Florence is a city that stole my heart. From the moment I stepped onto its cobblestone streets, I knew I was in for an amazing adventure. With its stunning architecture, world-class art, and mouthwatering food, Florence has so much to offer. I’ve put together a 3-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful Tuscan gem.
My 3-day Florence itinerary covers all the must-see sights while leaving room for wandering and discovery. You’ll climb to the top of the Duomo for breathtaking views, gaze at Michelangelo’s David, and stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. But you’ll also have time to get lost in the charming streets, sip espresso at local cafes, and indulge in gelato breaks.
Getting to Florence is easy, with trains running frequently from major Italian cities. I recommend visiting in spring or fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. For a truly local experience, stay in a cozy apartment in the historic center.
Now, let’s dive into the best things to do in Florence over three unforgettable days!
Exploring the Heart of Florence: The Historic Center
Florence’s historic center is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and culture. I love wandering these ancient streets, soaking in centuries of history with each step. The main sights here never fail to amaze me.
The Duomo Complex: Santa Maria del Fiore and Its Companions
The Duomo dominates Florence’s skyline. I’m always in awe of Brunelleschi’s massive dome crowning Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral. It’s an engineering marvel. Next to it stands Giotto’s Bell Tower, a slender beauty in pink, white, and green marble.
I enjoy exploring the Duomo Museum to see original artworks from the cathedral. The museum houses Ghiberti’s golden “Gates of Paradise” doors – true masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture.
In Piazza del Duomo, I like to sit and take in the whole spectacular scene. The cathedral’s intricate marble facade gleams in the sunlight. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching too.
Magnificence of the Uffizi: A Journey Through Art History
The Uffizi Gallery is my favorite museum in Florence. It’s home to an incredible collection of Renaissance art. I always make time to see Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” – it’s even more beautiful in person.
Works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael fill the halls. Each visit, I discover something new. The building itself is a work of art, designed by Giorgio Vasari for the Medici family.
I recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Early morning or late afternoon visits are best to dodge the crowds.
Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio: The Civic Pulse
Piazza della Signoria feels like Florence’s living room. This L-shaped square buzzes with energy. I love the open-air sculpture gallery here, including a copy of Michelangelo’s David.
Palazzo Vecchio, with its crenellated tower, dominates the square. This fortress-palace has been Florence’s town hall for centuries. Inside, I’m always impressed by the lavishly decorated rooms and hidden passages.
At sunset, the piazza comes alive. Locals and tourists mingle, enjoying the golden light on the historic facades.
Crossing the Arno: The Story of Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest bridge, spanning the Arno River. I never tire of walking across it. The bridge is lined with glittering jewelry shops, a tradition dating back to the 16th century.
At night, the bridge is magical. Lights reflect off the river, creating a romantic atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for couples and photographers.
From the bridge, I enjoy views up and down the Arno. The riverside streets on both sides are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Cultural Immersion: Museums and Galleries
Florence is a treasure trove of art and history. I’ve explored some of the city’s most awe-inspiring cultural sites, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots with you.
Accademia Gallery: Beholding Michelangelo’s David
The Accademia Gallery is a must-visit. I was stunned by Michelangelo’s David – it’s even more impressive in person! The 17-foot marble statue is the star of the show.
I recommend getting there early to beat the crowds. As I walked through the gallery, I saw other amazing works too. There are paintings from the 13th to 16th centuries and more of Michelangelo’s sculptures.
The museum isn’t huge, so you can see everything in about 2 hours. Don’t forget to book tickets in advance – the lines can get long!
Medici’s Artistic Legacy: Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
Next, I visited the Pitti Palace. It’s huge! This palace was home to the powerful Medici family. Now it houses several museums.
The Palatine Gallery blew me away. It’s packed with works by Raphael, Titian, and other Renaissance masters. The rooms themselves are works of art, with fancy decorations and frescoes.
Behind the palace, I found the beautiful Boboli Gardens. It’s like a giant outdoor museum! I loved strolling through the gardens, admiring the statues and fountains. The view of Florence from up there is amazing.
A Tapestry of Sacred Art: Basilica di Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella
For a dose of sacred art, I headed to the Basilica di Santa Croce. It’s the largest Franciscan church in the world and the final resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo.
