Are you planning a trip to Florence soon? Amazing! Florence is a stunning city rich in history and full of activities. What’s more? There are endless incredible landscapes around the corner in Tuscany. But crafting the ideal Florence itinerary when coming is paramount.
This 3-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this amazing city. From must-see sights to hidden gems, I’ve got you covered. Plus, I’ve included tips and suggestions along the way to make your trip even better.
In this travel itinerary, I’ll go through the best attractions in town from the first visit in the morning until the end of the day. If you follow this 3-day Florence itinerary, I can assure you that you’ll leave Florence happy and satisfied.
Let’s get started planning the perfect 3 days in Florence today!
3-Day Florence Itinerary – Overview
- Day 1: Piazza del Duomo, Piazza Della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio
- Start the Day at Piazza del Duomo
- Climb the Giotto’s Bell Tower
- Have Lunch Around Piazza della Repubblica
- Photograph the Basilica of Santa Croce
- Visit Ponte Vecchio
- See the Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
- Day 2: Accademia Gallery, Uffizi, Santa Maria Novella
- Explore the Uffizi Gallery
- Discover the Accademia Gallery
- Lunch at San Lorenzo Market
- Shop in Via Roma
- Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Have Dinner Around the Boboli Gardens
- Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Florence
- OPTION 1: Cinque Terre from Florence
- OPTION 2: San Gimignano and Siena from Florence
- OPTION 3 – Pisa from Florence: Half-Day Afternoon Tour
Day 1: Piazza del Duomo, Piazza Della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio
This first day will take you to the Piazza del Duomo, Piazza Della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio. Each spot is packed with history and beauty, so be prepared to be blown away.
And you’ll end the day by admiring the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo – Don’t forget your camera!
Start the Day at Piazza del Duomo
There’s no better way to start your day in Florence than by visiting the Piazza del Duomo, the most popular monument in the city. This iconic square is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Duomo in Florence, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery.
Spend some time admiring the architecture and taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant square. Then, head inside the Duomo to explore one of the most incredible Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Marvel at the intricate details of the facade, and be sure to climb to the top of Giotto’s Bell Tower for breathtaking views of Florence.
After exploring the Duomo, take a walk through the nearby Baptistery and visit its beautiful octagonal interior. Finally, end your morning with a stroll through the nearby streets and alleyways, soaking up the Florentine atmosphere.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Florence Cathedral, formally known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the main church of Florence. The cathedral is one of Italy’s largest churches, with a stunning exterior of red and white marble in the Gothic style.
The cathedral’s massive dome is the fourth largest in the world and was an engineering feat of its time. You can climb to the top of the dome for sweeping views of Florence and its surroundings. Inside, the cathedral is decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows.
Duomo
Completed in 1436, the Duomo is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, with its massive dome and intricate facade.
Inside, the Duomo is just as stunning, with a wealth of art and historical treasures to discover. The high altar is a masterpiece of marble sculpture, while the Baptistery houses two world-famous bronze doors by Ghiberti.
The Duomo also boasts a splendid collection of stained glass windows, including works by Donatello and Andrea Pisano. Needless to say, it’s a must-see for art lovers.
Duomo Museum
The Florence Duomo Museum is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Located in the heart of Florence, it houses an incredible collection of art and artifacts from the city’s long history. Among the highlights are the original doors of the Baptistery, Michelangelo’s Pieta, and Brunelleschi’s model of the dome of the cathedral.
The museum is also home to a small but impressive collection of Egyptian antiquities, as well as a fascinating collection of Renaissance paintings.
Baptistery
The Florence Baptistery is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The Baptistery was built in the 11th century, and it is notable for its octagonal shape and its three sets of bronze doors.
The Baptistery is also home to several important works of art, including mosaics by Giotto and paintings by Andrea Pisano. In addition to its architectural and artistic significance, the Baptistery also has great historical importance. It was here that Dante was baptized, and it was here that Michelangelo was discovered as a young artist.
Crypt of Santa Reparata
The Crypt of Santa Reparata in Florence is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. The crypt is located underground and it contains the remains of an early Christian basilica.
Climb the Giotto’s Bell Tower
The Giotto’s Bell Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence, Italy. Standing at over 84 meters tall, the tower offers sweeping views of the city and its surrounding countryside.
You can climb to the top of the tower via a series of ramps and stairs with 414 steps. Along the way, they’ll be treated to a close-up look at Giotto’s acclaimed frescoes. Although the climb is fairly strenuous, it’s well worth the effort for anyone who wants to experience one of Florence’s most famous landmarks.
Florence Duomo Passes
If you plan to visit the Duomo, you have 2 options – getting your ticket online in advance or buying on the spot at the entrance.
