How Many Days in Florence? The Perfect Itinerary for Every Type of Traveller

Wondering how many days you really need in Florence?

You're not alone. With its world-class art, historic streets, and mouthwatering Tuscan food, Florence is one of those places that’s easy to fall in love with—and hard to leave.

If you're short on time, you can definitely catch the highlights in a day.

But to truly enjoy what Florence has to offer—without rushing from one landmark to the next—3 to 4 days is the sweet spot for most travellers.

In this guide, we’ll help you figure out how many days in Florence makes sense for your trip.

Whether you're planning a quick visit or a more relaxed stay, you'll find sample itineraries, tips, and ideas to make the most of your time in this unforgettable city.

Each corner of Florence holds a treasure of beauty

Ideal visit length: So, how many days should you spend in Florence?

If you're trying to figure out how long to stay in Florence, 3 to 4 days is just right for most people.

That gives you enough time to see the big sights—like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Michelangelo’s David—without feeling like you’re rushing everywhere.

Of course, how many days you should spend depends on your travel style:

• Only got 1–2 days? You can still see a lot, especially if you plan ahead. Think of it as a highlights tour.
• Got 3–4 days? Perfect! You'll have time to explore the city’s history, art, food, and maybe even a local market or two.
• Staying 5 days or more? Even better. You can take a relaxed approach, visit lesser-known spots, or do a day trip to places like Chianti or Pisa.

In short: whether you’re squeezing Florence into a tight itinerary or making it a main stop, there’s a way to make it work—and we’ll help you figure it out.

Consider Your Travel Style

• Solo Travellers
  If you’re exploring Florence on your own, you might enjoy a flexible itinerary that lets you dive into museums, cafés, and hidden spots at your own pace. 3 days is usually enough to get a real feel for the city without rushing. If you're travelling solo, connect with people while tasting local food on this foodie walk through Oltrarno.
  
  
• Couples
  Looking for romance? Spend at least 3 to 4 days to soak up the city’s charming streets, catch sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo, and enjoy candlelit dinners by the Arno River. A slower pace makes it more memorable.
  
  
• Families
  Traveling with kids? Two to three days is usually enough to hit the highlights without overwhelming little ones. Mix museum visits with park time and gelato stops to keep everyone happy. Kids will love the Galileo Museum—it’s full of cool scientific instruments and hands-on exhibits. You can also stop by the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, where curious minds can explore working models of his inventions. Need a break from sightseeing? Head to the Boboli Gardens for open space, fountains, and a chance to let the kids run around.
• Art Lovers
  For those obsessed with art and history, 4 or more days lets you explore Florence’s world-class museums, galleries, and churches without feeling rushed—plus time for some off-the-beaten-path treasures.
• Foodies
  If you’re a foodie, carve out at least 3 days to savor everything from traditional Tuscan dishes to trendy street food. Don’t miss the Mercato Centrale and a chance to try local wines and olive oils.
• Walking Lovers
  Florence is made for wandering. If you love exploring on foot, plan for 3 to 4 days to leisurely stroll the historic center, cross the Ponte Vecchio multiple times, and discover quiet piazzas and hidden alleys.
• Shopping Addicts
  Love to shop? Spend at least 3 days exploring Florence’s boutiques, designer stores, and leather markets. Don’t miss Via de’ Tornabuoni for high-end fashion and San Lorenzo Market for unique souvenirs and local crafts.

What you can see in 1–2 days in Florence

Florence may be familiar, but every visit brings something new—or at least a fresh appreciation for the timeless beauty that keeps pulling us back.

What you'll do on your short visit to Florence depends on your interests and preferences.

Art and history lovers will for sure visit the iconic Uffizi or Accademia, explore beautiful churches.

Those who are not into art could explore the beautiful piazzas such as Piazza della Signoria and see the art on the open space or just peak into the courtyard of the Palazzo Vecchio. 

Foodies will love to wander through Mercato Centrale and feast their eyes on all that tasty goodies on display. Ideal for buying foodie gifts!

The key to making the most of 1 or 2 day trip in Florence is preparing what you'll see, make itinerary and book tickets in advance.

