Three days in Florence : The perfect Itinerary

Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to Three days in Florence : The perfect Itinerary. Florence is one of those rare cities that feels both grand and intimate at the same time.

Behind the Renaissance masterpieces and famous piazzas, there is another side to Florence — quiet mornings near Santa Maria Novella, the scent of leather workshops tucked behind church cloisters, long lunches in hidden trattorias, and evenings spent watching the light fade across the Arno.

Updated for 2026 with additional hotel recommendations, restaurant suggestions, and practical travel tips.

While you could spend weeks exploring Tuscany’s cultural capital, three days is enough to experience the essence of the city at a slower, more meaningful pace. This itinerary combines Florence’s iconic landmarks with some of the places and moments that made us fall in love with it ourselves.

From wandering through Oltrarno and climbing Giotto’s Bell Tower to visiting the historic perfume pharmacy and watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, this guide is designed to help you experience Florence beyond a checklist of attractions.

One of the things I love most about Florence is how walkable it is. The historic centre is wonderfully compact, allowing you to move easily between museums, churches, cafés, artisan workshops, and hidden piazzas entirely on foot.

This guide is part of The Velvet Runway’s curated collection of city guides, designed for travellers who love slower travel, beautiful interiors, meaningful experiences, and discovering the atmosphere of a destination as much as its landmarks.

Why visit Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class art. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence offers an unparalleled cultural experience, where every corner of the city is steeped in history and beauty, but what makes the city truly unforgettable is the way history, beauty, and everyday life exist so naturally side by side.

One moment you are standing beneath Brunelleschi’s magnificent Duomo, and the next you are sipping espresso in a tiny square while locals cycle past on their way to work.

Florence is a city of masterpieces, but it is also a city of details — faded shutters, artisan workshops, hidden wine windows, quiet cloisters, and candlelit trattorias tucked behind centuries-old façades.

Art and Culture

Florence is home to some of the world’s most celebrated artworks and museums. From Botticelli’s Birth of Venus in the Uffizi Gallery to Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia, the city offers an extraordinary concentration of Renaissance art within walking distance of each other.

Even if you are not usually drawn to museums, Florence has a way of making art feel accessible, emotional, and deeply connected to the city itself.

Stunning Architecture

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), with its striking red dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge lined with jewellery shops, and the grand Palazzo Vecchio, the city’s town hall, are just a few more examples of the architectural wonders that make Florence so special.

Rich History and Culture

Walking through Florence is like stepping back in time. The city’s streets are filled with historical sites, from the Basilica of Santa Croce, where famous Italians like Michelangelo and Galileo are buried, to the ancient Piazza della Signoria, a political hub during the Renaissance. Florence is also home to numerous festivals, traditional events, and a vibrant local culture that gives you a glimpse into the city’s past and present.

Culinary Delights

Italy is renowned for its food, and Florence is no exception. The city offers everything from rustic trattorias to modern restaurants offering innovative takes on Italian cuisine.

Expect long lunches, fresh pasta, local wines, artisan gelato, and relaxed evenings spent lingering over dinner in atmospheric trattorias.

Traditional Tuscan cuisine is simple, rustic, and deeply comforting, with many restaurants still serving recipes that have been passed down through generations.

Gateway to Tuscany with numerous day trip possibilities

Florence is not just a destination in itself, but also the perfect gateway to the rest of Tuscany. From Florence, you can easily take day trips to the rolling hills of Chianti, the medieval towns of Lucca, Siena and San Gimignano, or the vineyards and olive groves that make Tuscany so famous.

And finally, the historic centre of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a deep historical and cultural significance.

Is three days enough to visit Florence?

Three days in Florence is enough time to experience the highlights of the city and get a good sense of its rich history, art, and culture, while still leaving space for the slower moments that make the city so memorable.

With thoughtful planning and advance reservations for major attractions, you can visit the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia, Santa Croce, Palazzo Pitti, and the Boboli Gardens while still finding time to wander through Oltrarno, linger over long lunches, and enjoy Florence’s atmosphere beyond the main sights.

