3 Days in Florence Itinerary for First-Timers

Looking for the perfect Florence itinerary for an exquisite 3 days in the city? Keep reading…

A living canvas of Renaissance genius and contemporary Italian creativity, Florence is layered with centuries of art, architecture, and exquisite craftsmanship. Every corner offers something to study: the curve of a dome, the way afternoon light hits a fresco, a perfectly tailored coat in a boutique window.

There’s nowhere else quite like it, a fact known by many (given its popularity). As someone with a degree in art history, Florence was the first place I ever visited on a university study trip. We walked the same streets Michelangelo and Botticelli once did, sketching sculptures and scribbling notes under the vaulted ceilings of palazzi.

Since then, I’ve returned to Florence many times—on solo research trips, photography assignments, and design-focused getaways—and each time I uncover something new. The city is layered like that: you can come for the classics, but it’s the details, the textures, the stories hidden behind facades that truly stay with you.

This 3 Day Florence itinerary is built for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of Florence with a design-forward, culturally immersive lens. It covers the icons, but also carves out time for slow moments, artisan discoveries, and lesser-known gems that speak to Florence’s past and its present.

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Best Time to Visit Florence, Italy

Florence is one of those rare cities that never quite loses its magic, no matter what time of year you decide to visit. But if you’re curating the perfect first-time itinerary for Florence, there are definitely better times than others to soak in the city’s beauty, design, and culture.

In my experience, the absolute best time to visit Florence is during the shoulder and low seasons—late April through early June and September through early December. These months strike that sweet spot between liveliness and serenity.

The weather is glorious: think balmy afternoons, golden light perfect for photography, and evenings cool enough to warrant a Negroni sweater. Spring brings fresh blooms to the Boboli Gardens, while fall paints the Tuscan hillsides in beautiful golden hues.

July and August, on the other hand, are when Florence becomes a full-blown Renaissance Disneyland. It’s hot—oppressively so—and the crowds can make something as simple as crossing the Ponte Vecchio feel like an Olympic event. Many locals escape to the coast, meaning some boutiques, design studios, and restaurants take a summer hiatus, and you’ll miss out on those hidden gems that make Florence feel personal and curated.

Winter has its charm—particularly December, when the city is dressed in twinkling lights and stylish Florentines layer up in cashmere coats and statement boots. The weather may not be perfect, but it’s the time of year to escape the crowds.

I once spent a cozy January week hopping between concept stores and candlelit wine bars, and while it wasn’t “sunshine and gelato” weather, it was rich in atmosphere and a very local experience.

How Much Time Do You Need in Florence?

You really do need at least two full days to get a proper feel for Florence. That’s just enough time to cover the essentials—the Duomo complex, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and maybe a quieter church or two—without turning your trip into a frenzied checklist.

Florence rewards slow appreciation, and even the big-name attractions deserve more than a glance.

With a three days in Florence itinerary, you’re in ideal territory. You can use the third day to venture out on a day trip into Tuscany—think Siena, San Gimignano, or a long, wine-soaked lunch in Chianti—or you can stay in town and dig into Florence’s design-forward side.

That extra day lets you explore hidden gems like artisan studios in the Oltrarno, see contemporary exhibits at Palazzo Strozzi or Museo Novecento, and spend quality time shopping for leather goods and curated fashion pieces.

Florence may be compact, but it’s layered. Two days will show you the city; three will give you that little bit more.

Getting To and Around Florence

Florence is well connected and relatively easy to get to, especially if you’re coming from other major cities in Italy or Europe.

The main airport is Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), located just 20 minutes from the city center. It’s small, efficient, and primarily services European hubs like Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.

If you’re flying internationally, you’ll likely connect through one of those cities or fly into Pisa International Airport (PSA) or Rome Fiumicino (FCO). Pisa is about an hour away by train or car, and Rome is around 1.5 hours by high-speed train.

Florence’s Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station is central and well-served by Italy’s high-speed trains. From Rome, Milan, Venice, or Bologna, you can easily arrive by Trenitalia or Italo, both of which offer business and executive class options for a more comfortable ride.

Once in Florence, getting around is easy and mostly done on foot. The city center is compact, walkable, and not designed for cars. In fact, much of the historic center is a ZTL (limited traffic zone), so driving is not recommended unless you’re staying outside the core.

