Florence weekend guide: the ultimate walking itinerary
Florence in 2 days — can you truly capture the essence of this Renaissance gem in just a weekend? Curious about the best things to do in Florence, I set out to explore the city on a walking tour experience and created the perfect Florence itinerary. Along the way, I discovered a perfect blend of art, history, and Tuscan delights. Starting with a Sunday brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, the day flows effortlessly. From wandering the jewelry boutiques of Ponte Vecchio to standing at the base of the Duomo, I am humbled by its grandeur. I then lose myself among masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, where every corridor feels like stepping deeper into Renaissance history. Indeed, every moment was a feast for the senses.
This Florence weekend guide isn’t a rushed checklist or itinerary, it’s a thoughtfully curated escape. I’ll also share the best times to visit key sights. From sunrise at Piazzale Michelangelo for peaceful city views to tips on pre-booking the Uffizi to skip the lines.
Stroll the streets on foot, savour Tuscan cuisine and uncover hidden corners that even seasoned traveler’s might miss. By the end of this elegant Florence 2 day itinerary, you’ll have Florence in your heart. And perhaps a few treasures tucked in your bag.
As I quickly discovered, many of the best things to do in Florence are surprisingly close together. This makes the city perfect for a relaxed weekend of wandering on foot.
♥ Staying a little longer in Florence? Discover my 5 favourite day trips from Florence
Table of contents | Make the most of Florence in 2 Days: best itinerary, sights & things to do
- Florence weekend guide: the ultimate walking itinerary
- On the move to Florence | A short runway landing in Tuscany
- Where to Stay in Florence | The most refined 5 star hotels in Florence Italy
- Day 1 Florence weekend guide | Morning in Florence: Duomo, Gelato & Piazza della Signoria
- Sunset in Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo | Florence weekend guide
- Day 2 Florence weekend guide | brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
- Florentine flavours: Mercato Centrale
- Farewell Florence: smooth tram ride to the airport
On the move to Florence | A short runway landing in Tuscany
Landing in Florence is already an adventure in itself. If you’re lucky, the pilot will announce it in advance; if not, prepare to be pleasantly startled. The city’s airport dates back to 1910, when the runway measured a modest 1,000 meters. Over the years, it was first extended to 1,400 meters. It now measures 1,750 meters in length and 45 meters in width, still considered short by international standards.The result? A thrilling, almost theatrical landing, where the pilot slams on the brakes with full force. For first-timers, it’s an unforgettable welcome to Tuscany.
Getting from airport to city centre
One of Florence’s charms, especially for a short city break, is how quickly and easily the airport connects to the heart of the city. Within minutes you’re there. A taxi costs between €30 and €35, plus €1 per piece of luggage. However, the smarter choice is the Tram Line T2, which brings you to Santa Maria Novella train station in just 20 minutes. It runs daily from 05:00 am until 12:30 am, and even until 02:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Where to Stay in Florence | The most refined 5 star hotels in Florence Italy
If you’re planning a luxury stay in Florence, choosing the right hotel can completely shape your experience of the city. From historic Renaissance palaces in the Centro Storico, just steps from the Duomo and Uffizi, Florence offers an exceptional variety of 5-star hotels. These range from elegant riverside stays along the Arno to more intimate boutique addresses in the Santa Maria Novella area. For those seeking a quieter escape, the green hills of Fiesole offer panoramic luxury retreats overlooking the entire city.
Each neighbourhood brings its own unique atmosphere. The historic centre offers iconic landmarks and easy walking access. The riverbanks are perfect for romantic views and sunset strolls, while the hillside provides peace, nature, and sweeping panoramas. Together, they create a city where every stay feels slightly different, yet always unmistakably Florentine. For a deeper look at the very best addresses, you can explore my full guide to the 5-star hotels in Florence, Italy. In this guide, I share my personal selection of the most exceptional luxury stays in the city, along with insider tips, signature experiences, and carefully curated recommendations for an unforgettable Florentine escape. You’ll also find information on dog-friendly hotels, as well as the costs for bringing your furry companions.
If you would like to stay in the hills of Fiesole, make sure to read my guide to the 5 best day trips from Florence.
Day 1 Florence weekend guide | Morning in Florence: Duomo, Gelato & Piazza della Signoria
For me, the best way to discover Florence in 2 days is on foot. A walking tour experience in Florence turns every street into a feast for the senses. The scent of freshly baked focaccia drifts from corner bakeries, while the lyrical rhythm of Italian conversations fills the air. Street performers add music to the streets, and the timeless tolling of church bells completes the atmosphere.
