Florence Italy 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Florentine Adventure: A Detailed Itinerary

Where To Stay:

  • Luxury: Hotel Lungarno (river views!), Portrait Firenze (boutique chic)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Giglio (central location), Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio (historic charm)
  • Budget: Ostello Bello Firenze (social hostel), Plus Florence (stylish and affordable)

Transportation:

  • Walking: Florence is incredibly walkable. Wear comfortable shoes!
  • Bus: ATAF bus network covers the city, purchase tickets beforehand.
  • Tram: Connects key areas like the airport to the city center.

Things To Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Italian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up bills or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated.
  • Florence Card: Consider purchasing for access to museums and public transportation.

Day 1: Renaissance Splendor

  • Morning: Explore the iconic Duomo, climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for breathtaking views, visit the Baptistery with its Gates of Paradise.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in art at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional Florentine dinner at Trattoria Mario (rustic and authentic) or La Giostra (renowned for its Florentine steak).

Day 2: Medici Power & Gardens

  • Morning: Discover the opulent Palazzo Pitti, housing five museums including the Gallery of Modern Art and the Costume & Fashion Museum.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the serene Boboli Gardens behind Palazzo Pitti, exploring fountains, sculptures, and hidden grottos.
  • Evening: Enjoy an aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks and snacks) at La Terrazza Rooftop Bar overlooking Florence’s rooftops.

Day 3: Artisan Crafts & Local Flavors

  • Morning: Explore the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops. Visit leather shops, watch goldsmiths work, and browse ceramics.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class at Florencetown Cooking School to learn the art of Tuscan cuisine.
  • Evening: Dine at Osteria Santo Spirito (charming trattoria with local dishes) or Ciro and Sons (delicious Neapolitan pizza).

Day 4: Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano

  • Take a bus or organized tour to the medieval city of Siena, explore its Piazza del Campo, climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views.
  • Visit the hilltop town of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and stunning Tuscan landscape.

Day 5: Ponte Vecchio & Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, lined with jewelry shops and artisans. Capture the iconic view from the bridge.
  • Afternoon: Discover hidden gems like the Bargello Museum (sculpture collection) or the Museo di San Marco (Fra Angelico frescoes).
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner with river views at La Buchetta or Ristorante Acquerello.

Day 6: Farewell & Last Minute Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Mercato Centrale, Florence’s vibrant food market, for fresh produce and local delicacies.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in last-minute souvenir shopping along the Via de’ Tornabuoni.
  • Evening: Celebrate your Florentine adventure with a farewell dinner at Trattoria Sabatino (authentic Tuscan flavors) or Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura (fine dining experience).

Tips:

  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Florence is best explored on foot.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Embrace the slow pace of life and savor the beauty of Florence.

Enjoy your unforgettable Florentine adventure!