From the moment we arrived in Florence, Italy, we were completely captivated. Our visit featured all the best things about Florence: Renaissance art, amazing architecture, city strolls, dazzling views, gorgeous gardens, delectable food and countless scoops of gelato!
For this trip to Italy, we based ourselves in Florence so that we could Explore Tuscany. But that didn’t keep us from spending long days in the city discovering landmark sights and seeking out hidden gems. The more we saw, the more we became absolutely enamored.
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Pulling from our personal experiences, we created a day-by-day itinerary for 3 days in Florence, Italy that showcases the most memorable things we did.
From the grand Duomo Cathedral to the Michelangelo masterpiece David statue to the city’s best cuisine, we outline a perfect plan for visiting Florence in 3 days!
Why Spend 3 Days in Florence, Italy
It’s tempting to try to squeeze the top Florence attractions into just 1 or 2 days. With that approach, however, you would do little more than check off a list of spots.
We feel the Renaissance City is a destination to be savored. With at least three days in Florence, Italy, you can do just that.
In addition to the must-see sights, we share activities throughout our 3-Day Florence Itinerary that are designed to help you soak in the atmosphere.
If you intend to visit Tuscan cities near Florence, we recommend planning a longer trip. Our Florence Three Day Itinerary focuses solely on the city itself, but we provide great Tuscany day trip destinations later in the article.
Planning a Trip to Florence, Italy
When we started planning our Florence trip, it was a bit overwhelming. In addition to deciding what to see (the copious number of museums and churches alone is astounding), we also wanted to get a taste of the best local cuisine.
As you begin to make plans for your 3-day trip to Florence, stay organized like we do with our Printable Travel Planner. It helps to keep track of all the details!
Best 3 Days in Florence Itinerary
In this outlined itinerary, we highlight the top things to do in Florence in 3 Days. For each day, we recommend activities for the morning, afternoon and evening.
Throughout the Florence 3-Day Trip we also suggest our favorite restaurants. For more on what and where to eat, read our complete Guide to Florence Restaurants.
Later in the article, we share a map of attractions along with logistical tips. However, we go into even more detail in our article, Travel Tips for Florence.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Florence Travel Guide to plan your Italy trip!
DAY 1 – Historic Florence, Italy
The three must-dos in Florence are seeing The David, visiting the Duomo and eating utterly delicious food. You will do all of that – and more – on Day 1 with this Florence, Italy 3-Day Itinerary.
MORNING: Stroll the Streets of Florence
Kick off your 3 Day Florence, Italy Itinerary by setting off to discover the top sights in the historic center.
Use our Free, Self-Guided Florence Walking Tour for an ideal route, including descriptions and an interactive map.
Alternatively, you could opt to join a Guided Walking Tour – like this one – for a more personal introduction and a chance to meet other travelers.
Our route starts at Ponte Vecchio – the famous bridge in Florence that straddles the Arno River. Wind your way through the ancient streets to Piazza della Signoria, where Palazzo Vecchio triumphantly stands.
Continue to Piazza della Repubblica, where you can sip an Italian coffee from the city’s oldest café, Caffe Gilli.
Once caffeinated, make your way to the luminous Basilica di Santa Maria Novella. We love the wide-open square that fronts the church. During our trip, we often returned here just to admire the impressive facade.
LUNCH: Florence Central Market
You have likely worked up an appetite – and for your first taste of Florence, we recommend eating at the iconic Mercato Centrale.
If you are feeling brave, order a tripe Lampredotto sandwich from Da Nerbone – it’s a Florence specialty. Otherwise, peruse the huge range of vendors serving local cuisine and international bites in the gourmet food court.
AFTERNOON: Accademia Gallery Art Museum
Next, plan to spend at least an hour at the Galleria dell’Accademia. It’s where you will find the 17-foot-tall marble David statue.
Of course, there are many famous statues in Florence, Italy…but The David is legendary. Chiseled by sculptor Michelangelo in the early 1500s, it is one of the most recognizable works in the world.