Starting at Piazza del Duomo | Florence weekend guide
The perfect place for me to start was Piazza del Duomo. For many travellers, this square is the starting point for discovering the most iconic things to do in Florence, and I quickly understood why. It’s the ideal first stop in any Florence itinerary or walking itinerary through the city. Standing in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Duomo, I couldn’t help but feel completely drawn in. Its presence is truly overwhelming.
Its façade, a delicate patchwork of white and green marble, caught the Tuscan light in a way that felt almost alive. Every detail invited me to slow down and look closer. And even then, it was the kind of place I could return to again and again, always noticing something new each time.
Step inside early in the morning to avoid the crowds and truly appreciate its scale. Did you know the cathedral’s construction spanned more than 140 years? Its majestic dome, designed by the genius architect Filippo Brunelleschi, took 16 years to complete. Today, it remains the third-largest cathedral in the world, after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. Tickets are best booked online in advance, with options to include access to the dome, bell tower, guided tours and the museum.
On my visit, I decided to skip entering the Duomo, something I’ll save for next time. Instead, I spent the morning at another Florentine treasure: the Uffizi Gallery.
These are essential things to see in Florence in 2 days.
These activities and things to see can’t be missed when your in Florence for a 2 day itinerary
First Taste: Italian Gelato at Piazza del Duomo
After soaking in the majesty of the Duomo, I couldn’t resist my first real Italian gelato. Right on Piazza del Duomo you’ll find “Edoardo il Gelato Biologico”. While taking a few Italian lessons in Florence, my teacher Guisy (Giuseppina) highly recommended it, assuring me it was the best in the city. As a classic gelato lover, it felt like the perfect little reward during my walking tour of Florence. It was a sweet pause in the middle of my explorations. A moment to slow down and simply enjoy the atmosphere of the city. Before continuing with the rest of my Florence itinerary and discoveries.
If ice cream isn’t your thing, on of the many nearby Pasticcerie offer excellent coffee. You can pair it with a pastry and enjoy it quickly while standing at the counter, true Italian style. The best coffee, I was told (since I don’t drink it myself), is served at Caffè Gilli. It is a true Florentine institution. Founded in 1733, this elegant historic café on Piazza della Republic is famous for its refined pastries, classic Italien espresso, and timeless atmosphere. As for me, since coffee isn’t really my thing (which might already be considered a small crime in Italy), I focused on what I do best. I sampled the pastries instead, purely for research purposes, of course.
Piazza della Signoria: An Open-Air Museum
From the Duomo, it’s just a few minutes’ walk along Via dei Calzaiuoli, Florence’s bustling main shopping street. You then arrive at Piazza della Signoria. This UNESCO World Heritage square feels like stepping into an open-air museum. The fortress-like Palazzo Vecchio commands the scene with its iconic Arnolfo Tower. At its entrance stands a striking replica of Michelangelo’s David.
The Uffizi Gallery: Masterpieces and City views
The Uffizi itself was originally designed as “offices” for Florence’s magistrates and guilds. Now it houses one of the most extraordinary art collections in the world. Room after room is filled with masterpieces: Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio. European masters like Rubens and Rembrandt also grace the walls.
Beyond the Art: Windows onto Florence
You can download the museum map via QR code.I had planned to rent an audio guide. However, they require you to leave an identity document, such as a passport, ID card, or driver’s license. Since I didn’t have mine on me, I ended up visiting without one.
Uffizi tip: Pre-book tickets online to skip the often lengthy queues, one of the biggest time-savers for a short visit. It’s always hard to prioritize the best things to do in Florence when you’re there for 2 days. However, when following a well-planned walking tour of Florence, this one definitely needs to be included in your itinerary.
Crossing the Arno River: Ponte Vecchio and jewelry boutiques
From Piazza della Signoria, I continued my Florence walking tour toward another Florentine icon: the Ponte Vecchio. Stepping onto this medieval bridge always feels like entering a different chapter of the city’s history. It stretches 95 meters across the Arno River and features three elegant arches. Since the 17th century, it has been home exclusively to jewellery workshops. Each boutique feels like a tiny treasure chest, shimmering with gold, silver, and precious stones displayed behind centuries-old façades.
Walking across the Ponte Vecchio is completely free, and I often find myself slowing down just to take it all in.
My tip for the best photo spot is to head to the nearby Ponte Santa Trinita. From there, the view opens up perfectly, allowing you to capture the Ponte Vecchio in its full symmetry reflected in the Arno River. It’s, in my experience, one of the most beautiful photo perspectives of the bridge. In the late afternoon, the light turns warm and golden. This whole stretch of the river feels almost cinematic. It becomes one of those simple Florence moments you don’t really plan, but end up remembering most.