That said, Florence is one of those cities that rewards repeat visits. There is always another quiet street, hidden courtyard, artisan boutique, or trattoria waiting to be discovered.

For a first visit, however, three days offers an excellent introduction to one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

Three days in Florence : The perfect Itinerary

With its rich history, stunning art, culinary delights and magnificent architecture, Florence offers a getaway that will leave you captivated. Join us as we explore the best activities and sights to make the most of your time in this beautiful Italian city.

I have written the itinerary in the order we followed, grouping the activities by area, but you can do the days in any order you like. If you have more time or plan to come back, then you can explore the same attractions we’ve mentioned below, but at a more leisurely pace so you can spend more time at the attractions that interest you the most.

Three days in Florence : Day One : Oltrarno and the Boboli Gardens

Most itineraries start with the Duomo, and while I can see the logic in this, we started with a stroll through the historic centre, over the Ponte Vecchio to the Boboli Gardens in Oltrarno. This enabled us to get our bearings, see the exterior of many of the historic sites and start our visit to Florence by strolling around in the sunshine. (If it’s raining you might want to therefore start with day 2 of our itinerary).

Stroll up to the Piazza del Duomo and take a look at Florence’s most iconic landmark, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) and the Campanile, although you might want to save visiting the interiors for another day.

Just a short walk away, you will come to the Piazza della Signoria, home to the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall, and several important statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery. It is a MUST to book “skip the line tickets” for this, unless you want to spend hours of your precious time in Florence queuing!

Visiting the Uffizi Gallery in Florence can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your level of interest in art and how thoroughly you want to explore the museum.

If you’re short on time and/or just want to get a quick glimpse of the highlights, you can do a brief 1 to 2-hour visit. This will allow you to see the most famous pieces, but you might have to skip over some sections. We had already visited the Uffizi Gallery on a previous trip to Florence so were able to limit our time here.

This should allow you to see the major masterpieces, such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation, and works by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

If you want expert insights into the art and history of the gallery, helping you to focus on the most important works without getting overwhelmed, then a guided tour, lasting 2-3 hours would be a good option for you.

Tips for an Efficient Visit:

• Book Tickets in Advance and Book a timed entrance slot : The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most popular attractions in Florence, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues. Also, make sure to book with a SPECIFIC entrance time.
• Plan Your Route: If you haven’t booked a guided tour, consider identifying the key artworks you want to see before your visit and plan your route accordingly to avoid “wasting time”.
• Use a Map or Guidebook: The gallery is large and can be overwhelming, so using a map or guidebook can help you navigate more efficiently.

Then wander down to the River and take a leisurely stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most picturesque bridge, lined with jewelry shops.

Fun Fact : During the medieval period, Ponte Vecchio was a bustling hub of commerce. Initially, the bridge was lined with shops belonging mostly to butchers, as well as some fishmongers, and tanners. These tradespeople chose the bridge for its proximity to the river, where they could easily dispose of waste—a practice that led to unpleasant conditions and smells on and around the bridge. This all changed in 1593, when Duke Ferdinand I de’ Medici ordered the butchers and tanners to vacate the bridge due to the stench and waste they produced, and he replaced them with goldsmiths and jewellers, (a more agreeable commerce for the Medicis) and the shops that line the bridge today still sell jewellry, as well as art, and souvenirs. You will also see the Vasari Corridor, an elevated walkway that connects the Palazzo Vecchio (in Piazza della Signorina) with the Palazzo Pitti (the Medici family residence) and the Boboli Gardens on the opposite side of the river. The corridor runs along the top of the Ponte Vecchio, and allowed the Medici family to move freely between their residence and the government center without mingling with the public.

Once across the Ponte Vecchio walk down to the Oltarno neighbourhood. Oltrarno is a charming neighborhood located on the south bank of the Arno River in Florence, famous for its rich history, artisan workshops, and authentic local experience. 

