Things to see in Florence
Florence is a city that captivates its visitors from the very moment they arrive. Whether you have just one day or a whole weekend, there is always something extraordinary to see and do. This guide will help you plan your itinerary, whether you want to explore the city's artistic wonders or wander through its historic streets.
Useful tips to save time and money
If you want to optimize your itinerary and save money on attractions, consider buying a multi-attraction pass. The Florence Pass, for example, lets you skip the lines at the main museums and offers discounts at other attractions. It even comes with a free app that provides an audio guide, allowing you to explore the city independently. You could also consider combined guided tours, which offer good-value packages for visiting multiple attractions in one day.
What to do in Florence in one day
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery and admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and many more. Buying a combined ticket that also includes access to the Accademia Gallery and the Brunelleschi's Dome is a great way to save time and money.
Afternoon: After visiting the Uffizi Gallery, head to Florence Cathedral. This extraordinary religious building, also known as Santa Maria del Fiore, is famous for its dome, which was designed by Brunelleschi, and is a must-see attraction. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the top of the dome. Be sure to visit the Baptistery of St. John too, one of the oldest monuments in Florence, which is famous for its bronze doors.
Evening: Take a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio bridge and enjoy the romantic atmosphere by the River Arno. End your day in Piazza della Signoria, where you can admire Palazzo Vecchio and the statues that adorn the square. If you have the energy, head to the Porcellino Market to pick up a souvenir.
What to do in Florence in two days
With two days at your disposal, you can explore the city at a more relaxed pace and make the most of your visit. On the first day, be sure to visit the Boboli Gardens, a lush green oasis offering splendid views of the city. Don't miss the marvellous Palazzo Pitti, home to art collections and royal apartments. If you like contemporary art, you might enjoy a visit to Museo Novecento.
On the second day, you can explore the Oltrarno artisans' quarter. Visit San Lorenzo Market to sample Tuscan specialities and buy local produce. Art lovers may wish to take a guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce, the final resting place of great figures such as Michelangelo and Galileo. Alternatively, if you enjoy shopping, you can explore the boutiques of Via de' Tornabuoni or take a stroll through the Central Market.
What to do in Florence in 3 days
Spending three days in Florence gives you the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. On your third day, you could take a day trip to Pisa and Siena, or go on a Tuscan wine-tasting tour of the Chianti region. If you prefer to stay in the city, you could take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, which is ideal for exploring every corner of Florence at your own pace. Another option is to take a walk to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
If you're passionate about history, be sure to visit the Bargello Museum, which is home to one of the world's most important collections of Renaissance sculptures. If you love gardens, as well as the famous Boboli Gardens, you might like to explore the charming but lesser-known Rose Garden, which is perfect for a relaxing break.
