One Day in Florence: Your Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

A common question people have planning their trip to Italy is: “What’s the best way to spend one day in Florence?” Our answer? Don’t spend one day in Florence, spend more! 

However, while we’d recommend spending more time in this beautiful city, we understand that it’s not always possible. So, we’ve crafted the perfect itinerary for a brief visit, covering must-see attractions, dining recommendations, and useful tips. Follow along for our guide on the best way to spend 1 day in Florence.

The Florence Duomo provides some of the city’s best views, giving you perspective of the city itself!

One Day in Florence Itinerary

If you only have time for a short stop in Florence, you can still experience the best of this beautiful Renaissance city with a little planning. This Florence one day itinerary takes you through the historic centre, from iconic landmarks and world-famous art to charming streets and Tuscan food. Whether you’re spending 24 hours in Florence or visiting on a day trip, here’s how to make the most of Florence in a day.

Morning

Part 1: Breakfast in Florence

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day…or at least it will be when you have an action-packed one day Florence adventure ahead.

Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast (which are sweet, not savory) at Caffè Scudieri. This spot is one of Florence’s most historic cafès and makes the lists for both best coffee in Florence and best pastries in Florence. And if that wasn’t enough, it also offers stunning views of the Florence Duomo.  Indulge in Italian coffee culture with a cappuccino or espresso, and pair it with a traditional pastry like cornetti, ricciarelli, or cantucci. Another convenient spot for breakfast is inside the Central Market (Mercato Centrale), located just a stone’s throw from the San Lorenzo Market.

Cornetti (similar to croissants) and coffee is a classic Florentine breakfast. 

Part 2: Mercato di San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo Market)

San Lorenzo Market, right in the heart of the city, is a lively open-air market known for its leather goods, clothing, souvenirs, and crafts. It’s the go-to spot for browsing and shopping for all things leather, from bags to jackets, and you’ll find plenty of Florence-themed souvenirs too. if you only have one day in Florence, hitting the market is a good way of finding gifts for family and friends, or yourself, whilst staying on the move.

Part 3: Florence Duomo + Michelangelo’s David

Michelangelo’s David and the Florence Duomo are two of the most iconic landmarks in all of Florence (and across Italy).

The stunning silhouette and facade of Florence’s Basilica di Santa Croce.

The Florence Duomo (otherwise referred to as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, The Florence Cathedral, or simply The Duomo) is known for its monumental dome, built in 1431, which remained the world’s largest until 1888. Remarkably, today it remains the largest brick and mortar dome. Climb the stairs inside the dome for panoramic city views, but be prepared for a wait as it can get busy. To save time, you can also stroll around the cathedral’s exterior to appreciate its grandeur without going inside.

Michelangelo’s “David” is a famous Renaissance sculpture, known for its stunning detail and the depiction of the biblical hero David. It’s made from a single block of marble and stands tall at a whopping 17 feet. You can see it at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, not far from the Duomo.

Michelangelo’s “David” was originally intended to be placed on the roofline of the Florence Cathedral’s dome.

Insider’s tip: On our Florence in a Day Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see both. You’ll pause outside the imposing cathedral (Duomo) where your guide will tell you how its enormous dome narrowly avoided catastrophe. More importantly for a one-day visit, your tour whisks you past the long queues and into the world famous Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David. Your expert guide will teach you about the enigmatic genius behind the sculpture and give you rare insights.

Part 4: Uffizi Gallery + All’Antico Vinaio

This museum boasts the world’s top collection of Renaissance paintings by famous artists like Botticelli, Raphael, Da Vinci, and others. However, it’s massive and features over 100 rooms brimming with art and art adorning the hallways (which can be overwhelming even for ardent art enthusiasts!).

We recommend researching the Uffizi Gallery artworks in advance, and choosing the specific works or rooms you wish to explore ahead of time. This helps to ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed by the museum’s sheer size during your actual visit.

