Ultimate 1-Day Florence Itinerary: What to See in One Day
Planning a trip to Italy and wondering what to add to your 1-day Florence itinerary? If you’ve got just 1 day in Florence to hit all the highlights, here’s the perfect itinerary to make the most of your time!
Florence is one of those cities you just can’t miss, even if you only have one day. This 1-Day Florence Itinerary is all about making the most of your time, hitting all the highlights, and enjoying the best bits of the city. Think of this as your go-to guide for an action-packed, perfect day in Florence.
Whether you’re arriving by train, plane, or driving in, I’ve got you covered with the best parking spots and top tips for getting around. We’ll visit iconic landmarks in Florence, enjoy some delicious Italian food, and discover a few hidden gems. This 1 day in Florence, Italy itinerary will help you navigate Florence efficiently, ensuring you make the most of your day trip in this amazing Italian city.
This post is all about the ultimate 1-Day Florence Itinerary.
Florence Itinerary: How to Spend 1 Day in Florence
Accademia Gallery, First Stop on Your 1-Day Florence Itinerary
Your day in Florence starts bright and early with a visit to the Accademia Gallery as soon as it opens at 8:15am. Michelangelo’s David statue is here, so you’ll be able to check this off your Florence bucket list first thing in the morning!
We booked a guided tour, which I highly recommend everyone does. It’s one thing to see the art, but having someone explain the history and significance of each piece really helps you understand everything so much better.
One of the main attractions of the Accademia Gallery is, of course, the statue of David (AKA one of the most famous sculptures in the world!). It was such a neat experience to see the statue in person and see all of the thought and detail put into it.
David isn’t the only reason to visit the Accademia. There are plenty of other pieces of art, including works by other great Italian artists. The gallery itself isn’t huge, so you can comfortably see everything in about an hour. This gives you the perfect start without taking up too much time from the rest of your day.
PRO TIP: Since the Accademia Gallery is one of the most popular places to visit in Florence, the line can get pretty long since they only allow a limited number of people in at a time. It’s best to buy your tickets and reserve a time slot ahead of time on their website. If you already know your travel dates, do this ASAP because tickets sell out fast. We personally tried finding tickets about 2-3 weeks in advance, and everything was already completely booked. We found luck by purchasing tickets with a tour group online!
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Duomo)
Next, head to the famous Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, also known as the Florence Duomo. Seeing this cathedral in person is absolutely incredible. It’s massive and probably the most iconic site in all of Florence. Construction started in 1296 and took nearly 150 years to complete. The dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is the largest masonry dome ever built, combining Gothic and Renaissance styles.
There will likely be a line outside, but it moves pretty quickly. If you’re wearing a sleeveless top, remember to cover your shoulders before going in – they’re strict about that since it’s a church.
PRO TIP: Watch out for scammers with artwork on the ground in high-traffic areas. They hope people will step on the artwork so they can demand payment. Keep an eye on where you’re walking and you’ll be fine!
Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome (if you have extra time!)
If you have some extra time to spare after visiting the Duomo, climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome is a really neat thing to do! It offers some of the best views of the city. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance because they sell out fast. You can book tickets for the “Brunelleschi Pass” here.
The view from the top of the dome climb is worth every step. You get an incredible view of Florence and a close-up look at the massive dome. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1418, it’s the largest masonry dome in the world and has a really unique double-dome design. While it’s a great experience, maybe skip it if you get claustrophobic easily!
If you miss out on Duomo tickets, you can still climb Giotto’s Bell Tower instead! Just get the “Giotto Pass.” There’s no need to book a time slot for the bell tower.
PRO TIP: Tickets for the Cathedral complex are valid for three days from your first visit. With the dome ticket, you can also access Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Cathedral Museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo), Florence Baptistery, and the archaeological site below the Cathedral.
Other Places to See in Piazza del Duomo
These next two spots are great additions to your 1-day Florence itinerary, but we didn’t have enough time to explore them fully (aside from seeing them from the outside). I wanted to include them in case you have some extra time to check them out!
Florence Baptistery
Right next door to the Duomo is the Florence Baptistery, also known as the Baptistery of Saint John. Built between 1059 and 1128, it’s one of the oldest churches in Florence, even older than the Cathedral itself!
Dante Alighieri and members of the Medici family were baptized here, and it even has the tomb of Antipope John XXIII, crafted by Donatello.
