode of transportation gives you a unique experience, so your choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s flexibility, speed, comfort, or the opportunity to explore.

Travel Tips for This 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Trip

If it’s your first time in Italy, you might find a few of these surprising. Nevertheless, here are some practical tips to help make your journey smooth:

✔️Plan and Book In Advance: Decide on the places you want to visit along the way. Besides major cities like Florence, consider adding smaller towns and countryside stops, like San Giminiano and Siena.

And for the love of baby Jesus, book your hotels and AirBnBs ahead of time, especially in peak tourist season (which is always). 

✔️Don’t Rent a Car:  It will actually be more of a hassle on this particular route because the trains are super well-connected, cheap, and nice. What’s more, Venice is a car-free zone.

For little day trips to vineyards and cute little villages, there are amazing small-group tours you can book that give you a bomb-ass guide and handle the transport and entry tickets for you.

PRO TIP:  Many Italian cities, including Rome and Venice, have ZTL areas where non-residential vehicles are restricted – there will be signs. If you do rent a car for whatever reason, plan to park outside these areas to avoid hefty fines. In Venice, park at the Tronchetto or in Mestre and use public transport to get into the city.

✔️Pack Right:  Bring a little backpack with you at all times, and fill it with your charger (don’t forget the European adapter), a water bottle (especially in the summer), and snacks (which you can buy along the way).

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. So is one cute night outfit, because you’re going to some of the most romantic places in Italy.

✔️Be Flexible:  While it’s good to have a plan, be open to spontaneous detours or stops. Some of the best experiences come from unplanned adventures. Like why not skip the Vatican and take a day trip to Pompei or Naples?

✔️Learn Basic Italian:  Phrases for greetings, directions, the bathroom, and ordering food will be particularly helpful. And maybe a few curse words, just for fun.

✔️Show some Respect:  Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and head in all churches, and be nice when chatting it up with locals. And  tip your waiter !

✔️Don’t Be A Tourist:  Don’t put your wallet in the back pocket of your jeans, and don’t leave your phone on the table as you eat (like I do in the States), because that makes you an easy target for petty thieves.

That said, Italy is pretty safe, so just apply the same watchful eye as you might in New York City.

FAQ: Rome-Florence-Venice by Train

Is it worth taking a day trip from rome to venice.

Not really. The fastest train from Rome to Venice is just under 4 hours. Driving will take almost 6 hours. And while a flight takes 1 hour, getting to and from the airport, will add a few more hours. 

What Are the Best Places to Stop Between Rome and Venice?

I think the top 5 best places to stop on this route are:

1.  Florence : Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is the epicenter of art, architecture, and history in Italy. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli, and don’t miss the iconic Duomo. 

2.  Siena : This medieval town in Tuscany is famous for its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral. The Tuscan countryside around Siena, known for its vineyards, is the backdrop to my phone.

3.  Bologna : Often overlooked, Bologna is a hidden gem. I love it for its rich food culture (think authentic Bolognese sauce).

4.  Verona : Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet , Verona is a city for lovers. Visit Juliet’s House and explore the ancient Roman arena here.

5.  Padua : Before reaching Venice, stop in Padua, known for its historic architecture and art. The Scrovegni Chapel, with frescoes by Giotto, is a highlight. Padua also has a lively market and beautiful botanical gardens, the oldest in the world.

Each of these stops gives you a unique slice of Italian culture and history, making your Rome-Florence-Venice travel itinerary just a bit more authentic. 

PRO TIP : Remember to check the opening times of everything and book tickets in advance (trust me!) to make the most of your stops.

Is a Road Trip Through Italy a Good Idea?

Although this itinerary is better done by train, a road trip through Italy is a fantastic idea, especially if you love Italian food and art history, and value the old-school charm of “ dolce vita ” life. More specifically, here’s a few reasons to hit up Italy for a road trip: 

Pretty Landscapes : From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged  coastlines of Amalfi , a road trip through any part of Italy will showcase some pretty epic scenery. 

Rich Culture : Every region has its unique heritage, from ancient Roman ruins in Rome to Renaissance art in Florence. Road-tripping lets you explore cultural gems like the Tower of Pisa, a Tuscan winery, the Vatican, and the canals of Venice at your own pace.

Yummy Food:  Italy is a paradise for foodies, from the ragú in Naples to seafood in Sicily. You’ll be shocked to know that Italy is more than just pizza and pasta.

Charming Villages:  Beyond the major cities, Italy is dotted with cute little towns and villages, often less visited by tourists. Road tripping (even by train) gives you the freedom to discover these hidden gems and experience the authentic Italian way of life.

