Florence Unfolded: A 3-Day Guide to Renaissance Glory and Tuscan Tastes (2025)
- Francesca
- Dec 10, 2025
- 10 min read
Florence is a city that can overwhelm you with its sheer beauty. It is a place where the weight of history is not heavy but rather golden and glowing. Walking through the streets of the capital of Tuscany feels like stepping onto a living movie set where every corner reveals a masterpiece that changed the course of Western civilisation. It is a compact city of stone palaces, frescoed churches and narrow alleys that suddenly open up into vast, statue-filled piazzas.
But Florence is more than just an open-air museum. It is a bustling, living city where the scent of leather from the markets mixes with the aroma of espresso and roasted meats. It is a place where artisans still gild wood and bind books by hand in dusty workshops just streets away from high-end fashion boutiques. The light here has a peculiar quality, particularly in the late afternoon when the sun hits the Arno River and turns the stucco facades into a painting by Turner.
If you are seeking a city break Europe offers that provides the highest concentration of art in the world alongside incredible food and walkability, a trip Florence is the only logical choice. This expert-crafted 3 days in Florence itinerary is designed to help you navigate the crowds and find the authentic soul of the city. We will climb the heights of Brunelleschi’s dome, cross the ancient bridges at sunset and eat our way through the savoury delights of Tuscan cuisine. It is the definitive Florence travel guide for planning your journey, detailing exactly what to do in Florence during your unforgettable Florence weekend itinerary.
Day 1: The Giants of the Renaissance
Day one is dedicated to the heavy hitters. We will tackle the most iconic silhouette in the city, dive into the greatest collection of Italian art on the planet and end the day with a sunset that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Morning: The Heart of Christendom
Start your day in the Piazza del Duomo. It is essential to arrive here early, preferably before 8:30 AM, to appreciate the scale of the buildings before the tour groups arrive. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo) dominates the skyline with its façade of pink, white and green marble.
You must climb Brunelleschi’s Dome. It is 463 steps to the top and there is no lift, but the experience of walking between the two shells of the dome is an architectural marvel. At the top you are rewarded with a panoramic view of the terracotta rooftops stretching out to the Tuscan hills.
Back on the ground visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city, famous for its bronze "Gates of Paradise" (replicas are outside, originals are in the museum). Inside the ceiling is covered in glittering gold mosaics that inspired Dante’s vision of hell.
Lunch: The Central Market
Walk a short distance to the Mercato Centrale (San Lorenzo Market). The ground floor is a working market where locals buy tripe, steaks and olive oil. It is loud, chaotic and smells incredible.
Head upstairs to the food court for lunch. This is not your average mall food court. You can find everything from fresh truffle pasta to wood-fired pizza and artisan burgers. For a true Florentine experience try a Lampredotto sandwich. It is made from the fourth stomach of a cow, slow-cooked in broth and served with salsa verde. It is delicious if you can get past the description.
Afternoon: The Uffizi Gallery
Walk down Via dei Calzaiuoli to the Piazza della Signoria. This L-shaped square is an open-air sculpture gallery featuring a copy of Michelangelo's David and the fountain of Neptune. Dominating the square is the Palazzo Vecchio, the fortress-like town hall.
Your main destination is the Uffizi Gallery located just off the square. This was originally the office building (uffizi) for the Medici magistrates. Today it holds the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art.
You will see Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. The corridors themselves are works of art with grotesque-style painted ceilings. Booking tickets weeks in advance is absolutely mandatory.
Evening: Sunset by the River
Exit the Uffizi and walk towards the Arno River. The view of the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) from the riverbank is iconic. It is the only bridge in Florence that survived World War II and it is lined with jewellery shops that hang precariously over the water.
For dinner stay away from the main tourist squares. Head towards the Santa Croce neighbourhood. This area is slightly more local and vibrant.
Look for a trattoria serving Ribollita. This is a hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, beans, kale and vegetables. It is simple peasant food elevated to an art form.
Practical Details: Day 1
Activity | Time | Cost (EUR) | Cost (GBP) * | Address/Details |
Brunelleschi's Dome Climb | 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM | €30.00 (Pass) | £25.50 | Piazza del Duomo. Brunelleschi Pass covers all sites. |
Baptistery & Museum | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Included in Pass | Included | See the Gates of Paradise originals. |
Lunch – Mercato Centrale | 12:00 PM – 01:30 PM | €15.00 avg | £12.75 avg | Piazza del Mercato Centrale. |
Uffizi Gallery | 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM | €25.00 | £21.25 | Piazzale degli Uffizi 6. Pre-booking essential. Book here |
Piazza della Signoria | 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM | Free | Free | Open air sculpture gallery. |
Dinner – Santa Croce | 08:00 PM | €35.00 avg | £29.75 avg | Traditional Tuscan trattoria. |
Total Estimated Transport Cost: | Walkable | 0 | 0 | City centre is pedestrian-heavy. |
GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.85 for planning purposes.
