3 Days In Florence: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

Are you wondering how to spend 3 days in Florence and fit everything into your itinerary?!

If it’s your first visit, planning the perfect itinerary can feel a little overwhelming. There’s so much to see, do, and experience.

I’ve explored Florence myself for almost a week and carefully planned this itinerary based on what’s truly worth your time.

In this post, I’m sharing exactly how I recommend spending three days in Florence, including the best things to do and how to plan your days with ease.

You’ll explore the most iconic landmarks, experience the city’s culture, attend the best pasta cooking class, and even enjoy a beautiful day trip to Tuscany or Cinque Terre.

I’ll also touch on where to stay, how to get around, and things you should know before visiting Florence.

Just a heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Your support helps me continue doing what I love. Thank you!

Itinerary Overview

Keep reading for more details, but here’s a quick summary of this 3 days Florence itinerary!

• Day 1: David, Duomo, food, and Ponte Vecchio
• Day 2: Uffizi Gallery, pasta cooking class, and Piazzale Michelangelo
• Day 3: Day trip to Tuscany or Cinque Terre

What Is Florence Italy Known For?

Florence is my favourite city in Italy. It’s a place that will captivate you with its art, history, and charm. I finally made it to Florence after a few trips to Italy, and I can’t believe I didn’t visit it sooner. I instantly fell in love with this city and can easily see myself going back again and again — it quickly became one of my favourite cities in the entire country.

If you haven’t been to Florence, you haven’t truly experienced Italy. This city is the birthplace of the Renaissance—one of the most important periods in modern history, where art, science, and philosophy flourished. Florence was home to legends like Michelangelo, and everywhere you turn, you’ll feel that history comes to life.

Now, let’s take a look at how to spend 3 incredible days in Florence, Italy.

Day 1: David, Duomo, Food, and Ponte Vecchio

Now let’s get into this 3 day Florence itinerary!

This itinerary assumes you have 3 full days in Florence. However, you could certainly cut out some activities if you have a bit less time and condense them into 2 days.

Morning: Accademia Gallery & Michelangelo’s David

Kick off your 3 days in Florence itinerary by lacing up your comfiest walking shoes and heading straight to the world’s most celebrated sculpture: Michelangelo’s David, located inside the Accademia Gallery.

Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, this one is absolutely unmissable. There’s something magical about seeing David in person—photos simply don’t do it justice. 

You can’t spend 3 days in Florence and NOT see the David, right?

This stunning marble masterpiece embodies the Florentine Renaissance, capturing the idealism of the era through the form of the young shepherd David in all his breathtaking beauty.

I’ve always loved David; I even named my older son after him, so seeing the statue in person was really special for me.

Beyond David, the Accademia Gallery houses other notable works by Michelangelo, along with a collection of Gothic paintings. That said, I’d recommend spending about 30-45 minutes here max, since you’ve got a full day of Florence exploration ahead!

This is one of the most popular things to do in Florence, and the lines can get extremely long- especially during the summer high season. So having a pre-booked ticket is essential.

If you don’t pre-book your tickets, you’ll be waiting outside in the sun, and a short wait is “around 2 hours” . I have seen the lines myself.

I recommend booking one of the earliest entry slots. I booked a skip-the-line ticket for 8:30 am, and it was still quiet, but by 9 am, it started getting very busy.

Another option is to book a guided tour, which gives you more background on the artwork while still skipping the line.

Sally’s Tip:
Accademia tickets are timed, so make sure to book well in advance and choose a slot that fits your itinerary.

Click here to book your Accademia Gallery tickets and see Michelangelo’s David!

Mid-Morning: The Duomo Complex

Just a 10-minute walk from the Accademia, it’s time to head to Florence’s beating heart: The Duomo di Firenze (officially known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore).

Before you head inside, snap that Instagram-worthy photo in front of this iconic cathedral—the intricate marble façade is absolutely stunning and makes for the perfect Florence moment!

The Duomo is the crown jewel of Florence’s historic center, and trust me, you’ll understand why as soon as you lay eyes on it.