We recommend staying at Globus Urban Hotel (stayed here on one of our trips to Florence, and loved modern rooms, rich breakfast and friendly staff). In only a minute walk you'll be at Piazza del Duomo.

If visiting Florence on a daily trip from anywhere else, catch the earliest train in the morning (it's easy to get to Florence by train from Rome, Livorno, Lucca and Bologna. 👉 Get cheap Italian train tickets!

Step into the first courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio and get ready to be amazed!

Plus, you do what you love the most. Don't run around like crazy trying to see all major sights as you won't enjoy it. Take a slower pace and combine sightseeing with eating delicious food, leisure strolling through the streets of Florence and buying unique souvenirs.

Art lovers should visit the Uffizi

Art lovers should definitely visit the Uffizi Gallery, which houses masterpieces such as Botticelli's La Primavera and Titian's Venus of Urbino (skip-the-line tickets are essential). We loved the Uffizi guided tour on our last visit!

The accademia is another popular museum in florence

The priority tickets are essential and definitely worth it, when visiting the Accademia Gallery! However, keep in mind that the museum is always crowded, so some waiting is inevitable. Make sure to arrive on time for your entry slot—we missed out once because we were late and lost our tickets.  The Accademia is amazing, but if you're short on time, it's best to prioritize other sights.

Skip the Accademia, visit the Bargello instead

We suggest skipping the Accademia Gallery on your one-day visit to Florence, as you don't want to loose your precious time on waiting in lines.

Go instead to the Bargello Museum, where you can see, for example, "Bacchus", one of the most beloved Michelangelo's sculptures. The palace in which museum is set is stunning, there are no crowds at all and the ticket costs only €10.

Not an art lover? You might enjoy Rome’s lesser-known museums or outdoor sights

If you are not art lover, you don't have to visit any museum on your day visit to Florence. Or you can go to one of the smaller ones to get your impression of the Florence art. We recommend the Orsanmichelle Church and Museum, just a few steps from Piazza della Signoria.

For a one-day visit to Florence, we recommend visiting the Duomo's interior (it's completely free). Other options include climbing Brunelleschi's Dome or Giotto's Tower, visiting the Baptistery or Opera del Duomo Museum. For all these attractions, you'll need skip-the-line tickets, which should be bought in advance.

Exploring the Duomo complex

For exploring the whole Duomo complex you need more days. If you are only one day in Florence, you might only visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore from inside (it's free) or climb the Brunelleschi Dome (buy tickets in advance!).

You can also climb the Giotto Bell Tower (tall tower next to the Duomo), Opera del Duomo Museum (behind the Cathedral) and the Baptistery of Saint John . If staying in Florence more days, consider exploring some of these. Just be sure to buy skip-the-line tickets.

Soak up the beauty of Piazza della Signoria/visit the courtyards of Palazzo Vecchio

You'll stumble upon Piazza della Signoria, one way or another, as all streets lead to it. There is so much to see here. From the grand Palazzo Vecchio (that hides many treasures - for exploring it you'll need to buy a ticket). But one thing is free - the first courtyard with its fresco-decorated ceilings and beautiful marble columns.

While on the square, take photos of Neptune's Fountain and the David, from every angle. Admire the Loggia dei Lanzi, the open-air museum, showcasing works that have been there for 500 years, such as Cellini's Perseus, Gianbologna's Rape of the Sabine Women or Hercules and the Centaur Nessus, also by Gianbologna.

Explore the streets and piazzas of Florence

Spend the rest of your time in Florence soaking up the city’s atmosphere. Wander through its hidden streets, where charming artisan shops and unique craft stores await - places you won’t find anywhere else. For lunch, settle into a cosy trattoria for a leisurely meal, or grab a delicious schiacciata sandwich from one of the many local spots scattered across the city.

Search for local souvenirs

Don't skip shopping for unique souvenirs, like marbled paper goods (visit Riccardo Luci selling leather and paper goods decorated with marbled patterns). Foodies should visit Leonardo Firenze bakery to buy delicious cantucci, brutti ma buoni or the softest ever panettone!