If you’re carrying luggage or heading to a dinner reservation across town, taxis are available—just know you can’t hail them on the street; you’ll need to call ahead or find a designated taxi stand. Rideshare apps like Uber don’t operate here in the same way—they’re mostly limited to high-end black car services and cost significantly more than taxis.

There’s also a small but efficient tram line that connects the airport with the city center and another that runs across parts of Florence. It’s clean, fast, and rarely crowded.

Where to Stay in Florence

Florence offers a range of accommodations that blend historical charm with modern luxury. Here are some of my top picks that cater to design lovers.

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Housed in a restored 15th-century Medici palace, this hotel boasts opulent rooms adorned with frescoes and antiques. You can enjoy Florence’s largest private garden and dine at the Michelin-starred Il Palagio.

Numeroventi – Located in a 16th-century palazzo, Numeroventi is a design residency that offers minimalist suites and communal spaces. It’s a haven for creatives seeking inspiration amidst curated art and design. ​

Hotel Lungarno – Situated along the Arno River, this hotel combines modern design with Renaissance art. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms with spectacular views and indulge in Michelin-starred dining.

Casa G Firenze – A chic and contemporary option, Casa G offers cozy rooms furnished with vintage pieces and high-ceilinged suites. Guests have access to various living rooms and plant-filled patios.

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel – Located in Fiesole, this former 15th-century monastery offers breathtaking views of Florence. The hotel combines historical architecture with luxurious amenities, providing a tranquil retreat just outside the city. ​

Where to Eat

Florence is a city best experienced through its flavors—whether it’s a delicate swirl of handmade pici or a perfect glass of Chianti paired with bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Rather than squeezing a shortlist in here, I’ve already gone deep with a full guide to the best restaurants in Florence, covering everything from refined fine dining to the coolest hidden wine bars.

Read our full Florence restaurant guide here for the most up-to-date, curated spots I’ve personally tried and loved. Trust me—you’ll want to bookmark it.

3 Day Florence Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Florence Itinerary Day One

Piazza del Duomo & Baptistery of St. John

Florence’s Piazza del Duomo is the city’s architectural showstopper—grand, intricate, and buzzing with energy. At its center stands the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo, crowned by Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring dome. It’s an engineering feat that still feels impossibly modern, even 600 years later.

Just across the piazza sits the Baptistery of St. John, one of Florence’s oldest buildings and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The octagonal structure is famous for its bronze doors—especially the gilded “Gates of Paradise” by Ghiberti—and its dazzling mosaic ceiling inside. Step in, look up, and prepare to be humbled.

If it’s your first time in Florence, this is your starting point. Everything radiates out from here. Be sure to pre-book tickets that include access to the dome, the bell tower (Giotto’s Campanile), the cathedral, the baptistery, and the museum—ideally first thing in the morning before the crowds descend.

Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore)

The Duomo is Florence’s crown jewel—massive, majestic, and wrapped in marble stripes like a Neoclassical layer cake. Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but the real magic lies above.

If you want to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome—and you should—you’ll need to book a timed ticket in advance. It’s 463 steps to the top (no elevator), but the views over Florence’s terracotta rooftops are absolutely worth the effort.

The climb also lets you get up close to Vasari’s frescoes that line the interior of the dome, which are dramatic, otherworldly, and just a little terrifying in the best way.

Alternatively (or in addition), you can also climb Giotto’s Bell Tower, which offers a stunning view of the dome itself. It’s a separate staircase, so unless you’re a glutton for glutes, pace yourself.

Pro tip: Get the Brunelleschi Pass, which includes all the major monuments in the Duomo complex (dome, bell tower, baptistery, museum, and crypt) and allows you to space out visits over 3 days.

Piazza della Signoria + Palazzo Vecchio

Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s open-air living room—part political hub, part sculpture garden, and fully iconic. It’s flanked by some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall, and a fortress-like symbol of civic power since the 14th century.

You’ll find Michelangelo’s David here—well, a replica anyway, standing exactly where the original once did before being moved to the Accademia. Around him, the square is filled with monumental statues, including Cellini’s Perseus, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women, and Neptune’s Fountain—all dramatic, all photogenic, all very extra in the Renaissance sense.

Step inside Palazzo Vecchio for elaborately frescoed chambers, secret staircases, and the Hall of the Five Hundred—one of the most jaw-dropping rooms in the city. If you’re up for another climb, the tower (Torre di Arnolfo) also offers panoramic views and fewer crowds than the Duomo.

