3 Perfect Days In Florence: The Best Itinerary for Art, Food & Culture Lovers

Wandering how to spend 3 days in Florence? Then this is the perfect Florence itinerary. It covers everything I did during my amazing visit to this beautiful Italian city.

This charming city, with its timeless art, rich history, and enchanting streets, has a way of capturing your heart from the moment you arrive. But with so much to see and do, it can be tricky to know how long to stay to really experience all that Florence has to offer.

In this guide, I’ll help you find the perfect balance – from iconic attractions to hidden gems – so you can make the most of your time in this magical city. Let’s dive into the 3 perfect days in Florence itinerary, day by day, to ensure you don’t miss a thing!

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Perfect 3 Days Florence Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Florence’s Historic & Artistic Heart

Your first day is all about history, art, and architecture, hitting the most famous landmarks in Florence’s historic center.

Discover the Interior of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) – 8:30 AM

Start your morning with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Cathedral, dates back to the 13th century and is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Towering over Florence, it’s a sight you can’t miss.

While you’ll need to pay to visit the Duomo, entrance to the cathedral itself is free!

Since the cathedral is free to enter, be prepared for potentially longer wait times. Depending on the day and your 2-day Florence itinerary, you may spend around 30 minutes to an hour in line.

The wait is well worth it, though! The interior is absolutely stunning. Make sure to take some time to explore the underground area as well, where you’ll find remnants of ancient Florence beneath your feet!

For those who prefer to bypass the line, consider joining a Skip the Line guided tour to save time.

Price:

• Cathedral entry: Free
• Dome climb (includes Baptistery & Bell Tower): €30
  Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
  Tip: Book your Dome climb tickets online in advance as spots fill up quickly!

Piazza della Repubblica – 10:30 AM

Just a short 5-minute walk from the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica is a vibrant square featuring a beautiful carousel and historic cafés. It’s one of the most-visited plazas in all of Florence, and it tends to get quite busy later in the day, so visiting early in the morning is the perfect time!

The square is dotted with several cafés and restaurants, where you can enjoy a cup of some of the best coffee in the world while soaking in the atmosphere.

Price: Free
Time Needed: 30 – 45 minutes

Piazza della Signoria – 11:15 AM

Just a 5-minute walk from Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza della Signoria is an open-air museum, home to stunning sculptures, including:

• Neptune’s Fountain by Bartolomeo Ammannati
• The replica of Michelangelo’s David at the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio
• Equestrian Monument of Cosimo I by Giambologna
• The open-air sculpture gallery known as Loggia dei Lanzi

One of the most significant historic squares in Florence, Piazza della Signoria is located just behind the Uffizi Gallery. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll after exploring the museum, so make sure to visit before or after your time at the Uffizi!

Price: Free
Time Needed: 30 – 45 minutes

Uffizi Gallery – 12:00 PM

Right next to Piazza della Signoria, one of the must-see attractions in Florence is the Uffizi Gallery. This world-renowned art museum, which opened in the 16th century, is home to iconic masterpieces like:

• Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”
• Leonardo da Vinci’s “Annunciation”
• Caravaggio’s “Medusa”

Tickets typically start from €25, I booked this skip-the-line ticket and didn’t have to wait in line, which was a huge relief since the lines here can get very long! It made the experience much smoother and allowed me to enjoy the art without the wait.

Plan to spend at least a few hours here, but don’t linger too long, as there are other exciting sights to explore on your Florence itinerary!

Price: from €25
Time Needed: 2 – 3 hours
Tip: Book your tickets in advance here to avoid long lines!

Lunch at All’Antico Vinaio – 2:30 PM

Time to grab Florence’s most famous sandwich! All’Antico Vinaio for an authentic taste of Florence sandwiches with delicious Tuscan meats, cheeses, and truffle spreads.