Final Thoughts

I’ve spent months traveling through Italy – I’ve tried this Rome to Venice itinerary a few times, and I think the best way to get from one spot to another is by train.

I recommend  visiting Italy in the spring  or fall months when the tourist crowds are more manageable and it’s not so blistering hot in Italy.

Bio:  Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow wanderers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn’t writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step toward a much-needed sabbatical.

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

With its iconic Renaissance architecture, picturesque streets, world-class museums, and incredible food, Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy . I’ve been a handful of times over the years and it never disappoints.

It’s also a compact and easily walkable city, so nothing is too far from anything else. That said, each neighborhood has its own unique feel and accommodation options. For that reason, it’s a good idea to choose a neighborhood that best suits your travel style and budget.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Florence:

Table of Contents

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Where to stay for budget travelers: santa maria novella, where to stay for food and nightlife: santa croce, where to stay for feeling like a local: oltrarno, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

It’s also a good neighborhood if you’re looking to do some shopping. For luxury, head to Via de’ Tornabuoni, where all the high-end designers have storefronts, while Ponte Vecchio is the place to go if you’re in the market for jewelry.

You’ll also have the largest array of accommodation options here. Just keep in mind that it gets incredibly crowded in the summer, and prices skyrocket accordingly.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico :

• BUDGET : Emerald Palace – Offering affordable private rooms and dorms (including female-only dorms), Emerald Palace is an excellent no-frills option for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on location. The rooms are spacious, with beautiful painted ceilings and terracotta floors, and everything (including the shared bathrooms) is kept sparkling clean. While there aren’t a ton of amenities here (though there is breakfast and a guest kitchen), it’s a friendly and affordable choice in the heart of the historic center.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Davanzati – This cozy three-star hotel offers a lot of value, with a complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon tea, and an aperitivo hour with prosecco. The rooms are a bit dated in their décor, but they are spacious, with comfy beds, a desk, a flatscreen TV, and a wardrobe. The bathrooms are large too and have heated towel racks, as well as nice showers with excellent water pressure. The staff really go out of their way to help with anything you need too.
• LUXURY : Hotel Bernini Palace – It feels like you’re staying in a palace in this five-star hotel, set in a 15th-century building. The elegant rooms are spacious and feature wood-beamed ceilings, parquet or terracotta floors, glass chandeliers, antique furnishings, and plush beds with gilded headboards. They also have all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, including minibars, flatscreen TVs, desks, and air conditioning. There’s a complimentary breakfast buffet too, served in a room with a frescoed ceiling that used to be a meeting place for members of Italy’s parliament!

The area around Piazza Santa Maria Novella and south toward the river is a bit more upscale, while most hostels are concentrated just to the northeast of the train station. Just avoid staying right next to the train station, as it’s not the not the nicest section of the neighborhood.

Best places to stay in Santa Maria Novella:

• BUDGET : Ostello Bello Firenze – This lively hostel has a cozy common room, guest kitchen, and bar where all guests get a free welcome drink. There’s also a rooftop terrace and lots of social events throughout the week (such as live music or parties). It’s a really easy hostel to meet people in. Plus, all dorm rooms have ensuite bathrooms and lockers and are filled with lots of natural light. It’s one of the best hostels in town.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Alba Palace – This beautiful three-star hotel is decorated in a traditional Florentine style. Each room is unique, with historic features that include antique terracotta floors, arched ceilings, and exposed brick walls. The fantastic complimentary breakfast is served in a tranquil atrium with a glass ceiling. All rooms have a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk, Nespresso machine, hairdryer, and safe. While the bathrooms are small, there’s great water pressure in the showers. There are even rooms with a twin bed in case you’re a solo traveler looking to save money but don’t want to stay in a hostel.
• LUXURY : The Place Firenze – This five-star hotel is located right on Piazza Santa Maria Novella in a restored 17th-century building. All the rooms in this award-winning boutique property are decorated in pastel colors, with unique artwork, chandeliers, bespoke furniture, and elegant marble bathrooms. Each soundproofed room comes with a flatscreen TV, minibar, and a desk. There’s also a complimentary breakfast on the hotel’s outdoor terrace on the piazza, and a rooftop with incredible views, not to mention exceptionally helpful staff.

If you’re after good food and a more low-key atmosphere, head to Sant’Ambrogio, a micro-neighborhood that surrounds the market of the same name.

