The Best 3 Days in Florence Itinerary for First-Timers
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Welcome to the charming city of Florence, the capital of Tuscany and home to stunning Renaissance art and famous Italian landmarks. Florence is surrounded by picturesque Tuscan hillsides and renowned Chianti wineries.
This 3-day Florence itinerary includes great wine spots, museum suggestions featuring Renaissance masterpieces, and much more. Within the city, there's no shortage of things to do—from sampling delicious Tuscan foods and visiting historical landmarks to strolling along the beautiful Arno River.
While three days in Florence may not do this incredible city justice, first-timers can get a glimpse of its magic with this reader-favorite Florence guide.
Florence is a relatively small city and less touristy than Rome, Milan, or Venice. It's perfect for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and art aficionados, but there's truly something here for everyone to enjoy. So get ready to slow down, unwind, and enjoy a more relaxed weekend in Florence. Continue reading to learn more!
Planning a last-minute trip to Florence?
When visiting Florence, book your accommodations and experiences before you go. We've pulled together top suggestions below.
🏨 Top accommodations in Florence
- Villa Tortorelli (under $100 USD a night)
- San Firenze Suites & Spa (rated highly)
- Forte16 View & Spa (relax by the pool)
☂️ Top tours and experiences in Florence
- SGimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch (likely to sell out)
- Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, & Chianti Experience (likely to sell out)
- Chianti Wineries Tour With Wine Tasting (likely to sell out)
- Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip With Lunch
- Tuscany Day Trip Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa & Lunch at a Winery (very popular)
3-Day Florence Itinerary
3-Day Florence Itinerary Map
A map of Florence. Use the map to explore all the days and stops.
Wander Around the Piazza del Duomo
Spend your first day in Florence exploring the city center, starting at Piazza del Duomo. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—commonly known as the Duomo—is arguably the most iconic building in Florence.
Day 1 will involve plenty of walking, but all the pasta and wine waiting at the end of the day will make the exercise worth it. There are incredible views throughout the city, and you'll catch many of them today. So, put on your comfortable walking shoes and get ready for a full day of sightseeing in the heart of Florence!
See the Duomo
Start your first day in Florence at the Duomo, officially known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. The cathedral's interior is beautiful and free to enter from Monday to Saturday, although entry to the dome, crypt, or bell tower requires a ticket.
If you're visiting during the summer, expect long lines to enter the cathedral. There's no skip-the-line option for the free entry, so your best bet is to arrive early—doors open at 10:15 AM (note: times can vary slightly by season or day). Grab a quick espresso and a croissant from a nearby cafe to start your day like a local before heading in.
☂️ Experience Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with a tour
- Brunelleschi's Dome & Cathedral Complex Reserved Ticket (often fully booked)
- Florence Skip-the-Line Duomo Tour With Guide & Brunelleschi Dome (a sort after tour)
🏨 Accommodations near Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Guest House Bel Duomo (good value rooms)
- Hotel Duomo Firenze (highly acclaimed)
Climb Giotto's Bell Tower
It's possible to climb the Duomo itself, which is one of the most popular activities in Florence. However, the better option is to climb Giotto's Bell Tower, located right next to the cathedral. There are a variety of tickets and tours available.
The climb features 414 steps and no elevator, making it a physically demanding ascent. Still, those who make it to the top are rewarded with panoramic views of Florence, and a stunning, unobstructed view of the Duomo itself. Climbing the bell tower offers a unique vantage point over Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful sights in Florence.
🏨 Accommodations near Giottos Bell Tower
- Hotel Calimala (top-rated)
- Hotel Spadai (4-star rating)
Grab a Panini at Toscani
After descending from the bell tower, head over to Panini Toscani, one of Florence's most popular panini shops. Known for its fresh ingredients and generous portions, Panini Toscani allows you to customize your sandwich exactly as you like it.
Feel free to sample a variety of local meats and cheeses before making your choice — it's a delicious way to discover Tuscan flavors. For the perfect midday indulgence, pair your panino with a crisp glass of their house white wine and enjoy a moment of relaxation before continuing your Florence adventure.
🏨 Stay nearby Panini Toscani
Have Gelato at Festival del Gelato
After all the walking (and stair climbing), it's time for a well-deserved treat. Make a quick stop at Festival del Gelato, a popular spot renowned for its extensive selection of flavors and vibrant interior.
Located just a short walk from the Duomo area, this gelateria offers a range of options, from classic favorites to more adventurous choices. Whether you grab a cup or a cone, enjoying a cold gelato while strolling the streets of Florence is a must—and this place rarely disappoints.
🏨 Stay in close proximity to Ice Cream Festival
- Brunelleschi Hotel (rated highly)
- FH Hotel Calzaiuoli (4-star rating)
Visit the Accademia Gallery
The Accademia, formally known as the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze, is home to one of the most iconic sculptures in the world: Michelangelo's David. This masterpiece alone makes the museum one of the most visited in Florence.