The Oltarno District is a bohemian, quirky neighborhood full of winding alleyways, quaint coffee shops, little boutiques, and a great area to have lunch and/or “gelato” on your first day in Florence.

It is home to the Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens, but also several other beautiful monuments and landmarks, including The Basilica di Santo Spirito, a beautiful church designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, and is renowned for its elegant Renaissance architecture, as well as many “Buchette del Vino” (wine windows).

Insider Tip : The Santo Spirito area is packed with wine windows. Buchette del vino, or wine windows, are a peculiar feature of Florence. They are little windows in the wall, which have been used for hundreds of years to sell wine in a fiasco (glass bottle) without having to open a shop and avoid paying taxes. Most wine windows about 12 inches high and 8 inches wide and there are more than 180 wine windows in Florence.

Nestled in the heart of Oltrarno is Piazza Santo Spirito which is one of the most famous sites in the neighborhood. It stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of Florence’s artistic district. 

Dating back to the Middle Ages, this enchanting square has been a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike, and its historical importance is deeply rooted in the Basilica di Santo Spirito, a Renaissance-style church that dominates the square with its majestic presence. 

Make sure to visit the Palazzo Pitti and theBoboli Gardens. The palace itself is a treasure trove of art, while the gardens offer stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can buy tickets at the ticket office, but if you want to be sure of skipping the line you can book ahead. We went on a Monday just to visit the gardens and didn’t book ahead.

Insider Tip : The Palazzo Pitti is closed on Mondays, so if you want to visit the Palace itself, it’s best to avoid this day.
However, the Boboli Gardens are open and if you want to take advantage of a calm moment to visit the gardens then this would be a good time!

With its origins dating back to 1418, when Luca Pitti acquired the land, these gardens have evolved over the centuries, shaped by the hands of the Medici family and subsequent modifications by the Savoys. They opened to the public in 1766 and have enchanted visitors ever since.

In the evening head to the Piazzale Michelangelo, for one of the best views over Florence. The walk up is quite steep so may be a challenge if your legs are tired after a day of exploring the city’s sights.

Day Two : Art, History and Culture

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Duomo and if you’re feeling energetic, climb the Duomo’s Dome (Brunelleschi’s Dome) for panoramic views of the city. Then head to Giotto’s Campanile (Bell Tower), adjacent to the Duomo, for another opportunity for stunning city views.

Next, visit the Battistero di San Giovanni (baptistery), known for its bronze doors and stunning interior mosaics.

Insider Tip : The Duomo is free, but the queues can be quite long. For this reason I recommend booking an early morning ticket for the Campanile and the Baptistery and plan to visit the Duomo first thing on your way to the Bell Tower. You will get a ticket that includes the Bell Tower and the Baptistery and you must visit the Bell Tower first.

The Campanile di Giotto (or Giotto’s Campanile) is a 14th century bell tower that offers stunning views of the city. You should be aware that you need to climb 414 steps to the top, and they’re quite steep! However, unlike the climb to the top of the Duomo, which is more enclosed, the ascent up the campanile is through a series of staircases with stops on the way up that offer views over the city and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

When you come down, head to the Baptistery of San Giovanni, also known as the Florence Baptistery, one of the oldest and most revered buildings in Florence. For centuries, the Baptistery was the only place in Florence where baptisms were performed, and it played a central role in the religious life of the city. The building also held great civic importance, hosting ceremonies and events that marked Florence’s status as a powerful city-state. It’s especially famous for its bronze doors, known as the “Gates of Paradise.”

You can buy tickets here.

In the afternoon, head up to Piazza San Marco, where you can visit San Marco Church and Convent. We walked up to the Piazza San Marco, but at the time of our visit there were construction works in the Piazza and so we didn’t visit the church or convent. Also, make sure to check the opening times if you do decide to visit!

Insider Tip : A great place for lunch in this area is the Via de’ Ginori, where I can recommend both SimBIOsi Organic Cafe (for delicious fresh pasta and pizza) and La Ménagère (a delightful café and gift shop).