Trattorias that we love to eat in:

• Trattoria Marione
• Trattoria Anita
• Trattoria La Stracotto (love their lasagna)
• Osteria dell'Enoteca
• Il Latini

At any of the above, places, you’ll want to make reservations ahead of time (or in a pinch, show up right at opening).

Want to see a lot in Florence in a short time without the stress of planning?

Let a local expert handle all the details—book a guided tour for a completely hassle-free way to discover the city’s top sights and hidden gems! Check out these top city tours for the best way to experience Florence.

1. Florence in a day: Covers most Florence's sights (plus visit to the Accademia and the Uffizi); starts at 9:45am next to Baptistery of St. John; lasts for 5 hours
   
   
2. Best of Florence group tour: Ideal for seeing a lot in 3 hours! You'll visit the Accademia (Michelangelo's David) and the Duomo, then have a tour of the city; starts at 9am from Piazza San Marco.
   
   
3. Florence private tour (choose from three different tour themes – Renaissance, Famous Families, or Hidden Gems). Spend a pleasant time exploring Florence in the company of a knowledgeable guide, and discover the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the everyday life of Florentines. Meet your guide at Piazza della Repubblica! Lasts for 3 hours.
   
   

👍 You'll love this private Florence tour

Why 3–4 Days in Florence Might Be the Sweet Spot

If you’re wondering how much time is enough to really get to know Florence, we’d say that 3 to 4 days is the sweet spot. It’s long enough to dive deeper into the city's history, art, and food scene, without feeling rushed, but not so long that you’re overwhelmed. We’ve stayed in Florence multiple times—sometimes for just a quick weekend, other times for longer stretches. And after many trips, we’ve learned that this amount of time really lets you experience the best of the city.

One of the things we love most about staying 3–4 days is that you can start to uncover the city’s layers. You can see the iconic sights like the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio, but also have time to wander through the less touristy neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems along the way. A few of our best Florence memories have come from those quiet moments—sitting in a cozy café by Santa Maria Novella, walking along the Arno at sunset, or getting lost in the artisan shops of Oltrarno.

Of course, no trip to Florence would be complete without a visit to some of its stunning churches. The Basilica di San Lorenzo is a must-see, not just for its impressive architecture but for its connection to the Medici family, who are buried in its crypt. And Santa Croce—with its beautiful frescoes and the tombs of famous Florentines like Michelangelo and Galileo—is another must-visit for history and art lovers. These churches are a window into Florence’s rich religious and artistic heritage, offering a quieter, more contemplative side of the city.

When it comes to food, 3–4 days in Florence gives you time to explore beyond the main tourist spots. One of our favorite places to visit is Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio, where we always make a stop to pick up fresh, local ingredients for a homemade meal. The market is a vibrant slice of daily life in Florence, with everything from fresh produce to delicious cured meats and cheeses. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a food stall with freshly made truffle pasta—perfect for a casual lunch while you wander the market.

Speaking of staying near Santa Maria Novella, we always book our stay at Casa di Chiara, a stylish and comfortable apartment within walking distance from the centro storico. It’s perfectly located—close enough to the major attractions, but far enough from the crowds to offer a peaceful retreat. The apartment itself feels like a home away from home: spacious, charming, and with that classic Florence vibe. We’ve spent many evenings here, relaxing after a day of exploring, cooking up some pasta with fresh ingredients from the nearby markets.

With 3–4 days in Florence, you can also take a day trip or two. From Casa di Chiara, it’s easy to hop on a train and head to nearby Tuscan towns like Pisa, Lucca, or Fiesole. These little escapes add even more depth to your experience of the region, offering a taste of the Tuscany beyond the city walls.

In short, if you’re aiming for a trip that balances both exploration and relaxation, 3–4 days in Florence is just right. It gives you enough time to fall in love with the city, without feeling rushed. Trust us, you’ll find yourself wishing you could stay longer, but this length of stay will definitely leave you with memories that last.