If it's your first time in the city, it's a must-see. Be sure to book tickets in advance to skip the long lines and make the most of your visit.
🏨 Places to stay close to the Accademia Gallery
- Hotel Loggia Fiorentina (budget friendly)
- Le Stanze dei Medici (well-priced for the area)
Dinner at Trattoria ZaZa
Treat yourself after a full day of sightseeing with dinner at Trattoria ZaZa, a popular restaurant located in the center of Florence. Known for its warm atmosphere and extensive truffle-focused menu (yes, Florence is famous for truffles!), this spot is a great way to end your first day.
Start with a glass of the house white wine and an appetizer consisting of grilled bread topped with your choice of meat or cheese. For your main, try one of their signature truffle pastas, a local favorite that lives up to the hype.
Between the quality of the food and the reasonable prices, it's easy to see why ZaZa's is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. It's the perfect place for your first dinner in Florence!
🏨 Places to stay near Trattoria Zà Zà
- Relais Piazza Signoria
- Hotel Collodi - Firenze (value for money)
The Uffizi Gallery, Markets and a Rooftop Bar
Day 2 kicks off with one of Florence's most beloved museums and continues with a full day of sightseeing and local culture. After exploring the gallery, head to Mercato Centrale for lunch.
You can make an optional stop at Santa Maria Novella before lunch—a beautiful church with a Renaissance facade and notable interior art. At Mercato Centrale, you can also browse for souvenirs at the nearby San Lorenzo leather market, and finish the day with a sunset drink at one of Florence's most scenic rooftop bars.
The Uffizi Gallery
No first-time trip to Florence is complete without a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, the city's world-renowned museum. Home to masterpieces from across the centuries, Florence is especially rich in Renaissance art, which is prominently displayed throughout the city.
The Uffizi Gallery is consistently ranked among the top attractions in Florence, and for good reason. If you plan to visit the Uffizi, it's best to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
That said, if you feel you've spent plenty of time indoors already, or art museums aren't your thing, it's perfectly okay to skip it. Instead, spend your morning outdoors in Piazza Santa Croce, a charming neighborhood full of local character, artisan shops, and beautiful architecture.
🏨 Accommodations close to the Uffizi Gallery
- Casa di Barbano (good value)
- Hotel Art Atelier (rated highly)
Optional: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Before heading to lunch, make a stop at Santa Maria Novella, one of Florence's most beautiful churches. Located just northwest of the city center, this historic site features a striking Renaissance facade and a stunning interior, adorned with frescoes by masters such as Masaccio and Ghirlandaio.
The peaceful atmosphere and impressive art make it a great transitional stop between the Uffizi Gallery and the lively Mercato Centrale. Entry to the church museum area requires a small ticket fee, but it's well worth it for the art and architecture inside. You can book an entry ticket with an audio guide in advance.
🏨 Nearest accommodations to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- La Residenza Dell'Orafo (good value)
- Grand Hotel Baglioni (scored highly by guests)
Lunch at Mercato Centrale
Don't let the name fool you—Mercato Centrale is much more than just a lunch stop. This bustling indoor market, located in the heart of Florence, is the best place to wander, sample local flavors, and soak up the city's energy. You could easily spend a couple of hours here exploring everything the market has to offer.
The ground floor features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and local produce to dried pasta, truffle oil, and souvenirs. It's a great place to pick up a unique gift or culinary treat, such as truffle oil.
Head upstairs to the second floor, where you'll find a lively food hall with dozens of stalls serving a wide range of options—from classic Italian dishes to sushi, grilled meats, salads, and more. It's ideal for groups, as everyone can order from different vendors and gather at a shared table.
Be sure to try an arancini ball—a crispy, golden snack filled with rice, cheese, and savory toppings. It's a crowd favorite for a reason!
🏨 Stay nearby Central Market
- Hotel Degli Orafi
- Hotel Nuova Italia (value for money)
☂️ Explore Central Market with a tour
- Tasty Florence Street Food With Guided Walking of the City (highly rated)
- Wanna be Italiano - The Original Cooking Class & Market Tour in Florence (a hit among most)
Shop at the San Lorenzo Market
Just steps from Mercato Centrale, the San Lorenzo Market—often referred to as the Leather Market—is one of the most popular spots for souvenir shopping in Florence. The stalls here are packed with bags, belts, wallets, and journals, many made from (or inspired by) Italian leather.
Bargaining is expected, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices. While many items are mass-produced or faux leather, some nearby boutiques and workshops sell authentic, high-quality leather goods if you're looking to invest in something more long-lasting.
🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to il Mercato Centrale Firenze
- Hotel Machiavelli Palace (rated highly)
- Glance Hotel in Florence (4-star rating)
Watch the Sunset at View on Art
View on Art is a rooftop bar in Florence, offering incredible views of the city and the Duomo. Sunset is the ideal time to visit, providing the best backdrop for memorable photos.
While the cocktails are on the pricier side, the experience and atmosphere make it worth it. Enjoy an Aperol Spritz as you soak in the stunning sunset to cap off your second day in Florence.