From Piazza San Marco, it’s just a short walk to Via Ricasoli, where the entrance to the Accademia Gallery is located. As for the Uffizi, it is best to book “skip the line tickets” with a designated time slot. This is what we did and it took us less than 5 minutes from our arrival opposite the gallery (the pick-up point) to arriving in front of Michelangelo’s famous statue of David.

It’s then just a short walk to the Medici Palace (Palazzo Medici Riccardi), which is about 500 meters (0.3 miles) from the Accademia.

You can explore the historic rooms, including the Chapel of the Magi, the courtyard, and the galleries. The palace also hosts temporary art exhibitions, adding to its cultural significance.

The building’s central location in Florence makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the Renaissance and the legacy of the Medici family. Whether you’re fascinated by its architecture, the art it houses, or its role in shaping the history of Florence, the Medici Palace offers a unique glimpse into one of the most influential families of the Renaissance.

We didn’t book tickets as we weren’t sure of our timing at the Accademia we didn’t want to commit to a specific time slot, but we didn’t have any problem gaining access and there were no queues.

After the Medici Palace, head south towards Piazza San Lorenzo, and continue straight until you reach the San Lorenzo Market area, which is located around Piazza San Lorenzo and extends into the surrounding streets.

The San Lorenzo Market consists of two sections: the indoor market (Mercato Centrale), which focuses on food and groceries, and the outdoor market, where you can find leather goods, clothing, and other souvenirs.

Depending on your timings, you may want to visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo and the Medici Chapels as they are located very close to the San Lorenzo Market.

Insider Tip: The Medici Chapels are part of the Basilica di San Lorenzo, though are visited by a separate entrance to the right side of the church.

I recommend visiting both the Basilica and the Medici Chapels. Whilst it is possible to book online, it is not necessary.

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture, deeply intertwined with the history of Florence and the Medici family. You can explore the Old Sacristy designed by Brunelleschi with decorations by Donatello, featuring intricate reliefs. The basilica also houses Donatello’s bronze pulpits, which depict scenes from the Passion of Christ. Additionally, you can visit the Cloister of San Lorenzo, also known as the Cloister of the Canons, a peaceful and elegant space located adjacent to the basilica.

As part of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Medici Chapels are perhaps the most famous section of the church. These chapels were designed as the burial place for the Medici family and are richly decorated with marble, semi-precious stones, and Michelangelo’s sculptures, reflecting the Medici family’s status as Florence’s ruling dynasty.

After your visit to the Basilica di San Lorenzo, stroll through the San Lorenzo outdoor market, where you will find a variety of leather goods. However, not all is real Italian leather, so take time to inspect the quality. Real leather has a distinct smell, feels supple, and should have a consistent texture. Be cautious of items that are overly shiny or priced too low—they might be synthetic. If in doubt, ask the vendor about the product’s origin.

Insider Tip: Haggling is common at the San Lorenzo Leather Market, so don’t be shy about negotiating prices. Vendors often expect it, and you can sometimes get a better deal if you show interest but are willing to walk away. Start by offering a price lower than what you’re willing to pay and negotiate from there. Also, I would recommend visiting later in the afternoon when the market is quieter and vendors may be more open to negotiating when they’re looking to close up.

If in doubt, delay your purchases until after you have visited the leather school at Santa Croce. However, the Leather School’s products come with a higher price tag than those in the markets, so if you’re looking for a bargain then the market is your best bet.

Wander back to the historic centre and the Piazza della Repubblica: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this historic square, filled with cafes and street performers, then end the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, and savour some traditional Tuscan cuisine, and Italian wines.

Day Three : Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce (and a little shopping)

Note : The Day Three itinerary is not as fully charged as the first two days, leaving you some time to return to places you want to see again and for some souvenir shopping.

As our hotel was located in the same street as the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, the oldest pharmacy and perfumery in Italy and one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, we started our day here. Not only is this one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, in my opinion it is also one of the most beautiful, and if you think the interior ressembles a church then you would be correct!