Staying 5+ Days in Florence: Deeper Dives and Day Trips

With five or more days, you can escape the typical tourist activities and discover Florence off-the-beaten-path by paddling under Ponte Vecchio or exploring a handmade mask studio. Culinary tours are highly popular, as Tuscany is renowned for its delectable dishes and ingredients, such as olive oil, lardo di colonnata, and Cicchetti. This is an excellent way to explore parts of the city that usually fly under the tourist radar and appreciate Italian cuisine at a deeper level.

Consider heading out of the city for day trips around Tuscany. You can visit Pisa and capture a classic picture with its famous tower, enjoy bike-riding through the vineyards of Chianti, or explore the medieval city of Montepulciano. If you're up for a longer excursion, head to the astonishing Cinque Terre. Considered one of Italy's most beautiful destinations, these five towns are famous for their colorful buildings, which appear to cling to the mountainsides along the northwestern shores of Italy. Learn how to get from Florence to Cinque Terre.

With additional days you could spread this out OR day trip to nearby towns: San Gimignano, Siena, Voltera. Even further out to Civita Bagnoreggio or Orvieto - but these are just taking you back the way to Rome.

• Taking a foodie tour of Florence - If you're someone who loves food and wants to really get to know the amazing food scene in Florence and Tuscany, going on a food tour is a fantastic way to do it. On this foodie walk with Secret Food Tours, you'll follow a friendly local guide who really knows his stuff, as he takes you through Mercato Sant'Ambrogio and other cool spots that most tourists don't know about. He'll tell you all about how people in Florence eat and what makes their food culture special. The best part? You get to try 20 different local treats along the way! You'll taste everything from schiacciata (which is this really good Florentine sandwich) to olive oil, truffles, cheese, gelato, coffee, wine, prosecco, and lots more.
• Browse Local Markets and Learn To Cook the Tuscan Way

On your 3 day visit to Florence, you may consider taking a vespa tour, and zip through the streets on a classic Vespa.

• Zip through the streets on a classic Vespa
• Pedal with ease on an electric bike tour
• Discover the city's artistic treasures on an evening walk with an expert art historian

Tips for Making the Most of Your Time in Florence

Best Time to Visit

Florence is beautiful year-round, but spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the sweet spots—great weather, fewer crowds, and festivals to enjoy. Summers can be hot and packed, while winters are quieter but still charming.

How to Skip Lines

Florence’s top spots get busy fast, especially the Uffizi and Accademia. No matter how many days in Florence you have, it’s a smart move to book your tickets online in advance or grab a museum pass to breeze past the queues. Trust me, saving time in line means more time soaking up the art and atmosphere.

Walking vs. Public Transport

The historic center is compact and perfect for walking—you’ll discover hidden gems just by wandering. For farther spots or day trips, buses and trains are handy. Just wear comfy shoes and get ready to stroll!

Staying Central vs. the Florence Suburbs

If you’re staying in Florence for just a short time, it’s best to stay close to the historic center so you can easily walk to the main sights and nightlife. But if you have a few more days and prefer a quieter vibe, consider accommodations just outside the historic center—still easy to reach on foot, by bus, or taxi. Staying in the hills around Florence offers great views and a chance to escape the crowds, while being just a short ride from all the action.

Choosing Where to Stay in Florence for Your Ideal Visit Length

Your choice of accommodation in Florence can make a big difference depending on how many days you plan to stay.

If your visit is short—just one or two days—staying in the historic city center is ideal.

You’ll be close to famous landmarks like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, so you can make the most of your limited time without spending it on transportation. Consider hotels like Hotel Brunelleschi or Hotel Spadai, or if you prefer apartments, check out Florence Charming Apartments for a cosy, convenient stay.

For a medium-length stay of three to four days, neighbourhoods like Oltrarno or San Lorenzo offer a more authentic, local vibe, with artisan shops, markets, and great dining options. Boutique hotels like Hotel Lungarno or Palazzo Guadagni are perfect choices, and for apartment stays, Condotta 16 Apartments offers charming options with a neighbourhood feel.

