Welcome to Florence, the fascinating capital of Tuscany. From its iconic Duomo to captivating museums and piazzas, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors or a long weekend getaway with friends. It will show you all the unique things to do and guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Italian city break.
Whether you are a history buff or an art lover, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe you should not miss. Home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture, the city will transport you back in time for a weekend trip you will never forget.
Climb the Giotto’s Bell Tower for stunning views, visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to marvel at the famous Michelangelo’s sculpture of David and tour the Uffizi Gallery to see The Birth of Venus by Botticelli.
Excited? Keep reading this city guide to discover the perfect 3-day itinerary covering the top things to do and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find practical eco-friendly tips for responsible travel at the end. Enjoy!
My Florence experience: Duration 2 days Dates visited March 20 - March 22 Season Spring
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Overview: 3 perfect days in Florence
Day 1 – Centro Storico
1- Piazza del Duomo
2- Duomo di Firenze
3- Bell Tower
4- Battistero di San Giovanni
5- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
6- Piazza della Repubblica
7- Palazzo Vecchio
8- Piazza della Signoria
9- Uffizi Gallery
Day 2 – San Marco
1- Piazza San Marco
2- San Marco Museum
3- Accademia Gallery
4- Mercato Centrale
5- Palazzo Medici Riccardi
6- Basilica di San Lorenzo
7- Basilica Santa Maria Novella
Day 3 – Oltrarno
1- Basilica di Santa Croce
2- Ponte Vecchio
3- Oltrarno
4- Brancacci Chapel
5- Palazzo Pitti
6- Boboli Gardens
7- Piazzale Michelangelo
Planning a road trip through Tuscany? Check out this article:
Tuscany Road Trip Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary
Florence 3-day itinerary – Map
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
Detailed itinerary: 3 days in Florence
This Florence guide covers all the best things to do and see in 3 days and is perfect for travelling with family, friends or as a couple, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.
On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You can spend more days in the Tuscan capital or add other stops to your trip – Tuscany is a region filled with beautiful places.
READ MORE: Most Scenic Road Trips in Italy: 10 Epic Routes
Want more inspiration for your next city break? Check out this article:
5 Perfect Days in Rome, Italy: Complete Itinerary
Day 1 – Centro Storico
1- Explore Piazza del Duomo
Your first day in Florence begins at the iconic Piazza del Duomo, set in the heart of the historic centre. It is one of the most visited places in Europe and the world, and you will know why when you come across this area!
Piazza del Duomo is home to world-famous architectural, religious and cultural monuments such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (with its famous Dome by Brunelleschi), the Baptistery of St. John, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.
Together, these landmarks form the Complex of Santa Maria del Fiore, representing over 700 years of history in a single square.
Take the time to wander the piazza and admire its stunning architecture. You will also encounter other historical buildings and museums surrounding the square.
2- Visit the Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze)
Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze), one of the largest churches in the world, is globally known for its breathtaking beauty and architecture.
Begun in 1296 in a Gothic style by Arnolfo di Cambio, it was structurally completed by 1436, with its magnificent Dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.
You can visit the Cathedral and enjoy a spectacular view from its Dome, but I recommend booking your ticket online and in advance. We did not plan beforehand, and everything was booked on the day (and we visited Florence in March).
Yes, it is required to dress appropriately to access the Cathedral, meaning no bare legs and shoulders, no sandals, hats and sunglasses.
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3- Climb the Bell Tower (Giotto’s Campanile)
Next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, you will find the Bell Tower (Giotto’s Campanile), a free-standing campanile part of the complex on the Piazza del Duomo and another perfect illustration of the 14th-century Florentine Gothic architecture.
You can access the summit balconies by climbing a stairway of 414 steps (no elevator available), but the panoramic views make it worth it!
It takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to climb up the tower, admire the view and go back down. There is no elevator, so the stairs are the only way up, but the scenery is worthwhile.
4- Admire Florence Baptistery
The Florence Baptistery, also known as the Baptistery of Saint John, is a religious building and one of the oldest places of worship in the city. It presents a captivating geometric structure with an octagonal plan, standing in the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza San Giovanni.
Take the time to marvel at its stunning architecture covered with white and green marble from Prato and pass through its doors to discover an outstanding mosaic embellishing the ceiling.
5- See the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is a stunning museum you should add to your Florence bucket list, especially ideal for history buffs and art lovers.
