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.

But first things first, let me just say that Florence is so much more than just the Duomo, Renaissance art, and a quick pasta stop (even though… yes, you’ll definitely have that too).

This city is an absolute masterpiece. Full of history that you can feel in every corner, sunlit piazzas, tiny streets that lead to unexpected views, and that effortless Italian charm that makes you slow down without even trying. It’s the kind of place that completely pulls you in, even if you’re only here for one day.

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. Here are the 3 main ways to reach Florence:

• By Plane: Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is the closest airport, located just 15 minutes from the city centre 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 centre 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.

Planning to visit from Bologna? Then this blog post is for you!

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 as well:

• 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, so I don’t consider this to be the best way to get around.

Where to Stay in Florence if you have a 24 hour layover

Even if you are considering to stay in the city only for one day, you might need a place to leave your belongings. In the same way, a 24 hour layover will require a place to sleep. So you should know that Florence has plenty of options to choose from when it comes to the accommodation.

Of course, choosing the right one can elevate your experience. Here are a few places that I would recommend:

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 del 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 Gelateria, renowned for its creamy texture. Don’t miss Venchi for their decadent chocolate-based gelato.

Find out more about FOOD IN FLORENCE in this Foodie Guide to Florence

While in Florence I definitely recommend trying a cooking class, you can try ones for pizza or tiramisu, but the one that I chose was the Pasta and Gelato, the perfect combination for Italy!

Coffee Breaks in Florence

Italian coffee culture is an experience in itself. Here are some of the best places that I tried and loved. Check them out if you want to grab a quick espresso or leisurely cappuccino or hot chocolate:

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.

Photo Spots in Florence

There are plenty of spots that you will want to take photos of. At every corner and street you will find something unique and so characteristic for Florence that you will want to immortalise, believe me. But besides keeping your camera open constantly for all these, I think that you will best 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.

24 Hour Itinerary for Florence: How to spend One Day

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. Places are close by in the city, at a walking distance, so taking different streets and alleys is a great way to reach your destination, but also explore on the way there. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to just wander, spend the day in Florence Italy admiring everything around you. The city is like an open museum.

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 del Cinghiale Bianco where you can taste the rich flavours of Tuscan cuisine. Alternatively, if you want to stay in this area, for something quicker and just as delicious, grab a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio. It’s a local favourite.

After lunch, it’s time to immerse yourself in art. You are in Florence after all. So head to one of the greatest art galleries, the Uffizi Gallery around 2:00 PM. If you’re short on time, focus on the highlights, which means the 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. You can take the stairs or the bus. 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 take 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 cheese.

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.

If you want to replace any of the activities that I mentioned, or you have some extra time, I have a couple of recommendations. There is obviously so much more to do, so if you have that additional time you can add Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens to your trip.

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.

If you’ve only got one day to spend in Florence Italy, you should know from the beginning that the city will leave you wanting more, but with these ideas, you’ll make the most of every moment.