But first, before you go in, I’d suggest grabbing a quick coffee and cornetto (Italian Croissant) from a nearby café, my favourite is Pistachio cornetto, pure heaven with your morning espresso! This stop is a big one, and you’ll want to be fueled up for the adventure ahead!

One thing to know is that the Duomo isn’t just one building; it’s actually a full complex with five parts:

• The cathedral interior
• Brunelleschi’s Dome
• Giotto’s Bell Tower (Campanile)
• The Baptistery
• The Museum

The main experiences here are the Brunelleschi dome and the bell tower.

You could easily spend half a day here, but to keep things simple, I’ll help you choose between the two main experiences.

Option 1: Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome

This is the most iconic part of the Duomo. It was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 1400s, and what makes it special is how it was constructed with no blueprints and no scaffolding—seriously! 

Even more impressive, it’s actually two domes (one outer, one inner), and during your climb, you get to walk between them. Mind-blowing, right?

When you climb, you’re literally walking between them.

It’s 463 steps to the top, and I won’t lie — some parts are narrow, so it does feel like a bit of a workout and if you are claustrophobic, this might feel a bit challenging. But once you reach the top, the views over Florence are completely worth it.

To do this, you’ll need the Brunelleschi Pass (valid for three days), with a skip-the-line-timed-entry ticket (mine was 9:30 am), and it also includes access to the rest of the complex.

Again, it’s very important to purchase a ticket in advance. This will help you avoid long lines, and tickets do sell out in the summer months.

Don’t Wait! Book the Brunelleschi Pass now!

Option 2: Climb the Bell Tower

If you want something a bit easier, go for the bell tower (Campanile di Giotto).

It’s still a climb (414 steps), but it feels more open and less intense than the dome.

From the top, you get beautiful views of Florence plus a full view of the Duomo itself,  which you don’t get when you’re standing on it.

You’ll need the Giotto Pass with a skip-the-line entry ticket, and it also includes access to the rest of the complex.

So if you’re wondering which one to choose, I’d honestly say both are amazing. Either option will give you incredible bird’s-eye views over Florence; it really just depends on what you feel like! I personally loved both experiences.

If you still have energy after, you can explore the rest of the complex too.

Sally’s tip:
If you prefer a guided tour, this one is a great choice. You’ll skip the lines and see both David and the Duomo with a guide.

Afternoon: Eating in Florence

After visiting the Accademia and the Duomo, you’ll have worked up quite an appetite. For lunch, you have two delicious options for the afternoon.

Option 1: DIY Foodie & Drinks Route

Stop 1: All’antico Vinaio Sandwich

t’s time for a well-deserved lunch at the famous Antico Vinaio. You’ll quickly see why it’s so popular from the long lines!

Antico Vinaio is known for its focaccia-style panini—Italian sandwiches served as street food, loaded with cheese and quality meats.

The bread is fresh, crusty, and absolutely delicious. My favourite was the mortadella sandwich, stuffed with creamy cheese.

Stop 2: Gelato di Neri
Just a 2-minute walk from Antico Vinaio, Gelato di Neri is famous for its rich, creamy gelato. My favourite was the pistachio—after all, you are in Italy…yay! 

Another great option is Gelato at La Carraia, also incredibly delicious.

Stop 3: Wine Window
Time for a unique Florentine experience: the wine windows at Osteria Belladonna. These windows were used during the plague to safely serve drinks. You simply knock, order a glass of wine, and enjoy it right on the street—it’s fun and totally Instagram-worthy!

Option 2: Food Tour

If you don’t want to think about where to eat or spend time researching, I highly recommend booking a food tour. Your guide will take you to hidden spots you’d probably never find on your own. Everything is planned, so you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

You’ll visit trattorias, gelaterias, and osterias, tasting classic Tuscan dishes and of course, you’ll also get to try authentic Tuscan wine.

Needless to say, you’ll want to come here on an empty stomach!! 

I didn’t get the chance to do a food tour in Florence, but I’ve done one in Rome, and now I book one in almost every country I visit. It’s the best way to truly understand the local food culture.

Sunset & Evening: Arno River & Rooftop Bar

To wrap up your first day in Florence, take a slow walk and enjoy the city as it starts to glow. It’s the perfect way to walk off your food coma after a big lunch or food tour.

