A Perfect Day (or Two) in Florence
Florence is the kind of city that will steal your heart the second you step foot in it. If you only have a day or two, you need to make every moment (and every bite) count. Follow this itinerary, and you’ll hit all the best spots, eat your weight in Italian food, and maybe even shed a tear at how insanely beautiful this place is.
Where to Stay
A great place to stay in Florence is the Grand Hotel Minerva or this incredible Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/l/QZBN2LaM. We stayed there, and it was AMAZING for our family—highly recommend!
Start Your Day Right: Brunch at Melaleuca Pasticceria e Bistrò
Right off Corso dei Tintori, this charming spot serves up the most incredible pastries, fresh coffee, and the best avocado toast you’ll ever have. It’s the perfect way to fuel up before a day of exploring. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite.
The Duomo (You Literally Can’t Miss It)
Florence’s most iconic landmark, the Duomo, is a must-see. If the lines aren’t too crazy, hike to the top for a view that will leave you speechless. You can also climb the Bell Tower (Campanile) for equally breathtaking sights.
After soaking in the beauty of the Duomo, pop into A. Poggi, the cutest little home decor shop right across from the cathedral. Not only will you find some chic Italian street-style pieces, but the view from inside? Unreal.
Stroll Through Piazza della Repubblica
This lively square is full of energy, street artists, and one of Florence’s most charming attractions—the carousel. Take a spin, snap some photos, and soak in the old-world feel of this spot.
If you’re thirsty, head to my favorite [secret] rooftop bar overlooking the Duomo and Piazza della Repubblica: La Terrazza. It’s hidden on the top floor of Rinascente Firenze (yes, a department store—just take the escalators all the way up). The view is chef’s kiss.
Explore Palazzo Vecchio & Shop the Ponte Vecchio
Head over to Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s stunning town hall, and take in the Renaissance history.
Then, walk over to Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge lined with tiny, historic jewelry shops. This is the best place to browse unique gold and silver pieces—some shops have been around for centuries! Even if you’re not in the market for jewelry, just strolling through and window-shopping is a must.
For another scenic Aperol Spritz spot, check out La Terrazza or the rooftop at Grand Hotel Minerva—both are perfect for soaking in the city views.
Cross the Arno & Walk to Boboli Gardens
After exploring the Ponte Vecchio, head across the river to the Boboli Gardens. It’s not your typical floral garden—it’s a massive, stunning estate filled with fountains, sculptures, and jaw-dropping views of Florence. It’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe, and take in the beauty of the city.
Lunch at Gusta Pizza (The Best You’ll Ever Have)
After all that walking, you deserve some pizza. And not just any pizza—Gusta Pizza. It’s hands-down one of the best in Florence. Every bite is perfection. Enough said.
Gelato Break (The Right Kind)
Now, let’s talk gelato. If you see it piled high with bright colors and fruit stuck in it—RUN. That is not real gelato. Instead, look for a shop with silver canisters that have lids. That’s the real deal. Your taste buds will thank you.
Santa Croce & The Best Sandwich of Your Life
Make your way to Santa Croce (where Michelangelo is buried), but more importantly, keep walking down Via Giuseppe Verdi 36 until you find Salumeria Verdi (Pino’s Sandwiches).
This is not just a sandwich shop—it’s a life-changing experience. Pino makes the best sandwiches in Florence, but did you know he also hosts wine tastings? His wine selection at Pozzo Divino is almost as incredible as he is (and almost as good-looking 😉). If you have time, book a tasting—you won’t regret it!
Eat EVERYTHING. And if you don’t, I will personally never forgive you.
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
End the day at Piazzale Michelangelo, where you’ll get the most stunning sunset view over Florence. Bring a bottle of wine, maybe another Pino sandwich (because, why not?), and soak in the moment.
This is where John and I got engaged, so it holds a special place in my heart. 😍
Florence Nightlife
If you have any energy left, Florence has a great nightlife scene! Red Garter is lively with lots of study-abroad students, and there are a few fun clubs near the Duomo if you want to dance the night away.
Stay up until 3 AM and find the secret bakery—if you can. 😉
Take a Bus to Fiesole
Fiesole is a small town just outside Florence with killer views. To get there, take ATAF bus #7 from SMN train station or San Marco square.
Once there, explore the charming streets, grab a meal at a local trattoria, and climb up to the Monastery of San Francesco—the hike is tough, but the panoramic views of Florence? Worth it.
Shop the Local Markets
Mercato Centrale Firenze – Great for food and local vendors.
San Lorenzo Market – Best place for Florentine leather goods.
Mercato del Porcellino – Close to Ponte Vecchio, great for souvenirs and leather goods.
Fun fact: Rub the nose of the bronze boar at Mercato del Porcellino—legend says you’ll return to Florence!
See the Renaissance Museums
If you’re an art fan (or even if you’re not), don’t miss:
The Accademia Museum – Home of The David (yes, THE David).
The Uffizi – See The Birth of Venus in person. Incredible.
Dinner at Acqua al 2
End the night at Acqua al 2—a cozy, intimate restaurant in the heart of Florence. Get the blueberry steak. You’ll thank me later.
Check Out the Vasari Corridor
This historic passageway reopened in December 2024 after being closed for years! Learn about the Medici family and explore the hidden corridors they used to move between the Pitti Palace, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery in secret.
Fun Fact: When I studied abroad in Florence, my school and art studio were in Giorgio Vasari’s former studio! He was the architect of the Vasari Corridor and painted the inside of the Duomo dome. CRAZY!
Take a Piece of Florence Home
After falling in love with Florence, you’ll want a little piece of it with you forever. My Florence print is the perfect way to remember this magical city—whether it’s the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, or the charming streets, you can bring a bit of Italy home with you. Grab one as the perfect souvenir or gift to keep Florence in your heart (and on your walls) forever!
Final Thoughts: Just Eat Everything and Soak It All In
Florence is the kind of place that stays with you forever. Enjoy every second, eat every meal like it’s your last, and if you manage to smuggle a Pino sandwich back for me, you’ll be my hero forever.
Have the best time!!! 💛
