Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and artistic treasures. As someone who's wandered its charming streets multiple times, I can attest that one day in Florence is just enough to fall in love with this Renaissance gem. While it's impossible to see everything in such a short time, this itinerary will guide you through the city's highlights, allowing you to experience the essence of Florence. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, prepare for a day filled with art, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine that will leave you yearning to return.
When to Visit Florence
Timing is crucial when planning a trip to Florence. The city can get overwhelmingly crowded, especially during the peak summer months. As a seasoned traveler, I'd recommend visiting in October. The weather is still pleasant, and the tourist crowds have thinned out considerably. You'll be able to enjoy your Chianti outdoors while savoring seasonal delights like castagnaccio (chestnut cake) and freshly pressed olio nuovo.
If you're intrigued by historical events, consider timing your visit around June 24th for the Calcio Storico finals. This centuries-old competition is a sight to behold, with bare-chested men engaging in a physical contest that's part football, part wrestling, and entirely Florentine.
Florence at a Glance
Despite its outsized reputation, Florence is surprisingly compact. Home to about 380,000 residents, it's only the eighth-largest city in Italy. But don't let its size fool you - Florence punches well above its weight in terms of cultural significance.
Known as the "cradle of the Renaissance," Florence's streets are an open-air museum showcasing architectural marvels and artistic treasures. The Galleria degli Uffizi houses one of the world's most impressive art collections, but the city itself is a masterpiece waiting to be explored.
Your One-Day Florence Itinerary
Start with an Italian Breakfast
Begin your day like a true Florentine at a local bar. Don't worry, we're not talking about cocktails at dawn! In Italy, a bar is a social hub where locals gather for coffee and light bites throughout the day.
For a taste of history, try Caffè Gilli or Caffè Paszkowski in Piazza della Repubblica. These historic cafes have hosted literary giants and are perfect for people-watching. Order a cappuccino and a brioche (called cornetto in southern Italy) for a classic Italian breakfast. Remember, cappuccinos are strictly a morning affair in Italy - after 11 am, stick to caffè (espresso) to blend in with the locals.
Marvel at the Duomo
With breakfast under your belt, head to the iconic Duomo. This architectural marvel, with its striking white, green, and pink marble facade, is the heart of Florence. While the interior is surprisingly austere, it's worth paying the entrance fee to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome. The panoramic view of Florence's terracotta rooftops is simply breathtaking.
Don't miss the Battistero (Baptistery) across from the cathedral. Its bronze doors, particularly the eastern "Gates of Paradise," are a Renaissance masterpiece.
Explore Piazza della Signoria and Uffizi Gallery
Stroll through Florence's narrow streets to reach Piazza della Signoria, the city's political heart. Here, you'll find the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall since the 13th century. In front stands a replica of Michelangelo's David - don't be fooled, the original is elsewhere!
Adjacent to the piazza is the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery. If you're an art enthusiast, pre-book your tickets to avoid the notoriously long queues. The gallery houses masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo, among others. Spend a couple of hours here, or until your stomach starts rumbling for lunch.
Lunch at All'Antico Vinaio
For lunch, head to All'Antico Vinaio on Via dei Neri. This tiny sandwich shop has gained worldwide fame for its mouthwatering schiacciata - a Tuscan flatbread stuffed with the finest local ingredients. Don't let the queue deter you; it moves quickly, and the wait is well worth it.
My personal favorite is the La Favolosa, packed with prosciutto, pecorino cheese, and truffle cream. Grab a plastic cup of Chianti wine and join the locals eating on the sidewalk. It's a true Florentine experience and incredibly budget-friendly at around 7 euros for a meal that will keep you full for hours.
Visit Santa Croce
After lunch, walk off those carbs with a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce. This Gothic church is the final resting place of Italian luminaries like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The frescoes by Giotto are particularly impressive.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio
From Santa Croce, make your way to the Arno River and the famous Ponte Vecchio. This medieval bridge, lined with glittering jewelry shops, is one of Florence's most recognizable landmarks. Look out for the Vasari Corridor above the shops, a private passageway used by the Medici family to cross the river without mingling with commoners.
If time allows, visit the Palazzo Pitti and its beautiful Boboli Gardens on the other side of the river.
Discover Florence's Street Art
As you explore, keep an eye out for Florence's vibrant street art scene. Look for CLET's cleverly altered traffic signs, Blub's underwater renditions of famous paintings, and Exit Enter's charming stick figures. It's a delightful contrast to the city's Renaissance masterpieces.
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
As the day winds down, make the climb to Piazzale Michelangelo. The uphill walk is steep, but the panoramic view of Florence at sunset is unparalleled. Bring a bottle of wine and join the crowd of locals and tourists alike soaking in the golden hour.
Dinner and Drinks in Santo Spirito
For your evening, head to Piazza Santo Spirito. Start with an aperitivo at PopCafé or Volume. If you're on a budget, the generous buffets that come with your drink can easily double as dinner.
For a proper dinner, try Tamerò for homemade pasta, or splurge on a bistecca alla fiorentina at Osteria Santo Spirito. Don't forget to try Florentine specialties like ribollita or pappa al pomodoro.
End your night mingling with locals in the piazza or at Kitsch, a popular bar known for its quirky decor and great cocktails.
Where to Stay in Florence
- Leone Blu - Residenza d'Epoca: A luxurious historic house in the heart of Florence.
- Grand Hotel Minerva: Combines tradition with modern amenities, featuring a rooftop bar and pool.
- Plus Florence: An excellent hostel with great facilities, perfect for budget travelers and social butterflies.
Final Tips
Walking is the best way to explore Florence. The city's compact size makes it easy to cover on foot.
Stay vigilant against pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas.
If you have more time, consider day trips to nearby Tuscan towns or dive deeper into Florence's countless museums and churches. Each visit reveals new layers of this enchanting city, ensuring you'll always have a reason to return.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Florence with expertly guided tours. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these excursions offer a perfect blend of history, art, and culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, booking through Excurcity ensures an unforgettable Florentine experience tailored to your interests.