Start with a quick stop at one of Florence’s most famous markets, Mercato del Porcellino. It’s known for its leather goods, souvenirs, and lively atmosphere.

From here, it’s a short walk to the famous Ponte Vecchio, which translates to “old bridge.” Built in the 14th century, it’s the oldest and most iconic bridge in Florence.

It’s also the only bridge that survived World War II. Today, it’s lined with beautiful jewellery and souvenir shops, though it was once home to butchers.

Stroll along the bridge and down by the Arno River, especially around sunset. The golden light here is absolutely magical and perfect for photos.

End your evening with a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the city. One of my favourites is Art Rooftop Bar, where you can relax with a view over Florence’s Duomo.

If you’re still feeling hungry, you can also eat here. Personally, after a food tour, I usually find myself too full—but it’s nice to have the option!

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Day 2: Uffizi Gallery, Cooking Class and Piazzale Michelangelo

Morning: Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria

On your second day of 3 days in Florence, you’ll really get a feel for Florence, exploring the Uffizi Gallery, joining a cooking class, and ending the day at one of the best sunset spots in the city.

Start your day by visiting the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. It’s a huge museum, so plan to spend around 1–2 hours here. If you love Renaissance art, you could easily stay longer.

I highly recommend visiting first thing in the morning, as it gets very busy (and I mean really busy!). Be sure to book your skip-the-line, timed entry ticket in advance. If you want more context and stories behind the art, a guided tour is a great option.

Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. Even if you’re not an art expert, it’s still incredibly impressive.

My personal favourite was The Birth of Venus by Botticelli—it’s even more beautiful in real life. Other famous works to look out for include Venus of Urbino by Titian and The Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci.

Make sure to look out the windows while you’re inside, as you’ll get beautiful views over Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River.

Sally’s Tip:
The Uffizi is closed on Mondays, and I wouldn’t recommend doing both the Uffizi and Accademia on the same day—it’s a lot of art in one go!

Don’t Wait! Book your skip-the-line Uffizi Gallery tickets now before they sell out!

Just outside the Uffizi, another beautiful square, Piazza della Signoria. This is Florence’s main square and one of the most beautiful spots in the city. 

Did you know there’s a replica of the famous David statue here? You’ll also see the stunning Neptune Fountain, and the whole square feels like an open-air museum.

Don’t miss the Loggia dei Lanzi, where you can admire several incredible sculptures up close—for free!

Afternoon: Pasta Cooking Class (with Unlimited Wine)

Your Florence itinerary wouldn’t be complete without this pasta cooking class with unlimited wine.

I had so much fun doing this. I’ve always loved Italian food, so taking a cooking class in Florence was something I was really looking forward to.

I joined this 4.9-rated pasta cooking class with unlimited wine, and it honestly ended up being one of the highlights of my trip.

Our chef, Lorenzo, was incredibly knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The whole experience was so much fun, we cooked, laughed, and then sat down together to enjoy the meal.

During the lesson, we learned how to make three types of fresh pasta and a traditional ragù from scratch.

Getting to enjoy everything we made at the end (pssst! with plenty of wine!) was the perfect reward.I highly recommend adding this cooking class to your 3 days in Florence itinerary. Trust me, you’ll absolutely love it.

To see more of what the tour was like, watch my Instagram Reel and definitely book this tour for your trip!

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A post shared by Sally Elia𓇼 | Travel Creator | 📍Australia (@somewherewithsally)

Read Next: 🍝 Best Pasta Cooking Class in Florence with Unlimited Wine

Sunset: Views at Piazzale Michelangelo

Afterward, head to the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo for one of the most breathtaking sunset views in Italy. It’s one of the best FREE viewpoints in the city, with a large square offering panoramic vistas of Florence.

From here, you’ll see the Arno River winding through the city and the Duomo rising above the terracotta rooftops, ahh! a view that’s pure magic at sunset.

The hike up can be a bit of a workout, but in my opinion, it’s not too hard compared to other spots in Italy. 