Buying the tickets in advance costs slightly more, but you’re guaranteed to get yours. On the other hand, when buying your pass at the entrance, you have 3 different passes, but get prepared to wait a long time – sometimes even 2 hours.
Needless to say, I highly recommend booking your tickets ahead of time. If not, these are the different passes:
- BRUNELLESCHI PASS: This pass allows you to see all the monuments in the square and costs 30 euros per person and 12 euros for children between 7 and 14 years old.
- GIOTTO PASS: Includes all the sites apart from the Duomo, the most interesting monument. The cost is 20 euros per person and 7 euros for children between 7 and 14 years old.
- GHIBERTI PASS: This pass includes the Museum, the Baptistery, and the Crypt of Santa Reparata. It does not include the Dome and the Bell Tower. The Ghiberti Pass costs 15 euros for adults and 5 euros for children between 7 and 14 years old.
Have Lunch Around Piazza della Repubblica
No visit to Florence is complete without a stop at the Piazza della Repubblica. This beautiful square has been the city’s heart for centuries, and it is still one of the most popular gathering places in Florence.
Also, it’s worth noting that Florence is one of the best places for a Bachelorette trip, and a must-visit is Piazza della Repubblica, with so many people around, fun is guaranteed!
On any given day, you will find locals and tourists alike enjoying the many cafes and restaurants that line the square. If you’re looking for a quick bite, there are plenty of options for grab-and-go items. Or, if you want to sit down and enjoy a leisurely lunch, there are plenty of outdoor tables to choose from.
Of course, this is the heart of Florence, and prices are higher than in other parts of the city, but that’s one of the best spots to grab a bite, so it’s worth it.
Also, while you won’t get the wine you’d have on a wine tour from Florence, you’ll find excellent bottles in the local restaurants around!
Shop in Via Roma
After enjoying a delicious lunch at Pizza della Repubblica, head to Via Roma for some shopping. This pedestrian-only street is one of Florence’s most popular shopping areas, and it’s easy to see why.
The street is lined with high-end retailers, including Gucci, Prada, and Armani. If you’re looking for souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of options here as well. From leather goods to handmade jewelry, there’s something for everyone in Via Roma.
And if you get tired of shopping, stop in one of the many cafes or gelaterias for a refreshing break. You can’t skip Italian Gelato when in Florence!
Discover the Basilica of Santa Croce
Just 10 minutes away from Repubblica Square, the Basilica of Santa Croce is another stunning landmark in Florence that you can’t miss out on. As you’ll quickly understand, the basilica is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning frescoes.
You can also find the tombs of some of Italy’s most famous historical figures, including Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Galileo. When photographing the Basilica of Santa Croce, be sure to capture its grandeur by framing it against the sky.
And if your schedule allows, why not go inside and see how holy this small Roman basilica is by yourself?
The entrance fee is 8 euros per adult and 6 euros for teenagers between 12 and 17 years old. I can’t recommend it enough – Plus, it gives you a chance to walk around Florence!
Visit Ponte Vecchio
Next on your list should be Ponte Vecchio, an ancient stone bridge that spans the Arno River and is lined with endless charming and gold shops. You can browse a variety of stores selling everything from jewelry to leather goods.
This is your chance to get real Tuscan leather, so don’t hesitate to come over.
Ponte Vecchio is also home to several art galleries, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs. While the bridge can be crowded during peak tourist season, it is well worth a visit for its historical value and breathtaking views.
See the Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
The best way by far to end the day in Florence is to see the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. This large square offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for locals and visitors. As the sun begins to set, the sky turns a beautiful shade of orange, and the Dome provide a stunning backdrop.
The Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and other iconic landmarks are illuminated in the soft evening light, creating a truly magical scene. While there are many places to enjoy the sunset in Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is undoubtedly one of the most special.
That being said, make sure to come early, as it gets crowded pretty quickly. I personally arrived around 5, and I got a spot to sit and got to see the sunset.
A word of caution – to get here, you’ll have to climb the steps, so get ready to walk about 20 minutes to the top.
Day 2: Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens
After spending day 1 around the Duomo and other historical monuments in Florence, day 2 is mostly about Art and other impressive sites in Florence that you can’t miss on your itinerary.
Start the day by making your way to the Accademia Gallery. After that, walked to the Uffizi Gallery, which has some beautiful paintings by Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. But there’s more, let me go through all the stops I recommend on day 2.
One word of warning: Visiting both the Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery may be too long if you’re an art lover, as both are full of masterpieces.