Day 2: The Other Side of the River
Day two takes you across the river to the Oltrarno (literally "beyond the Arno"). This is the artisan district of Florence where the vibe is cooler, the streets are quieter and the food is often better.
Morning: The Pitti Palace
Cross the Ponte Vecchio. While the bridge is crowded with tourists, take a moment to look at the Vasari Corridor running above the shops. This was the private walkway for the Medici family so they could cross the river without mixing with the commoners.
Your destination is the Pitti Palace. This massive Renaissance palace was bought by the Medici family and became their chief residence. It is opulent and grand. Visit the Palatine Gallery to see hundreds of paintings by Titian and Raphael hanging in their original lavish settings, frame-to-frame on silk-covered walls.
Behind the palace lie the Boboli Gardens. These are the prototype for all European royal gardens. It is a green museum of sculptures, grottos and fountains. Climb to the top near the Porcelain Museum for a stunning view back towards the Duomo.
Lunch: Santo Spirito Vibes
Walk down into the Santo Spirito neighbourhood. The central square, Piazza Santo Spirito, is the living room of the Oltrarno. It is lined with cafes and shaded by trees.
Have lunch at Gustapizza or one of the osterias on the square. The atmosphere here is bohemian and relaxed. Pop into the Basilica of Santo Spirito to see a wooden crucifix carved by a young Michelangelo.
Afternoon: Artisans and Views
Spend the afternoon wandering the side streets of the Oltrarno. This area is famous for its workshops. You can find artisans making handmade paper, gilding picture frames and stitching leather gloves. It is the perfect place to buy a high-quality, authentic souvenir that is not a plastic magnet.
Late in the afternoon, begin the climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo. You can walk up the winding ramps from the San Niccolò tower. It is a bit of a hike but it is the single best sunset spot in the city.
Evening: The Golden Hour
Watch the sun set from the steps of Piazzale Michelangelo. As the lights of the city turn on and the bridges reflect in the river, you will understand why this view is famous worldwide. There is usually live music and a festive atmosphere.
For dinner descend back into San Niccolò. This neighbourhood at the foot of the hill is full of lively bars and restaurants. Try Il Rifrullo or similar spots for a great atmosphere.
Practical Details: Day 2
Activity | Time | Cost (EUR) | Cost (GBP) * | Address/Details |
Pitti Palace | 09:30 AM – 11:30 AM | €16.00 | £13.60 | Piazza de' Pitti 1. Book here with guide |
Boboli Gardens | 11:30 AM – 01:00 PM | €10.00 | £8.50 | Massive Renaissance gardens. |
Lunch – Santo Spirito | 01:00 PM – 02:30 PM | €15.00 avg | £12.75 avg | Piazza Santo Spirito. |
Artisan Workshops | 02:30 PM – 04:30 PM | Free (browsing) | Free | Explore Via Maggio and side streets. |
Piazzale Michelangelo | 05:30 PM – 07:00 PM | Free | Free | Best sunset viewpoint. |
Dinner – San Niccolò | 08:00 PM | €30.00 avg | £25.50 avg | Lively district below the viewpoint. |
Total Estimated Transport Cost: | Walkable | 0 | 0 | Be prepared for some hills. |
GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.85 for planning purposes.
Day 3: The David and The Pharmacy
Your final day is about seeing the most famous man in Florence and discovering the aromatic history of the city before a final carnivorous feast.
Morning: The David
Start your day at the Galleria dell'Accademia. There is one main reason to come here: Michelangelo’s David. No photograph prepares you for the sheer size and perfection of this statue. Standing at 17 feet tall, he is the embodiment of the Renaissance ideal of human beauty.
Take time to walk around him and admire the details, such as the veins in his hands and the intensity in his eyes. The museum also houses Michelangelo's unfinished "Slaves," which look like they are struggling to break free from the marble.
Lunch: San Lorenzo Simplicity
Head back towards the San Lorenzo area. For a quick and traditional lunch stop at Trattoria Mario (if you can get in) or a similar hole-in-the-wall spot. This is the place to try Ribollita again or Pappa al Pomodoro (a thick tomato and bread soup).
Afternoon: Perfume and Frescoes
Walk towards the train station to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. The facade is a geometric masterpiece of marble. Inside you will find Masaccio’s Trinity, a fresco that was one of the first to use perfect linear perspective.