My advice: bring a bottle of wine (yes, you can sip in the open!) and try to find a front-row spot on the steps.

This place is famous for a reason. As the sun dips, the sky fills with brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples, and the atmosphere comes alive—people laugh, sing, and just enjoy the moment. It’s one of the most memorable experiences I had in Florence.

Sally’s Tip: Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to grab a good spot. Bring a light jacket, settle in, and don’t rush off when the sun disappears—the pastel hues that follow are just as stunning.

Evening: Florentine Dinner at Ristorante del Fagioli

To wrap up your evening in Florence, it’s time to slow down and enjoy a proper Tuscan dinner.

I highly recommend Ristorante del Fagioli — this was actually recommended to me by my host, and it did not disappoint.

It’s known for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), and if you’re going to try it anywhere, this is a great place to do it. The restaurant has a cozy, traditional feel, and the food is simple but full of flavour.

We ordered the Florentine steak with house wine, and it was honestly so tender and cooked perfectly — definitely one of the highlights of the trip.

I also heard great things about the pappardelle with sausage sauce and the sausages with beans, so those are worth trying too.

It’s not overly expensive for the quality, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind. It’s closed on Sundays, they only accept cash, and be sure to book in advance.

Day 3: Day trip to Tuscany or Cinque Terre

On the 3rd day of your 3 days in Firenze, it’s time to get outside of the city and explore the Tuscan countryside! There are so many incredible day trips to take from Florence.

You can either do it yourself by renting a car or by train. The best and easiest option is to go on a guided tour that will take you to all these places without the hassle of navigating the public transport and stressing about traffic.

Whether you want to book a guided tour, take a high-speed train, or self-drive, make sure to book way in advance.

Option 1: Day Trip to Montalcino, Pienza & Montepulciano

If you’re up for a dreamy escape from Florence, this is one of the most popular day tours, and honestly, I totally get why. You will be heading straight into the heart of Tuscany, visiting the beautiful villages of Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano.

These towns are absolutely charming… like something straight out of a fairytale. You’ll honestly feel like you’ve stepped into Under the Tuscan Sun—rolling hills, golden light, and those postcard-perfect views everywhere you look.

I was solo travelling in Florence and didn’t want to drive, so I booked this tour, and let me tell you, it was fantastic, one of the highlights of my time in Florence. We had free time in each village to wander around, shop for souvenirs, and take the dreamiest photos overlooking the Val d’Orcia.

And of course, the best part… the wine. We visited two local wineries and got to taste some incredible wines, including Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, such a fun experience!

Option 2: Day Trip to Cinque Terre

If you’re craving the sea, stunning coastal views, swimming spots, and fresh seafood, then this day trip to Cinque Terre is for you.

Cinque Terre means “five lands,” and on this trip, you’ll explore all five colorful villages in one day. There’s also an optional hike, time for lunch, and the best part- a scenic ferry ride along the coast.

I joined this guided tour, and here’s why I recommend it. Even though it’s a long day, everything is well planned and nicely paced, with enough free time in each village to explore at your own pace. It can actually be quite tricky to navigate all the trains, hiking trails, and ferries on your own, which makes the tour so much easier

I’ve done quite a few day tours, and this one really stood out. It was organised, enjoyable, educational, and surprisingly relaxing—everything you want in a day trip!

Read my full review here: Best Cinque Terre Tour From Florence

Option 3: Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano & Pisa

If you want to see a bit of everything in one day, this would be the perfect choice. It’s a comprehensive Tuscany day trip from Florence—and honestly, it ticks off so many bucket list spots in one go.

I didn’t get the chance to do this tour, but with thousands of 5-star reviews, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Florence—and it seems to live up to the hype.

On this trip, you will explore Siena, visit a winery in Chianti (with lunch), wander through the medieval town of San Gimignano, and finish in Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower.

First stop is Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of charm and history. You will walk through the beautiful streets, visit the stunning cathedral, and stop by Piazza del Campo, home of the famous Palio horse race.

You’ll also have some free time here, so if you’re up for it, you can climb the Torre del Mangia for incredible views or try Siena’s famous panforte (a traditional spiced fruitcake).

