Florence Italy 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center

  • Arrival: Vespucci (Amerigo) Airport or Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Consider using bus/shuttle services like ALLOPTI or taxis for convenience.
  • Check-in: Stay at Palazzo Vecchietti, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Florence.
  • Lunch: Try authentic Florentine cuisine at Trattoria Sabatino. Don’t miss their famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina!
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo, and climb its dome for a stunning city view.
  • Evening: Stroll around Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio, and enjoy a sunset over the Arno River.
  • Dinner: Dine at Enoteca Pinchiorri, one of the world’s best restaurants with an extensive wine list.
  • Tip: Remember to dress modestly when visiting churches, and be prepared for long lines during peak tourist season.

Day 2: Art & History

  • Morning: Visit the Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and other famous works. Book your tickets online to avoid the queue.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at All’Antico Vinaio or Mercato Centrale for local street food.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Accademia Gallery, where you can see Michelangelo’s David.
  • Evening: Stroll through Boboli Gardens and enjoy a peaceful evening.
  • Dinner: Dine at Osteria dell’Orso, serving traditional Tuscan dishes in a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Day 3: Day Trip to Pisa & Lucca

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Pisa (~1h by train) to see the Leaning Tower and other historic sites. Explore nearby Lucca as well.
  • Lunch: Have lunch in Lucca at Trattoria da Walter or La Buca di Sant’Antonio.
  • Afternoon: Return to Florence and spend the afternoon relaxing along the Arno River or shopping in the city center.
  • Dinner: Dine at I 4 Leoni, known for its Florentine steak and wine selection.

Day 4: Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Siena (~1h30m by train) to explore the Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral, and Palazzo Pubblico.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch in Siena at Trattoria Da Divo or Ristorante La Lama.
  • Afternoon: Head to San Gimignano (~45m by bus), famous for its medieval towers. Don’t forget to try the local Vernaccia wine!
  • Dinner: Return to Florence and dine at Giuseppe Hendrix, a Florentine institution known for its unique atmosphere and extensive wine list.

Day 5: Last Day & Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Baptistery of St. John and Giotto’s Bell Tower, or explore lesser-known sites like the Brancacci Chapel or the Bardini Gardens.
  • Lunch: Have a farewell lunch at Trattoria Mario, a family-run restaurant serving traditional Florentine dishes since 1885.
  • Afternoon: Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs or simply relaxing in one of Florence’s many cafes.
  • Departure: Depending on your departure time, catch a bus/shuttle service or taxi to Vespucci (Amerigo) Airport or Santa Maria Novella Train Station.