How Many Days in Florence? The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary You’ll Love!
Florence absolutely stole my heart. This charming Italian city is like walking through a living museum—with Renaissance masterpieces on every corner, dreamy gelato shops tucked into side streets, and the scent of fresh pasta wafting through the air. If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Florence, I think 3 days is the perfect amount to soak in the city’s magic without feeling rushed.
In this post, I’m sharing my personal 3-day Florence itinerary, packed with art, architecture, and unforgettable food. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re just looking for the perfect Florence travel plan, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.
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Day 1: Florence Icons & First Impressions
When you’re figuring out how many days in Florence you need, I think the first day should absolutely focus on the Duomo, the heart of Florence. This is where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s a perfect place to start your Florence adventure.
However, be sure to book your tickets early. The Duomo complex gets very touristy, especially during peak hours. Pre-booking your tickets for the cathedral, museum, and climbing the dome will save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences!
Visiting the inside of Duomo
Don’t forget to step inside the Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze). The interior is just as stunning as the exterior, with its grand, soaring architecture and intricate details. One of the most awe-inspiring features is the frescoed ceiling—a masterpiece by Vasari and Zuccari depicting the Last Judgment. It’s a striking and vibrant work of art that sets the tone for the grandeur of the cathedral.
The cathedral’s sheer size is breathtaking, and the light streaming through its stained-glass windows creates a serene atmosphere. It’s worth taking a few moments to absorb the atmosphere.
The Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral) is undeniably one of the most impressive structures in the city, and no visit is complete without climbing to the top. The 463 steps lead you to a stunning panoramic view of the entire city, including the iconic Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Tuscan hills in the distance.
I won’t lie, it’s a workout, but the views are 100% worth the effort. If you’re feeling adventurous, this climb gives you an incredible perspective of the cathedral’s incredible architecture, especially the interior frescoes of the dome painted by Vasari and Zuccari.
Don’t miss the Crypt of Santa Reparata, located beneath the Duomo. It’s an incredible archaeological site where you can see the remains of the early Christian church that existed here before the current cathedral was built. The crypt is filled with ancient frescoes, tombs, and relics, giving you a unique glimpse into Florence’s religious and architectural history.
Explore the Duomo Museum
After you’ve soaked in the view, take some time to visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. Located next to the cathedral, this museum houses many original artworks and sculptures that once adorned the Duomo. You can see Michelangelo’s unfinished “Pietà”, Donatello’s sculptures, and even the bronze doors of the Baptistery, which were famously dubbed the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo. The museum is a fantastic way to understand the rich history of Florence and the Duomo itself. When we went in the morning, there was hardly anyone there.
Visit the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile
Right next to the Duomo is the Baptistery of St. John, a beautiful 11th-century building that is known for its magnificent golden mosaics. The most famous part? The Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti. These doors are a masterpiece of Renaissance art, and you’ll want to take some time to admire their intricate details.Afterward, head over to Giotto’s Campanile (the bell tower next to the Duomo). You can climb this tower too, which is less crowded than the Duomo itself, and offers another breathtaking view of the city and the cathedral below.
Stroll Around Piazza della Signoria
This square feels like an open-air museum. With the Palazzo Vecchio and the replica of Michelangelo’s David, it’s a great place to soak in the Renaissance vibes.
Day 2: Art, Culture & Romantic Views
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and today is all about diving into that cultural richness—with a little romance sprinkled in.
Explore the Uffizi Gallery
No matter the amount of days you’re in Florence you’ll need, set aside a few hours for the Uffizi Gallery. It’s one of the top art museums in the world, and honestly, it completely lived up to the hype. We pre-booked our tickets (a must!) and wandered through rooms filled with Renaissance masterpieces.
The highlights for me were Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera. Seeing them in person was surreal. You’ll also find works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and more. The building itself is beautiful too, with arched corridors and river views.
Stroll Along the Arno
One of my favorite ways to unwind in Florence was taking a walk along the Arno River. The views are especially magical around sunset, with the light reflecting off the water and the historic bridges in the distance. It’s the perfect place to slow down, take some photos, and just soak in the beauty of the city, especially near Ponte Vecchio, where the atmosphere feels timeless.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio
We loved wandering across Ponte Vecchio—there’s just something magical about it. With all the little jewelry shops and the views over the river, it felt like we were walking through a postcard. It’s one of those spots in Florence that you’ll want to visit more than once, just to take it all in.