Next, we’d head into the Chianti region for a winery experience—think rolling vineyards, a relaxed lunch, and some amazing Tuscan wine.

Then comes San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers. If you can, don’t miss climbing the Torre Grossa—the views over the Tuscan countryside are unforgettable.

Finally, we’d stop in Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower and snap those classic photos before heading back to Florence.

Other Things to Know for Your Trip to Florence

Where to Stay in Florence

Next up, let’s talk about where to stay in Florence!

The good news is that Florence is quite compact compared to other Italian cities, so no matter where you stay, you’re never too far from the main attractions.

There are two main areas I recommend, depending on your budget and travel style:

1. Historic Center (Centro Storico)

This is the best area if you want to be right in the heart of everything. It’s lively, full of charm, and within walking distance of all the major sights—perfect for a 3 day itinerary in Florence.

You’ll be just minutes from the Duomo, and about a 5–7 minute walk to Piazza della Signoria and the Arno River. It makes exploring so easy and convenient.

The area is full of cafés, restaurants, and has such a great atmosphere, especially in the evening.

The only downside is that it’s more expensive compared to other neighborhoods—but for a short stay, I personally think it’s worth it.

I stayed at Hotel La Terrazza sul Duomo, and I loved every second. It’s right in front of the Duomo—I could literally open my window and see the cathedral! The hotel also has a free rooftop terrace where you can take amazing photos with the Duomo in the background.

2. Oltrarno

If you’re looking for something a bit quieter and more local, Oltrarno is a great option. It’s just across the river and feels less touristy, with a more authentic, residential vibe.

Accommodation here is generally more affordable, which makes it a great choice if you’re traveling on a budget.

Even though it’s not as central, Florence is so walkable that you’re still only about 15–20 minutes from major attractions like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery.

The only thing to keep in mind is that there are fewer hotels here compared to the historic center—but that’s also part of its charm.

Best Hotels In Florence

Budget: Hotel Machiavelli Palace
The Machiavelli Palace is set in a 14th-century convent, 300 metres from Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Its seasonal roof garden overlooks the historic centre of Florence.

Mid-range: Hotel Ungherese Small Luxury Hotel
Located in a quiet area near Florence’s Stadium, Hotel Ungherese Small Luxury Hotel is a 10-minute bus ride from the historic centre. The hotel has its own furnished terrace and garden.

Mid-range: Palazzo Graziani
In Florence centre, 400 metres from Sant’Ambrogio Market, Palazzo Graziani features a terrace. Popular points of interest nearby include Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio and Convent of San Marco. Ponte Vecchio is an 11-minute walk away.

My top pick: B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo La Terrazza Sul Duomo
Is set in a historical building in the centre of Florence. It offers a terrace and views of the city, a few steps from Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. I stayed here and loved it.

Read my full review:
🏠 B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo Review: Best Stay with Rooftop View

Luxury: Granduomo Charming Accommodation
Luxury, overlooking the magnificent Duomo. The apartments are housed in an elegant, 18th-century Florentine home. They are all stylishly furnished and feature wood floors and fine Italian furniture.

Where Is Florence?

Florence is a small city located in the heart of Tuscany, one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

Even though it’s relatively compact, its central location makes it the perfect base for exploring nearby destinations—think dreamy Tuscan villages, rolling vineyards, and even places like Cinque Terre.

The city itself sits along the Arno River, which adds to its charm and gives you those iconic views, especially around Ponte Vecchio. One of the things I loved most about my trip to Florence is how easy it is to get around—you can walk almost everywhere and truly soak in the atmosphere.

What Is Florence Known For?

Florence is best known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, one of the most important periods in history, where art, science, and culture flourished.

The same streets you’ll be walking through were once home to legendary artists and thinkers like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, which honestly feels surreal when you’re there.

What makes Florence even more special is that it still looks and feels very similar to how it did during the Renaissance. It’s like stepping into a living, open-air museum.

The city is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and artworks, including:

• Michelangelo’s David
• The historic Ponte Vecchio bridge (dating back to 1345)
• Incredible museums filled with Renaissance masterpieces

Today, Florence perfectly blends its rich history with modern comforts. It’s also one of the most visited cities in Italy and a popular destination for study abroad programs—once you visit, you’ll understand exactly why.