🏨 Accommodations near the View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar
Ponte Vecchio, Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo
This 3-day Florence itinerary saves some of the most scenic views for the final day. If you're up for more cultural highlights, start your morning at Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio—Florence's political and artistic heart. This historic square and grand town hall are filled with incredible sculptures and frescoes.
Afterward, take a stroll through the Ponte Vecchio area, browsing its unique shops and taking in the views along the Arno River. Then, cross into the Oltrarno district to explore the elegant Boboli Gardens, a lush outdoor museum dating back to the 16th century.
To end the day, walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic sunset over the city—an unforgettable way to wrap up your time in Florence. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes again, as it's another full day of exploring!
Optional: Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio
The iconic Piazza della Signoria is surrounded by statues, fountains, and important buildings, including the Loggia dei Lanzi, which showcases Renaissance sculptures in an open-air setting. It's a great (and free!) place to relax and take some photos before starting another busy day.
Right beside the piazza is Palazzo Vecchio, the city's historic town hall and a treasure trove of frescoed halls and hidden chambers. You can explore the museum inside or climb the tower for panoramic views over Florence (book your entry tickets or a tour here). These are worthwhile additions to your itinerary if you want to dive deeper into Florence's civic and artistic legacy.
🏨 Places to stay near Piazza della Signoria
- San Firenze Suites & Spa (rated very highly)
- Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy (exceptional rating)
Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is the iconic medieval bridge that crosses the Arno River. It is one of the most photographed spots in Florence. Lined with historic jewelry shops and high-end boutiques, it's the perfect place to browse or window-shop while taking in beautiful river views. Spend a bit of time here wandering through the shops and snapping photos from either side of the bridge.
🏨 Stay in close proximity to Ponte Vecchio
- Hotel Orto de' Medici (well-rated)
- Hotel Mia Cara & Spa
Have Lunch at Osteria de Peccatori
Just a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio, Osteria de' Peccatori is a relaxed spot known for its friendly service, hearty Italian fare, and welcoming atmosphere.
Enjoy an Aperol spritz, warm focaccia bread, and a selection of traditional dishes while sitting in the charming outdoor piazza. Live music often fills the square, adding a touch of local flair to your lunch experience.
🏨 Places to stay close to Osteria de Peccatori
Boboli Gardens
After crossing the Ponte Vecchio into the Oltrarno district, head to the Boboli Gardens—a vast outdoor museum and one of Florence's most historic green spaces.
Dating back to the mid-16th century, the gardens are part of the Pitti Palace complex, which also houses several impressive museums. While the palace itself would require an entire day to explore properly, the gardens alone are an excellent option for a short visit.
With sculptures, fountains, manicured hedges, and hidden pathways, it's easy to spend a few relaxing hours wandering through the lush grounds, especially on a sunny day. Booking entrance tickets or tours in advance is possible.
🏨 Places to stay near The Boboli Gardens
- Villa Tortorelli (well-priced)
- Forte16 View & Spa (unwind poolside)
Get Takeaway from Gusta Pizza
After exploring the Boboli Gardens, make your way to Gusta Pizza—a beloved local spot just a short walk away. It is often considered one of the best pizzerias in Florence. Their wood-fired pizzas are simple, fresh, and full of flavor, with some crowd favorites being the margherita and the Gusta pizza.
Expect a bit of a wait during peak hours, but it's well worth it. Grab your pizza to-go, then swing by a nearby shop for a bottle of wine (don't forget a corkscrew!). With food and wine in hand, you'll be ready for a laid-back picnic at your next stop—one of the best ways to experience Florence like a local.
🏨 Accommodations near Gustapizza
- Althea Rooms (well-priced for the area)
- Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa (scored highly by guests)
Piazzale Michelangelo
Hike up the steps to Piazzale Michelangelo for the perfect ending to your 3 days in Florence. The panoramic views from the top are among the most breathtaking in the city — a truly unforgettable way to conclude your visit.
At the top, you'll find a large piazza filled with street vendors, live music, and a wide staircase where locals and visitors alike gather to watch the sunset.
Many bring along a bottle of wine and a takeaway meal to enjoy while soaking in the sweeping skyline of Florence, with the Duomo and Arno River in full view. It's a memorable and fitting finale to a whirlwind three-day adventure in the heart of Tuscany.
🏨 Stay nearby Piazzale Michelangelo
- Hotel la Casa di Morfeo (mid-range)
- Eurostars Florence Boutique (rated highly)
☂️ Visit Piazzale Michelangelo on a tour
- Florence Pizza or Pasta Class With Gelato Making at a Tuscan Farm (widely sought after)
In Summary
72 hours in Florence is definitely not enough time to see everything this beautiful city has to offer, but it's a good start. Florence is packed with history, culture, and charm, and there's truly something for everyone here.
This 3-day Florence itinerary includes a bit of everything: world-class museums, local shopping, incredible food, and plenty of wine. Hopefully, this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Florence. Have the best time in this magical city!
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