3 Days in Florence 🇮🇹: The Ultimate Itinerary for Art, Food, and Culture

🏨 Best Hotels in Florence:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Ville Sull'Arno, Florence
• ✨ 5-Star: NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Grifone Firenze - Meetings & Spa
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Guesthouse Bel Duomo
• 💸 Cheap: Hotel Dali
• 🏢 Apartament: Forte16 View & SPA
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel degli Orafi
• 🏩 For Couples: Art Hotel Villa Agape - Place of Charme

💁 Best Guided Tours in Florence:

• Florence Small-Group Tour with Uffizi and Accademia from €89 (⭐4.8/5)
• Florence Sunset Food and Wine Tasting Tour from €95 (⭐4.9/5)
• Florence Half-Day Walking Tour With Accademia, Uffizi from €129 (⭐4.8/5)
• Florence: Accademia and Duomo Small-Group Tour from €109 (⭐4.9/5)

3 Days in Florence Itinerary: Quick Overview

• Day 1 – Renaissance Heart: Begin at the iconic Duomo complex and climb Brunelleschi’s dome for panoramic views. Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David, followed by an evening exploring the historic Piazza della Signoria and illuminated Ponte Vecchio.
• Day 2 – Medici Legacy: Start early at the Medici Chapels and San Lorenzo Market. Spend the afternoon discovering the magnificent Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, concluding with a traditional aperitivo in the Oltrarno district.
• Day 3 – Art & Views: Explore the masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery and Santa Croce Basilica. Wander through the charming local neighborhoods, and end your Florence experience with a spectacular sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Day 1: Exploring Florence’s Renaissance Heart

Morning: Iconic Landmarks

Early Start. Planning your trip to Florence begins best at sunrise in the city center, when the Renaissance heart beats quietly. The streets around Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful sights in Florence, are peaceful, offering perfect photo opportunities before the crowds descend.

Cathedral Complex. The magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral dominates the square with Brunelleschi’s iconic dome reaching toward the Tuscan sky. For first time visitors, arrive by 8:15 AM to avoid the longest queues. The Brunelleschi Pass (€85) grants access to all cathedral complex attractions for your 3-day Florence itinerary.

Best Views in Florence. You have two panoramic options to see Florence:

• Brunelleschi’s Dome: 463 steps, timed entry required, audio guide available
• Giotto’s Bell Tower: 414 steps, more flexible timing, city views of Florence

Budget Tip: If you’re visiting Florence on a budget, climb just one. The Bell Tower actually offers the best views of Florence since you can photograph the dome itself and make your way around for stunning city views.

Art Discovery. After experiencing the Duomo, make your way to the nearby Galleria dell’Accademia to see the David, one of the most important attractions in Florence. The gallery opens at 8:15 AM – book your timed entry ticket (€16) in advance to see as much as possible without queues.

Insider Tip: Most visitors who come to Florence rush straight to David. Instead, take time to explore the Musical Instruments section first. By the time you reach David, the initial morning crowd has usually dispersed.

Common Mistake: Don’t spend the rest of your morning photographing the Duomo’s exterior. The real magic lies in experiencing all the sites in Florence, including the ancient Santa Reparata ruins beneath the cathedral floor.

Best Activities

Florence Duomo Express Tour with No Wait Access: Skip the long lines and explore Florence’s magnificent Duomo complex with an expert guide. Learn about the cathedral’s fascinating history, admire Brunelleschi’s dome, and get up close to Giotto’s Bell Tower. Perfect for visitors wanting to maximize their time at this iconic landmark.

Brunelleschi’s Dome Reserved Entry – Check availability of tickets

Midday: Art and Lunch

Lunch Options. After admiring David, I head to the vibrant San Lorenzo Market area, which offers two distinct dining experiences:

• Ground floor: Traditional market with local vendors
• Upper level: Mercato Centrale food court with diverse dining options

Budget Tip: For an authentic and affordable lunch, try Alimentari Uffizi (€20 per person), where you can enjoy local charcuterie, cheese plates, and a glass of wine in a charming setting with just five tables.

Insider Tip: For quick, delicious street food, head to All’Antico Vinaio or try Semel for hot Tuscan specialties stuffed in rolls – their truffle and pear combination is a local favorite.