How to Get to Florence

By Plane 

Florence has its own airport, Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), located about 15–20 minutes from the city center. It’s small but very convenient if you can find a direct flight.

Once you land, getting into the city is simple. The tram (T2 line) is the easiest and most affordable option, taking you straight to the center in around 20 minutes. You can also take a taxi if you prefer something quicker and more comfortable, especially if you’re travelling with luggage.

If you’re coming from Australia or the United States like me, you’ll most likely fly into one of Italy’s major airports like Rome or Milan. From there, you can easily take a train to Florence, which is what most travellers do.

By Train 

Taking the train is one of the best ways to get to Florence, especially if you’re already travelling within Italy—and it’s personally my favourite way to travel. It’s fast, comfortable, and very reliable.

I took the train from Rome to Florence on my trip, and the whole experience was so smooth and easy.

Florence’s main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is located right in the heart of the city, which means you can walk straight to your hotel or nearby attractions as soon as you arrive.

Travel times are very convenient too. From Rome, it takes about 1.5 hours. From Milan, around 2 hours, and from Venice, roughly 2 hours as well.

Honestly, if you’re already in Italy, I highly recommend taking the train—it’s by far the easiest and most stress-free option.

Getting Around Florence

As mentioned above, you might be wondering how you’ll be getting around Florence during your 3 days in this beautiful city.

No, you will not need a rental car in Florence!

Florence is one of the most walkable cities in Italy, and honestly, walking is the best way to experience it. Most of the main attractions—like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signoria—are all within a short walking distance of each other.

For places that are a little further out, like Piazzale Michelangelo or Fiesole, Florence also has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams.

I ended up walking a lot—around 10–15k steps a day—but honestly, that’s where the magic is. Wandering through the narrow alleyways and charming streets was one of my favourite parts of Florence.

I highly recommend downloading Google Maps for your trip, which has all the public transport routes built in. Just enter your location and destination, and it will show you the best and easiest way to get there.

You can also use it while walking—it’s super helpful for navigating Florence’s small streets and finding hidden gems along the way.

Sally’s Tip: Fun fact—Florence has discounted taxi fares for women at night, which is such a great option if you’re heading back late!

How Many Days to Spend in Florence

If you want to experience the perfect Florence and Tuscany itinerary, I recommend spending at least 3 days in Florence.

I actually stayed for 5 full days, which gave me the best of both worlds—3 days exploring Florence itself and 2 days for day trips, including one to Tuscany and another to Cinque Terre.

Having those extra days made such a difference. Florence is not just about ticking off landmarks—you’ll want time to slow down, take it all in, and enjoy experiences like a cooking class, which was honestly one of my highlights.

Florence is such a charming city, full of history, art, and magic. It truly feels like you’re walking through an open-air museum… and trust me, you won’t want to leave.

I actually regretted not visiting Florence on my first trip to Italy—I ended up repeating other destinations instead, and now I can confidently say Florence deserves a spot at the top of your itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Florence

Spring (March – May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Florence. The weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and the city feels vibrant without being too crowded. It’s perfect for strolling through the historic center, exploring gardens like Boboli or Bardini, and snapping dreamy photos of Ponte Vecchio.

Summer (June – August)
Summer in Florence is hot and busy. Expect high temperatures and big tourist crowds, especially around the Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset. You’ll need to plan everything well in advance—hotels and tickets sell out fast!

 I visited in July and booked everything ahead; the lines for tickets were massive. An employee even told me it could take 2 hours to get to the Duomo ticket window without advance tickets. My tip: go early in the morning to museums, plan outdoor activities in the cooler hours, and always carry water.

Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit. The weather is pleasant, the summer crowds thin out, and the city is painted with warm, golden hues. It’s also harvest season in Tuscany, which makes this the perfect time for wine tastings and day trips to Chianti or Val d’Orcia.

