Morning: Breakfast
For breakfast in Florence, start with something simple, such as a restaurant that focuses on quality over quantity. I’d like an American breakfast. Florentines start with something light and Sweet such as a croissant or pastry paired with a strong coffee. Here are some classic options to consider for breakfast and Florence:
Cornetto
A Cornetto Is similar to a croissant, but often sweeter and softer. They come in a variety of flavors such as plain jam-filled custard-filled or even Nutella. It is a great option for a traditional Florentine pastry.
Panino
A Panino is a small savory sandwich. Usually, they are served on Tuscan flatbread and topped with olive oil. A Panino is usually filled with cheese, ham, or vegetables.
Cappuccino
Coffee is definitely a staple in Florence and Italy as a whole. It is made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk. For those who do not want a straight shot of espresso, the milk makes the drink creamy, smooth, and energizing. Remember not to order, a cappuccino after 11 as is considered unusual in Italy. It is strictly a morning beverage.
Fresh juice
Many cafés around Florence serve fresh juices with breakfast. Look for orange grapefruit or even pear juice.
When roaming around Florence for breakfast there are tons of options to sit and eat. Simply walk down a side street and there will be many cafés waiting to serve you.
Morning: Duomo
The Duomo is an essential attraction in Florence and is one of Italy’s most famous buildings. The construction began in 1296 and took over 140 years to complete!
Viewing the dorm from the side, look for the iconic green, white, and pink marble tiles. There are also many intricate carvings in statues to see around the building, making each inch unique.
The most iconic part of the dorm is Brunelleschi’s dome. Standing at 376 feet, it Was once the largest dome in the world and remains an engineering marvel. You can even get tickets to climb up the stairs on the inside!
It may surprise some people to see a more simple subdued interior of the dorm. The peaceful atmosphere creates time to admire the floor mosaics and the clock above the entrance.
The tower, located next door to the Duomo, Is also worth a visit. Named Giotto’s Campanile, It offers a 400-step climb for spectacular views of the Duomo in the city.
The best times to visit the Duomo are early in the morning. This will allow a quieter experience with less crowds. Visiting in the late afternoon during the golden hour makes the Duomo’s marble tiles shine, which is great for photos.
For those who want to see more of Italy, check out my 10-Day Guide to Rome, Florence, and Venice
Noon: See the David
The David statue is a symbol of human strength, beauty, and ingenuity. Most people are unaware that it is located in Florence. Standing over 17 feet tall this masterpiece captivates tourists from all over the world since its completion in 1504. It is a must-visit in Florence.
The statue sits inside the Galleria dell’Accademia but was once located in the Piazza della Signoria.
When visiting the museum, make sure to book tickets in advance. The academia gets very crowded, especially during the summer months. Skip the line and book tickets ahead of time.
For the best times to visit, consider early in the morning or late in the afternoon afternoon. The gallery gets busier during the middle of the day.
Make sure to take the time to admire the other works inside the museum, as there are many captivating pieces to see.
Afternoon: Shopping
Florence has many shops that feature quality, craftsmanship, unique, souvenirs, and Italian fashion. Some of the things you can find include leather goods, designer, fashion, jewelry, artisan, crafts, food, markets, perfume, books, and souvenirs.
For leather, consider the San Lorenzo Market. This open-air market near San Lorenzo Church is a hotspot for leather items. Inspect the craftsmanship before buying, and don’t forget to negotiate!
For jewelry, head to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most famous bridge. Most shops feature everything from delicate gold to gemstone rings. Goldsmithing in Florence is a tradition that dates back centuries, and many local jewelers still use techniques passed down from generations.
Souvenir shops are found throughout the city. Bring back some traditional Chanti wine, which is a local red made in Tuscany. There are also ceramics featuring traditional Florentine designs. Scarves and textiles are also popular in Florence!