The frescoes by Giotto are breathtaking. I spent a while just taking in all the details. The Pazzi Chapel is a must-see too – it’s a perfect example of Renaissance architecture.
Santa Maria Novella is another church that doubles as an art museum. The facade is stunning, but the real treasures are inside. I was amazed by Masaccio’s Trinity fresco and the Tornabuoni Chapel’s artwork.
Live Like a Local: Food, Markets, and Neighborhoods
I love diving into Florence’s local scene. It’s the best way to experience the city’s true flavors and character. Let me share some of my favorite spots and activities that’ll make you feel like a real Florentine.
Gastronomic Delights: Aperitivo and Gelato Adventures
Aperitivo is a must-try Florentine tradition. I head to bustling squares like Santo Spirito for a pre-dinner drink and snacks. It’s a great way to mingle with locals and sample delicious bites.
For gelato, I skip the touristy spots and go to Gelateria La Carraia. Their pistachio flavor is heavenly. Another favorite is trying unusual flavors like rosemary and honey at artisanal shops.
Don’t miss All’Antico Vinaio for the best sandwiches in town. The lines are long, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. I always get their truffle cream sandwich – it’s amazing!
Market Life: San Lorenzo and Mercato Centrale
San Lorenzo Market is my go-to for local goods. I love browsing the stalls for leather goods, souvenirs, and fresh produce. It’s a great place to practice my bargaining skills too!
Mercato Centrale is food heaven. On the ground floor, I shop for fresh pasta, cheeses, and Tuscan wines. Upstairs, I enjoy the food court with its variety of local dishes.
I recommend taking a food tour here. It’s a fun way to learn about Tuscan cuisine and taste specialties like lampredotto, a traditional Florentine sandwich.
The Artisan Quarter: Exploring Oltrarno
Oltrarno is my favorite neighborhood for experiencing local life. It’s less crowded and full of character. I love watching artisans at work in their workshops, crafting everything from jewelry to leather goods.
The area is also great for finding unique cafes and boutiques. I often spend afternoons here, sipping coffee and people-watching in charming piazzas.
For dinner, I seek out family-run trattorias in Oltrarno. They serve the best home-style Tuscan dishes. It’s where I go when I want an authentic, non-touristy meal in Florence.
Beyond Florence: Day Trips and Regional Explorations
Florence is amazing, but Tuscany has so much more to offer. I love taking day trips to explore the rolling hills, coastal gems, and historic towns nearby. Here are some of my favorite excursions from the city.
Tuscan Countryside: Wine Tasting in Chianti
I always recommend a trip to Chianti for wine lovers. Just a short drive from Florence, this region is famous for its red wines. I like to start my day at a small family-owned vineyard. The owners often give personal tours, showing how they make their wines.
After the tour, I sit down for a tasting. I sip different Chianti wines paired with local cheeses and cured meats. The views of vine-covered hills make the experience even better.
Before heading back, I usually stop in a charming village like Greve or Radda. These towns have cute shops selling local products and cozy restaurants for dinner.
Coastal Wonders: A Visit to Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a bit further, but it’s worth the trip. This string of five colorful towns clings to the cliffs along the Ligurian coast. I take an early train from Florence to make the most of my day.
Each town has its own charm. Riomaggiore is great for photos, while Vernazza has a lovely harbor. I love hiking the trails between towns for stunning sea views. The walk from Monterosso to Vernazza is my favorite.
For lunch, I always get seafood. A plate of fresh anchovies or pasta with pesto (a local specialty) hits the spot. Before catching the train back, I cool off with a swim at one of the rocky beaches.
Following the Medici: Pisa and Lucca
To dive into Tuscan history, I head to Pisa and Lucca. These towns were rivals of Florence and home to the powerful Medici family.
In Pisa, I start at the Field of Miracles to see the famous Leaning Tower. The cathedral and baptistery are just as impressive.
Then I hop on a train to nearby Lucca. This town is less crowded and keeps its old charm.
I rent a bike to ride along the wide city walls. It’s a fun way to see the town and spot its many towers.
Inside the walls, I wander narrow streets and pop into churches. The oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is my favorite spot for a gelato break before heading back to Florence.