Explore the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the oldest and most famous art museums in the world. Located in Florence, Italy, the Uffizi is home to a wealth of Renaissance masterpieces, including paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
You can also see works by other renowned artists such as Titian, Raphael, and Caravaggio. With more than two million visitors each year, the Uffizi is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy.
When exploring the gallery, be sure to take your time and enjoy the beauty of each work of art. The Uffizi is truly a must-see for both art lovers and amateurs, and I’m sure you will find it super interesting.
Discover the Accademia Gallery
When planning a trip to Florence, be sure to include a visit to the Accademia Gallery on your itinerary. This world-renowned museum is home to some of the most significant works of art in history, including Michelangelo’s statue of David.
Located in the heart of Florence, the gallery is easily accessible and definitely worth a visit, no matter if you’re into art or not. After all, where else can you see works by Botticelli and da Vinci all in one place?
Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for a unique way to spend a day in Florence, the Accademia Gallery is sure to impress.
Lunch at San Lorenzo Market
San Lorenzo Market is the perfect place to have lunch while on vacation in Florence. The market is centrally located and easy to find, and it offers a wide variety of food options to suit any taste. There are several restaurants and cafes to choose from, as well as stalls selling fresh produce, meat, and seafood.
The prices are reasonable, and the quality of the food is excellent. The atmosphere at San Lorenzo Market is lively and vibrant, and it’s a great place to people-watch while enjoying a leisurely meal. Plus, you’ll find local Tuscan wines, how great is that?
So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, be sure to stop by San Lorenzo Market when you’re in Florence.
Proceed to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is one of the most impressive sights in Florence and one of the most central too. This imposing church was built in the 13th century, and its beautiful façade is decorated with marble and mosaics.
If you come to Florence by train, this is by far the most convenient spot to visit and it’s literally 2 minutes’ walk from the train station.
Inside, the basilica is filled with works of art, including a stunning fresco by Masaccio.
Among other things, the interior of the cathedral contains Masaccio’s early Renaissance artwork Holy Trinity. This piece, created between 1425 and 1427, demonstrates his ideas on perspective and mathematical proportions in art.
Have Dinner Around the Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens in Florence are a beautiful spot to have a stroll. This popular tourist destination is renowned for its statues and fountains, and its manicured lawns and hedges provide a perfect backdrop for a picnic lunch or a romantic dinner.
You can bring your own food or sit down and enjoy delicious Tuscan food at the restaurants nearby. I recommend Trattoria Boboli and Osteria Santo Spirito for some of the best food around.
Lastly, before going back and getting ready for day 3, stop by Gelateria La Sorbettiera and enjoy some of the best ice cream in Florence!
Regardless of how you spend your time, dining in the Boboli Gardens is an unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Florence
On day three of your Florence itinerary, take a day trip from the city to explore some of the surrounding area. Tuscany is full of beautiful hill towns and villages, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you’re looking for somewhere close by, consider Sienna or San Gimignano. Or, for something further afield, why not visit Pisa or Lucca?
Let me tell you more about the best options.
OPTION 1: Cinque Terre from Florence
Join an action-packed 13-hour day tour from Florence to Cinque Terre, visiting all 5 villages in the Cinque Terre: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.
You’ll start the day with a pick-up in Florence and then take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside to reach the Cinque Terre. You’ll stop in La Spezia and take the train to Manarola, the first village of the day. Walk through the vines, discover the village, snap some photos, and get ready to board the train to Corniglia, the second village.
After exploring around and walking with your guide, you’ll have a delicious lunch before resuming the trip. From Corniglia, you’ll have 2 options to the next village: go on a hike to Vernaza or take the local train instead. I recommend the hike if you’re fit, the views on the way are incredible.
That being said, there are stunning day trips around Florence by train, and the Cinque Terre is definitely one of them!
When you get to Vernazza, you can go for a swim, enjoy a gelato or coffee at a local cafe, or simply walk around taking photos for your social media.
And after that, get to Monterosso, by far the Cinque Terre village with the most beautiful beaches. That’s not it; the tour allows you to board a boat and take in the views of Monterosso from afar – get ready to be stunned!
Last but not least, you’ll spend some time in Riomaggiore, the closest village to La Spezia, before heading back to Florence. Riomaggiore is an ancient fishing village known for its charming historic town and wine bars.
Now that you’ve taken in all the stunning corners in Cinque Terre, end the organized tour at the train station, and take a bus from La Spezia to Florence to witness the stunning countryside that Italy has to offer.
READ MORE – Best Day Trips From Florence
OPTION 2: San Gimignano and Siena from Florence
If the first day trip on this list combining Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena was too much to take, then this is the best alternative.