Afternoon: Piazza della Signoria
After cruising through town to shop, head to the Piazza Dela Signoria to admire some of Florence’s iconic statues. This is a place where history and politics convert. It’s not just a square; the open-air museum contains many art pieces that capture the spirit of the Renaissance. Here are some works to look out for:
- Statue of David (Replica)
A replica of Michelangelo’s iconic David stands proudly at the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio, marking the spot where the original once stood. It’s a reminder of Florence’s resilience and artistic legacy. - Fountain of Neptune
Designed by Bartolomeo Ammannati, this grand fountain features a towering statue of Neptune surrounded by sea creatures. Though it has faced criticism (and even mockery) since its unveiling in 1575, it remains a prominent feature of the square. - Equestrian Statue of Cosimo I
This bronze statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici, created by Giambologna, celebrates the powerful leader who brought Florence under Medici’s rule.
Evening: Dinner
One thing Italy is widely known for is its food, and cuisine within Florence is no exception. Florentine dishes are rooted in rustic traditions and emphasize fresh produce, local meat, and hearty portions.
Try a Bistecca alla Florentina, consisting of an iconic T-bone steak from the Chianina breed of cattle native to Tuscany. These steaks are grilled on high heat, seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil, and served rarely.
For vegetarians, try Ribollita. It is a comforting soup that is made with leftover bread, Canelli beans, kale, and vegetables. This is the perfect soup for a cool evening.
For a sweet ending, try some gelato Or Cantucci with Vin Santo. This Florentine dessert features almond biscuits served with a small glass of Santo wine for dipping. It is the perfect way to end a dinner in Florence.
After dinner, Ponte Vecchio Is beautifully illuminated after dark for those who want to take an evening stroll. For some more fun, many clubs in Florence will have live music to sit and enjoy.
Best Time to go to Florence
Each season in Florence offers a unique experience. The city shines your own, but the experience can vary significantly, depending on the season.
Spring
Some say that spring is the best time to visit Florence. The weather is mild and temperatures rained from 50 to 75° in May—the city features blooming flowers and the lush Tuscan countryside just outside Florence.
Spring also brings rain to the city, so make sure to bring an umbrella if visiting during this time. Also, crowds begin to rise by late May so make sure to visit earlier in the season to ensure fewer crowds.
Summer
Summer is peak tour season in Florence and the city bustles With activity day and night. The best part about summer is the amount of daylight. Since the sun sets around 9 PM, there is so much time to explore shops and museums around Florence. There are also lively outdoor events like the Firenze Rocks music festival.
The downside of visiting Florence in the summer is the crowds. They can be quite overwhelming at major attractions. The temperatures often go above 85° after during the day and can be unbearable for some.
Fall
During the fall, crowds start to dwindle and temperatures go down. Florence has a more relaxed vibe. The temperatures are pleasant during the season and range from 60° to 75° in September and sometimes cool down to the 50s. The harvest season in Tuscany means that many local shops will offer fresh wine and troubles.
Rain becomes more frequent around November, so make sure to bring it umbrella if visiting late in the year. Some shops might also reduce their hours as winter approaches.
Winter
Winters in Florence get quite chilly with temperatures ranging from 40° to 50°. However, the smaller crowds and festive atmosphere make the visit worthwhile. Many attractions offer significantly low prices during the off-season. The city is also filled with holiday decorations, especially around Christmas time.
During the winter countryside, shops may close for the season. The weather could also be damp and chilly, although snow is rare. For those who prefer a slower pace, winter is the best time to visit Florence.
Conclusion
Florence is a city that is filled with so much cultural and historical significance. A trip to Florence is an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you are an art lover, a history, lover, or just want to escape on vacation for a while, Florence is a bucket list, destination. The Tuscan cuisine and breathtaking pieces of art promise, unforgettable memories. Make sure to save this guide one visit to make the most of your experience in Florence. Buon viaggio!
About the Author
Anthony Curione is a passionate traveler and storyteller from upstate New York, sharing his adventures to over 15 countries and countless national parks on Curione Travel. With a love for exploration and connecting through experiences, Anthony inspires others to embrace the beauty of the world around them. View his stories at curionetravel.com
