24 hours in Florence with these 16 Amazing Things to Do

Wondering about how to spend 24 hours in Florence? I’m here to help!

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city steeped in history, culture, and artistic beauty. With so much to see and do in this enchanting Italian city, it can be difficult to know where to begin. But fear not, because this jam-packed itinerary for your 24 hours in Florence Italy has you covered!

You’ll have the opportunity to experience the very best that Florence has to offer in just one day. From awe-inspiring cathedrals and world-renowned museums to charming piazzas and delicious local cuisine, get ready for an amazing day!

I was fortunate to spend 4 nights in Florence, and able to see a whole lot more. But I’ve selected the best of the best for you and your one day in Florence.

So, put on your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Florence.

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1 Day Itinerary Florence

This itinerary has been carefully designed to balance the must see in Florence in 1 day with what makes sense geographically.

#1 Sunrise at Piazzale Michelangelo

Let’s start your whirlwind Florence Italy in one day itinerary with a breathtaking sunrise from the Piazzale Michelangelo.

As you stand atop this iconic terrace, the first rays of sunlight will illuminate the city’s magnificent architecture, casting a warm glow over the Arno River and its ancient bridges.

On either side of Piazzale Michelangelo – there are two notable gardens. To the right is Giardino dell’Iris – a botanical garden that is especially pretty to see in the springtime. And, to the left is Giardino delle Rose – a rose garden that’s most beautiful during the summer months.

With panoramic views that extend as far as the eye can see, the Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to begin your Florence in 1 day adventure and cultural exploration.

Next stop: walk 1.6 km to Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, stopping at Ditta Artigianale cafe for your morning coffee and Italian pastry.

#2 Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens

Visiting Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens is like stepping back in time to the golden age of the Italian Renaissance. Once the private residence of the powerful Medici family, the palace is now a stunning museum filled with priceless works of art and historic treasures. From masterpieces by Titian and Raphael to lavish furnishings and decor, every inch of the palace is steeped in history and beauty.

Just outside the palace lies the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling oasis of greenery and tranquillity that’s perfect for a leisurely early morning stroll. With its stunning fountains, sculptures, and panoramic views of Florence, the gardens are a testament to the grandeur and elegance of Renaissance design.

• Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 am to 6:30 pm
• Cost: €16 (Pitti Palace) and 10€ (Boboli Gardens) OR combined ticket is €22 (*special early entrance discount applied for Pitti Palace, save €4 when arriving before 8:45 am)
• Approx time allocated: 1 to 1.5 hours

Check prices and book your dates for the timed, skip-the-line Entrance Ticket to Pitti Palace. PLUS, book your dates for the skip-the-line Entrance Ticket to Boboli Gardens

Next stop: walk the 400 m to Pont Vecchio

#3 Pont Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is one of the most iconic and beloved landmarks in all of Florence.

This historic bridge spans the Arno River and is known for its distinctive architecture. Originally built in 1345, just imagine how Ponte Vecchio has survived wars, floods, and countless renovations, yet it remains as beautiful and captivating as ever!

The bridge is lined with shops selling jewelry, leather goods, and other souvenirs. It’s also lined with tourists! The energy is infectious! But does require a bit of patience as no matter what time of day you visit it will be full of people. It’s all part of the charm.

• Opening hours: the shops on the bridge are generally open between 10 am and 7 pm (don’t be surprised to find them closed over lunchtime and on Sunday and Monday)
• Cost: free
• Approx time allocated: <30 minutes

Next stop: walk 170 m to Uffizi Gallery

#4 Uffizi Gallery

Visiting the Uffizi Gallery is like taking a journey through the very soul of the Italian Renaissance. This world-renowned museum is home to an unparalleled collection of art and artifacts, ranging from masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli to ancient Greek and Roman sculptures. The two most famous paintings are Botticelli’s Birth of Venus (1485) and Primavera (1478).

As you wander through the museum’s grand halls and galleries, you’ll be transported back in time to a period of unparalleled artistic and cultural richness. Every inch of the museum is filled with beauty and wonder, from the stunning frescoes on the ceilings to the intricate details of the sculptures and paintings.

Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a casual admirer, a visit to the Uffizi Gallery is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling inspired and enlightened – you won’t be disappointed.

• Opening hours: open Tuesday through Sunday 8:15 am to 6:50 pm (first Sunday of the month entrance is free)
• Cost: €25
• Approx time allocated: 1 hour

Check prices and book your dates for your Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket

Next stop: walk 70 m to Piazza della Signoria

#5 Piazza della Signoria

Visiting Piazza della Signoria is the heart of Florence’s rich cultural and political history.

This grand square is home to many of the city’s most famous and important landmarks, including the imposing 13-century Palazzo Vecchio, the awe-inspiring Fountain of Neptune, and the magnificent Loggia dei Lanzi, which houses an impressive collection of outdoor sculptures.

Walking through the Piazza, you’ll feel the weight of centuries of history, as you take in the grandeur of the architecture and the beauty of the art that surrounds you.