Afternoon: Historic Walks

Historic Heart. I start my afternoon stroll at Piazza della Repubblica, where Florence’s elegant cafes and historic architecture create the perfect atmosphere. The square buzzes with street performers and locals, making it an ideal spot to people-watch before continuing the journey.

Art & Power. Walking down Via Calzaiuoli leads to the magnificent Piazza della Signoria, dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. The square serves as an open-air museum with stunning sculptures in the Loggia dei Lanzi, including Cellini’s Perseus and Giambologna’s Ratto delle Sabine.

Museum Magic. The Uffizi Gallery demands at least two hours of your time. Here’s a practical table for timing your visit:

Insider Tip: Skip the long queues by booking your Uffizi tickets online for late afternoon. The golden hour light streaming through the gallery windows creates a magical atmosphere, and the crowds thin out significantly after 4 PM.

Best Activities

Uffizi Gallery Small Group Tour with Guide: Discover the world’s greatest Renaissance art collection with priority access and expert commentary. Spend 2.5 hours exploring masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo while learning about Florence’s artistic golden age.

Uffizi Gallery Priority Entrance – Check availability of tickets

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

Golden Hour Magic. Head to the iconic Ponte Vecchio as the sun begins to set, where the medieval bridge’s golden stones take on a magical glow. The best views come from standing at the central viewing terrace, offering perfect photo opportunities of the Arno River’s shimmering waters.

Sunset Spots. For the ultimate sunset experience, make your way up to Piazzale Michelangelo. This famous square offers breathtaking panoramic views of Florence’s historic center, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the entire cityscape bathed in golden light.

Dinner with a View. After sunset, I recommend dining at Golden View restaurant, which offers stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio while serving excellent Tuscan cuisine.

Day 2: Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

Morning: Medici Legacy

Dawn Discovery. Start at the magnificent Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, located in the center of Florence. Built in 1444 for Cosimo the Elder, this palace represents one of the best places in Florence to see and enjoy Renaissance architecture. The palace’s ground floor features impressive rusticated stonework, while the upper floors showcase increasingly refined architectural details.

Chapel Magic. Inside the palace, the jewel of your 3-day itinerary is the Chapel of the Magi, featuring Benozzo Gozzoli’s stunning 1459 frescoes. Like many churches in Florence, the procession scenes cleverly incorporate portraits of Medici family members and influential figures of the time. This is one way to see how Florence’s powerful families shaped the city’s history.

Banking Empire. The Medici’s influence in Tuscany stemmed from their banking prowess, establishing Europe’s largest bank from 1397 to 1494. Their financial acumen made them the wealthiest family in Europe, enabling them to easily spend fortunes on the best of Florence’s art and architecture. Their legacy extends outside of Florence throughout Italy.

Florence Features. The palace offers much to see beyond its famous chapel:

Insider Tip: For the perfect way to spend your morning in Florence, visit on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid crowds. Arrive right at opening time to have the Chapel of the Magi almost to yourself, then continue your three-day Florence exploration toward Santa Maria Novella or the Pitti Palace.

Best Activities

Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER: Experience Florence through engaging stories of the Renaissance and Medici family with a passionate storyteller guide. Walk through historic streets and squares, ending at the iconic Ponte Vecchio while learning about the city’s fascinating past.

Midday: Culinary Delights

Market Experience. The vibrant Mercato Centrale offers two distinct dining levels for lunch seekers. The ground floor hosts traditional vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and local specialties, while the upper level features a modern food court with diverse dining options.

Local Favorites. Several iconic establishments near the market serve authentic Tuscan cuisine. Trattoria Mario offers bustling lunch service with daily changing menus based on seasonal ingredients, while Da Nerbone serves classic Florentine dishes like trippa and lampredotto sandwiches.

Budget Options. For an affordable yet satisfying lunch, head to Semel for creative hot Tuscan street-food panini filled with specialties like truffle and pear or donkey stew. Another excellent choice is All’Antico Vinaio, famous for their generously filled sandwiches with local ingredients.

Insider Tip: Visit the market before peak lunch hours to avoid crowds and secure a table at the food court. The best local spots fill up quickly between 12:30 and 2:00 PM.

Afternoon: Gardens and Museums

Garden Paradise. The Boboli Gardens stretch behind the palace across 11 acres, showcasing perfectly manicured Italian-style landscaping. Key features include Neptune’s Fountain, the amphitheater, and Buontalenti’s Grotto, all set among cypress-lined pathways that offer spectacular views of Florence.