It all began in 1221, over 800 years ago, when the Dominican friars were granted the use of “Santa Maria Inter Vineas” (“Holy Mary Among the Vines”), a small church just outside the city walls, where they cultivated a botanical garden of herbs and plants to craft medicines, ointments and balms. In 1334, when the Dominican friars healed the rich merchant Dardano Acciaioli he donated them the magnificent San Niccolò-devoted chapel that still today sits at the very heart of the boutique-museum in Via della Scala 16 in Florence.

The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella offers a unique experience that combines history, art, and luxury. You can explore the elegant salesrooms, learn about the history of the pharmacy in the museum, and shop for exquisite products that carry on centuries-old traditions.

For the Florence Edit, I’ve chosen Angeli di Firenze, a fragrance inspired by the city itself and a lovely way to bring a little of Florence home with you.

Insider Tip : Entrance to the pharmacy is free so there is no need to book a visit unless you want a guided tour. However, the queues get longer and longer as the day progresses so I really recommend being there for the opening at 9h30 am so you can get in before the crowds.

Carry on down Via della Scala to Plaza Santa Maria Novella and visit Santa Maria Novella Church: famous for its façade and stunning frescoes.

Then head to the Santa Croce area for lunch, and a visit to the Santa Croce Basilica. This beautiful church is known for its frescoes and the tombs of famous Italians like Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo. The church itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and its cloisters and museum are also worth exploring.

The Florence Leather School (Scuola del Cuoio) is located within the Santa Croce complex, and even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the school is worth visiting for its historical and cultural context and is a must-visit for anyone interested in high-quality leather craftsmanship. Founded after World War II to help war orphans learn a trade, the leather school is still a family-run business today and remains dedicated to preserving traditional Florentine leatherworking techniques.

At the Leather School, you can witness skilled artisans at work, crafting bags, wallets, belts, and other leather goods. Watching the artisans handcraft each piece gives you an appreciation for the time, skill, and tradition that goes into every item. Unfortunately, we visited on a public holiday so didn’t get to see any artisans at work.

The Leather School offers a range of beautiful leather products that are a step above what you might find in the markets. The quality and craftsmanship are exceptional, and while the prices are higher than at street markets, you’re paying for authentic, handmade items that will last for years.

Insider Tip : One of the unique services the Leather School offers is the ability to personalize your purchase. For an added fee, you can have your initials monogrammed onto your chosen leather item. This makes for a truly special and one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift. The artisans will do this on-site, often right in front of you.

In the afternoon (depending on the weather), I recommend a River Trip on the Arno River for a different perspective on Florence’s stunning architecture and history.

A boat trip on the Arno provides unparalleled views of Florence’s iconic landmarks, such as the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and the Palazzo Vecchio, from the water. Seeing these historic structures from the river gives you a new appreciation for their architecture and the city’s layout.

It also offers a peaceful escape from the crowded streets with the gentle flow of the river and the serene surroundings allowing you to take in the city at a slower pace.

Many river trips are guided by knowledgeable locals who share fascinating stories and historical details about the city and I learned a lot about the history of the Medici Family on our tour.

I would time the cruise for the last afternoon cruise (but not necessarily the sunset cruise which costs extra) so you are back in time for sunset views over The Ponte Vecchio.

End your trip with a memorable dinner at one of Florence’s renowned restaurants. For a special experience, consider drinks and /or dining at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Duomo or the Arno River.

Map View of 3 days in Florence : The perfect Itinerary

Day One (Blue)

1. Piazza della Signoria
2. Uffizi Galleries
3. Ponte Vecchio
4. Basilica di Santo Spirito
5. Palazzo Pitti
6. Boboli Gardens
7. Piazzale Michelangelo

Day Two (Red)

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
2. Brunelleschi’s dome
3. Campanile di Giotto
4. Baptistery of St. John (hidden behind 3)
5. Piazza San Marco
6. Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze
7. Via de’ Ginori
8. Riccardi Medici Palace
9. Piazza di San Lorenzo
10. Basilica di San Lorenzo
11. Medici Chapel
12. San Lorenzo Markets
13. Piazza della Repubblica

Day Three (Green)

1. Officina Profumo – Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
2. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
3. Basilica de Santa Croce
4. Arno Boat (for river tour)
5. Hotel Rivoli Boutique

Where to Stay

For a first visit to Florence, I highly recommend staying within or very close to the historic centre so you can explore the city on foot.