Just around the corner is the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Founded in 1221 by Dominican friars, it is considered the oldest pharmacy in the world. Even if you do not buy anything, the interior is stunning with frescoed ceilings and antique cabinets. The smell of potpourri and herbal elixirs is intoxicating.
If you have extra time and want to escape the city walls, take the Number 7 bus from Piazza San Marco to Fiesole. It is a small Etruscan town on a hill overlooking Florence. It offers a Roman theatre and a cool breeze on hot days.
Farewell: The Bistecca
You cannot leave Florence without eating a Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This is a T-bone steak from the Chianina breed of cattle. It is cut thick, grilled over wood embers and served rare. Do not ask for it well-done; the chef might refuse.
Head to a classic steakhouse like Trattoria Dall'Oste or Buca Lapi. Share the steak (they are huge) with a bottle of Chianti Classico wine and toast to a magnificent trip.
Practical Details: Day 3
Activity | Time | Cost (EUR) | Cost (GBP) * | Address/Details |
Accademia Gallery | 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM | €16.00 | £13.60 | Via Ricasoli 58. See David. Book here |
Lunch – San Lorenzo | 11:30 AM – 01:00 PM | €20.00 avg | £17.00 avg | Traditional Tuscan soups. |
Santa Maria Novella Church | 01:30 PM – 02:30 PM | €7.50 | £6.40 | Piazza di Santa Maria Novella 18. |
Old Pharmacy (Officina) | 02:45 PM – 03:45 PM | Free (browsing) | Free | Via della Scala 16. |
Fiesole Bus (Optional) | 04:00 PM – 06:00 PM | €3.00 (Return) | £2.55 | Bus 7 from San Marco. |
Farewell Dinner – Steak | 08:00 PM | €60.00 avg | £51.00 avg | Price depends on steak weight. |
Total Estimated Transport Cost: | €3.00 | £2.55 | Bus ticket if visiting Fiesole. |
GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.85 for planning purposes.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Suggestion
For a stay that combines modern eco-friendly design with an unbeatable strategic location, this hotel is the smart choice for the modern traveller.
Globus Urban Hotel (Book here)
Location: Strategic perfection. Located at Via Sant'Antonino 24, this hotel is situated in the vibrant San Lorenzo district. You are a mere 300 metres from the Santa Maria Novella train station which makes arrival and departure effortless. The Central Market is practically your neighbour and the Duomo is a short five-minute walk away. It places you right in the thick of the action without being on the loudest tourist street.
Style & Amenities: The Globus Urban Hotel stands out for its modern, industrial-chic aesthetic which is a refreshing contrast to the Renaissance overload outside. It features exposed brick, iron details and smart lighting. The hotel is committed to sustainability with eco-friendly practices that go beyond just towel reuse. The breakfast is a highlight featuring organic and locally sourced products that cater to various dietary needs. The rooms are soundproofed which is a luxury in a busy city centre.
Rates: Offering excellent value for such a central and modern facility, double rooms typically start around €150–€220 (£127–£187) per night depending on the season. It is an ideal base for those who prioritize location and modern comfort.
Final Section: Tips and Local Insights
Your artistic city break Florence is planned. Here are essential logistics and local insights to ensure your visit is seamless.
Mastering the City
Walking: Florence is extremely walkable. In fact, walking is often the only way to get around the historic centre as it is largely pedestrianised. Wear sturdy shoes as the cobblestones can be unforgiving.
The Firenze Card: If you plan to visit many museums (Uffizi, Accademia, Pitti, etc.), consider the Firenze Card. It costs €85 and is valid for 72 hours. It can save you money and sometimes time, although mandatory reservation slots are still required for the big museums.
Reservations: You cannot just turn up at the Uffizi or the Accademia in high season. You must book your entry slot online weeks in advance on the official B-Ticket website.
Currency, Tipping and Etiquette
Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted but it is always good to have some cash for small purchases like espresso or gelato.
Coperto: You will see a "Coperto" charge on your restaurant bill (usually €2-€3 per person). This is a standard cover charge for bread and cutlery. It is not a scam.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Italy but it is appreciated. Leaving a few Euros on the table or rounding up the bill is sufficient. You do not need to tip 20%.
Coffee Rules: Cappuccino is for breakfast only. Ordering one after 11:00 AM will mark you instantly as a tourist. After a meal, locals drink an espresso (caffè) to aid digestion.
Water: You can drink the tap water. There are also public fountains (nasoni) around the city where you can refill your bottle for free.
Florence is a city that demands your attention. It is intense, crowded and incredibly beautiful. Take your time, eat the gelato and let the Renaissance wash over you. Buon viaggio! (Have a safe trip!)
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