Make your way to All’Antico Vinaio, one of the city’s most famous sandwich spots. This beloved eatery, with over 20,000 reviews on Google, offers some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever have, it’s known for its schiacciata sandwiches filled with Tuscan meats, cheeses, and delicious spreads. The shop operates from 10 am to 10:30 pm, but be prepared for long queues, especially in the afternoon. You can grab your sandwich to enjoy at nearby Piazza della Signoria or just sit on the verge and eat like what I did. It’s a must-visit for an authentic Florentine street food experience!

Price: €7-10 per sandwich
Time Needed: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Tip: Expect long lines, but it’s worth the wait!

Gelato at Gelateria dei Neri – 03:30 pm

Just a 2-minute walk from All’Antico Vinaio, it’s time to treat yourself to the best gelato in Florence at Gelateria di Neri. Known for its rich, creamy flavors made from the freshest ingredients, this gelateria is a local favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for classic options like chocolate and pistachio, or something more adventurous, you’re guaranteed a delicious experience. It’s the perfect sweet stop to cap off your sandwich lunch!

Price: €3-5
Time Needed: 30 minutes

Ponte Vecchio: Florence’s Iconic Bridge and Sunset Views 04:30 PM

Just an 8-minute walk from All’Antico Vinaio, you’ll find the iconic Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge. Famous for its charming row of gold and jewelry shops, it’s a must-see landmark. As you stroll across the bridge, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Arno River, making it a perfect spot for photos and sightseeing.

Ponte Vecchio is the most iconic bridge in Florence. Once home to produce and meat vendors, it is now lined with souvenir and jewelry shops. The bridge was the first to cross the Arno River and was the only bridge in Florence until 1218. After being destroyed in a flood, it was rebuilt in 1345.

Originally built for defense purposes, Ponte Vecchio quickly became a bustling hub of commerce. Walking across it is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Florence. The bridge offers an incredible view, especially at sunset. You can even capture the beauty of Ponte Vecchio from the nearby bridge as the sun sets behind it.

You can choose to spend the sunset here, taking in the stunning views and colors reflecting off the river, or head back to Piazza del Duomo for a delightful dinner and immerse yourself in the vibrant Florence nightlife.

Price: Free
Time Needed: free

Piazza del Duomo: Dinner and Nightlife

After your visit to Ponte Vecchio, head back to Piazza del Duomo for an unforgettable evening. The area comes alive at night, with bustling cafes, lively restaurants, and the stunning Florence Cathedral illuminated beautifully. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious dinner and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Florence’s nightlife.

Whether you choose a traditional Tuscan meal or a modern Italian dish, there’s no shortage of dining options. After dinner, take a stroll around the square, enjoy a drink, and watch as the city continues to pulse with energy well into the night.

Price: Free
Time Needed: free

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Day 2: Michelangelo’s David, Gelato & A Pasta Cooking Class & Sunset At Piazzale MichaelAngelo

Galleria dell’Accademia – 9:00 AM

Start your second day at the Galleria dell’Accademia, one of Florence’s most famous museums. The highlight of your visit will be Michelangelo’s original David, one of the most iconic sculptures in the world. The museum also houses other notable works by Michelangelo, including his unfinished series of sculptures known as the Prisoners and Saint Matthew.

Tip: The museum gets quite busy, especially in the morning. Book skip-the-line tickets from here to avoid waiting in long queues, allowing you to make the most of your time exploring the art. This is the exact same ticket I booked and I went straight into the Museum.

Price: €16
Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours

Pasta Cooking Class – 11:00 AM

Learn how to make fresh pasta and with a local chef!

Price: €20 per person
Time Needed: 3 hours

If you’re traveling to Florence, I highly recommend taking an Italian cooking class. I had the chance to experience this Pasta cooking class with unlimited wine myself, and it was so much fun! There’s something truly special about learning to make authentic Tuscan dishes from local chefs who are so passionate about their food and traditions.

It’s not just about cooking; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture through its flavors. Whether it’s handmade pasta, rich sauces, or the perfect pizza, you’ll walk away with skills (and recipes!) that will bring a piece of Italy home with you. It was such a memorable experience, and a fantastic way to connect with the heart of Florence.