It is home to the most extensive collection of Middle Ages and Renaissance sculptures, with masterpieces and original works of art created for the Cathedral, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile.
6- Stop by Piazza della Repubblica
You continue your journey to Piazza della Repubblica, a lively square originally the site of the city’s forum in Roman times. You will find in its centre the Colonna della Dovizia, also known as the Column of Abundance, where the Roman Forum once stood.
Today, it is a charming square to wander around, shop for souvenirs or enjoy a coffee at one of its historical cafés including Caffé Gilli, Caffé Paskowski and Caffé delle Giubbe Rosse.
7- Marvel at Palazzo Vecchio
The Palazzo Vecchio is the town hall of Florence, overlooking Piazza della Signoria, which features a copy of Michelangelo’s statue of David. It also features a museum you can visit and a tower you can climb.
Its museum is a fascinating place to travel back in time and where you can admire Roman ruins, a Medieval fortress and impressive Renaissance chambers and paintings.
Its tower, one of the most imposing medieval towers in Florence, is 95 meters high and offers beautiful views of the historic centre.
Yes, you can climb up the Palazzo Vecchio tower for stunning views over the city. The way up includes over 400 steps and closes when it rains for safety reasons.
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8- Discover Piazza della Signoria
Opposite Palazzo Vecchio, you will find Piazza della Signoria, a w-shaped square and the centre of political life in Florence since the 14th century. It is the primary site of the origin and history of the Florentine Republic and remains today the political focus of the city.
Besides the famous Palazzo Vecchio, you will come across a copy of Michelangelo’s David statue (the original is in the Galleria dell’Accademia), the Loggia dei Lanzi (an open-air sculpture gallery), and the Uffizi Gallery.
9- Tour the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi)
You end your first day in Florence with the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi), a renowned art museum and one of the most famous museums in the world for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings and unique masterpieces by great Italian artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Florence, whether you are into art or not. So plan your visit in advance to avoid the long queue.
I recommend spending at least 2 hours at Uffizi Gallery to have enough time to see the main artworks and masterpieces without rushing.
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Day 2 – San Marco & San Lorenzo
1- Discover Piazza San Marco
You will start your second day in Florence with another iconic square, Piazza San Marco, dominated by the 17th-century facade of the San Marco Church.
This charming square is located in the northern part of the city, a short walk from the train station, the Duomo and next to the Accademia Gallery, where you will find the marble statue of David by Michelangelo.
If you have time, take a short detour and explore the interior of the church.
2- Visit San Marco Museum
On your wander around Piazza San Marco, stop by the Museo Nazionale di San Marco, an art museum housed in a restored medieval Dominican convent.
This former monastery, founded in the 13th century, is worth the visit for its architecture and is home to superb frescoes and paintings. One of its highlights is the Annunciation fresco at the top of the staircase leading to the dormitories – and the gorgeous colours and artworks by Beata Angelico.
3- Tour the Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell’Accademia)
Not far from Piazza San Marco, you will also find the Accademia Gallery, also known as the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, a stunning art museum home to Michelangelo’s statue of David and other sculptures from the artist.
Besides the magnificent giant marble sculptures, you will come across several halls within the gallery offering artworks by great Italian artists and an extensive collection of paintings by Florentine artists.
I recommend booking a guided tour in advance to immerse yourself in the captivating history of Italy and learn more about the Renaissance and the Medici family!
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4- Eat at Mercato Centrale
For lunch, head to Mercato Centrale (San Lorenzo Market), a large market hall where you will find everything you need, from a delicious Tuscan meal to local ingredients to cook yourself or a souvenir to bring home.
Start your visit by exploring the outdoor section of the market, which runs along the streets and where you will find items such as pottery, clothing, books and leather goods.
Finally, step inside the magnificent hall designed in 1874 by Giovanni Mengoni to discover food stalls of every kind and treat yourself to tasty Italian cuisine.
5- Explore Palazzo Medici Riccardi
You continue strolling around Florence with the Palazzo Medici, also called Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the Renaissance home of the powerful Medici family.
The palace is well-known for its Cappella dei Magi, a private chapel decorated with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, an artistic treasure.
And if the building has experienced transformations over the last centuries, parts of this splendid residence remain intact and are worth the detour.
