Florence-3-day-itinerary

Florence: A 3-Day Itinerary

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Italian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Transportation:

  • Walking: Florence is very walkable.
  • Public transportation: Buses and trams are efficient and affordable.
  • Taxis: Readily available but can be expensive.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel Archi Rossi, Plus Florence
  • Mid-range: Hotel Giglio, Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio
  • Luxury: Hotel Lungarno, Portrait Firenze

Day 1: Art & Renaissance Wonders

  • Morning: Visit the Uffizi Gallery (book tickets online in advance!), home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
  • Afternoon: Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome at the Florence Cathedral for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Explore the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Florentine dinner at Trattoria Mario (known for its affordable and delicious dishes) or La Cocotte (for a more upscale experience).

Day 2: History & Gardens

  • Morning: Explore the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall with impressive art and architecture.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace, admiring Renaissance sculptures, fountains, and hidden grottos.
  • Evening: Attend an opera performance at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino for a truly immersive cultural experience. Afterward, grab gelato at Vivoli or Gelateria La Carraia.

Day 3: Leather & Local Flavors

  • Morning: Wander through the Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and leather goods. Find unique souvenirs and watch skilled craftsmen at work.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to make classic Florentine dishes like pasta with ragù or ribollita soup.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Trattoria Sostanza (famous for their Bistecca alla Fiorentina) or Osteria Santo Spirito (for delicious Tuscan cuisine in a cozy setting).

Bonus Tips:

  • Climb the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about Florence’s history and culture.
  • Visit San Lorenzo Market for souvenirs, leather goods, and local produce.
  • Cross the Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge spared during World War II, adorned with shops.

Have a wonderful time exploring Florence!