How to Spend One Day in Florence Italy

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city that is known for art, history, and culinary delights. While one day might not seem like enough to experience this Italian gem, with careful planning you can have an unforgettable time. This is how to spend one day in Florence Italy, if you are on a short trip or just a layover.

Let me guide you through everything you need to know for your 24-hour Florentine adventure—from how to get there to where to grab the best coffee and what to explore.

Getting to Florence

Florence is incredibly well-connected, making it easy to reach whether you’re coming from another Italian city or somewhere further.

• By Plane: Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is the closest airport, located just 15 minutes from the city center by taxi or shuttle bus. Alternatively, you can fly into Bologna Marconi Airport and take a 40 minute train ride into Florence.
• By Train: Florence’s main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is centrally located and serviced by high-speed trains from Rome (1.5 hours), Milan (2 hours), and Venice (2 hours).
• By Car: If you’re driving, be aware that Florence’s historic center is a ZTL (limited traffic zone). Park your car in one of the designated parking areas outside the zone and walk or use public transport to get into the city.

Getting Around Florence

When you are planning how to spend one day in Florence Italy, you should consider that Florence is a compact city that’s best explored on foot. Wandering through its cobblestone streets is part of the magic! However, there are other options:

• Walking: The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, and most attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk from each other.
• Biking: Rent a bike for a fun way to explore. Many bike rental shops are scattered around the city.
• Public Transport: Florence has a small but efficient bus network. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands or directly on the bus (though it’s slightly more expensive).
• Taxis: Taxis are available but can be pricey.

Where to Stay in Florence

Choosing the right accommodation can elevate your Florence experience. Here are a few recommendations:

• Luxury Stay: Hotel Brunelleschi – Located in the heart of the city, this hotel combines luxury with history.
• Mid-Range Option: Mercure Firenze Centro – Stylish and comfortable, just steps away from the centre.
• Budget-Friendly Choice: Ostello Bello Firenze – A modern and vibrant hostel with great amenities.

Best Places to Eat in Florence

If you are asking yourself how you should spend one day in Florence Italy and which are the best places to eat, you need to know that Florence is a foodie’s paradise. You simply cannot leave without indulging in some authentic Tuscan cuisine.

• Lunch: Osteria Cinghiale Bianco – Known for its rustic Tuscan dishes. Some specialties that you have to try are PAPPARDELLE WITH WILD BOAR RAGÙ and PAPPA AL POMODORO. Alternatively, grab a legendary sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio, a must-try in Florence.
• Dinner: Mercato Centrale – Dive into a bustling food market with various stalls offering everything from pizza to fresh pasta.
• Gelato: Vivoli Gelato – One of Florence’s oldest gelaterias, renowned for its creamy texture. Don’t miss Venchi for their decadent chocolate-based gelato.

Coffee Breaks in Florence

Italian coffee culture is an experience in itself. Here are some of the best places to grab a quick espresso or leisurely cappuccino:

1. Caffè Gilli: A historic café with a glamorous interior, perfect for people-watching.
2. Ditta Artigianale: Known for its artisan coffee and hip vibe.
3. La Ménagère: A trendy café with a unique mix of flowers, food, and coffee.

What to Visit in Florence

A single day calls for prioritizing Florence’s most iconic sights. Here’s what you can’t miss:

• Piazza del Duomo: Marvel at the grandeur of Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery of St. John. Climbing the Duomo is a must for stunning city views.
• Uffizi Gallery: Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. (Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the long lines.)
• Ponte Vecchio: This iconic medieval bridge is lined with jewelry shops and offers picturesque views of the Arno River.
• Piazza della Signoria: A vibrant square surrounded by statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
• Palazzo Vecchio: Florence’s town hall, which also serves as a museum, is rich with history and art.
• Galleria dell’Accademia: Don’t miss the chance to see Michelangelo’s David in person.
• Boboli Gardens: If time permits, take a peaceful stroll through these stunning gardens behind Pitti Palace.
• Piazzale Michelangelo: For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially during sunset.

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Photo Spots in Florence

Capture Florence’s charm at these Instagram-worthy locations:

• Wine Windows: Tiny windows where wine was historically served. These are scattered throughout the city.
• Ponte Vecchio: Best photographed at sunrise or sunset.
• Piazza del Duomo: With the cathedral as a backdrop, every angle is stunning.
• Piazzale Michelangelo: The ultimate spot for panoramic city views.
• Via de’ Tornabuoni: This street offers a mix of luxury boutiques and historic architecture, perfect for street photography.

One Day Itinerary for Florence Italy

Start your day in Florence

Florence is one of those cities that fills you with awe at every corner, and if you only have one day to explore, you can still experience a lot of its magic. Here’s how I would recommend to spend one day in Florence Italy.

Start your morning early with a cup of cappuccino and a pastry at Caffè Gilli, one of the city’s historic cafés. It’s the perfect way to get energized and soak in the atmosphere of this charming city. Afterward, take a short walk to the Piazza del Duomo. I’d definitely recommend climbing to the top of the Duomo’s dome for unforgettable views of Florence.

The climb can be a bit challenging, but once you reach the top, the panoramic vistas are more than worth it. I chose the Brunelleschi Pass, which offers access to the Duomo and the Campanile. I definitely recommend buying it in advance if you need a specific time, since you have to stick to the time slot on your ticket to go up the stairs to the Duomo cupola.

Around 10:30 AM, head over to the Baptistery. The intricate mosaics inside are stunning, and the beautiful marble floors and walls of the Cathedral’s interior are just as captivating. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you admire the history that surrounds you. And if you are a fan of Dan Brown’s books you will recognise this place and you wouldn’t want to miss it.

Midday in Florence

For lunch, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza della Signoria. The square is filled with statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David, and the atmosphere here is always lively. If you’re in the mood for something traditional, head across the bridge to enjoy a meal at Osteria Cinghiale Bianco where you can taste the rich flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Alternatively, for something quicker and just as delicious, grab a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio – it’s a local favorite.

After lunch, it’s time to immerse yourself in art. Head to the Uffizi Gallery around 2:00 PM. If you’re short on time, focus on the highlights – works by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The gallery is filled with masterpieces, so even a short visit leaves you amazed. By 3:30 PM, make your way to the Galleria dell’Accademia, where you can marvel at Michelangelo’s David. It’s awe-inspiring to stand before such an iconic statue, and the entire museum offers a glimpse into the artist’s genius.

A quick coffee break at La Ménagère at 4:30 PM gives you a chance to recharge and reflect on your day. This café has a great vibe, combining a café with a flower shop, so it’s not just about the coffee—it’s about the experience.

At 5:00 PM, take a relaxing walk across the Ponte Vecchio. The view of the river is picturesque, and the shops lining the bridge are perfect for a little browsing. I love stopping here for photos as the light begins to soften in the late afternoon.

Evening in Florence

As evening approaches, make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo. The view of Florence from here at sunset is magical—there’s something special about seeing the city bathed in golden light. It’s the perfect moment to pause and soak it all in.

By 7:00 PM, head back into the heart of the city for dinner at Mercato Centrale. The market is a food lover’s dream, offering a variety of local dishes in a lively, buzzing atmosphere. You’ll find everything from fresh pasta to delicious local meats and cheeses.

Finally, end your day with a nighttime stroll along the Arno River. The city is illuminated, and walking along the water feels like stepping into a dream. Florence at night is nothing short of enchanting. You reached the end of my itinerary about how to spend one day in Florence Italy. There is obviously so much more to do, so if you have any additional time you can add Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens to your trip.

If you’ve only got one day, Florence will leave you wanting more, but with these recommendations, you’ll make the most of every moment.