Originally intended to be one of many ornamental pieces to decorate the roof of the Florence Duomo Cathedral, it was instead placed in front of Palazzo Vecchio. It was only moved to the purpose-built museum during the 19th century.
While The David is the centerpiece at the Academia Gallery, the venue is also home to a series of unfinished Michelangelo works. They are quite intriguing, so be sure not to miss them!
Additionally, the space hosts a collection of paintings by various artists and a small musical instrument exhibit, which is certainly interesting enough for a quick look.
Visiting The David
As I was considering what to do in Florence in 3 days, I initially planned to skip the Accademia Museum. Entry is not exactly cheap – and a number of replica David statues dot the cityscape.
In hindsight, that would have been a huge mistake. Seeing the original David in person is definitely worth the cost; I’m actually a little sorry I didn’t splurge for a guided tour.
MID-AFTERNOON: Florence Cathedral
Next up on your 3-day trip in Florence is the city’s renowned church: Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. It’s better known simply as the Duomo.
The church – along with the Florence Baptistery of St John and Giotto’s Campanile Bell Tower – are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The history of the Duomo is fascinating. Construction began in 1296 – but it was not completed until more than a hundred years later, in 1436. The 278-foot-tall bell tower is a Florentine Gothic masterpiece.
The true gem, however, is the dome. Designed and built by Brunelleschi, it was an engineering feat at the time – and it still the largest masonry vault in the world.
Years later – during the late 1800s – the cathedral had a makeover. This is when the over-the-top, intricately decorated façade of white, green and red marble took form.
Spend time admiring the magnificent exterior from different angles – as well as up close and from across the square.
Not to be missed is the octagonal St. John Baptistry, which sits directly across from the cathedral entrance. Move in close to can see the details of the bronze doors. Each panel is a bas-relief of a story from the Old Testament.
Visiting the Florence Duomo
The Duomo is free to visit. There will still likely be a long line to enter, but it usually moves pretty fast. Inside, the vast space is slightly underwhelming, but there are a few noteworthy artworks.
The must-see interior sight is the ceiling beneath the dome. Masterfully painted by Vasari and Zuccari, it depicts The Last Judgement.
Those interested in climbing up the famous dome are permitted to do so with a ticket. It’s fairly expensive and we decided to skip it.
If you want to include the Dome Climb in your 3 Day Itinerary for Florence, Italy, we suggest buying combination tickets that include a guided Cathedral Tour with Skip-the-Line access and the climb.
EVENING: Sunset and Dinner
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Ponte Santa Trinita. Not only is the historic bridge beautiful, we believe it’s a great place for sunset. Watch as the soft light illuminates the pastel-painted buildings along the riverside.
End the first of your three perfect days in Florence on the south side of the River Arno in Oltrarno. Some of our favorite restaurants are located in the district. For your first night, we suggest savoring the heavenly creations from Gustapizza.
Popular with tourists, locals and students, their wood-fired pizzas are both delicious and affordable. They don’t take reservations, so expect a line. Even at 10pm, we waited about 15 minutes for a table (wine in hand, of course).
We ordered the namesake Gustapizza as well as the Calabrese, and both were exceptional. In fact, we planned to return on our last night (to try the burrata-topped Turtufo pie), but they were unexpectedly closed.
After dinner, retrace your steps to Gelateria Santa Trinita. Order one of their unique flavors of gelato – like black sesame – and enjoy the treat while you take in riverside views of Florence at night.
DAY 2 – Oltrarno
Continue your 3 Days Florence Itinerary delving deep into the Oltrarno District. Throughout the day, you will pop into churches, visit one of the most popular museums in Florence and wander through garden landscapes to an epic viewpoint.
While we always encourage freely wandering, our Free, Self-Guided Oltrarno Walking Tour features the top places that you won’t want to miss!
MORNING: Oltrarno Sights
Start your day by strolling along the picturesque Arno River. Beginning at Ponte alle Grazie, walk west to Ponte Amerigo Vespucci. Note how different the riverside appears in the morning light.