Galleria degli Uffizi

The Uffizi is one of the most important art museums in the world—and it knows it. Housed in a grand Medici-era building just off Piazza della Signoria, the museum is a labyrinth of masterpieces: Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, da Vinci’s Annunciation, Caravaggio’s Medusa, and room after room of Renaissance heavyweights.

If you’re visiting in spring, summer, or early autumn, it is absolutely essential to pre-book your tickets. The lines can be brutal, and walk-up entry is often impossible during peak travel months. Book a timed entry slot in advance.

Plan on spending at least two hours inside, more if you’re an art lover. The layout can feel a bit overwhelming, so go in with a game plan or opt for a guided tour if you want the highlights without the museum fatigue. Either way, it’s a must—no first visit to Florence is complete without it.

Arno + Ponte Vecchio

The Arno River cuts through Florence like a ribbon of calm, and walking alongside it—especially in the golden light of early evening, is one of the city’s simplest, most satisfying pleasures. This is the time to slow down, let the day settle, and take in the rhythm of the city as it transitions from sightseeing to aperitivo hour.

At the center of it all is the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most famous bridge. Lined with goldsmiths and jewelers since the 16th century, it’s more photogenic than practical, but the views from either side—especially from Ponte Santa Trinita—are spectacular. The bridge glows just before sunset, its reflections dancing on the water.

If you time it right, a riverside stroll here makes the perfect prelude to aperitivo. Walk the stretch between Ponte alle Grazie and Ponte Santa Trinita, linger on the bridges, and soak it in. This is the Florence locals love—a city that knows how to pause and enjoy the view.

Florence Itinerary Day Two

Pitti Palace + Boboli Gardens

On day two of your Florence itinerary, cross the Arno into the Oltrarno district and there you’ll find Pitti Palace, the one-time residence of the Medici family and a sprawling symbol of power, wealth, and decorative excess.

Inside, the palace houses several museums—including the Palatine Gallery, where floor-to-ceiling Renaissance art vies for attention with frescoed ceilings and gilded frames. It’s dense, opulent, and honestly a little overwhelming in the best way.

But the real draw, especially on a sunny day, is what’s out back: the Boboli Gardens. These vast, sculpted gardens are Florence’s green lung—a mix of manicured hedges, gravel paths, fountains, hidden grottos, and panoramic views.

The design is pure Italian formal garden, a layout that later influenced Versailles. You could easily spend an hour or two just wandering here, especially if you’re craving space and quiet after a morning in the museums.

If you’re the type who likes your history with a bit of fresh air and symmetry, the Pitti + Boboli combo is a must. Just be ready for a little uphill walking.

Oltrarno Neighborhood

Across the Arno and away from the crowds of the Duomo, Oltrarno is where Florence loosens its collar. This is one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods in the city—more lived-in, more local, and full of creative energy without trying too hard.

The name literally means “beyond the Arno,” and while it’s still very central, Oltrarno feels like a different rhythm altogether. You’ll find artisan workshops tucked behind unassuming doors, family-run studios where leather, paper, or gold leaf is still crafted by hand, and independent boutiques that showcase Florence’s modern design scene. It’s less about perfection, more about personality.

This is also where you’ll stumble into quiet piazzas like Santo Spirito, where locals sip espresso or wine depending on the hour, and where the vibe is always a few notches lower than across the river. You can spend a morning browsing ateliers, stop by hidden gems like Brancacci Chapel, or just sit on a bench and let the street life happen around you.

If you want to see Florence beyond the postcards—and actually feel the city’s creative pulse—Oltrarno is where to go, so spend a few hours walking around, popping into some of the top cafes in the area, and just soaking in the atmosphere.

Basilica di Santo Spirito

Tucked into its namesake piazza in the heart of the Oltrarno, Basilica di Santo Spirito is one of Florence’s most understated architectural gems. Designed by Brunelleschi in the late 15th century, the church has a clean, harmonious interior that feels like a deep exhale after the visual overload of the Duomo or Santa Croce.

From the outside, it’s almost shockingly plain—but don’t let that fool you. Inside, it’s a masterclass in Renaissance proportion and balance. The light filters in softly through high windows, illuminating rows of elegant columns and side chapels.

There’s also a small wooden crucifix attributed to a young Michelangelo—carved when he was just 17.

It’s usually quiet, never crowded, and just steps away from the buzz of Piazza Santo Spirito. As you’re already in Oltrarno, it’s well worth stepping inside for a few minutes of calm and contemplation.