Sunset in Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo | Florence weekend guide
To close out my first day walking tour of Florence, I planned a visit to it’s most famous viewpoint: Piazzale Michelangelo. From here, you see a full 360-degree panorama of the city centre.
The view worth the climb
You’ll spot the two most photographed landmarks: Brunelleschi’s dome and the Ponte Vecchio on the Arno River. Other church domes and bell towers dot the skyline, all set against the distant hills of Tuscany.
From Ponte Vecchio, the walk to Piazzale Michelangelo takes about 25 minutes, first along the Arno River, then uphill. I won’t lie: the climb is not easy, especially on a warm sunny day when the heat is at its peak. But the views are worth every step. For those who prefer to avoid the uphill trek, taxis and buses can take you to the top. You can still enjoy different levels of the view on your walk back down.
Sunset or Sunrise?
My advice: Check the sunset time and arrive a little early. Order a spritz, settle in, and watch the city glow as the sun sets. Brunelleschi’s dome, the Ponte Vecchio, and the terracotta rooftops are all bathed in golden light. The bars here can be very touristy, so don’t hesitate to bring two glasses and a bottle of Tuscan wine. You can enjoy it while taking in the view. Yes, it’s crowded, but the atmosphere is vibrant. For a more peaceful experience, go at sunrise. The city slowly awakens, the air is cooler, and you’ll share the view with just a handful of early risers. Personally, I prefer the lively energy of sunset, even if it’s busier.
This spot gives you such good views and ideas of the city.
Day 2 Florence weekend guide | brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
The next morning, before heading to the airport, I had something very special planned: a brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. In fact, this was the first reservation I made when planning my Florence in two days itinerary. The brunch is so popular that it books out months in advance. I was lucky enough to secure a spot thanks to a last-minute cancellation.
Set inside a 15th-century palace and former convent, the Four Seasons is breathtaking before you even sit down. The lobby alone is a feast for the eyes: statues, frescoes and flowers everywhere. The vast private gardens feel like a hidden museum. They are dotted with sculptures and host rotating exhibitions in collaboration with the Frilli Gallery. I highly recommend arriving a little early to wander and explore.
Il Palagio: Michelin-Starred Sunday Brunch | Florence weekend guide
The brunch itself is held at the Michelin-starred ‘Il Palagio’ restaurant. Guests can choose between cozy seating around the bar (my pick) or more formal tables overlooking the gardens. From the moment you arrive, the staff guide you through the various buffet stations spread across several rooms. One of the highlights? The main courses are presented inside the kitchen, so you actually walk through, meeting the chefs as you choose your dishes. It’s both fun and delicious, a true standout among things to do in Florence on a 2 days walking tour.
Save Room for Dessert
Now, an important tip: do not eat breakfast beforehand. And above all, save plenty of room for dessert. The dessert buffet has its own dedicated room. It is nothing short of spectacular, with delicate pastries, Italian gelato, and even cotton candy. A pastry chef also comes around to your table with freshly baked choux. They are filled on the spot with your choice of pastry cream, chocolate, or fruit compote. Just talking about it makes my mouth water. Live guitar music plays in the background, making the whole experience feel like a real Italian dolce vita moment. The brunch runs every Sunday from 12:30 to 03:00 pm and is absolutely worth planning your Florence walking itinerary around.
Florentine flavours: Mercato Centrale
I didn’t stay until 3:00 pm, as before heading back to the airport I had planned to visit two final spots on my Florence walking tour. These were the Mercato Centrale and the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Both are must-visits on any list of things to do in Florence in 2 days. They certainly deserve a place in every Florence weekend guide.
Florence’s Central Market
The Mercato Centrale, as its name suggests, is Florence’s central market. It was designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni, best known for Milan’s renowned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
The market unfolds over two floors. First, on the ground floor, you’ll find traditional stalls: fruit and vegetables, butchers, fishmongers, and cheese makers.
Florence Central Market Upstairs: Gourmet food court
Upstairs, the atmosphere shifts into a lively gourmet food court. At the center, communal tables are surrounded by open kitchens. Local producers serve artisanal pizza, handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and truffle-based dishes. My favorites? The pastries, gelato, and chocolate counters. There’s also a wine bar offering Tuscan wines by the glass, plus craft beer stands.
