The Best Florence 3 Day Experience in 2024!
Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is a city where history, art, and culture come alive. It may be the most picturesque city in all of Italy. The buildings are unique with vibrant, sunset hues and the remarkable Duomo at the center of the city will leave you feeling inspired. On our recent trip, my husband and I were enchanted by its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. Here’s how we spent three days in Florence 😊.
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
**Stay** Airbnb in Novoli
We stayed in a budget friendly Airbnb on the outskirts of Florence in a neighborhood called Novoli. We didn’t mind the 20-minute walk into the city, however if you’re looking to optimize your time we would recommend staying in Oltrarno. It is within walking distance to many of Florence’s iconic attractions, such as the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens. This charming neighborhood retains a traditional character with local trattorias, providing a more authentic experience away from the main tourist areas.
**Morning**
We headed to the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the medieval stone bridge lined with jewelry shops, on the Arno River. On the way, we stopped for cornetto (Italian pastries) and cappuccini at an unassuming café named Bianco è. We sat on the top floor and people-watched while enjoying our delicious breakfast. The Ponte Vecchio, or “Old Bridge,” is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit on any trip to the city. This historic bridge spans the Arno River and is renowned for its unique architecture that has little shops built into the bridge, rich history, and scenic views.
We then headed to Piazza della Signoria, home to the impressive Palazzo Vecchio and one of the two main replicas of Michelangelo’s David statue in the city.
A short walk brought us to the Uffizi Gallery or Galleria degli Uffizi, where we immersed ourselves in the masterpieces of Renaissance art. It is one of the most renowned art museums in the world, located in the heart of the city. Housed in a magnificent 16th-century building, it is home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance art. The Birth of Venus by Botticelli was a highlight!
Visiting the Uffizi Gallery can be a little overwhelming as your eyes try to take in all the beautiful art. Plan to spend at least three hours in the gallery to fully appreciate its vast collection. Also, it’s always a good idea to purchase tickets in advance, which can be here – Homepage | Uffizi Galleries.
**Afternoon**
After all this walking and sightseeing we were getting quite hungry. So we stopped for lunch at All’Antico Vinaio, famous for their delicious panini. Did you know that in Italian panini is the plural form of panino, so if you’re ordering two sandwiches ask for “due panini”, not “two paninis”! The twenty-minute line was well worth it and pro tip – there is a shop on either side of the street serving the same sandwiches, so go to which ever line is shortest. We enjoyed a variety of fillings, from traditional Tuscan salami to creamy burrata, all served on freshly baked schiacciata bread.
Continuing our exploration, we visited the Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo. The climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome was rewarded with breathtaking views of the city just as the sun started to set. The Duomo is a popular attraction, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. The Dome climb is especially popular, so reserving a specific time slot when purchasing your tickets is recommended to avoid lines and secure your spot. You can purchase tickets at their official website and if you want to go up to the dome, make sure to buy the Brunelleschi Pass option – The Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore | Florence Cathedral (duomo.firenze.it).
**Evening:**
After a delightful day, we returned to our Airbnb for a rest. In the evening, we had dinner at Trattoria Quattro Leoni, indulging in delectable Florentine cuisine, including their famous Fiocchetti di Pera (handmade pasta with pear and ricotta filling). It was amazing! One of my favorite dishes in all my travels to Italy!
We made sure to walk the streets of Florence at night. The cobblestone streets, lined with historic buildings and bustling piazzas are just so romantic. We stopped for a glass of wine at one the piazzas and soaked it all in.
Day 2: Artistic Treasures and Scenic Views
**Morning:**
We woke up and headed straight for pastries and cappuccini (our favorite morning routine in Italy) at Café Pasticceria Gamberini. They have amazing pastries and coffee and a really cute atmosphere.
Next, we headed to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. The statue’s grandeur and intricate details were so impressive, especially when you consider that Michaelangelo was only 26 years old when he sculpted it! We got lucky and only had to wait in a 10-minute line, however we’ve heard the line can take over an hour. It might be a good idea to purchase tickets in advance through their website – Home – Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze (galleriaaccademiafirenze.it).
**Afternoon**
For lunch, we enjoyed wood-oven pizzas at Ristorante Toto. We spent the afternoon exploring the magnificent Palatine Gallery and the beautiful Boboli Gardens, with its manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures.
We then strolled along the Arno River, making our way back to Oltrarno. The riverside walk was serene and picturesque. Gelato is always a must, so we stopped at Gelateria La Carraia for a sweet treat. We ended the day with an amazing dinner at Osteria Santo Spirito, savoring the authentic Tuscan dishes of Bolognese and Florentine Steak.