Cross the Vespucci Bridge to the south into Oltrarno and aim for Porta di San Frediano – one of the last remaining gates of the old city walls.
From the towering gate, walk eastward along Borgo San Frediano. The traditional thoroughfare is lined with shops and cafes. We suggest stopping at the hip Libreria Café La Cite for a mid-morning coffee.
Set off to find Chiesa di Santa Maria del Carmine, which is sometimes referred to as the Sistine Chapel of the Early Renaissance.
From the exterior, it appears to be rather ordinary but inside you can see the famous frescos in the Brancacci Chapel.
Before midday, make your way to the Brunelleschi-designed Basilica of Santo Spirito. The harmonious church features a multitude of side chapels, each adorned with artwork.
LUNCH: Piazza Passera Restaurants
For lunch on Day 2 of your 3-Day Florence, Italy Itinerary, choose one of the restaurants that ring the charming Passera Square. Tucked deep in the district – and easy to miss – the small space hosts a few of our favorite places to eat.
For a taste of the region, we recommend ordering a classic Florentine sandwich from the corner shop, Schiaccia Passera. We ate here multiple times during our trip (the La Svampita is our favorite!).
Eat your panini on a bench in the square, then order a scoop of gelato from Gelateria della Passera for dessert. (We found nothing here disappointing!)
AFTERNOON: Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
In the early afternoon, make your way to one of the most opulent places in Florence: The Pitti Palace.
Built in the 1450s as a residence for a prominent banker, Luca Pitta, the palace was aggressively expanded when the Medici family purchased it in the mid-1500s. Today it contains one of the largest art galleries in Florence, Italy.
In fact, there are five museums located within the massive space. They are the Treasury of the Grand Dukes, the Museum of Russian Icons and Palatine Chapel, Palatine Gallery and Royal Apartments, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum of Costume and Fashion.
After visiting the palace museums, step into the lush Boboli Gardens. The planned Italian garden, which sits behind Pitti Palace, was designed as a private park for the Medici Family.
Featuring fountains, statues, grottos and forested paths, the elaborate Giardino di Boboli feels like an open-air museum.
Visiting Pitti Palace and Gardens
To enter Pitti Palace, a single ticket covers all five museums. A ticket is also required to enter Boboli Gardens. We suggest purchasing the combo offer that includes entry into both sights.
After touring the palace, enter the gardens via the courtyard. The Boboli Garden ticket also allows access to Villa Bardini Gardens, which you can visit later.
Note that you could easily spend the better part of the day inside the museums and gardens. In order to see the best artwork in a short timeframe, we recommend joining a tour.
LATE AFTEROON: Gorgeous Viewpoints
As you continue your eastward journey through Oltrarno, take in some of the most gorgeous viewpoints in Florence.
First, find your way into the 16th century Belvedere Fort. It sits on a hill on the edge of Boboli Gardens. It’s free to enter – and from the ramparts, panoramic views stretch in every direction.
Next, enter the elegant and enchanting Villa Bardini Gardens with your ticket from the Boboli Garden.
From the hillside green space, you can revel in the views that graze out over the rooftops. If you are visiting in late spring, don’t miss the Wisteria Tunnel!
Start making your way toward the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte. If time allows, pause to visit the Giardino della Rose – a fantastic, fragrant (and free) rose garden.
Now embark on the inclined route up to the 11th century San Miniato al Monte Church (it’s the highest hill in Florence). Trek up the steep staircase and go inside to see the mosaics and crypt.
Finally, head toward Piazzale Michelangelo. You will pass by the modest Chiesa di San Salvatore al Monte on the way; if it’s open, go inside. It is rumored to have been Michelangelo’s favorite church due to its simplicity.
At last, arrive at Piazzale Michelangelo. The unsurpassed viewpoint encompasses many famous Florence landmarks.
Settle in (either on the steps or at the terrace café) to listen to music and watch the sun slide toward the horizon.
EVENING: Traditional Dinner in Oltrarno
In the early evening, follow the zigzagging walking path past the series of man-made waterfalls on Rampe del Poggi. At the bottom of the hill, you will see the 14th century Porta San Niccolo Tower.