Palazzo Strozzi

Right in the center of Florence but somehow always a little under the radar, Palazzo Strozzi is where the city’s Renaissance grandeur meets its contemporary creative pulse. Built in the late 15th century by the powerful Strozzi family to outdo the Medicis (classic Florence drama), the palazzo is a textbook example of Florentine architecture—massive stone blocks, symmetrical design, and a gorgeous open-air courtyard that sets the tone before you even enter an exhibit.

But what makes Palazzo Strozzi a standout today is its rotating calendar of contemporary art exhibitions. From Ai Weiwei to Olafur Eliasson, the curatorial team here isn’t afraid to bring bold, provocative works into a historic space—and the contrast is exactly what makes it special.

If you’re even slightly into modern art, design, or culture, this is one to prioritize.

It’s also a great change of pace from the city’s heavy Renaissance focus. No Madonna-and-child overload here—just fresh, thought-provoking installations in a beautifully restored setting. Check what’s on before you go; their exhibitions are always intentional, well-produced, and worth the visit.

Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

For the quintessential Florence sunset, Piazzale Michelangelo is the place to be. Perched on a hill south of the Arno, this 19th-century terrace offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline—Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio all glowing in the golden hour light. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early is advisable to secure a good vantage point.

If you prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, consider heading a bit further uphill to San Miniato al Monte. This Romanesque church not only provides an elevated perspective of Florence but also offers a serene atmosphere away from the crowds. This is where I go for sunset in Florence.

The church itself is a masterpiece, and the adjacent cemetery adds to the contemplative ambiance.

Both spots are free to visit and provide unforgettable views of Florence bathed in the warm hues of sunset. Whether you choose the lively piazza or the tranquil churchyard, you’re in for a memorable experience.

Florence Itinerary Day Three

Galleria della Academia

Best known as the home of Michelangelo’s David, the Galleria dell’Accademia is a must-visit on a Florence, Italy itinerary—even if you think you’ve already seen enough of the Renaissance. Nothing prepares you for the real thing.

Standing over 17 feet tall, David is not just a sculpture; he’s a statement. Perfectly lit under a domed skylight, he dominates the gallery with impossible grace and intensity. No photo does him justice.

Beyond David, the museum also houses several of Michelangelo’s unfinished sculptures, known as the Prisoners or Slaves, which are arguably just as fascinating. You can see the figures emerging from blocks of marble—almost like they’re being born—offering insight into Michelangelo’s process and genius.

While the rest of the museum is small, it includes a solid collection of religious paintings and a surprisingly interesting section dedicated to historical musical instruments.

If you’re visiting during high season (spring through early fall), be sure to book your ticket in advance. The line for David alone can wrap around the block.

Medici Chapels

Tucked behind the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Medici Chapels are one of Florence’s most lavish and underrated attractions. This is where the powerful Medici family—Florence’s original influencers—are buried, and naturally, they went out in style.

The site is made up of a few different spaces, but the showstopper is the New Sacristy, designed by none other than Michelangelo. Here, you’ll find his sculptural masterpieces adorning the tombs of Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici—allegorical figures representing Dawn and Dusk, Day and Night, all in a dim, solemn space that feels almost theatrical. The architectural details are pure Michelangelo: bold, brooding, and way ahead of their time.

Next door, the Chapel of the Princes is a completely different vibe—over-the-top opulence with walls encrusted in semi-precious stones, marble inlays, and intricate mosaics.

It’s like stepping inside a jewel box, and it’s just as extravagant as you’d expect from the family who bankrolled half of the Renaissance.

The Medici Chapels often fly under the radar compared to the Duomo or Uffizi, but if you’re into sculpture, architecture, or historical power plays, don’t miss it. It’s Florence at its most dramatic.

Bargello Museum

Housed in a former medieval prison and barracks (yes, really), the building itself is a rugged, fortress-like contrast to the city’s grand palazzi—and it’s part of the appeal.

Inside the Bargello Museum, you’ll find a jaw-dropping collection of Renaissance sculpture, including early works by Michelangelo, Donatello’s groundbreaking bronze David (the first freestanding nude male statue since antiquity), and pieces by Cellini and Verrocchio.

It’s where you go to see the evolution of Renaissance sculpture from Gothic stiffness to full-blown anatomical flair.

Despite its world-class collection, the Bargello is often blissfully uncrowded—even during high season. That makes it one of Florence’s best-kept cultural secrets and an ideal spot if you need a break from the more crowded museums.

