Florence Italy 4 Day Itinerary

Florence, Italy: 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Exploring the City Center

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Italian breakfast at Gusta Pasta, located near the Duomo.
  • Visit Piazza del Duomo: admire the stunning Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery. Don’t forget to climb the Duomo for breathtaking city views!

Afternoon:

  • Head over to the Uffizi Gallery to marvel at works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and other artistic masters. Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
  • Wander through Ponte Vecchio and enjoy the charming views of the Arno River.

Evening:

  • Savor a traditional Tuscan dinner at Trattoria Sabatino, renowned for its Florentine steak.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the romantic streets of Santa Croce before calling it a night.

Day 2 - Art and History

Morning:

  • Begin your day at Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence since medieval times. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
  • Explore the Medici Chapels nearby, containing some of the most exquisite sculptures by Michelangelo.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s famous statue, David.
  • Take a break at the charming Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by numerous Renaissance statues and palazzi.

Evening:

  • Dine at Osteria dell’Orsa, a cozy and authentic trattoria with an excellent wine list.
  • After dinner, take a sunset walk along the Arno River or enjoy a drink at a local bar.

Day 3 - Day Trip to Fiesole

Morning:

  • Take a bus or taxi to the picturesque hilltop town of Fiesole. Enjoy panoramic views of Florence and its surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the Roman Theater and Etruscan Museum to learn about the history of this ancient site.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Florence and head to the San Lorenzo Market for souvenirs, leather goods, and local food specialties.
  • Relax at Piazza della Repubblica, people-watching or sipping coffee at one of the many cafes.

Evening:

  • Dine at La Giostra, a highly-rated restaurant offering Tuscan cuisine in a romantic atmosphere.
  • Take an evening stroll through the Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisan shops and bustling nightlife.

Day 4 - Day Trip to Siena

Morning:

  • Travel by train to Siena, approximately one hour from Florence. Wander through the medieval streets of this enchanting city.
  • Visit the Duomo di Siena and climb the Torre del Mangia for stunning views.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Palazzo Pubblico and its famous fresco, the Allegory of Good and Bad Government, by Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
  • Relax in the beautiful Piazza del Campo, the city’s main square, and grab a quick lunch at one of the many food stands.

Evening:

  • Return to Florence and enjoy a farewell dinner at Trattoria La Casalinga, famous for its Florentine steak and homemade pastas.

Transportation:

  • The best way to navigate Florence is on foot, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.
  • For day trips, consider using public transportation like trains or buses, or hire a taxi if you prefer.

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Florence can be very crowded during peak tourist season (May-September), so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
  • Many attractions offer skip-the-line tickets, which are well worth the investment.
  • Embrace Italian culture by taking your time, enjoying meals, and savoring every moment of your trip.

Accommodation:

  • For a luxury stay, consider Hotel Brunelleschi, located steps from the Duomo.
  • Mid-range options include Hotel Bernini Palace and Albergo Guelfa.
  • Budget travelers might prefer Plus Florence or Generator Hostel.