For a small fee, you can climb to the top – but after the vista from Piazzale Michelangelo, we opted to skip it.
From the base of the tower, take a stroll along Via di San Niccolo. The atmospheric street passes by old-time shops, quaint residences and cafes that spill into the lane.
If you are ready for early evening aperitivo, find an al fresco seat at Enoteca Bevovino or Rifrullo Firenze, where you can sit and watch passersby.
Alternatively, push on and join both locals and fellow travelers at one of the cafes on Santo Spirito Square. For dinner, try another one of the fantastic restaurants in the Oltrarno District.
Our top picks are Osteria Cinghiale Bianco (reservations are a must), Trattoria 4 Leoni on Passera Square (one of the best trattorias in Florence, Italy) and Osteria Santo Spirito (delicious pastas at excellent prices).
DAY 3 – Florence Markets, Santa Croce & Uffizi Gallery
On your final day in Florence, shop alongside locals at an authentic market, see an extravagant church, visit the most famous Florence art museum and truly indulge for dinner.
MORNING: Traditional Market and Extravagant Church
Start your day with a beverage at Coffee Mantra, where they use regionally roasted beans. For a local Florence experience, drink your coffee at the counter with the regulars, where you are sure to get drawn into a conversation.
Now make your way Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, open since 1873. Inside, you will find vendors selling traditional foods and goods – like local cheese, wild boar meat, dried beans and in-season produce.
Adjacent to the marketplace is Nuovo Mercato della Pulei – one of the best flea markets in Florence. Shoppers can sift through the bric-a-brac of copper pots, ceramic vases, vinyl records and second-hand clothing.
By late morning, begin circling back toward the city center. Stop at the Basilica di Santa Croce di Firenze, also known as The Temple of the Italian Glories.
A ticket is required to visit, but inside you can see the graves of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli – plus an array of artwork.
LUNCH: Famous Florence Sandwich Shop
For your midday meal, we suggest relishing yet another schiacciata sandwich. For todays panini, go to the most famous Florence deli shop of all, All’Antico Vinaio.
The sandwich maker is so incredibly popular that herds of people wait in long lines for the lunchtime fare. They have multiple locations on the same street and their employees often help direct you to the one with the shortest wait.
If that’s all a bit too much, go to Pino’s. This small family-run spot also creates superb schiacciata sandwiches (although, there will likely be a line there, too!).
If you enjoyed a Lampredotto Florentine tripe sandwich on day 1, stop by the L’Antico Trippaio kiosk for more of the local’s favorite street food.
After lunch, get your daily dose of gelato at the historic Vivoli or try the ricotta and fig gelato at Gelateria dei Neri.
AFTERNOON: Uffizi Gallery
The art of Florence, Italy is mesmerizing – and quite honestly, unmissable. However, there is no better place to appreciate artwork than the Uffizi Gallery.
The building was originally used by the Medici family as offices (or uffizi), which they decorated with their vast collection of art. When the works were gifted to the City of Florence in 1737, the museum was opened.
The massive gallery features a string of interconnecting rooms displaying popular pieces by Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli. In fact, Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and La Primavera are two of the top paintings to see in Florence.
Because the venue is so vast (there are 50 rooms and more than 1800 pieces), we recommend joining a Guided, Skip-the-Line Tour for a quick and concise introduction to the artwork.
EVENING: Steak Dinner and Italian Opera
For your last meal, treat yourself to a sensational steak dinner at Trattoria Za Za. Florentine Steak is a local specialty and Za Za is the premier steakhouse in the city. (Make a reservation well in advance!)
The humungous cuts are grilled over hot coals to produce a crispy exterior, while leaving the inside extremely rare. (While the chef will cook it to your preference, they will do so begrudgingly.)
The steaks are so big that we shared one (and still had leftovers!). On our waiter’s recommendation, we paired the Steak Florentina with roasted potatoes and a glass of the house wine.