Unfortunately, after savoring my Four Seasons brunch, I wasn’t hungry at all. But this is the perfect spot if you want to eat, drink, and soak in the atmosphere. If you’re visiting with friends, it’s especially fun. Everyone can choose their favorite dish, then gather at the shared tables.
Open daily from 9:00 am until midnight, Mercato Centrale is ideal for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a drink. Be aware that during peak eating hours, the market can get very crowded. Plan your visit accordingly.
A timeless stop: Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies and perfumeries in the world. Officially opened to the public in 1612, its origins date back to 1221. At that time, Dominican friars began crafting remedies from medicinal herbs grown in their monastic gardens.
Today, stepping aside feels like traveling back in time. The old apothecary, the historic sales room, even the tiny chapel all preserve their centuries-old charm. Every sense is awakened here. The scents of soaps, perfumes, creams, and home fragrances mingle with the beauty of frescoes, woodwork, and historical décor. It’s not just a shop, but a piece of Florentine history, and the perfect place to find unique souvenirs. Fittingly, it became the last stop on my Florence walking tour. A fragrant and memorable finale to my itinerary through in the city.
FAQ: Planning the best things to see in Florence in 2 days
Yes! Two days in Florence is absolutely enough to see the highlights, especially with pre-booked tickets and a well-planned walking itinerary. The city is compact, so you can easily move between iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi. At the same time, you still have time to enjoy cafés, viewpoints, and local food experiences.
Duomo and its dome, Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset. Add Mercato Centrale for food and the Officina pharmacy for unique souvenirs.
This Florence weekend guide focuses on elegant, unhurried experiences rather than a rushed itinerary. It balances must-see art with luxurious moments like Michelin-starred brunch, sunset viewpoints, and artisan discoveries. It is perfect for travelers who want depth over speed.
Centro Storico puts you within walking distance of all major sights, making it ideal for a short visit. Oltrarno offers a quieter, more authentic atmosphere with artisan workshops and local restaurants. Nearby, the hills of Fiesole are perfect for a more peaceful escape with panoramic views. For more inspiration, you can explore my guide to the best 5 star hotels in Florence Italy.
For a first visit, 2 or 3 days in Florence is ideal. This gives you enough time to follow a well-planned itinerary and explore major landmarks like the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. Meanwhile, you can still enjoy cafés, markets, and charming streets along the way.
Yes, Florence is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. During my stay, I explored everything on foot, wandering from one landmark to another through the compact historic centre. From the Duomo to the Arno River, most attractions are just a short stroll away. Walking through the city also lets you discover charming side streets, artisan boutiques, and beautiful piazzas you might otherwise miss. This makes a walking tour one of the most rewarding ways to experience Florence.
One of the most spectacular panoramic views is from Piazzale Michelangelo. Visiting at sunrise or sunset offers beautiful views over the city skyline and the iconic Duomo. For an even quieter experience, I also love heading up to Fiesole. From there, the views stretch even further over Florence and the surrounding Tuscan hills.
Absolutely. Florence is perfect for a weekend getaway thanks to its compact historic center, world-class art, and incredible Tuscan cuisine.
Yes, Florence is an excellent base for exploring Tuscany. Thanks to its central location, strong rail connections, and efficient transport network, you can easily take day trips by train, bus, or car to iconic destinations such as Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano and other Tuscan towns, many within 1–2 hours. You can discover the best options in my guide to the 5 best day trips from Florence.
Farewell Florence: smooth tram ride to the airport
With memories swirling in my head and little treasures tucked into my bags, I made my way to the nearby Santa Maria Novella train station. From there, the direct T2 tram carried me to the airport in just 20 minutes.
Two days in Florence are truly enough to fall in love with the city. Especially with a well-planned walking tour that lets you experience its highlights without rushing.
A smooth and elegant farewell to an unforgettable weekend. This city has completely seduced me. It still holds countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered on my next visit.
Explore more Italy travel guides and inspiration:
- Day trips from Florence: my 7 curated Tuscan escapes
- Bologna Italy day trip from Florence: a slow travel guide to the 9 essentials things to see and do
- Castelfalfi Tuscany Resort: the ultimate getaway in Italy
- Florence: 7 hidden boutique spots away from the tourist crowds
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Meet Jessika, a luxury travel writer with a background in international hospitality spanning over 15 years. Half Dutch, half French, and fluent in five languages, she has a natural affinity for the finer things: elegant hotels with soul, wine regions with a story to tell, and tables that celebrate local flavour at its best. Her writing is shaped by a slow, intentional approach to travel — where atmosphere, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of place matter most. She is often accompanied by her dachshund Takkie, her most discerning travel companion.