Garden Features. Here’s what you can expect to find in the Boboli Gardens:

Insider Tip: Visit the gardens in the late afternoon when the crowds thin out and the golden light creates perfect photo opportunities. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when the wisteria blooms, but they maintain their charm throughout the year.

Best Activities

Pitti Palace, Palatina Gallery and Boboli Gardens Tour: Explore the magnificent Pitti Palace complex, including the opulent Palatina Gallery and stunning Boboli Gardens. This small-group tour offers intimate access to the Medici family’s grand residence and its remarkable art collection.

Uffizi, Pitti Palace & Boboli 5-Day Pass – Check availability of tickets

Evening: Aperitivo and Nightlife

Aperitivo Scene. Florence’s vibrant aperitivo culture comes alive in the early evening, with prime spots like Caffè Gilli and Bulli e Balene offering traditional Italian pre-dinner drinks and snacks. The best time to experience aperitivo is between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Rooftop Views. The Loggia Roofbar in Piazza Santo Spirito offers breathtaking sunset views over Florence’s red roofs. With 40 seats available daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, it’s perfect for watching the city transition from day to night.

Nightlife Areas. Here’s where to find the best evening entertainment:

Insider Tip: For the most authentic experience, head to MAD Souls & Spirits Bar in San Frediano, where innovative cocktails and reasonable prices attract a mix of locals and visitors. The bar serves unique concoctions featuring unexpected ingredients like carrot jam and egg whites.

Day 3: Art, Views, and Relaxation

Morning: Masterpieces and Markets

Art Discovery. The morning begins at the Medici Chapels, where stunning Renaissance masterpieces await. The Chapel of the Magi features breathtaking 1459 frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, showcasing intricate procession scenes with portraits of Medici family members.

Market Exploration. The bustling Mercato Centrale opens its doors early, offering two distinct levels of culinary exploration. The ground floor hosts traditional vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and local specialties, while the upper level features a modern food court with diverse dining options.

Local Flavors. For an authentic morning snack, the market’s ground floor offers excellent options:

Insider Tip: Visit the market before peak hours (prior to 12:30 PM) to avoid crowds and secure the best selection of fresh products. For the most authentic experience, explore the traditional vendors on the ground floor before heading upstairs to the gourmet food court.

Best Activities

Private Uffizi Gallery Tour with Priority Access: Enjoy a personalized experience of the Uffizi Gallery with your own private guide and skip-the-line privileges. Get in-depth insights about Renaissance masterpieces and the stories behind them in this exclusive art tour.

Medici Chapels Skip-the-Line Entry – Check availability of tickets

Midday: Leisurely Lunch

Local Flavors. The vibrant San Lorenzo area offers excellent lunch spots, with Trattoria Mario standing out as a beloved institution. The bustling, no-frills dining room creates a homey atmosphere where locals and visitors share communal tables for an authentic Tuscan experience.

Market Dining. For a diverse culinary experience, head to Mercato Centrale’s upper level food court. Here you’ll find everything from traditional Tuscan dishes to contemporary interpretations of local cuisine. The ground floor hosts traditional vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and artisanal goods.

Traditional Options. Near Santa Croce, Trattoria Cibreo offers an elegant dining experience with a divine tasting menu featuring multiple small dishes and melt-in-your-mouth pasta. For a more casual option, Osteria Antico Noè serves classic Florentine dishes like Pappa al pomodoro in a historic setting dating back to 1561.

Insider Tip: Visit between 12:00-12:30 PM to avoid the peak lunch rush and secure a table at the more popular establishments.

Afternoon: Scenic Views

Garden Discovery. The Bardini Gardens provide a peaceful escape with stunning panoramic views of Florence’s skyline. The wisteria-covered pergola creates a perfect natural frame for photographs, particularly beautiful during spring blooms in April and May.

Hilltop Magic. For the most breathtaking experience, head to Piazzale Michelangelo during late afternoon. The spacious terrace offers unparalleled views of Florence’s iconic landmarks, including the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio. The shades of orange and blue appearing in the sky create an incredible atmosphere, enhanced by street artists playing guitar in the background.

Here’s what to expect at different viewing times:

Insider Tip: Skip the crowded Piazzale Michelangelo and explore the nearby Rose Garden instead. This lesser-known spot offers equally magnificent views with fewer tourists and the added bonus of beautiful flora.

