Experience Florence's most iconic landmarks and world-class art collections. This itinerary covers the essential must-sees: the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo's David, the magnificent Duomo, and the historic palaces that defined the Renaissance.
This plan is built around the city’s best-known sights, in a sensible order to keep travel time low. Opening days and times change, so check the official website of each place before you go. Not sure 3 days is right? Read how many days you need in Florence.
Know before you go
Best Time to Visit
April–June is ideal — mild temperatures (18–26°C), the Iris Garden in bloom on the hillside and fewer visitors than July. The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino festival brings world-class opera in May.
July–August is Florence at its most intense: 35°C heat and enormous crowds at the Uffizi and the Accademia. Start sightseeing at 8am, shelter at midday and visit churches (always cool and often free) in the afternoon.
September–October is arguably the finest time: grape harvest in the surrounding Chianti hills, cooler temperatures (20–26°C) and noticeably fewer tourists. The golden October light on the Duomo is extraordinary.
Getting Around Florence
Walking is the definitive Florence experience — the historic centre is a UNESCO-listed pedestrian zone and almost every major sight is within 1.5km of the Duomo. Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven stone streets.
Bicycle is a wonderful alternative — the flat city centre is easy to cycle and the Arno riverside path is a pleasure. Several rental companies operate near Santa Maria Novella station.
From Santa Maria Novella station, high-speed trains connect Florence to Rome in 1.5h, Venice in 2h and Milan in 1.75h. Florence is the perfect base for day trips across Tuscany.
More on neighbourhoods, food and practical tips in our Florence city guide.
Renaissance Art & The Duomo
Discover Florence's greatest artistic treasures and iconic cathedral
- Morning
Uffizi Gallery
Explore one of the world's greatest art museums, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo, and Raphael. Book early tickets to beat the crowds.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Afternoon
Lunch in the historic centre
Enjoy traditional Florentine cuisine at a local trattoria near Piazza della Signoria.
- Afternoon
Florence Duomo
Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for breathtaking city views.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Evening
Piazza della Signoria stroll
Walk through Florence's main square and admire the replica of Michelangelo's David, historic sculptures, and the impressive Palazzo Vecchio.
Michelangelo's David & Renaissance Palaces
Marvel at sculptural genius and explore the power seats of the Medici
- Morning
Accademia Gallery
Stand before Michelangelo's David, one of the world's most famous sculptures, and discover other Renaissance masterpieces in this essential museum.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Late Morning
Medici Chapels
Explore the magnificent burial chapels of the Medici family, featuring stunning marble work and Renaissance architecture.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Afternoon
Lunch near San Lorenzo
Dine at a neighbourhood restaurant near the Medici Chapels and San Lorenzo Basilica.
- Afternoon
Palazzo Vecchio
Tour the historic seat of Florence's government with its opulent rooms, frescoes, and panoramic tower offering stunning views over the city.
🎟️ Book tickets →
Art, Gardens & Medici Splendour
Discover Renaissance sculpture and the beauty of Boboli Gardens
- Morning
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
Marvel at one of the world's finest collection of Renaissance sculpture, including works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Benvenuto Cellini.
🎟️ Book tickets → - Late Morning
Ponte Vecchio & riverside walk
Stroll across Florence's iconic medieval bridge lined with jewellery shops, then walk along the Arno river.
- Afternoon
Lunch in Oltrarno
Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant in the charming Oltrarno neighbourhood south of the Arno.
- Afternoon
Boboli Gardens
Relax in Florence's most famous gardens behind Palazzo Pitti, featuring sculptures, fountains, and panoramic terraces overlooking the city.
🎟️ Book tickets →
Tickets for this itinerary
Popular sights sell out or have long ticket lines in high season. Booking ahead fixes your time slot; prices are shown live on the booking page.