You’ll also get a glimpse into the present-day life of the city, as locals and tourists alike gather in the square to enjoy the bustling energy and vibrant atmosphere. From street performers to political protests, the Piazza della Signoria is a hub of activity and a true reflection of the spirit of Florence.

• Opening hours: 24/7
• Cost: free
• Approx time allocated: <30 minutes

Next stop: Lunch! Walk 1 km to Mercato Centrale

#6 Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Lunchtime in Italy means the city shuts down, well almost. Let’s head to a cultural institution in Italy – the market! Mercato Centrale is a bustling marketplace that’s a feast for the senses. Row upon row of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, meats, and pastries.

At the heart of it all, is the bustling food court (on the upper level) where you’ll find a mouth-watering array of options for every taste and budget. It’s a food-lovers heaven that showcases the very best of Italian regional food.

With its lively atmosphere and friendly vibe, Mercato Centrale is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Sit at one of the long communal tables and enjoy a good-tasting meal and a glass of local wine for as little as €10-15.

If you are looking for someplace a little less crowded and a place to settle in for a long, leisurely meal here are a couple of nearby options for you:

• Trattoria Sergio Gozzi – for Florentine home cooking and rustic wines this restaurant oozes charm (Piazza di San Lorenzo, 8)
• La Ménagère – with a menu that takes you from brunch to afternoon drinks into the evening, this restaurant is sophisticated any time of the day (Via de’Ginori 8)

Next stop: walk 500 m to Accademia Gallery

#7 Accademia Gallery

The Accademia Gallery in Florence is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The museum is home to an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including the iconic statue of David by Michelangelo. As you step inside the museum, you will be struck by the sheer beauty and grandeur of the art on display, with each piece bearing witness to the artistic and cultural heritage of Italy.

Walking through the gallery’s halls, you will be transported to a bygone era of artistic and intellectual brilliance, where the likes of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and other great masters created some of the most iconic and enduring works of art in human history.

• Opening hours: open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 am to 6:50 pm
• Cost: €20
• Approx time allocated: 60 minutes

Check prices and book your dates for the Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David

Next stop: walk 500 m to Piazza del Duomo with a Gelato stop along the way

#8 Grab a Gelato

En route to Piazza del Duomo stop at Gelateria Carabè Firenze (Via Ricasoli, 60) stop for a gelato! You can’t go to Florence without at least having one or two gelatos in a day!

The best ice cream in Florence is from Carabe and what luck that it’s halfway between Accademia and Duomo! If you love nut flavour gelatos, you’ll have to try the almond, pistachio, or hazelnut flavours, as they are all made with nuts from Sicily. And in summer, you can enjoy fresh fruit granita.

#9 Piazza del Duomo

Be prepared to be awe-struck! At the center of this magnificent square stands the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its awe-inspiring dome and intricate Gothic facade.

The Cathedral is surrounded by a host of other historic buildings, including the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Giotto Bell Tower, and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, all of which are testaments to the city’s rich artistic and architectural heritage.

Soak up the vibrant energy of the square before visiting the Duomo and the Giotto Bell Tower. Of all the things to see in Florence in one day, this is it!

#10 Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Now let’s visit the top attraction in Florence – the 15th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This is the third largest church in the world, right after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. Locals call it simply the Duomo and we tourists refer to it as the Florence Cathedral.

From the moment you set foot in this magnificent church, you will be rendered speechless. The soaring nave, with its intricate arches and stained glass windows. The dome, with its breathtaking frescoes and intricate brickwork. Leave no detail unexplored – from the mosaics on the floor to gazing up at the towering vaults overhead – the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a must-see.

• Opening hours: open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm
• Cost: Free (however, the lineup for the free entry will always be 1 to 2 hours)
• Approx time allocated: <30 minutes

Check prices and book your dates for the Skip-the-Line Guided tour to Florence Duomo

#11 Giotto Bell Tower

After visiting the Cathedral, let’s climb the 14th-century Giotto’s Bell Tower! Standing tall at 84.7 metres in the same white, red and green marble as the cathedral, it’s impressive. It’s no wonder it’s considered to be the most beautiful bell tower in Italy.

400 steps, time to work off those calories you’ve eaten! As you climb the narrow 400 stairs, each step brings you closer to the top of the tower, where you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. From the terraces, you can see the iconic red-tiled rooftops of Florence, the winding river Arno, and the lush green hills that surround the city.

• Opening hours: open daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm
• Cost: €30 (includes the entrance to the Cathedral, the Dome, the Baptistery, Crypt, Campanile di Giotto and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo)
• Approx time allocated: <30 minutes

#12 Traveller’s Choice

It’s likely late afternoon and what better way to spend it than choosing your own adventure!