Palazzo Pitti, Boboli & Bardini Gardens – Check availability of tickets

Evening: Farewell Florence

Sunset Views. The perfect farewell to Florence starts at Piazzale Michelangelo, where the city’s iconic skyline bathes in golden light. The Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio create a stunning panorama as street musicians add to the magical atmosphere.

Dining Experience. For a memorable final dinner, Osteria de’ Cicalini near the Duomo offers creative Tuscan cuisine with dishes like carpaccio with lemongrass and spaghetti alla chittarra with rabbit and zucchini flowers. The intimate atmosphere and excellent wine list make it perfect for a farewell celebration.

Evening Stroll. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Arno River’s illuminated pathways. The historic bridges and buildings light up at night, offering a different perspective of Florence’s timeless beauty.

Insider Tip: End the evening in the vibrant Oltrarno area, where locals gather to enjoy the atmosphere in Piazza Santo Spirito, perfect for a final glass of Tuscan wine or artisanal beer with traditional focaccia.

Practical Tips for Your Florence Trip

Getting Around. Florence’s historic center is wonderfully compact and walkable. The distance between major attractions rarely exceeds 20 minutes on foot, making walking the best way to discover hidden corners and charming streets. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes – those medieval cobblestones can be challenging.

Timing Matters. The best time to explore Florence is during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). Early mornings before 9 AM and late afternoons after 4 PM offer fewer crowds at major attractions. Many tourists leave the city by late afternoon, making evening visits particularly pleasant.

Money Matters. Local shops close for siesta between 1-4 PM – perfect timing for a long lunch or museum visit. Many small establishments prefer cash, so keep some euros handy. The Firenze Card (€85) offers excellent value for a 72-hour visit to major museums and attractions.

Budget Tip: Fill your water bottle at the numerous public fountains throughout the city. The water is clean, fresh, and free. Also, avoid dining near major tourist spots like Piazza della Signoria, where prices can be double those found just a few streets away.

Insider Tip: For the best views without the crowds, skip the packed Piazzale Michelangelo and head to the nearby Rose Garden or Bardini Gardens instead. These spots offer equally stunning vistas with a more peaceful atmosphere.

Cultural Know-How. Remember to dress appropriately when visiting churches – shoulders and knees must be covered. Validate train tickets before boarding at the green machines on platforms, and never eat while sitting on church steps or historical monuments – fines can reach €500.

FAQ ❓

How long should I stay in Florence and what is the best time to visit?

Spring (March-April) and Fall (September-November) offer the best weather and fewer crowds for exploring Florence and Tuscany. Three days in Florence is ideal for seeing major sights while allowing time for day trips and wandering the historic center.

What are the must-see sites in Florence for first-time visitors?

The essential sights include the Duomo complex in Piazza del Duomo, Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, and the Uffizi Gallery near Piazza della Signoria. The best of Florence also includes Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and San Lorenzo Market.

How should I plan my time around Florence?

A well-planned 3-day itinerary should balance major museums in the morning with afternoon exploration of neighborhoods like Oltrarno. Planning your trip to Florence should include pre-booking major museums and leaving time for sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo.

What is the best way to get around when arriving in Florence?

The historic center of Florence is compact and best explored on foot, with all major sites within walking distance. Upon arriving in Florence, take the T2 tram from the airport to Santa Maria Novella station for easy access to the city center.

Should I consider taking day trips from Florence?

Florence serves as an excellent base to go on day trips to nearby Tuscan towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa. The Chianti wine region is particularly accessible for half-day or full-day excursions from Florence.

Do I need to book museum tickets in advance?

Major museums like the Uffizi and Accademia require advance booking, especially during peak season from April to October. The Firenze Card (€85) offers 72-hour access to major museums and can be worth the investment for seeing multiple sites in Florence.

What are the best areas to explore beyond the main tourist sites?

The Oltrarno district offers authentic experiences with local artisan workshops and fewer tourists. The San Lorenzo area combines the historic Medici Chapels with a bustling local market atmosphere.

When is the best time to visit popular attractions?

Early morning visits, ideally before 9 AM, offer the quietest time to explore major sights in Florence. Sunset hours provide magical views from elevated points like Piazzale Michelangelo and the Duomo terrace.