Winter (December – February)
Winter is the quietest time to visit Florence. It can be chilly, but you’ll enjoy fewer tourists and shorter lines. Museums and galleries are much calmer, and the city feels like a local secret. If you’re around Christmas, the city lights up beautifully and the festive vibe is magical—perfect for cozy strolls and hot chocolate!

What to Do With More Time in Florence

If you have more time in Florence, I’d definitely recommend fitting in two day trips.

I spent 5 days in Florence while travelling solo last summer and booked two amazing day tours. The first was a day trip to Tuscany, visiting Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano to get a true taste of the Tuscan region. On the second tour, I went to Cinque Terre, which was all about colorful seaside towns, fresh seafood, and breathtaking ocean views.

Both tours were completely different vibes. Tuscany gave me dreamy countryside views, Orcia Valley panoramas, and, of course, wine tastings that I’d been dreaming about forever. Cinque Terre was more vibrant and lively—beaches, cliffside villages, and that magical Italian seaside energy.

Other Things to Include in Florence

Palazzo Vecchio
While I haven’t personally climbed it yet, I’ve heard it offers one of the most breathtaking views of Florence. It’s located in Piazza della Signoria and requires a bit of a climb. If you want to visit, make sure to book the Arnolfo Tower ticket for the best views—or grab a combined ticket for the museum and tower.
Palazzo Vecchio tickets

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens
The Pitti Palace is a grand Renaissance palace that was once home to the powerful Medici family. Entry requires a ticket, but you can admire its impressive architecture from the outside for free if you’re short on time.

Right behind it are the Boboli Gardens, part of the palace complex. These gardens are some of the most famous in Italy, filled with fountains, statues, and landscaped pathways. Plan to spend a couple of hours wandering at your own pace and enjoying panoramic views of Florence. You can also buy a separate, cheaper ticket just for the gardens.
Boboli Gardens tickets

Giardino Bardini
If it’s really hot or you want a quieter experience, check out the Giardino Bardini. It’s smaller, less crowded, and feels like a peaceful hidden gem. Don’t miss the terrace café where you can relax with a spritz and enjoy sweeping views of the city.

Explore Oltrarno
This charming, non-touristy neighborhood instantly makes you fall in love. Oltrarno reminded me of Trastevere in Rome or Le Marais in Paris. It’s full of local vibes, artisan shops, and quaint streets.

Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
Even if you don’t buy anything, this historic perfume shop is worth visiting just for the interiors—they feel like a museum. It’s also a great spot for unique souvenirs or a few quiet minutes of wandering.

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella
One of Florence’s important churches, this basilica has a beautiful façade and interior. It’s usually less crowded than the Duomo, which makes it a nice, peaceful stop.

What to Do With Less Time in Florence

If you only have 2 days in Florence, I recommend skipping the day trips and following the first two days of the main itinerary. Trying to squeeze a full day trip into a short stay just makes the schedule too tight.

If you have just 1 day in Florence, start early at the Duomo, then choose one museum—either the Accademia to see David or the Uffizi Gallery. Next, walk around Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River, and finish your day at Piazzale Michelangelo for one of the most breathtaking views in Italy.

If you want a foodie experience, you can also fit in a pasta cooking class for lunch or do a food tour that hits several amazing local stops.

Other Tips for 3 Days in Florence

Before we wrap up this guide on how to spend 3 days in Florence, here are a few tips to make your trip even more enjoyable:

• Book everything in advance. Skip-the-line tickets for the Duomo, Uffizi, and cooking classes are a must, especially in peak season.
• Learn a little Italian. Even a simple “Ciao” or “Grazie” goes a long way and locals appreciate the effort.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Florence is best explored on foot, and you’ll be walking A LOT through cobblestone streets and piazzas.
• Check sunset times. In the summer, sunsets are late, so plan your evening at Piazzale Michelangelo or along the Arno River accordingly.
• Start your day early. Beat the crowds at popular spots like the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and Piazza della Signoria.

Final Thoughts

That wraps up my 3 Day itinerary for Florence! I hope this guide helped you plan your trip. In my opinion, 3 days in Florence is the perfect amount of time for your first trip in order to see the best parts of the city.

Now that you know how to spend your 3 days in Florence, make sure to check out my Florence Best Things to do!

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