Florence 3 Day Itinerary

Here’s a 3-day itinerary for traveling in Florence:

Day 1: Explore Florence’s Historic Center

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Duomo Complex, which includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), the Baptistery of St. John, and Giotto’s Campanile. Take a guided tour to explore the intricate architecture and learn about the city’s history.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi) to see Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and other Renaissance masterpieces. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
  • Evening: Head to Piazza della Signoria, a historic square surrounded by cafes, shops, and the Palazzo Vecchio. Enjoy dinner at Trattoria Sostanza, known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Day 2: Discover Florence’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Galileo, which houses an impressive collection of scientific instruments from the 16th to 18th centuries.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, quaint shops, and local artisans. Be sure to visit the Piazza Santo Spirito and Santa Maria della Carità church.
  • Evening: Enjoy a wine tasting at Enoteca Pitti, which offers an extensive selection of Tuscan wines.

Day 3: Day Trip to Tuscany

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Siena (approximately 1.5 hours by car or train). Visit the Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico, and Siena Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Visit a local winery in the Chianti Classico region for a wine tasting and tour. Many wineries offer private tours and tastings.
  • Evening: Return to Florence and enjoy dinner at La Leggenda dei Frati, known for its creative takes on traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Where to Stay:

Florence has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some popular areas to stay include:

  • Historic Center: Stay in the heart of Florence, within walking distance to major attractions.
  • Oltrarno: Experience the charming neighborhood with its narrow streets and local artisans.

Recommended hotels:

  • Hotel Brunelleschi (4-star): Located in the historic center, this hotel offers elegant rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning views.
  • Hotel Regency (3-star): A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

Getting Around:

Florence is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation or taxis to get around. The Vespa Tour is a fun way to explore the city on two wheels.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Language: While many locals speak English, it’s still helpful to learn some basic Italian phrases.
  • Currency: Euros are the local currency, but credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Florence has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Safety: As with any major tourist destination, be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.

Other Things to Do:

  • Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, “David.”
  • Take a scenic stroll along the Arno River, which offers beautiful views of the city.
  • Explore the Mercato Centrale, a bustling marketplace with local produce and artisanal goods.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, food, and wine, giving you a well-rounded experience of Florence. Enjoy your trip!