The Baptistery doors, known as the Gates of Paradise and Bronze Doors, are architectural highlights (image shown above!). Several of the original doors are now in the Opera del Duomo Museum, making the museum worth a visit too.
A visit to the Baptistery only takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
Right behind the Cathedral, you’ll find the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. This museum houses original sculptures and art from the Cathedral, including works by Michelangelo and Donatello. If you want to learn more about the Duomo complex, this is the place to be.
Inside, you’ll find Renaissance masterpieces that were once featured in the Baptistery, the Bell Tower, and the Cathedral. Check out Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise doors, an exhibit on the dome’s construction, and a replica of the cathedral façade.
P.S. – You can also visit the upper terrace for a unique view of the Florence Cathedral.
Medieval Center Walk
Next, take a short walk through the medieval center of Florence. Head down via del Corso to Via Santa Margherita and you’ll find yourself in Dante Alighieri’s old neighborhood. You’ll come across the tower where Florence’s priors used to gather and vote (Torre della Castagna) in the Middle Ages, as well as the small oratory of the Buonuomini di San Martino, a confraternity that’s been helping the poor since the 15th century. This area is full of history and feels like stepping back into medieval times.
You’ll also find plenty of shops, cafes, and artisanal boutiques. It’s a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts. Keep an eye out for traditional Florentine leather goods, handcrafted jewelry, and locally made art.
Piazza della Signoria
Next, make your way to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of Florence. The centerpiece here is Palazzo Vecchio, which has served as the city’s town hall since the 14th century. The building itself is stunning and packed with history.
The square is also filled with must-see sculptures, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the Fountain of Neptune. Don’t miss the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air museum with unique Renaissance sculptures.
There’s always a lot going on here, from street performers to musicians. While you might not have time to stick around, it’s fun to check out the lively scene as you pass through. If you need a quick break, there are plenty of spots around the square to grab a snack or a drink before you head to the next stop on the 1-day Florence itinerary.
Lunch at All’Antico Vinaio (Famous Sandwich Shop)
For lunch, head over to All’Antico Vinaio. The line was massive when I went, but it moved pretty quickly. This sandwich shop is famous in Florence, and it’s totally worth the wait. Their signature schiacciata bread, stuffed with cured meats, cheeses, and veggies, is literally chef’s kiss.
Visit the Wine Window at Ristorante Pietrabianca
After lunch, take a quick walk over to Ristorante Pietrabianca to check out one of Florence’s famous wine windows. You’ll find it in Piazza de Perruzi, where a former amphitheater once stood. Look for the sidewalk chalkboard inviting you to ring the bell and order a drink.
At the wine window, you can get a glass of wine or cocktails like an Aperol Spritz, Gin Tonic, Moscow Mule, Margarita, or Mojito, all served in to-go cups. It’s even rumored that Leonardo Da Vinci used to buy his wine from this very spot!
These wine windows are such a fun and unique part of Florence’s history! There are over 150 of these little windows in the city (though only a few still open) and more than 100 throughout Tuscany. They date back to the 1500s when Cosimo de’ Medici came to power. He allowed wealthy families to sell wine directly through these windows, cutting out the middlemen and avoiding taxes, which made wine cheaper.
Fast forward to the 1600s during the bubonic plague, and these windows became a safe way to buy and sell wine without direct contact. It’s like a 17th-century version of social distancing! These quirky windows are a must-see on any 1-day Florence itinerary.
related post
Florence Wine Windows Map
Learn more about how to find the famous Florence Wine Windows!
Other Nearby Wine Windows
If the wine window at Ristorante Pietrabianca is too busy, don’t worry! There are two other great wine windows close by.
Osteria San Fiorenzo
Their wine window is located in a yellow wall and features red and white Tuscan wines, as well as Aperol Spritz cocktails. The staff is super friendly, and you can enjoy your drink right next to the beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce.
La Buchetta Food & Wine 2
Stop by for a glass of red or white wine, prosecco, a spritz, or even a negroni. Just a heads up – don’t confuse this spot with the original La Buchetta on Via de’ Benci!
For a complete list of functioning wine windows in Florence, check out the blog post with the Florence Wine Windows Map!
Uffizi Gallery
Next up is the Uffizi Gallery, a must-see on any 1-day Florence itinerary. This place is home to one of the most important collections of art in Italy, so it’s definitely worth the visit. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.