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo was hands-down one of our favorite spots in Florence. We made the uphill walk just before sunset, and the view over the city with the Duomo, Arno River, and all those terracotta rooftops was absolutely worth it! It’s the kind of place where you just want to sit, relax, and take it all in.
Day 3: Tuscan Flavors & Local Life
By day three, you’ll feel more like a local than a tourist. Today’s focus is food, craftsmanship, and Florence’s quieter, authentic side.
Mercato Centrale
Start your morning wandering through Mercato Centrale—cheese, truffle oils, fresh produce, you name it. The ground floor is packed with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. Upstairs, there’s a lively food hall with a variety of vendors offering everything from handmade pasta to gelato. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or sample different Tuscan dishes in one place.
Florence leather market
You can’t leave Florence without checking out the famous leather market, and it did not disappoint. Rows of colourful bags, jackets, and wallets lined the stalls, and the smell of real Italian leather was everywhere. It was fun to browse, chat with the vendors, and even score a beautiful handcrafted souvenir to bring home.
Discover the Oltrarno Neighborhood
We really enjoyed spending time in the Oltrarno neighborhood, just across the river from the main sights. It has a more relaxed, local feel, with quiet streets, artisan workshops, and small cafés that aren’t packed with tourists. We wandered through Piazza Santo Spirito, stopped for an espresso, and browsed a few handmade leather shops. It’s a great area to slow down and get a feel for the everyday side of Florence.
So, How Many Days Should You Spend in Florence?
If you love art, history, and food (who doesn’t?), 3 days in Florence is just right. It gives you time to see the highlights, taste the local flavors, and still enjoy relaxed strolls and spontaneous finds. Of course, if you can stay longer, even better!
Where to eat?
Pizzette – Ganza Mai Abbastanza
After a morning of sightseeing, we stumbled across Ganza Mai Abbastanza, a charming little pizzeria near Piazza della Signoria. It was one of those hidden gems that we didn’t expect, but we’re so glad we found it! The pizzette—small, perfectly baked pizzas—were absolutely delicious. We tried a few, including Salsiccia E Friariel and Prosciutto E Burrata, and each bite was full of flavor. We also had a Arancino, which was delicious! The cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to recharge, and we can’t wait to go back next time we’re in Florence!
Gelato & cannoli – Mancuso Gelati Italiani
We couldn’t resist grabbing a treat at Mancuso Gelati Italiani and it did not disappoint! The pistachio-filled cannoli was incredible, and the gelato? So smooth and packed with flavor. It was the perfect pick-me-up, and we were already planning to come back before we even finished our first bite!
Florentine steak – Trattoria Dall’oste
We had dinner at Trattoria Dall’Oste and shared a Bistecca alla Fiorentina, the iconic Florentine steak. The steak was tender, flavourful, and perfectly seared on the outside. The restaurant offers a variety of high-quality meats. The atmosphere was lively, and the service attentive. It’s a must-visit spot for steak enthusiasts in Florence.
Gelato – Nuvola Pioggia Di Gelato
We stopped by Nuvola Pioggia di Gelato near the Duomo and were pleasantly surprised. The gelato was smooth and flavourful, and the pistachio cannoli was freshly filled and delicious. The staff were friendly, making it a nice spot to take a break during our Florence explorations.
Pasta & tiramisu- Taverna Dei Servi Firenze
Dinner at Taverna Dei Servi Firenze was one of our favorite meals in Florence. The carbonara was rich and perfectly creamy, the gnocchi were pillowy and full of flavor, and the tiramisu WOW so light and delicious, we scraped the plate clean. The vibe was cozy, the staff super welcoming, and every bite was just so good. We’re still talking about that meal!
FAQ: Planning Your Trip to Florence
1. Is 3 days enough for Florence?
Yes! Three days is perfect for first-time visitors to see the major sights and enjoy a mix of culture, food, and relaxation.
2. When is the best time to visit Florence?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal. The weather is beautiful, and the crowds are manageable.
3. Should I book museums in advance?
Absolutely. Especially the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia (where Michelangelo’s David is). Lines can be hours long in peak season.
4. Can I do a day trip from Florence?
Yes! Siena, Pisa, and the Chianti wine region are all great day trip options if you have an extra day.
5. What should I pack for Florence?
Comfortable shoes, a light scarf (for churches), and a camera. Florence is a walking city, so come prepared.
Final Thoughts
Florence is one of those cities that stays with you long after you’ve left. From the moment I arrived, I was completely enchanted. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves beautiful places, Florence has something special waiting for you!
Are you now ready to plan your dream trip to Florence? Pin this post for later!