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6- See the Basilica di San Lorenzo
In the same area, you will come across the Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of the largest and oldest churches of Florence and the burial place of all the principal members of the Medici family.
This church is a great place to discover influential works of art and impressive architecture, and it is also part of the San Lorenzo complex, which includes the Laurentian Library and the Medici Chapel.
BOOK YOUR ENTRANCE TO THE MEDICI CHAPEL
7- Stop by the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Your last stop of the day will be the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, one of the most important Gothic churches in Tuscany.
Marvel at its stunning exterior and step through its doors to experience remarkable works of art by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance era, including the Trinità by Masaccio, the frescoes by Ghirlandaio in the Tornabuoni Chapel and the Crucifix by Giotto.
The perfect place to end this immersive day in Italian history!
Day 3 – Oltrarno
1- Explore the Basilica of Santa Croce
Your third and last day in Florence begins at the Basilica of Santa Croce, an impressive church known for its funerary monuments of famous Florentines, the burial place of renowned artists such as Michelangelo and its Pazzi chapel.
Not only the exterior architecture is stunning, but there is also an immense artistic richness inside the basilica – worth the visit!
Plus, do not forget to stop by the Renaissance masterpiece of the Palazzi Chapel and marvel at the work of art by the same builder of the Duomo: Filippo Brunelleschi.
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2- Walk across Ponte Vecchio
Get ready to cross the water! Head to Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone arch bridge over the Arno River. It is the only bridge in Florence not destroyed during World War II and is renowned for its shops built along it.
The shops on the bridge have been there since the 13th century, but they were initially all types of stores. In 1593, it was decreed that only goldsmiths and jewellers would be allowed to improve art and wealth – I thought it odd when I crossed the bridge, but now I understand why!
It is a beautiful bridge to ramble on and admire. And for a better view, walk along the river banks to one of the adjacent bridges.
3- Stroll through Oltrarno
Once across the river, take some time to stroll through Oltrarno, a charming neighbourhood full of historical sites, extensive gardens, artistic traditions and some of the best views in Florence.
Below are some of the best things to do and see in this lovely area.
4- Visit the Brancacci Chapel
You will find the Brancacci Chapel in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, most of which was destroyed in a fire in 1771.
Considered a miracle that the Chapel survived this intense event, it is sometimes referred to as the Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance for its painting cycle, among the most famous and influential of the time.
You can access the Chapel by passing through the cloister. Once inside, take the time to admire remarkable frescoes.
5- Tour Palazzo Pitti
The Palazzo Pitti is a Renaissance palace and a large complex of outstanding galleries and museums housing significant collections of paintings, sculptures and works of art.
The original palace was built for the Pitti family in 1457, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Today, it hosts an impressive collection of art, including works gathered by the Medici family.
Here are the museums you will find inside: the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments, the Modern Art Gallery, the Costumes Gallery, the Silver Museum and the Porcelain Museum.
So plan your visit in advance and book your ticket online to make the most of your time.
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6- Relax at the Boboli Gardens
Behind Palazzo Pitti, you will find the stunning Boboli Gardens, a historical park opened to the public in 1766, which stands as a beautiful open-air museum.
This large green area houses centuries-old oak trees, a small lake, marble sculptures, grottoes and fountains. It is the perfect place to relax in summer or to enjoy the flowers blooming in the spring.
It is also the ideal place for families with children, as you will come across the fascinating Grotta del Buontalenti, an artificial cave filled with fake stalactites and stalagmites.
No, there is an entrance fee (11€) to access the Boboli Gardens from Palazzo Pitti and Forte di Belvedere or Porta Romana.
7- Watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo
To end your perfect day and 3-day getaway in Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy a peaceful sunset over the city.
Full of replicas of Michelangelo statues, you will find this square on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River. Day or night, it offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Florence and its iconic landmarks, including the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery and Santa Maria del Fiore.
It is a great place to relax, take unforgettable photos and watch the sun slowly set on the horizon.
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How to get to Florence
The best way to get to Florence is by plane. The city has an international airport (Amerigo Vespucci) connected to the main European cities. If you cannot find direct flights, check out Pisa International Airport, which is only 50km away.
The other option is to reach this beautiful Italian city by train. Florence benefits from a high-speed railway hub with trains departing regularly and linking to the entire of Italy – and Europe.
How to get around Florence
You have several options for getting around the capital of Tuscany.
