One-Day Itinerary For Florence, Italy

Florence is one of the most sought-out destinations in Italy, and for good reason. It’s a historic city with some of the country’s best food, not to mention a great hub for day trips to places such as Pisa, Cinque Terre, Tuscan wine tours, Bologna, and more. If you are short on time and want to do it all, here’s a perfect day itinerary to hit all of the major sights and get a few good meals in along the way.

Stop #1: Ponte Vecchio

Start at one of Florence’s most classic hotspots: Ponte Vecchio! Ponte Vecchio is the photographic bridge that is over the Amo River. Looking out at the orange and yellow hued houses over the river first thing in the morning in Florence will make for a memorable experience that is purely and utterly Italian. Start your long day in Florence off right.

Stop #2: Uffizi Gallery

After taking in the serenity of Ponte Vecchio, head to Uffizi Gallery, a short two-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio. They open at 8:15am on most days, so if you get in early enough, you’re likely to beat the crowds meaning you can make your visit efficient. It’s one of the oldest galleries in Europe, featuring ancient sculptures and paintings. You’ll likely want at least an hour here.

Stop #3: All’Antico Vinaio

When you’re done taking in art history, head to one of the most famous sandwich shops not only in Florence, but in the world: All’Antico Vinaio for a proper Toscan schiacciata (“sandwich”). Options range from pistachio cream with mortadella, artichoke cream, amongst several types of cured meats and funky cheeses. No matter what you order, you cannot go wrong. They open at 10am, and it’s highly recommended to get there early to avoid the crowds.

Stop #4: Michelangelo’s Place

Now, for yet another famous Firenze landmark, arguably the most famous one: Michelangelo’s Place! Here, you can see several of the original Michelangelo sculptures and statues. This area is always packed, so it’s up to you with how much time you choose to spend here. During my several visits to Florence, I often just walk around for a little, take it in, and move on, because the crowds can be pretty unbearable.

Stop #5: Piazza del Duomo

Okay, so maybe this is the most famous Florence landmark. Piazza del Duomo is so unbelievably beautiful and large, that it’s essentially a requirement to stop here. Sit outside at one of the overpriced cafes or bars and grabbing an espresso or a glass of vino to take it all in.

Stop #6: Gelato at Gelateria Edoardo il gelato biologico

Right around the corner from the famous Duomo is one of the best gelato shops in Florence, gelateria Edoardo il geloto biologico. They have rich classic flavors like creamy stracchiatella, cioccolato fondente, and pistachio, but they occasionally also feature nontraditional flavors such as goji and miele e lavenda (honey and lavender). Did you really go to Italy if you didn’t eat gelato?

Stop #7: Cathedral di Santa Maria del Fiore

After stopping for some sweet treats, head to the beautiful historic Cathedrail di Santa Maria del Fiore. Luckily, this sight is totally free, and also one of the most famous in Florence. It’s worth climbing to the top to get the most picturesque views of the city. You’ll need a little over an hour to climb up, and it’ll be well worth the incline!

Stop #8: Trattoria Il Contadino

You’re in Italy, so eating as much as possible is always a good idea. It’s pretty impossible to find a bad meal, especially in Florence. Trattoria II Contadino is an affordable spot serving up Florentine classics such as wild boar ragu, roasted rabbit, truffle pasta, and of course, the famous bistecca alla fiorentina. In a city as expensive as Florence, the prices at Trattoria Il Contadino can’t be beat. Two meals and two glasses of wine will cost about 20 euro tops.

Stop #9: Florence Leather Market

Though a bit of a hike, Florence Leather Market is a staple in the city. You can buy handbags, wallets, suitcases, and jackets at an affordable rate, and yes, they are all real leather. I managed to haggle down a leather handbag to 40 euro from almost 80 euro. It is about a 40-minute walk from Trattoria Il Contadino, and they close most nights at 6PM, so just time it out accordingly.

Stop #10: Trattoria Cammillo

Last but not least, treat yourself to a fancy meal. Head to Trattoria Cammilo for some pappardalle, proscuitto, carciofi, and sample some local olive oils and of course, drink plenty of Tuscan wines. A hearty meal at Trattoria Cammilo is a perfect way to round our your long Florence activity-packed day. One thing’s for certain: don’t skip out on the dessert!