Inside, you’ll find artwork by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. Two pieces you absolutely can’t miss are Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera. They’re really cool to see in person. The gallery is pretty big, so if you’re short on time, focus on the highlights.
The layout can be a bit tricky, so grab a map at the entrance to help navigate through the different rooms and exhibits. It can feel overwhelming with so much amazing art on display, so having a plan is a good idea. Highlights include the room dedicated to Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci’s works, and the sculptures in the Tribune room.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out the views from the windows overlooking the Arno River. They provide a perfect little break from all the art and offer some great photo opportunities.
Ponte Vecchio (Famous Bridge in Florence)
After the Uffizi Gallery, it’s time to head over to Ponte Vecchio (AKA the famous bridge in Florence!). This bridge is packed with several shops and offers some great views of the Arno River.
The history here is super interesting. The Ponte Vecchio survived World War II and has been a symbol of Florence ever since. Originally, the shops on the bridge were butcher shops, but in the 16th century, the Medici family swapped them out for jewelry shops, which are still there today.
Honestly, it’s one of the most “Instagrammable” spots in Florence. The colorful buildings, lively vibe, and beautiful river views make it a must-visit. Walk across the bridge, admire the shops, and enjoy the views. Oh, and make sure to look up and check out the Vasari Corridor – an elevated walkway built for the Medici family that runs above the shops. It’s just one more piece of history that makes this place so unique.
Dinner at Osteria delle Tre Panche
After your day of exploring, dinner at Osteria delle Tre Panche in the Centro Storico is just what you need. It’s a bit more upscale, but the food is absolutely worth it.
The rooftop view here is amazing, and it’s conveniently located right next to Ponte Vecchio. You’ve got to try the truffle pasta and ravioli – they’re everyone’s favorites. Just a heads-up: this place is super popular, so make sure you book your table in advance.
Sunset Views of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo
To end your incredible day, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for some of the best sunset views over Florence. This hilltop square is the perfect spot to enjoy a full view of the city. At the top, you’ll see the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Arno River. There’s even a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David up there.
You can either walk up, take a bus, or catch a taxi. We personally rented a Bird scooter, rode to the bottom, and then walked to the top. The climb might be a bit of a trek, but the views are totally worth it.
P.S. I recommend bringing a bottle of wine to enjoy during sunset!
Gelato from Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato
If you’re still up for a little adventure after watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, head over to Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato for some of their famous gelato. There are a few Venchi locations, but this one has the cool chocolate waterfall everyone talks about: Via dei Calzaiuoli, 65/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.
There might be a 15-20 minute wait, but it’s definitely worth it. The staff are super patient and let you sample different flavors to help you decide.
Just watch out for the chocolate cone – it can double the price of your gelato!
Tips for Getting to Florence for a 1-Day Trip
By Train
Arriving by train is super convenient. The Santa Maria Novella station is right in the city center, so you can jump straight into sightseeing as soon as you get off the train. Trains from major cities like Rome and Milan are frequent, reliable, and comfortable. The high-speed trains are particularly great, offering a smooth and quick journey. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to get the best prices and seats.
By Car
If you’re driving, park at Villa Costanza and take the tram into the city. Another good option is the parking lot at Piazzale Montelungo, just behind the main train station. Both spots save you the hassle of navigating narrow streets and finding parking in the city center. Driving in Florence can be tricky due to the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), which restricts traffic in the historical center to reduce congestion and pollution. Therefore, parking outside and taking public transport is a smart move. Plus, taking the tram offers a little glimpse into local life as you make your way into the heart of Florence.
By Plane
If you’re flying into Florence, the tram from Peretola Airport (Amerigo Vespucci) to the city center is a lifesaver. This tram, run by the Italian subsidiary of the RATP, stops at Via Alamanni right next to Santa Maria Novella train station and Place de l’Unita, taking just 20 minutes. Running daily from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM (and until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), you can catch a tram every 7 to 18 minutes. The fare is around €2, with ticket machines at every stop.
Using the tram in Florence is straightforward. Buy your ticket at the machines near tram stops for about €1.50, using cash or card. Once on the tram, validate your ticket at the yellow machines inside to avoid fines. The tram stops right at the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station, making it easy to start your day. It also reaches Careggi hospital and the bus station at Villa Costanza, running frequently for your convenience. Always check the official website for up-to-date schedules.
