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Italy

Florence: itinerary & travel tips

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and one of the most compact art cities in Europe. The historic centre is so small that you can easily walk to the Duomo, the Uffizi, the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti. That makes the city ideal for a short trip of two to four days.

A large part of the Renaissance art you see today in museums and churches was created here. Add to that good trattorias, markets and viewpoints above the Arno. By train or bus you can also reach Pisa, Siena or Lucca in less than two hours.

Ready-made itineraries

What to see

  • Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo with dome and Baptistery)

    Brunelleschi's dome defines the city skyline, and the climb rewards you with the best view over the rooftops.

  • Galleria degli Uffizi

    One of the most important painting collections in Europe, with works by Botticelli, Leonardo and Michelangelo.

  • Galleria dell'Accademia

    Michelangelo's David stands here in the original.

  • Ponte Vecchio

    The medieval bridge with goldsmiths' shops is the city's best-known photo spot.

  • Palazzo Pitti and Giardino di Boboli

    The large Renaissance palace with museums and extensive gardens offers peace away from the centre.

  • Piazzale Michelangelo

    From this viewpoint you can see all of Florence, especially beautiful at sunset.

Where to stay

  • Centro Storico

    For anyone who wants to reach everything on foot during a short stay; rooms are pricier, though, and it is lively in the evening.

  • Santa Croce

    For night owls and food lovers, with plenty of bars and restaurants and the Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio nearby.

  • Oltrarno (San Frediano and Santo Spirito)

    For anyone looking for craft shops, osterie and a more relaxed, less touristy area.

  • Santa Maria Novella

    Practical for train travellers, as the main station is right next door and there are many hotels.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Florence is April, May, June, September and October, when it is usually mild to warm. In July and August it often gets hotter than 35 degrees, the city is crowded and many locals are on holiday. From November to February prices and visitor numbers are lower, but the days are short and it rains more often. Around Easter and in high summer you should book accommodation and museum tickets early.

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Getting there

Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is around 5 km from the centre; tram line T2 takes about 20 minutes to the station and costs a few euros. Alternatively, there is Pisa (PSA), from where the train takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to Firenze Santa Maria Novella. From Germany, Austria and Switzerland you can travel by direct flight, or by train with a change in Milan or Bologna. Fast trains from Bologna, Rome or Milan take roughly 35 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the route.

Getting around

The best way to explore the centre is on foot; most sights are only 10 to 20 minutes apart. For longer distances there are buses and trams, and single tickets cost roughly €1.50 to €2. You should not drive into the centre by car because of the ZTL traffic zone.

Daily budget

budget

€55

mid-range

€110

per person, without accommodation. Admission to major museums and restaurants in tourist areas is expensive, whereas markets, panini and wine by the glass are cheap.

Local tips

  • Book the Uffizi, the Accademia and the dome climb online in advance with a time slot, otherwise you will queue for a long time.
  • Eat lunch where locals go, for example at the Mercato Centrale or in small trattorias away from the main squares, and watch out for the coperto on the bill.
  • Many state museums are closed on Mondays, so plan churches and walks for that day.
  • The tap water is drinkable, and at many fountains you can fill your bottle for free.

FAQ

How many days do you need in Florence?

Two days are enough for the highlights such as the Duomo, the Uffizi and the Accademia. With three to four days there is time for Oltrarno, the Boboli Gardens and a day trip to Siena or Pisa.

Where is the best place to stay in Florence?

For a short city break the Centro Storico is the most practical. You can stay somewhere quieter and a bit cheaper in Oltrarno or Santa Croce.

Is Florence expensive?

In terms of price, Florence is in the upper mid-range for Italy, and accommodation in high season in particular is expensive. With markets, set lunch menus and free churches, you can keep your budget in check.

How do I get from the airport to Florence?

From Peretola Airport, tram T2 takes about 20 minutes to Santa Maria Novella station, and a taxi is also quick. From Pisa Airport you take the train, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Is Florence safe, and do you tip?

Florence is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets at the station, on crowded buses and at sights. Tipping is not compulsory; it is common to round up by a few euros if you were happy with the service.

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