Best places to stay in Santa Croce:

• BUDGET : B&B Hotel Firenze City Center – This bed-and-breakfast is your best choice for budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Croce. It features simple, light-filled rooms with a desk and flatscreen TV. The bathrooms have a bidet, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. There’s a breakfast buffet in the mornings too (9.50 EUR) with croissants, cakes, muffins, cereals, yoghurt, and eggs.
• MIDRANGE : La Maison du Sage – This four-star hotel is eclectically designed, with Art Deco furniture, hardwood floors, and brightly colored walls. The rooms are spacious, filled with natural light, and include a minibar, flatscreen satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machine, and kettle for tea. The bathrooms are sleekly designed and spacious, with a bidet and a walk-in shower (some rooms have separate tubs). There’s also an excellent breakfast buffet boasting pastries, juice, eggs, ham, cheese, and fresh fruit.
• LUXURY : Relais Santa Croce, by Baglioni Hotels – This five-star hotel is set in an 18th-century building that retains its historic décor (including frescoed ceilings and hardwood floors). Each spacious guestroom contains different historic elements, such as a four-poster bed or exposed beams. All of the airy rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and large bathroom with a bidet, bathrobes, and complimentary bath products. There’s also a tasty free breakfast each morning with lots of variety.

This area is not without its own attractions though, home to both Pitti Palace and the whimsical Boboli Gardens. Overall, Oltrarno is best for travelers looking for a more authentic and local experience away from the tourist crowds.

Best places to stay in Oltrarno:

• BUDGET : “il Pitti” Soggiorno – There aren’t any hostels here (you’ll mostly find midrange accommodation in this area), but this hotel directly across the street from Pitti Palace offers affordable and comfy private rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms. The rooms are painted in cheery pastel colors and have lots of natural light, as well as parquet floors. The décor is a bit dated, but all rooms have a desk, wardrobe, electric kettle, and bathroom with a rainfall shower and bidet. It’s a great no-frills option for budget travelers that want to stay in a quieter neighborhood.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – Situated in a 16th-century Florentine palace on a quiet square, this three-star hotel boasts elegantly decorated rooms with frescoed ceilings, large windows, antique furniture, and fireplaces. In-room amenities include a minibar, flatscreen TV, safe, and tiled bathroom with a heated towel rack, a bidet, fluffy bathrobes, and slippers. There’s also a fantastic complimentary breakfast and a rooftop with stunning views over the city. I think the value for what you get here is fantastic. It feels much more luxurious than your typical three-star hotel.
• LUXURY : Hotel Lungarno – Lungarno Collection – Located just steps from Ponte Vecchio bridge leading into Centro Storico, this gorgeous five-star hotel features original modern art throughout. The spacious, light-filled rooms have Italian white marble bathrooms with a bidet and luxury toiletries, and all rooms have a desk, a flatscreen TV, a minibar, and sound-proofed walls. There’s also a Michelin-starred restaurant and an excellent breakfast spread here.

Florence is like a giant open-air museum. It’s impossibly beautiful and bursting with historic sites and stunning architecture. By using the list above to pick the neighborhood that best suits your needs, you’ll be able to make the most of your stay in Tuscany’s largest city!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Florence: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Florence? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Florence for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 10 Trendiest Places to Eat During Salone del Mobile

Because food is the best souvenir, whether you’re headed to Salone del Mobile or enjoying a weekend away.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

“The once-sleepy restaurant scene in Milan has recently been shaken up with the opening of tons of new restaurants dotted all over the city,” shares Eric Egan of L’Artigianato, a Milan-based interior design studio. Egan is one of many designers who have made the annual trek to Milan ahead of the industry’s design Mecca, Salone del Mobile , which is in full force this week. And for most of its participants, the design events are only half the reason to come. If anything is worth traveling halfway across the world for, it's a sizzling plate of “transcendent fettuccine with triple butter” (in the words of Italy-based food writer Katie Parla ) at Michelin-starred Trippa , or maybe a sultry bite of saffron-tinted risotto from Ratanà , something McCabe has dubbed the official dish of Milan. Is your mouth watering yet?

Whether you’ve come ready to carbo-load or are sticking to more minimalist dishes, there’s something for everyone in this foodie haven. Make the most of your Design Week visit, or any trip to the Fashion Capital of the World, and harness those la dolce vita vibes, starting with our must-visit list of restaurants, food stalls, and bakeries in Milan. Read on for expert picks from travel professionals, food writers, and design enthusiasts.

