Florence, Italy

Things to do

3 days in Florence

Day 1

  1. MorningVisit the Uffizi or the Accademia for Michelangelo's David; book a time slot ahead.
  2. AfternoonClimb Brunelleschi's dome or Giotto's bell tower, then cross the Ponte Vecchio.
  3. EveningWatch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, then dinner in the Oltrarno.

Day 2

Visit the Boboli Gardens, or day-trip to Siena or the Chianti hills.

Day 3

Visit the Mercato Centrale and the Medici Chapels, climb up to San Miniato al Monte for the view, and end with an aperitivo on Piazza Santo Spirito.

What to eat

Bistecca alla fiorentina, lampredotto sandwiches and gelato.

Local tips

Make the most of Florence

Beat the crowds

Book the Uffizi, the Accademia and the Duomo climb ahead. Walk the Ponte Vecchio early, before the shops open.

Best photo spot

Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset is the classic. San Miniato church, a few minutes higher, is quieter with the same view.

Getting there

The centre is compact and mostly pedestrian. Cars need permits in the centre; park outside and walk or take the tram.

Don't miss nearby

Fiesole, a small hill town 20 minutes by bus, with a Roman theatre and views back over Florence.

Good to know

The Duomo is free to enter, but the dome climb and bell tower need tickets with a time slot. Many museums are closed on Mondays.

Secret spots

3 secret spots near Florence

Our most hidden places around Florence: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Florence to take with you.

97 km away
84 km away
86 km away
Unlock the secret spots · €2.99+ VAT · one payment, valid for a year

Plan your visit

Getting to Florence

Getting there

  • Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)6 km away
  • Pisa Airport (PSA)70 km away
  • Lucca60 km away
  • Pisa70 km away

The centre is best explored on foot. Distances are in a straight line.

At a glance

Best timeAll year
TypeCity
Good forOld towns & architecture, Food
Getting thereCar or public transport
Stay2 nights
CountryItaly

Questions

Florence: good to know

Is Florence worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like historic old towns and food. The cradle of the Renaissance, crowned by Brunelleschi's dome.

How many days do you need in Florence?

Plan 2 nights. Our free 3-day plan above shows how to spend your time.

When is the best time to visit Florence?

You can visit all year. Book the Uffizi, the Accademia and the Duomo climb ahead. Walk the Ponte Vecchio early, before the shops open.

How do you get to Florence?

The nearest airport is Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), about 6 km away. The centre is compact and mostly pedestrian. Cars need permits in the centre; park outside and walk or take the tram.

What is there to see near Florence?

Nearby hidden places include San Gimignano (38 km), Siena (50 km) and Lucca (61 km).

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