Insider’s tip: On your way to the Uffizi Gallery, stroll through Piazza della Repubblica, or stop by afterwards to admire its elegant arcades and historic cafés. If you fancy trying one of Florence’s famous stuffed schiacciata sandwiches, head to All’Antico Vinaio on Via dei Neri, just a short walk away. It’s incredibly popular, so visit earlier in the day if you want to improve your chances of avoiding a long queue.

There is so much to see here, as you stroll down the galleries, from paintings to statues and sculptures

Afternoon

Part 1: Lunch near the Duomo

The hardest part about eating in Italy is deciding what to eat, since the great options are truly endless. If it’s your first time in Florence, we recommend some typical Tuscan dishes served at some of the best restaurants in Florence. For more of an idea of where to go, check out our guide on restaurants near Florence Duomo.

Another thing to consider is that Italians are pretty particular about lunchtime, so aim to be sitting down for your midday meal around 1 to 2 p.m. If possible, we suggest making reservations ahead of time to eliminate waiting times.

Insider’s tip:  If you are in the mood for a casual lunch, consider the sandwich shop All’Antico Vinaio mentioned above, or try Lampredotto, a favourite dish of our local guides!

Lampredotto is one of the best, most authentic, most delicious ways to eat on the run in Florence.

Part 2: Ponte Vecchio + Palazzo Vecchio

After lunch, while en route to Florence’s renowned Ponte Vecchio, take a moment to visit Palazzo Vecchio, a historic plaza of equal fame in the city.

Spending a lot of time at Palazzo Vecchio isn’t necessary unless you’re a Medici history enthusiast, but one thing that could be worth your time is climbing to the top of the tower inside for great views of the city (that is, if you skipped climbing the tower at the Duomo). Take a peek at the Piazza della Signoria and the outdoor statue gallery of Loggia dei Lanzi, as well.

Then, make your way to Ponte Vecchio, one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in Florence, Italy. This historic bridge spans the Arno River and is renowned for its unique architecture, as well as the shops that line its sides, historically occupied by jewelers and goldsmiths.

Florence’s Ponte Vecchio spanning over the Arno river.

Part 3: Oltrarno and Spirito Santo

Oltrarno, located on the southern bank of Florence’s Arno River, is a charming and less touristy neighborhood loved for its laid-back and local feeling.

Within Oltrarno, the Santo Spirito district stands out, with its iconic Basilica di Santo Spirito, a serene church designed by Filippo Brunelleschi (the same designer credited with the design and construction of the iconic dome of the Duomo).

It’s also home to a plethora of cool spots for shopping, dining and drinking. The neighborhood’s Piazza Santo Spirito is typically bustling with activities, and the Oltrarno shopping scene is known for its artisan workshops, where you can find unique handcrafted items.

Oltrarno is a good neighbourhood for a spot of shopping. Photo credit: Artificial Photography on Unsplash

Part 4: Gelato in Florence

No Florence one day itinerary would be complete without a gelato stop! As you explore the Oltrarno neighborhood, make time for gelato. It’s safe to say that gelato is one of the most iconic foods to eat in Italy, and is also the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. While everyone has an opinion on the best gelato in Florence, you can’t go wrong if you follow the golden rules of seeking out authentic gelato:

• Natural colors: Look for flavors that have a natural appearance. Fruit-based gelato should reflect the color of the actual fruit and avoid having bright, artificial colors.
• Simple ingredients: High-quality gelato uses minimal, high-quality ingredients like milk, cream and fresh fruit.
• Flat appearance: Artisanal gelato is typically stored in flat containers and isn’t displayed in big, extravagant mounds (which is common to come across, but is an obvious give away that it’s not very high-quality.)
• The local seal of authority: Ask locals what their favorite place is!

Yes, we know that Italy’s architecture, culture, and history is amazing, but, let’s be honest – gelato is what we come for. 