Art, architecture and history lovers, you might want to visit these sites:

• Basilica of Santa Maria Novella – the headquarters of the Dominicans in Florence: its interior is full of details and its walls hide authentic works of art
• Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence –

Shopaholics, of course, will be in awe of all the famous Italian designers near the streets of Via de’ Tornabuoni, Via dei Calzaiuoli, and Via Santo Spirito. But here are some boutique shops you might want to see:

• Il Bisonte – famous for its leather bags since 1970 (via del Parione 31/33)
• Madova – famous for its leather gloves since 1929 (Via de’ Guicciardini, 1)
• Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella – historic pharmacy selling perfumes, soaps, lotions and more (Via della Scala, 16)
• Mercato del Porcellino – the famous 16th-century covered market where you can source leather jackets (made in Italy or made in Florence) and look out for the bronze statue of the boar and rub its nose for luck (Piazza del Mercato Nuovo)

Or, simply wander the streets. Florence is known as an open-air museum and has so many wonderfully mysterious streets. It’s no wonder the city centre made it on the UNESCO list for Italy. So, perhaps you want to discover the undiscovered on your own. Of all the things to do in Florence in 1 day, this would be top of my list!

#13 Happy Hour with an Aperitif

We North Americans call it happy hour, but in Europe, it’s the time before sunset when everyone meets up for an Aperol Spritz.

Finish your day with a drink on the banks of the River Arno, opposite the Ponte Vecchio, at the Florence Rowing Club restaurant called Canottieri Firenze. There’s no better view than right here!

Next stop: walk 400 m to Santa Trinity

#14 Sunset at Ponte Santa Trinity

Watching the sunset at Ponte Santa Trinita Bridge is a magical and unforgettable experience. As the sun begins to sink behind the horizon, the sky is painted with a kaleidoscope of colours that seem to change with every passing moment.

The gentle lapping of the Arno River below provides a soothing soundtrack to the stunning views that surround you, including the historic buildings that line the riverbanks and the iconic Ponte Vecchio Bridge in the distance.

As you stand on the bridge, taking in the beauty of the sunset, you’ll feel a sense of connection to the city and its rich history. You’ll see why Florence has inspired poets, artists, and thinkers for centuries.

#15 Late Night Dinner

Now that the city darkens, and there is a warm glow of the lanterns on the cobblestone streets, it’s time to enjoy a late meal. Florence’s best-known signature dish, is the bistecca alla Fiorentina, a vast T-bone priced by weight (and it’s big!).

Here are some suggested restaurants to try in Florence:

• Enoteca Pinchiorri – a 3 Michelin star for a special dinner
• Cibrèo Trattoria – good value for good-tasting authentic food
• Angiolino – so good I was tempted to return the next night
• Regina Bistecca – best places to try the bistecca alla Fiorentina
• Cantinetta Antinori – classic Tuscan dishes in an elegant setting
• Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura – a Michelin star known for its pretty platting

Next stop: walk to Piazza della Repubblica

#16 Piazza della Repubblica

After your late-night delicious dinner, make your way Piazza della Repubblica. This is the perfect way to end your jam-packed Florence Italy in 1 day itinerary! This historic square is best seen and experienced at night. The atmosphere is intoxicating.

As you stroll around the square, take in the stunning architecture. Listen to the sounds of street musicians and performers, grab a gelato from one of the local vendors, and snap your last photo of Florence in front of the beautiful carousel.

Tips for 24 Hours in Florence

When it comes to spending 24 hours in Florence, you should keep a few things in mind to make the most of your time in this Tuscan city.

• Pedestrian-friendly city. Florence is almost a no-car zone city, only those who are licensed (i.e. Taxis) can drive within the city limits. That means as tourists, it’s safe to walk around. Be sure to have comfortable walking shoes, even though the city is compact in size, the day will be spent on your feet.
• Avoid visiting on Sunday or Monday. Most museums and things to do on this 1 day Florence itinerary will be impacted by the reduced hours and/or closures on Sundays and Mondays.
• Pre-book everything. It’s essential to save time and avoid long lines to pre-book all your tickets for the places you want to visit on this itinerary. By booking Florence Skip the Line tickets you’ll avoid wasting time in queues.
• Time of year. Try to avoid peak tourist season (late April to late September) to avoid crowds.

FAQ: 24 Hours in Florence Guide

Italy Travel Resources

Beyond your Florence, here are more resources you might be interested in for Tuscany.

Other Places in Tuscany

• A list of 19 of the best Tuscan Towns to add to your itinerary
• Spend the day in Siena, or for fun read about this Tuscany duel between Seina vs Florence and which city is better
• Check out the Renaissance hilltop town of Pienza 
• Visit the hilltop town of Cortona 
• Dreamy Places to Stay in Cortona and in Montepulciano

If your Italy trip has you deciding between Florence vs Venice, or maybe the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre or how many days to spend in Rome visit my Europe Travel page. It’s here you’ll find a comprehensive list of destination guides and a wealth of resources to help you plan your perfect Italian adventure.

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As a Holidaymaker

Spending 24 hours in Florence is an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more. From watching the sunrise at Piazzale Michelangelo to ending the day at Piazza della Repubblica, there is so much to see and do in this beautiful city.

By planning ahead, prioritizing your best of Florence in one day attractions, and following some helpful tips, you can make the most out of your short time in Florence and create memories that will last a lifetime. Florence truly is a city that you will want to return to again and again.