If you ask the internet for the best time to visit Florence you’ll end up with just one answer: Spring. But, why? Florence blossoms between March and May. As the weather warms and daylight hours lengthen, the city awakens. You’ll find people flock outside to enjoy the sunshine, restaurants and cafes once again filling up, and the gardens becoming havens for leisurely walks amidst the blossoming flowers. Florence enchants people with its art, architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine all set against the perfect backdrop of comfortable spring temperatures and flourishing landscapes. Want to visit Florence this year? No worries, our 3 days Florence itinerary will help you plan your time in this magnificent Italian city. Let’s explore further in the blog!
Day 1: Historic Center & Renaissance Masterpieces
Morning
Duomo Complex
Every Florence travel itinerary for every kind of traveller should start with this magnificent place. Commonly known as the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore dominates Florence’s skyline with its stunning terracotta-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi. You cannot miss the breathtaking city views from its top and for that you have to climb the 463 steps. Moreover, do not miss Giotto’s Bell Tower and the ancient Baptistery with its gleaming “Gates of Paradise” doors by Ghiberti. Always arrive early here to beat the crowds, but if you can’t, no worries, you can skip the line with our Florence Duomo Tour With Rooftop Dome Walk ticket.
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Piazza della Signoria
Next, take a short walk to Piazza della Signoria, one of Florence’s top attractions and the political heart of the city since the 14th century. Admire the imposing Palazzo Vecchio and the open-air sculpture gallery of the Loggia dei Lanzi. The square features impressive statues including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and Cellini’s Perseus.
Afternoon
Uffizi Gallery
Just like Duomo Complex, no Florence Italy Itinerary could be completed without visiting this famous tourist attraction. The Uffizi Gallery is home to the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance art. The best thing to do here is to take a guided tour by an expert and learn about the art. For that, you can choose our Uffizi Gallery Masterclass By An Art Expert: Small Group and thank us later! If you don’t want to take the tour, we suggest you should spend at least two to three hours of your time in this gallery. One of the best possible things to do in Florence, Italy, is to marvel at Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus,” Leonardo’s “Annunciation,” and masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio and remember all the chapters of Renaissance from your History books.
Lunch at a Traditional Trattoria
A perfect itinerary doesn’t only include visiting attractions in a city, it should also include experiences related to culture. And the best thing one could do to experience culture in a new place is by trying traditional dishes of that place. No difference with Florence! On your first day in the city, you should enjoy a traditional meal at a trattoria near the Uffizi. These eateries serve authentic Tuscan cuisine at reasonable prices. Try ribollita (bread soup), pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce), or bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).
Evening
Ponte Vecchio
End your first day at the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the perfect place to watch the sunset. The oldest stone bridge in the entire Europe, Ponte Vecchio spans the Arno River. Uniquely, it is the only bridge in Florence that was saved from World War II destruction. Florence’s most legendary symbol, the bridge is famous in the world for the shops built along it. Explore the bridge, take photos, and soak in the panoramic views of the river and the city. The golden hour light makes this experience truly magical.
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Day 2: Michelangelo’s David & Oltrarno District
Morning
Accademia Gallery
Wake up early, get refreshed and start your second day of your Florence Italy itinerary with a visit to the Accademia Gallery. Originally established in 1784 as an art academy, it has become a world famous museum later that houses Michelangelo’s masterpiece sculpture of “David,” one of the world’s most popular artworks. Opened to the public in 1817 as a museum, Accademia also houses Michelangelo’s unfinished “Prisoners” sculptures and a collection of Renaissance paintings. Get ‘Accademia Gallery Audio-Guided Day Tour: Michelangelo’s David And Other Works’ ticket to learn about the place in detail.
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San Lorenzo Market & Medici Chapels
Just a 10-minute walking distance from Accademia, San Lorenzo Market is an ideal place to have a mid-morning snack. You can also browse the stalls for leather goods, souvenirs and local crafts. Moreover, explore the Medici Chapels here to see the incredible marble work designed by the world famous Michelangelo. Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the chapels with Medici Chapels Entrance Ticket, Florence.
Afternoon
Oltrarno District
Often referred to as the “left bank” of Florence, Oltrarno District is a must-visit place for those who truly want to embrace the age-old culture of this city. Spans across the Arno River from the historic centre, this authentic neighbourhood is home to artisan workshops, beautiful churches and many more attractions. Wandering through its narrow streets while discovering hidden piazzas and observing local craftspeople continuing centuries-old traditions are the best things to do in Florence.
Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens
The massive Pitti Palace should be included in your 3 days in Florence itinerary if you want to discover the Medici family’s grand residence. The Palatine Gallery displays works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. Behind the palace, explore the beautiful Boboli Gardens, a stunning example of Italian garden design with fountains, grottos, and classical statues. If you want you can take a combo ticket (City Sightseeing Florence Hop-On, Hop-Off + Palazzo Pitti, Boboli & Bardini Gardens Tickets) for your afternoon trip and spend quality time with your family in these beautiful gardens.
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Evening
Piazzale Michelangelo
After spending your afternoon in the Pitti Palace and those iconic gardens, you should reach Florence’s famous viewpoint, Piazzale Michelangelo. Watching the spectacular sunset over the sea of terracotta rooftops will be your best memory for sure. Watch as the city lights up at night, with the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio standing out against the skyline. This view alone is worth the trip to Florence!
Dinner in Santo Spirito
End your second day with dinner in Santo Spirito, a lively square in the Oltrarno district. It’s a neighborhood known for its authentic restaurants and local atmosphere. Explore its charming surroundings, find a restaurant with outdoor seating, and enjoy a delightful Tuscan meal away from tourist crowds. However, for a different experience, you can savour a Tuscan dinner along with a brilliant musical concert.
Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences
Morning
Santa Croce Basilica
Now, today is your last day of the Florence tour. Start your morning trip at the beautiful Santa Croce Basilica. It’s a Gothic church, situated in Piazza di Santa Croce. One of the renowned places to visit in Florence, this church contains the tombs of Italian luminaries like Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Rossini. You’ll love to marvel at the wonderful chapels adorned with frescoes by Giotto and stroll through the church’s peaceful cloister.
Sant’ Ambrogio Market
If you want to explore a local market but with less crowd, then Sant’ Ambrogio Market is your ultimate place to go. Observe residents as they shop for fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and breads. Wander through the alleys and capture lively moments. And, the last thing to do here is to sample local specialties and perhaps pick up some edible souvenirs to take home.
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Afternoon
National Museum of Bargello
If you want to explore Renaissance Art further, visit this museum on your last day of the city trip. The Bargello is a significant museum for sculpture and it’s located in a former barracks and prison. The museum houses masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Cellini. Don’t miss Donatello’s bronze “David,” a revolutionary work of Renaissance sculpture.
San Miniato al Monte
This place is again for people who want to avoid crowds yet enjoy a spectacular city view from a top place. Visit San Miniato al Monte, a stunning Romanesque church that sits even higher than Piazzale Michelangelo. Explore its beautiful interior with mosaics and marble work, and enjoy another breathtaking view of Florence.
Evening
Aperitivo in Florence
You have to conclude your Florence City trip with the beloved Italian tradition of aperitivo. Visit one of Florence’s many wine bars for pre-dinner drinks accompanied by snacks. Try a Negroni (invented in Florence!) or a glass of Tuscan wine as you reflect on your journey through this magnificent city.
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Opera or Classical Concert
For an authentic cultural experience in Florence, attend an opera or classical concert in a historic venue. Many churches host evening concerts, or you might catch a performance at the Teatro della Pergola, one of Italy’s oldest theaters. This musical finale provides a perfect ending to your Florentine adventure.
Day 3: Alternatives: Day Trips from Florence
For the last day, if you don’t want to explore Florence more, worry not, you can opt for a day trip and enjoy it in a different way. For example, you can embark on a day trip to Chianti Hills and savour the regional wines along with learning the process of wine making. Get a hassle-free experience with this package for wine experience in Chianti Hills from Florence.
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Moreover, you can also visit Pisa and Lucca from Florence. Visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Take a Pisa guided walking tour and discover beyond the iconic tower, explore the impressive Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. Don’t forget to capture the obligatory photo “holding up” the tower at Pisa!
Just a short train ride from Pisa lies Lucca, one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. This charming city is known for its intact Renaissance walls that have been transformed into a pedestrian promenade. Rent a bicycle to ride along the tree-lined walls for a unique perspective of the city.
Tips for A Memorable Experience
- For an easy experience, consider purchasing the tickets for the Florence hop-on hop-off buses. Browse our website for the suitable options for three days.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as Florence is best explored on foot.
- Pre-book skip-the-line tickets for major attractions like the Uffizi, Accademia, and Duomo climb.
- Learn some basic Italian phrases for better communication with locals.
- Keep your belongings safe while walking through the crowded streets.
- Remember, Spring is the ideal time to visit this magical city. However, September to November also offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.
Conclusion: Unforgettable 3 Days in Florence
Spending three days in Florence offers a perfect blend of artistic masterpieces, historical wonders, and culinary delights. From exploring the magnificent Duomo to standing before Michelangelo’s David and enjoying panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo, this Florence Italy itinerary covers the city’s must-see sights and experiences. Start planning your trip and get ready to discover the birthplace of the Renaissance!