San Gimignano is a small picturesque town located in the Tuscan countryside, about an hour’s drive from Florence. The town is best known for its medieval towers, which rise dramatically above the town’s red-tiled roofs. You can discover the narrow streets and admire the view from the top of one of the towers.
San Gimignano is also home to a number of shops selling locally made products in its historic center. Just a short drive from San Gimignano is the city of Siena, another Tuscan gem.
Siena is perhaps best known for its beautiful Gothic cathedral, which dominates the city’s skyline, and for its famous Palio Horse Race. Just like other Tuscan towns, you can explore Siena’s historic center and enjoy panoramic views from one of the many hilltop vantage points.
Taking a day trip to the lesser-known towns of Tuscany is a great option, and this is simply one of the best Florence to San Gimignano tours out there.
OPTION 3 – Tuscany Day Trip From Florence
What’s the best way to see Tuscany in a day? Join a Tuscany day trip from Florence and see for yourself! You will get to the walled town of Siena, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Gimignano, and the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Start the day with just a short drive from Florence to Siena, a city packed with medieval charm. From its scenic main square to its towering cathedral, there are plenty of reasons to visit this city. While in Siena, be sure to try some of the local cuisine. The region is known for its hearty dishes, such as Wild Boar Stew and Ribollita soup.
After that, pass through the Chianti Hills and stop for a typical lunch in one of the colorful houses in the countryside. Of course, wine from the Chianti region is included and you’ll be happy to know that they’ll get 4 different wines ready for you.
Once you’re done with lunch, head over to San Gimignano, a medieval town home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the region, and its hilltop location provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. You can explore the town’s many churches and palaces or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through its cobbled streets.
And lastly, you’ll drive to Pisa, best known for its Leaning Tower, but there’s more to do. The Cathedral of Pisa, for example, is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and art. And if you’re up for a climb, the leaning tower itself offers stunning views of the city.
Of course, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore each place at your own pace, and you’ll have all the explanations from your tour guide. And the best part is that you can do it all in just 12 hours! So book your tour today, these trips sell out very fast, and it’s easy to see why.
Florence 3-Day Itinerary – FAQs
How to Get to Florence?
If you’re looking to add a little Renaissance flair to your travels, there’s no better place to start than Florence. This charming city is bursting with art, culture, and history. Here’s how to get there.
By Plane: The closest airport to Florence is the Firenze-Peretola, located just 5 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi into town. If you’re renting a car, keep in mind that many of Florence’s streets are one-way only.
By Train: Florence is well-connected by train, with service to major cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice. The main train station is located just a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions. When planning your trip, be sure to check schedules ahead of time as some trains only run once or twice per day.
By Bus: If you’re coming from another part of Italy, there are several long-distance bus companies that serve Florence. The city’s main bus station is located near the train station, making it easy to transfer between modes of transportation.
How to Get Around Florence?
The best way to get around is on foot. You can easily walk from one end of the city to the other in a couple of hours. If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits, you can take the train or join a day trip – even when spending only 2 days in Florence.
The buses and trains run frequently and are very affordable. You can also rent a car, but keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city center.
Is Florence Walkable?
Florence is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world, and it is also one of the most walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate, and most of the major sights are located within a short distance of each other.
Even better, Florence is a pedestrian-friendly city, with plenty of narrow streets and walking paths. This makes it a great place to explore on foot, and it is also easy to find your way around without getting lost
What are the Best Months to Visit Florence?
The best time to visit Florence is between May and September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor events.
The crowds can be a bit overwhelming during peak tourist season, but there are plenty of ways to avoid the worst of the crowds. For example, visiting popular attractions early in the day or during the week can help you avoid the largest groups of tourists.
How Many Days Should I Stay in Florence?
I recommending staying 3 days in Florence. This way, you will have 1 full day to explore Florence and 2 days to discover Tuscany and the Cinque Terre.
In case you’re willing to join a wine tasting day trip, I recommend going 2 days before leaving – you’ll taste a minimum of 4 wines!
Can I Make a Day Trip From Florence to Cinque Terre?
Yes, absolutely, and the best way to explore Cinque Terre is by joining a day trip from Florence. It’s affordable, convenient, and it’s much easier than going by yourself.
While you can take regional trains to La Spezia and then the villages, it can get quite awkward to get around, especially if you don’t speak Italian.
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Conclusion
There you have it – the perfect 3-day Florence itinerary. 3 days is enough time to walk around Florence and get a taste of everything it has to offer, from delicious restaurants to unbeatable art and much more. Plus, with this Florence itinerary, you’ll be sure to hit all of the highlights without feeling rushed.
Florence is an amazing city with a lot to offer tourists. I hope this three-day itinerary has given you some ideas of how to make the most out of your time here!