Santa Maria Novella

This is one of the best areas to stay in Florence, particularly for a first visit. It is central, elegant, and within walking distance of all the major attractions while also offering easy access to the train station.

Oltrarno

If you prefer a quieter and more atmospheric side of Florence, Oltrarno is a beautiful choice. Located across the Arno River, this area feels more local and artisan-focused, with hidden cafés, wine windows, and charming piazzas.

Santa Croce

Santa Croce has a lively but relaxed atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and independent boutiques while still feeling authentically Florentine.

Recommended Hotels in Florence

Florence offers everything from intimate boutique hotels housed in historic palazzos to elegant luxury properties overlooking the Arno. For a first visit, I recommend staying within or close to the historic centre, allowing you to explore the city largely on foot.

Boutique and Luxury Hotels

Hotel Gemma – a beautifully designed boutique hotel offering contemporary luxury in the heart of Florence, with elegant interiors and easy access to the city’s major attractions. Find our more about La Gemma Hotel here.

Hotel Rivoli Boutique Hotel – set within a former Franciscan convent near Santa Maria Novella, this charming boutique hotel combines historic character with modern comfort.

Portrait Firenze – one of Florence’s most exclusive luxury hotels, offering exceptional service and stunning views over the Arno and Ponte Vecchio.

Hotel Lungarno – an elegant riverside hotel renowned for its art collection, refined atmosphere, and spectacular location beside the Arno.

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze – a historic Florentine landmark blending grand heritage, luxurious interiors, and one of the city’s finest spa experiences.

Elegant Mid-Range Hotels

Palazzo Guadagni – located on Piazza Santo Spirito, this atmospheric hotel offers classic Florentine charm and a beautiful rooftop terrace.

Hotel Davanzati – a warm and welcoming family-run hotel known for its excellent service and unbeatable historic-centre location.

Hotel Calimala – a stylish contemporary hotel featuring modern design, rooftop dining, and easy access to Florence’s main sights.

Quiet and Atmospheric Stays

AdAstra Suites – An intimate retreat overlooking one of Europe’s largest private gardens, perfect for travellers seeking peace and space.

Explore our curated selection of hotels here.

Where to Eat in Florence

Florence is a city best experienced slowly, and some of my favourite moments here involved lingering over lunch, enjoying aperitivo as the city softened into evening, and discovering restaurants that felt as memorable as the monuments themselves.

Traditional Tuscan Restaurants

Trattoria Cammillo – a beloved Florentine institution serving classic Tuscan dishes in an elegant yet welcoming setting near the Ponte Vecchio.

Trattoria Sostanza – One of Florence’s most iconic traditional restaurants, famous for its butter chicken and wonderfully authentic atmosphere.

Osteria dell’Enoteca – a refined neighbourhood restaurant offering seasonal Tuscan cuisine alongside an excellent wine selection.

Beautiful Cafés and Aperitivo Spots

La Ménagère – part café, part restaurant, part concept store, this beautifully designed space is perfect for lunch, coffee, or aperitivo.

Procacci – a historic Florentine café renowned for its elegant atmosphere and famous truffle sandwiches.

Ditta Artigianale – one of Florence’s best speciality coffee destinations, ideal for breakfast or a relaxed afternoon pause.

Rooftop Restaurants and Bars in Florence

SE·STO on Arno – a sophisticated rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar offering panoramic views across Florence’s skyline and the Duomo.

Angel Roofbar – a stylish rooftop terrace with spectacular cathedral views, particularly beautiful at sunset.

Divina Terrazza Rooftop Bar – an atmospheric rooftop spot overlooking the historic centre, perfect for evening drinks after a day of sightseeing.