The best way to travel around Florence is on foot. The city is compact, and its main attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can easily explore them on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway. Plus, it is the ideal way to see the best sights whilst exercising!
Walking will allow you to soak up its wonderful cultural atmosphere and find hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
The second option to get around Florence is by bike. It can be a fun experience and a fantastic way to travel around the city faster whilst reducing your carbon footprint!
Finally, if you are tired or the destination you want to reach is too far, you can use public transport. Florence has a reliable and efficient bus (and tram) system that is fast and affordable.
My experience – I visited Florence as part of a road trip through Tuscany. I had a car and parked it near the Arcipressi tram stop, which then took me about 30 minutes to reach the centre with the tram. Finding free parking is impossible, so plan accordingly. Once in the centre, I walked around, which was easy and quick.
Firenze Card: what you need to know
When researching and planning your 3-day trip to Florence, you might come across the Firenze Card, the official museum pass of the city.
The card costs 85€ and is valid for 72 hours from the first time you have used it. It allows one admission to the major museums and galleries, including the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia and any current exhibitions.
In addition, the card lets you skip the lines, and there is no need for reservations (for most places).
With a large collection of masterpieces and works of art, Florence is the perfect destination for art lovers, so is buying the Firenze Card worth it?
It depends on how long you stay in the city and which museums you want to visit. Plan ahead, and with this list, work out if the card is a better option for you or if paying for individual admission tickets is more cost-efficient.
Where to stay in Florence
Are you looking for the best place to stay in Florence for 3 days? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the Tuscan capital:
- Duomo: the best neighbourhood for first-timers due to its central location and access to the main attractions, including the iconic Santa Maria del Fiore.
- Santa Maria Novella: the best residential area to stay in Florence for families seeking tranquillity with quick access to the city centre.
- San Lorenzo & San Marco: the best place to stay in Florence to discover museums and churches whilst staying on a budget.
- Santo Spirito & Oltrarno: if bohemian and local vibes are what you love, look no further than this green and less touristy area.
Best time to visit Florence
The best time to visit Florence is in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is sunny and warm, but the city is not overcrowded.
I visited Florence at the end of March, and it was lovely! The weather was sunny each day, with temperatures around 20 degrees, and the tourist spots were not too busy.
I would avoid visiting in the summer, as it can become hot, expensive and crowded – not the best way to enjoy this beautiful city.
Winter is another option if you would like to avoid the crowds but be ready for the cold weather. Also, some places may be closed, and there might not be as many open accommodations, so check and book ahead of time.
Top day trips from Florence
Sustainable travel in Florence
Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.
READ MORE: Sustainable Travel Guide to Rome, Italy
Being a responsible traveller in Florence is possible! Here are some sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint:
- Book direct flights (which require less fuel than indirect flights) and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday.
- Select an eco-friendly accommodation. It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use Bookdifferent or Ecobnb to help you decide.
- Walk as much as possible. Florence is a compact city easily accessible on foot, and you will not produce any emissions. And if walking is too tiring, use the bike! The city is ideal for cycling around at your own pace.
- Eat at local restaurants that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
- Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and try to learn a few Italian words.
More inspiration for your green vacation:
- Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
- 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
- Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
Eco-friendly gear you might love:
- 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
- 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
- 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.
Florence travel planning guide
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city trip to Florence stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Florence. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.
Yes, renting a car in Florence is easy and is a great way to explore the Tuscan countryside freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
The best way to book your accommodation in Florence is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.
3 days in Florence, Italy – FAQ
Yes, 3 days are enough to discover Florence and enjoy its top sights and attractions. It will allow you to explore its fascinating museums and soak up the local culture – without rushing!
Yes, visiting Florence is worth it! The city is an incredible place to explore, even for a short weekend. You will learn a lot about Italian history and culture whilst having a wonderful relaxing time.
Yes, Florence is safe for solo travellers. The locals are welcoming, and most speak English. You will also find plenty of affordable guesthouses where you can meet new people.
Yes, Florence is a walkable city. The Tuscan capital is compact, and its main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it an ideal place to explore on foot.
The best months to visit Florence are April-May and September-October. You will enjoy lovely sunny weather without too high temperatures. These months also benefit from more affordable prices and fewer crowds.
And you, have you ever visited Florence or would you like to go one day?
Let me know in the comments below!
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