If you’re planning to spend five days or more in Florence, the hills surrounding the city provide a peaceful retreat from the crowds and stunning views of the city and Tuscan countryside. Luxury stays like Villa Cora or Fattoria La Loggia offer comfort and tranquility, with easy access to the city via a short bus or taxi ride. For apartment lovers, Borgo San Frediano Suites is a great option that balances quiet surroundings with proximity to Florence’s heart.

No matter how many days you spend in Florence, choosing the right neighborhood and accommodation style helps you get the most out of your visit.

• Ottantotto Firenze is a nice boutique on the other side of the Arno. Quiet. Pretty garden.
• L’Orologio
• Grand Hotel Baglioni
• Palazzo Ridolfi - The rooms are huge, staff is amazing and they have breakfast and an elevator. It is perfect and on the Oltrarno side around the corner from the Pitti Palace and Ponte Vecchio.
  
  

Is 7 days too much for Florence?

Seven days in Florence might sound like overkill for a small city, but for art lovers, history buffs, and foodies, it can be the perfect amount of time.

While most travellers spend 2–3 days hitting major sights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, a full week lets you dig deeper.

With seven days, you can explore beyond the crowded center - visit lesser-known museums (such as the Bargello), relax in Boboli Gardens, or take day trips to nearby gems like Fiesole, Lucca, or the Chianti wine region. You’ll also have time to savour long Italian meals, people-watch in piazzas (our favourite is Piazza della Signoria), and get lost in side streets without feeling rushed.

If you crave a slower pace and rich cultural immersion, seven days in Florence isn’t too much - it’s just right.

How many days to spend in Tuscany?

Tuscany is more than just a destination - it’s an experience of rolling hills, medieval towns, world-class wine, and unforgettable food. But how many days do you need to truly enjoy it?

If you’re short on time, 3 days can give you a taste - visit Florence, take a quick trip to Chianti, and maybe squeeze in a hilltop town like San Gimignano. For a deeper dive, 5 to 7 days is ideal. That gives you time to explore Siena, Montepulciano, and the Val d’Orcia, enjoy wine tastings, and relax in the countryside.

Tuscany rewards slow travel, so if you can, linger. Rent a car (👍 See cheap car hire deals in Italy!), stay in a farmhouse, and let the rhythm of the region set your pace. Whether it’s three days or ten, Tuscany always leaves you wanting just a little more.

How many days for Rome and Florence?

Planning a trip to Italy and wondering how to split your time between Rome and Florence? Here's a quick guide.

Rome is a sprawling, history-packed city that deserves at least 3–4 days. With iconic sights like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon, plus endless piazzas and hidden gems, you’ll want time to explore without rushing.

Florence, on the other hand, is more compact but equally rich in art and culture. You can see the highlights in 2–3 days, but 4–5 days lets you enjoy museums, local food, and day trips to Tuscany.

In total, aim for 7–10 days split between the two—enough time to experience both cities without feeling overwhelmed.

Final thought - How many days in Florence

So, how many days should you spend in Florence?

We think 3 days is the sweet spot for visiting Florence. This gives you enough time to see the main sights, explore some lesser-known spots, and wander through the charming squares and neighbourhoods.

You can also relax at local cafes and browse the many shops, from fancy boutiques to local markets.

If you're okay with a busier schedule, you could fit the highlights into 2 days. But if you're really interested in Renaissance art and want to explore everything Florence offers, plan for 4-5 days.

Staying 5-7 days in Florence? This longer visit lets you take some nice day trips to nearby towns. Or you could just take it easy in Florence, enjoying sunny days without rushing to see everything.

Each return to Florence - whether it's your third visit, tenth, or hundredth - brings fresh discoveries. You might spot an architectural detail that previously escaped your notice, stumble upon a fascinating temporary exhibit, explore a newly opened museum, or sample cuisine at the latest restaurant.

So whether you can spare just 48 hours or a full week, we encourage you to revisit Florence periodically and savour every moment. The city's treasures seem truly limitless, always offering something new to uncover.

Want more specific advice? Take a look at our guides about what to see in Florence and planning a trip to Italy.

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