Katie Parla , a notable Italy-based food writer and three-time cookbook author, has a few favorite Milanese restaurants. And in her humble opinion, Trippa stands out from the crowd. “Book well in advance at this neo-trattoria that, even seven years in, remains one of the toughest reservations in town,” Parla says. “Though the name promises tripe, there’s so much more than offal on the menu, including a transcendent fettuccine with triple butter,” she adds. Trippa is also a Michelin-starred spot! According to the famous guide, try house specialties like Milanese risotto with grilled marrow, vitello tonnato, and of course, tripe in this old-school eatery.

Macelleria Popolare

Another Parla pick is Macelleria Popolare. “Though not a restaurant in the traditional sense—Macelleria Popolare is a butcher stall with a kitchen in the Ticinese Market—you’ll be hard-pressed to find meat that is more expertly fried, braised, roasted, and grilled. Anywhere,” she holds. This food stall offers grass-fed beef items, like panini, kabobs, meatballs, and beyond.

Antica Trattoria della Pesa

One of Milan’s most historic spots is Antica Trattoria della Pesa , which has embraced regional cuisine since 1880. “In the tile-and-wood-accented inner sanctum of this historic trattoria, choose simplicity with the austere risotto al salto, a rice patty crisped in butter, or luscious and luxurious saffron-tinted risotto alla milanese with osso buco,” Parla suggests.

Cantina Piemontese

CEO and co-owner of textile company Dedar Milano Caterina Fabrizio says she enjoys Cantina Piemontese for its intimate, classic vibes, fantastic wine cellar, and petite garden. “It’s a lesser-known restaurant to go to if you’re looking to make a discovery,” Fabrizio adds. Try classics like risotto al Castelmagno, torretta cuore di bue, ravioli del plin, tartare di Fassona, or tajarìn al brucio. Elevate your meal with some of the over 600 wines available at this centrally located gem.

10_11 at Portrait

Fabrizio also enjoys the restaurant at the Portrait Hotel, 10_11 . “Since I get to see the Dedar fabrics there, I feel at home,” she says. Her go-to lunch order? Pasta in bianco, or white pasta, is a simple Italian comfort food made with pasta, butter, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Portrait’s version utilizes the rinds to boost the rich, nutty cheese flavor.

Il Baretto Milano

For classic Italian food, lunch or dinner seven days a week, consider Il Baretto Milano . “There has recently been the reopening of a great classic in the city: Il Baretto Milano,” Fabrizio says. Enjoy the eatery’s pretty outdoor seating or cozy tartan interior while noshing on traditional dishes like osso bucco, gamberi e mammole, and riso al salto. We won’t say no.

Marchesi 1824

You can mention food in Italy only if you consider the pastry side of things. Milan excels in this realm, with Marchesi being a favorite of Fabrizio’s. “Walking around, you always see a Marchesi pastry shop,” she explains. “My favorite is the one on Corso Magenta, Marchesi 1824.” Sample her regular snack, a slice of Aurora cake, plus coffee, candies, chocolates, and other baked goods. Brandon Berkson, founder of Hotels Above Par , also loves the plum cake and croissants. “This might be touristy, but each time I return to Milan, I grab a pastry and espresso at Marchesi 1824,” he says.

Vesta Fiori Chiari

Berkson also recommends Vesta Fiori Chiari in Brera, which the travel pro describes as “a swish seafood restaurant with a striking entrance—an angle-varied marble staircase and open-air bar that’s perfect for summertime Aperol spritzes.” Housed in the former church of San Carpoforo and crafted by architect Stefano Belingardi Clusoni, the charming space is the prime backdrop to enjoy the establishment’s delectable raw bar and main courses like veal fillet and sea bass.

For McCabe, of Dream of Italy on PBS, there’s no better dish in Milan than saffron risotto. “ Riso all zafferano is perhaps the official dish of Milan, and the best of the best is likely chef Cesare Battisti’s at Ratanà ,” she says. Ratanà is another Michelin Guide restaurant known for its breezy outdoor area, high-quality ingredients, and unique building. Fun fact: It’s housed in a former cinema.

a Santa Lucia

“Lately, I have been going back to a Santa Lucia , a wonderful Neopolitan trattoria just off of Corso Vittorio Emmanuele near the Duomo,” shares designer Eric Egan of L’Artigianato. “This place was last big in the 1980s, and nothing has changed since then.” Note the daily rotating menu posted on a large chalkboard in the main room. Try the linguine with clams, Caprese salad, and traditional pizzas for a taste of southern Italy in the country’s northern reaches.

For more Milan travel inspiration, check out the ever fashionable Valentina Ciuffi’s guide to the city: where to eat, shop and sleep here .

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