After your exceptional meal, partake in a memorable experience: Italian Opera in a Historic Church. This 70-minute performance held in an intimate setting is an excellent way to end your 3-day Florence vacation.
Florence, Italy 3 Day Itinerary Map of Attractions
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our map of Florence, Italy below. BLUE Day 1; PURPLE Day 2; GREEN Day 3; YELLOW are additional food and drink options. 
Before You Go to Florence
Now that you know what to see in Florence, Italy in 3 Days, we have a few bits of advice before you set off on your vacation to Italy.
Make Reservations
While deciding what to eat is an important aspect of planning your trip – so is making advance reservations. We’ve mentioned this already, but places get fully booked days ahead of time (even in shoulder seasons).
Our list of Florence Restaurants highlights our personal favorite eateries (as well as the most important dishes to try).
Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets to top attractions and activities sell out quickly. If you want to see The David, climb the Dome or visit the Uffizi Gallery during your 3 Day Trip to Florence, Italy, buying tickets in advance is also a must.
Even if you purchase a Florence 3-day attractions pass – like this one – you will need to go to the individual websites to secure a timed entry slot. Be sure to do this as soon as possible!
The best guided tours also get fully booked. We recommend using Viator to find all the top-rated options – but here are some popular outings for you to consider.
- Guided Tour of Accademia and Uffizi
- Tour of Accademia, Cathedral and Dome Climb
- Guided Tour of Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
Day Trips from Florence
Travelers who want to see more of the Tuscan countryside can join an excursion or plan their own Florence day trips. We used a combination of both and were able to see quite a lot while basing ourselves in the city!
- What To See in Scenic Siena
- Reasons to Go To San Gimignano
- Plan a Trip to Pisa
- How To Experience Lucca
- An Easy Half-Day in Chianti Wine Country
Florence Travel Logistics
We have a few final tips about the logistical aspects of planning a 3-day trip to Florence. Also read our guide to Making a Trip to Europe for important changes this year!
Getting To Tuscany
Florence can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. Unless you are already in Italy, we think the best way to get to Florence is by plane.
The Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is the most convenient – but you can also use regional airports in Pisa or Bologna.
Find ideal routes at the best prices on SkyScanner – but first, read our Tips for Finding Cheap Flights.
Airport To City Center
The best way to travel from the airport to the city center is via the modern and inexpensive tram. Alternatively, book private transport direct to your hotel before you arrive.
By Train or Bus
The main bus and train station (and end of the airport tram line) are located in the city center, just steps from Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.
Florence is on the Italian high speed rail line, called the Frecciarossa. Travel times from Venice are about 2 hours and 1 hour 30 minutes from Rome.
Getting Around
We feel the best way to get around Florence is on your own two feet. The city is extremely walkable and mostly designed for foot traffic (but always watch for scooters).
That said, with a bike rental, you will be able to cover more ground in less time. The Hop On Hop Off bus is ideal for those who want to give their feet a rest.
On the other hand, a vehicle can be helpful when discovering Tuscany (but we used public transport without any issue). If you plan to rent a car, read our money-saving car rental tips.
Where To Stay in Florence
In a city as popular as Florence, there are plenty of accommodation choices that will fit a range of budgets.
We use Booking.com to find the best hotel rates along with our tried and true Tips for Finding Prime Places for Cheap.
Italy Packing Tips
Ready to start packing for Tuscany? We certainly hope so. Grab your FREE Packing Checklist, and let’s go!
Durable Shoes: You will be spending long days on your feet. Make sure you have the best shoes for traveling.
Travel Camera: We use DSLR camera for travel pics. It’s a great camera at a budget price!
Zippered Day Pack: Unfortunately, pickpockets are a problem in Florence. Use a travel day bag that will deter them!
Sun Protection: The sun can be hot in Italy! Pack TSA-approved sunscreen…and a good hat.
Trip Insurance: Don’t already have coverage? Check rates at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Travel Guides for Italy
- Best One-Week in Tuscany
- What To See in Rome
- How To Spend 1-Day in Venice
- Off the Tourist Trail in Lecce
- Top Day Trips from Venice
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