Where to find Gelato Stops in Florence

Gelateria della Passera – a small artisan gelateria in Oltrarno known for its creative flavours and local following.

Perché No! – one of Florence’s oldest gelaterias, serving traditional handmade gelato since the 1930s.

Vivoli – a historic Florentine favourite famous for its rich gelato and classic Italian desserts.

Some of Florence’s most memorable meals happen away from the guidebooks. Leave room in your itinerary for a spontaneous lunch, a quiet wine bar, or a small trattoria discovered while wandering through the city.

A Practical Note about a Long Weekend in Florence

• Book Tickets in Advance: Many attractions have long lines, so book tickets online where possible.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Florence is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
• Try the Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on local specialties like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and cantucci with vin santo.

First-time visitors may find my Italy travel tips guide helpful when planning their trip.

FAQ: Visiting Florence

Q: Is 3 days enough in Florence?
A: Yes — three days is enough to experience Florence’s major highlights while still enjoying the city at a relaxed pace. Advance booking is essential for popular museums such as the Uffizi and Accademia.

Q: What is the best area to stay in Florence?
A: Santa Maria Novella is ideal for a first visit thanks to its central location and walkability, while Oltrarno offers a quieter and more local atmosphere.

Q: Is Florence walkable?
A: Very much so. Florence is one of Europe’s most walkable cities, and most major attractions are located within the historic centre.

Q: Do you need to book Florence museums in advance?
A: Yes. I strongly recommend booking timed tickets in advance for both the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery to avoid long queues.

Q: What is the best month to visit Florence?
A: Spring and early autumn are particularly lovely, especially May, June, September, and October, when temperatures are pleasant and the city feels vibrant without the intense summer heat.

Q: Is Florence expensive?
A: Florence can be expensive during peak season, especially for centrally located hotels. However, there are many excellent mid-range hotels and traditional trattorias that offer very good value.

Q: Can you take day trips from Florence?
A: Absolutely. Florence is perfectly located for day trips to Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Chianti, and San Gimignano.

Q: Is Florence suitable for slow travel?
A: Absolutely. While Florence is famous for its museums and monuments, it is also a wonderful city for wandering. Some of my favourite memories involve simply exploring Oltrarno, discovering hidden wine windows, lingering in cafés, and watching sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Final thoughts about Three days in Florence : The perfect Itinerary

Florence is a city that invites you to slow down.

Yes, there are world-famous masterpieces and extraordinary monuments, but some of the most memorable moments happen quietly — wandering through Oltrarno at golden hour, listening to church bells echo across the rooftops, discovering a hidden wine window, or lingering over dinner as the city begins to glow after dark.

This 3-day itinerary covers the best of Florence’s art, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re admiring Renaissance masterpieces, exploring charming neighborhoods, or simply indulging in the local cuisine, Florence is a city that will captivate you at every turn. Don’t forget to take your time, enjoy the small moments, and immerse yourself in the beauty that is Florence.

If you are planning a trip to Italy, Florence deserves a place on your itinerary — not simply for its beauty and history, but for the atmosphere, elegance, and timeless charm that make it one of Europe’s most unforgettable cities.

Discover more travel inspiration from cities around the world in my curated collection of city guides.

The Florence Edit

Inspired by long afternoons wandering through Renaissance piazzas, artisan leather workshops, and elegant Florentine cafés, I’ve gathered a few pieces that capture the timeless style of Florence.

Think linen dresses for warm Tuscan afternoons, comfortable leather sandals for exploring cobbled streets, a raffia tote for market visits, delicate gold jewellery, oversized sunglasses, and a light silk scarf for evenings overlooking the Arno.

The palette is simple and understated — soft neutrals, creamy whites, and touches of olive green inspired by the Tuscan landscape itself.

Effortless, elegant, and designed for slow travel, these are the pieces I would pack for a long weekend in Florence.

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This article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to “Walking Tours and Articles in Florence.”

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Note : Make sure to check opening hours and prices before planning your trip.