The beautiful city of Florence is known for its incredible food, Renaissance art, architecture, and rich history and you will want to explore this city for yourself. After exploring and eating our way through this charming city, we've created the perfect two-day Florence itinerary so that you can make the most of your time and experience all that Florence has to offer!
How to Get to Florence
Florence is easily accessible by both train and plane. You can fly into the main airport, Peretola (FLR). If you're traveling from another city in Italy, the train offers a convenient and scenic journey.
Getting Around Florence
Florence's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. We suggest walking around the city to fully explore the city's charm. While Ubers aren't available and taxis can be a bit expensive, there's a reliable bus system for those who prefer not to walk.
Where to Stay in Florence
This luxury Marriott hotel is nestled on the banks of the Arno River and conveniently located in the heart of Florence.
Photo Credit: The Westin Excelsior, Florence via Marriott.com
This charming 3-star hotel is located just outside of Florence's historic center and set in a 19th-century building. Hotel David guests can even enjoy a daily happy hour with complimentary drinks.
Photo Credit: Hotel David via Booking.com
This 5-star hotel offers amazing amenities and is thought to be the oldest hotel in Italy! NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa is conveniently located just a quick walk to the Duomo, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and more!
Photo Credit: NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa via Booking.com
Things to Do in Florence
Visit the Florence Cathedral
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is located in the Piazza del Duomo and is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral. You can even experience panoramic views of Florence by climbing 463 steps to the top of the dome. If you plan to do this, it's a good idea to pre book your time-slot.
See Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell’ Accademia
Visiting the David is a must when visiting Florence. Known as a masterpiece of Renaissance art, this sculpture is incredible to see in person and take in the intricate details.
Visit Uffizi Gallery
Located in Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi Gallery is an art museum featuring an impressive collection of Renaissance art. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance and showcases many works of Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. We suggest downloading the Rick Steves audio tour instead of booking a guided tour.
Walk Across Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River
Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence and home to endless jewelry vendors. Walk along this iconic landmark and take in the scenic views of the Arno River.
Where to Eat in Florence
Francesco Vini - $$
This intimate Italian restaurant was one of our favorite meals in Italy. The restaurant features a charming wine cellar that you can ask for a private tour. We highly recommend the spinach and ricotta gnocchi, risotto with caramelized pear, and the Florentine eggs benedict
Da Nerbone - $
Da Nerbone is a market stand located within Mercato Centrale Firenze and serves authentic Tuscan dishes. We loved the beef sandwich so much that we made a special trip back to Florence just to try it again! (Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy).
Osteria dell'Agnolo - $$
Osteria dell'Agnolo is a traditional Tuscan restaurant that has been open since 1580 and known for their handmade pici and ribollita.
2-Day Florence Itinerary
Day 1:
Breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.
Visit the Florence Cathedral (if interested, pre-book a time slot to climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views).
Walk to Mercato Centrale Firenze to explore the market and have lunch at Da Nerbone.
Visit Galleria dell’ Accademia to see the David
Enjoy an intimate dinner at Francesco Vini
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Florence's charming streets or relax at a local wine bar.
Day 2:
Breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.
Discover Renaissance art featuring works by Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Botticelli at the Uffizi Gallery.
Enjoy lunch at Mercato Centrale Firenze.
Walk Across Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River.
Dinner at Osteria dell'Agnolo.
Takeaways
In our two-day journey through Florence, we discovered a charming city rich in history, Renaissance art, and delicious Tuscan cuisine. Exploring Florence on foot was the perfect way to experience its charm, from the Florence Cathedral to the intimate Francesco Vini. Visiting Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell’ Accademia was an unforgettable highlight that we highly recommend. If you find yourself in Florence, savor every bite, allow yourself to wander the streets, and explore as much as you can. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or foodie, Florence offers so many experiences that you won't forget.