Evening

Part 1: Palazzo Pitti And Boboli Gardens

The Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace) is a remarkable Medici Palace with five museums within its grand walls,  including:

• Galleria Palatina (Palatine Gallery): Museum featuring an extensive collection of paintings from the Renaissance to the 18th century.
• Galleria d’Arte Moderna (Gallery of Modern Art): Gallery showcasing Italian art from the 18th to the 20th century.
• Museo degli Argenti (Silver Museum): Museum dedicated to silver and jewelry collections.
• Museo delle Porcellane (Porcelain Museum): Museum displaying a vast collection of porcelain and ceramics from various periods.
• Museo della Moda e del Costume (Costume Gallery): Italy’s only museum dedicated to the history of clothing and fashion with insights into the evolution of fashion over the centuries.

The Boboli Gardens in Florence. Photo by Lorenzo Turroni on Unsplash

The nearby Giardino di Boboli (Boboli Gardens) are renowned among European gardens. They were originally created for the Medici family, and are considered a masterpiece of Renaissance garden design. Time permitting, we recommend exploring one of the indoor museums and then making your way to the gardens.

Insider’s tip: Depending on your arrival time to this part of the city, make sure you consider the museum and garden operating hours to ensure you’ll have ample time to explore. If you decide you won’t have enough time before they close for the evening, consider skipping some of the earlier attractions.

Don’t miss a chance to explore the Boboli gardens. Photo credit: Vicky T. on Unsplash

Part 2: Dinner in Florence

L’ora di cena. Dinner time.

You’ll find amazing restaurants no matter what corner of the city you wind up in, and Oltrano is no exception. Whether you’re in the mood for something contemporary or more rustic, the Oltrarno restaurant scene has lots of great options that will make for a memorable last meal as you wind down your one day in Florence.

Because sharing an amazing meal with new friends is what it’s all about.

Part 3: Sunset in Piazzale Michelangelo

End your day with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of Florence illuminated at night. It’s a perfect spot to savor the beauty of the city, and reflect on your busy and productive one day in Florence. Enjoy the views!

No better way to end one day in Florence than by watching a gorgeous sunset. Photo credit: Jeff Ackley on Unsplash

FAQs – Florence in a Day 

What are the must-see attractions if I only have one day in Florence?

With just one day, focus on iconic sites like Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, the Florence Duomo (Cathedral), the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. The Florence in a Day Tour includes many of these highlights, plus express entry to the Accademia and Uffizi.

How can I maximize my time and avoid long lines at major attractions?

Seeing Florence in a day is challenging due to potential long lines. To save time, the Florence in a Day Tour offers pre-reserved express entry tickets for the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries, letting you bypass the queues. The tour is designed with a carefully planned itinerary for efficiency and is relaxed due to small group sizes (15 or fewer).

Is it worth taking a guided or private tour of Florence?

Absolutely! Florence is packed with Renaissance art, fascinating history and hidden corners that are easy to miss when exploring alone. A local guide can bring the city’s landmarks to life, share insider tips and help you make the most of your time, particularly if you’re only visiting for a day. Browse our tours in Florence to find an experience that suits your interests, or choose a private Florence tour for a more personalised experience, with the opportunity to focus on the sights, stories and neighbourhoods that interest you most.

Does the Florence in a Day Tour include everything – are meals included?

The Florence in a Day Tour covers major sights like Michelangelo’s David, the Uffizi Gallery masterpieces, the Duomo exterior, and a guided walk through key areas including Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria. The tour is approximately 5 hours long. Lunch is not included in the tour price, but your guide will recommend nearby spots during a break.

The spacious interior of the Duomo

Seeing Florence in a day is doable, but with such a myriad of things to see, do, eat, and discover you need to prioritise and organise! If you’d prefer to maximize your time with the expertise of a guide, join us on our Florence in a Day Tour, which is another fantastic way to spend one day in Florence. This tour covers the most famous sights, provides express access, keeps groups small, and is led by a friendly local expert guide who you can chat with and ask questions. 

Join us → Florence in a Day