Plus, for design lovers, the blend of medieval architecture and delicate decorative arts (like ceramics, textiles, and armor) hits a very niche sweet spot.

Read more: 25 Hidden Gems in Florence, Italy to Seek Out on Your Trip

Leather + Design Shopping

Florence is a shopper’s paradise—especially if you’re into handcrafted leather, thoughtful design, and pieces that feel more like investments than souvenirs. This is the birthplace of Italian leather craftsmanship, and while the city center is packed with touristy market stalls, the real treasures are tucked into boutiques and ateliers that still take quality—and style—seriously.

Start with Scuola del Cuoio, the leather school inside Santa Croce. It’s part workshop, part shop, and still trains artisans using traditional techniques. You can often watch pieces being made, which adds to the experience (and the temptation to buy).

Il Bisonte is another must. Their bags and accessories have a slightly retro, utilitarian vibe—think minimalist lines, soft leathers, and that just-right patina that only gets better with age. It’s Florentine heritage through a modern lens.

For gloves, head to Madova, a tiny storefront near the Pitti Palace that’s been perfecting the craft since the 1940s. The interior is nothing flashy, but the product is flawless—leather gloves in every color and lining you can imagine.

Beyond leather, Florence is home to some beautifully curated design boutiques and concept stores, particularly in the Oltrarno and around Via dei Serragli or Via Romana. Look out for local ceramics, contemporary home goods, and fashion-forward pieces from rising Italian designers.

Some of my other favorite boutiques in Florence, besides those for leather, are: Il Papiro for gifts and paper items, Loretta Caponi for linens and sleepwear, and AquaFlor Firenze, a beautiful local perfumery (their candles make fantastic gifts).

And of course, make time for Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Not leather, but it deserves a mention—this centuries-old apothecary is a design icon in itself, and its products (from colognes to soaps) are as beautiful as the frescoed ceilings above them.

Florence may be steeped in history, but when it comes to design, it knows exactly how to keep things fresh.

Gucci Garden

Located in Florence’s historic Palazzo della Mercanzia, Gucci Garden is a multifaceted cultural space that combines fashion, art, and cuisine. Conceived by former creative director Alessandro Michele, it offers visitors an immersive journey through the brand’s rich history and contemporary vision.​

The Gucci Garden Galleria showcases a curated collection of vintage garments, iconic accessories, and multimedia installations that reflect the evolution of Gucci’s aesthetic. The exhibition space is designed to engage visitors with the brand’s narrative, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity.

Adjacent to the gallery is the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a Michelin-starred restaurant led by renowned chef Massimo Bottura. The menu offers a fusion of Italian flavors with international influences, providing a unique dining experience in an elegant setting.​ Make sure to book a table here weeks if not months in advance.

The boutique within Gucci Garden features exclusive items not available elsewhere, including limited-edition pieces and unique designs that embody the brand’s innovative spirit.

Top Tips for Visiting Florence

Florence is compact and walkable, but don’t let its size fool you—it’s one of the busiest cultural destinations in Europe, and it fills up fast. A little planning goes a long way on your Florence itinerary, especially if you’re traveling in peak months.

First and foremost: start your days early. Most major attractions open around 8:15 or 9:00 AM, and by 10:30, many are packed. If you want to see the Uffizi or Accademia without shuffling shoulder-to-shoulder through the galleries, aim for the first time slot of the day.

Book all major attractions at least a few weeks in advance—this includes the Duomo dome climb, Uffizi, Accademia, Palazzo Vecchio (if you want to climb the tower), and the Medici Chapels. The same goes for popular guided tours or experiences like wine tastings and Tuscan day trips. Florence is not a last-minute kind of place, especially not in spring, summer, or early fall.

But if that level of planning sounds like a chore? Consider visiting in winter. On my last trip in January, I didn’t have to pre-book anything apart from the dome climb at the Duomo—and even that had same-week availability.

The city was blissfully quiet, the light was soft and golden, and the museums were nowhere near as packed. Sure, you might need a good coat and an umbrella, but you’ll trade that for shorter lines, lower hotel rates, and a version of Florence that feels refreshingly local.

One more tip: wear comfortable shoes. Florence is all cobblestones and uneven pavement—not the place for stilettos. And don’t underestimate the power of a midday espresso to fuel round two of your sightseeing.

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How will you be spending your 3 day Florence itinerary? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favorite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

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