Day 3: Markets, Museums, and Monuments
**Morning**
Starting at the Mercato Centrale, we explored the bustling market, sampling local delicacies like pecorino cheese and fresh pasta. The market’s vibrant atmosphere was a feast for the senses. We bought enough meats, cheeses, and olives for a little picnic in front of Duomo.
This walk led us to the Basilica of Santa Croce, where we admired the tombs of greats like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The basilica’s art and architecture were breathtaking.
We were craving something sweet and headed to Gelateria del Neri for gelato! This may be one of our favorite gelaterias in Italy, their ricotta-pistachio’s rich flavor is mouthwatering!
**Afternoon**
For a late lunch or early dinner, we visited Trattoria San Lorenzo, enjoying some authentic Italian dishes. My favorite was the Ravioli del Pastore, the creamy Pecorino sauce was superb. The flavors were fresh and unique, nothing you can get in America. I ate at this trattoria the first time I visited Florence and so I was so excited to come back. We then explored the San Lorenzo Market, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and local products.
We spent the rest of the afternoon leisurely walking the streets of Florence, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
**Evening:**
We ended the day with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, where we sat and watched the sunset over the city. The view from the top was spectacular, offering a panoramic view of Florence. Finally, we finished our day with a long walk back to our Airbnb through the romantic streets of Florence. It was a bitter-sweet feeling savoring our last moments in such a beautiful city.
Conclusion
Our trip to Florence was an amazing three days we will never forget! The Renaissance masterpieces, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture made Florence the most beautiful city we have ever visited. Our days were full of taking in extraordinary arts and roaming the charming, romantic streets of Florence’s lively neighborhoods. Florence is a city we can’t wait to go back to one day, hopefully soon!
Taste
Dining:
- Trattoria 4 Leoni $$$
- Osteria Santo Spirito $$
- Vini e Vechhi Sapori $$
- All’Antico Vinaio $
- Trattoria San Lorenzo Firenze $$
- Trattoria da Tito $$
Cafes:
- Bianco e $
- Ditta Artigianale $
- Pasticceria Nencioni $
- Café Pasticceria Gamberini
Casual Eats:
- Mercato Centrale $
- Il Bufalo Trippone $
- All’Antico Vinaio $
Gelato:
- Gelateria La Carraia $
- Gelateria dei Neri $
Experience
111 – Must do
11 – Highly recommend
1 – Worthwhile
- Uffizi Gallery 111
- Florence Cathedral (Duomo) 111
- Accademia Gallery 111
- Basilica of Santa Croce 111
- Piazza della Signoria 111
- Ponte Vecchio 111
- Boboli Gardens 11
- Arno River Walk 11
- Piazza del Campo (Siena) 11
- Torre del Mangia (Siena) 11
- Mercato Centrale 11
- San Lorenzo Market 11
- Piazzale Michelangelo 11
- Pitti Palace 1
FAQs about Visiting Florence, Italy:
What are the must-see attractions in Florence?
Must-see attractions in Florence include the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), the Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David statue), and the Ponte Vecchio. These sites offer a mix of Renaissance art, stunning architecture, and historical significance.
How many days should I spend in Florence?
Spending 3-4 days in Florence allows you to thoroughly explore its main attractions, art museums, and charming streets. This timeframe provides a good balance between sightseeing and enjoying the local culture and cuisine.
What is the best time of year to visit Florence?
The best time to visit Florence is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is beautiful and it’s less crowded.
How can I skip the lines at popular attractions in Florence?
To skip the lines at popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery, purchase tickets online in advance at – Homepage | Uffizi Galleries.
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Florence?
The historic center (Centro Storico), Oltrarno, and Santa Croce are the best neighborhoods to stay in Florence, offering easy access to major attractions and a range of dining and shopping options. Each area has its own unique charm and atmosphere.
What are the best day trips from Florence?
We would suggest visiting the towns of Siena, Pisa, and Lucca since they are close by and are connected by train. You could also rent a car and explore the beautiful Tuscan wine region!
How do I get around Florence?
Florence is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets, allowing you to fully appreciate its historic and artistic treasures. There are also buses and taxis, is also available for longer distances or when you need a break from walking.
What are the best restaurants in Florence?
For an authentic Florentine dining experience, try Trattoria Quattro Leoni near Ponte Vecchio or Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori near Piazza della Signoria. Both are known for their traditional Tuscan cuisine and authentic atmosphere. Also check out All’Antico Vinaio for their world famous panini!