You can also choose to do this high rated class for Pasta cooking Class and Tiramisu with unlimited wine.

Wine Window Stop – 3:30 PM

One of the most charming experiences I had in Florence was discovering the wine windows—small, historic windows where wine was once sold to passersby. At places like Osteria Bela Donna, you simply knock on the window, and they’ll serve you a glass of local wine to enjoy right on the street. It’s such a fun and personal way to soak in Florence’s history while sipping a delicious drink. The wine windows offer a unique, authentic experience, and Osteria Bela Donna made it even more memorable!

Price: €5-8 per glass
Where to go: Osteria Bela Donna

Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo – 5:30 PM

Wrap up your second day in Florence with a trip to Piazzale Michelangelo, hands down one of the best spots in the city for an epic panoramic view. It’s perched on a hill just south of the Arno River, and from here, you get an amazing look at Florence’s skyline—think Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and those beautiful rolling Tuscany hills in the background.

Try to get there just before sunset to catch that golden hour magic as the city lights up in warm colors. It’s the perfect time to snap some pics, chill out, or even have a little sunset picnic with a bottle of wine (highly recommended). As the sun sets, the vibes at Piazzale Michelangelo are pretty special—people gather to enjoy the moment, some are strumming guitars, others are singing, and it all just creates this really cool, almost surreal atmosphere.

The relaxed, friendly vibe, combined with that unbeatable view, is a memory you won’t forget. Don’t forget to soak in the music, laughter, and just that Florence sunset vibe—it’s pure magic!

Price: Free
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Tip: Grab a bottle of wine and have a sunset picnic!

Dinner at Trattoria Mario – 8:00 PM

End your first day with authentic Tuscan food at Trattoria Mario, a family-run restaurant serving traditional dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).

Price: €25-40 per person
Location: Near Mercato Centrale Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori – 8:00 PM

A hidden gem with homemade pasta, truffle dishes, and Tuscan wines.

Price: €30-50 per person
Location: Near Piazza della Signoria
Tip: Reservations are a must!

Day 3: Day Trip to Pienza, Tuscany – Vineyards & Rolling Hills

Escape to Pienza, a charming Tuscan town known for stunning landscapes, wine, and Pecorino cheese!

Price: €50-70 per person

Pienza was by far one of the best day tours I had from Florence. This charming town, often called the “ideal city of the Renaissance,” is a true hidden gem in Tuscany. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia, it offers breathtaking views and that perfect, slow-paced Tuscan vibe. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful Renaissance architecture, including the stunning Pienza Cathedral and Piazza Pio II. And if you’re a foodie like me, you can’t leave without trying their famous pecorino cheese—it’s incredible!

The day spent in Pienza felt like a peaceful escape, with scenic walks and moments of pure tranquility. It was truly one of the highlights of my time in Tuscany, and I can’t recommend it enough! This is the exact link for the private tour I did to Orcia Valley, Montalcino and Pienza with lunch & Wine.

Return to Florence – 6:00 PM

Final Dinner at La Giostra – 8:00 PM

A romantic restaurant known for truffle pasta, burrata, and bistecca alla fiorentina.

Where to stay 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.

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.

As we wrap up this guide to Florence, I hope you’re feeling inspired and equipped to make the most of your visit to this enchanting city. Whether you’re exploring world-famous art museums, wandering through cobblestone streets, or indulging in delicious Tuscan cuisine, Florence has something to offer every traveler. And remember, the beauty of Tuscany extends far beyond the city, so be sure to explore the charming countryside when you get the chance. Whatever you choose to do, I’m confident Florence will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your Italian adventure!

I hope you enjoyed this 2-day itinerary and are feeling inspired to explore Florence! From world-class art to hidden gems, there’s so much to experience in this beautiful city. Don’t forget to check out my Florence full guide for even more tips, recommendations, and insider secrets to make the most of your time in this incredible destination. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in Florence!