The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary in Florence with Day Trips -Great for First Time
As you step off the train in Florence, you're greeted by a city displaying history, art, and vibrant energy. With just 1.5 hours of travel time from Rome, you're ready to embark on a remarkable adventure in the heart of Tuscany! We started our Italy adventures in Rome and then made our way to Florence for an amazing unique experience that we cannot wait to share with you!
Sneak Preview
Day 1: Stroll in Florence: Mercato Centrale, Meet David, Duomo Complex, and Ponte Vecchio
Day 2: Florence Exploration Day- Climb, Views, Food, and Art
Day 3: Day Trip to Cinque Terre- Seaside Villages and the Italian Riveria
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Day 1: Stroll in Florence: Mercato Centrale, Meet David, Duomo Complex, and Ponte Vecchio
Mercato Centrale Firenze - A Culinary Extravaganza
Lunch first is something we always love and can agree to! Kickstart your Florence exploration with a visit to the Mercato Centrale Firenze, also known as the San Lorenzo Market. It is so easily accessible on foot!
Outside the food market, there is a shopping market with small stalls as well that you can peruse for unique finds. Once fed, we take you to the first art museum in the city of art.
Galleria Dell’Academia and Michelangelo's David
The highlight of this gallery is Michelangelo's iconic sculpture, David. It is so easy to lose yourself in the sheer brilliance and artistry of this masterpiece.
Tips: Be sure to reserve your ticket ahead of time to secure entry to the Galleria Dell’Academia, one of Florence's most renowned museums. Otherwise, lines can be quite long! We would allot around 1.5 hours to 3 hours exploring the museum depending on your interests.
Duomo Complex - A Stroll Amid Architectural and Visual Splendor
From the Galleria Dell’Academia, make your way to the Duomo Complex, a collection of awe-inspiring architectural wonders. Begin by walking around the Duomo itself, a magnificent cathedral that boasts intricate facades and breathtaking interiors. Although there may be lines, the experience is totally worth it. We suggest you buy tickets online for the complex and so you are set when you arrive.
Next, visit the baptistry, where you can marvel at its ornate interiors. Don't miss the Opera del Duomo Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and artistry of Florence's iconic structures. Adjacent to the bell tower, you'll find Santa Reparata, a hidden gem that deserves at least 20 minutes of your time. Don’t worry we will re-visit the complex tomorrow too!
Nourishments and Exploration
After immersing yourself in the architectural wonders of the Duomo Complex, take some time to nourish your body and recharge with food, drinks, or gelato. Pick your delight as there is so much to choose from!
Ponte Vecchio
Continue your Florence journey by exploring the charming Ponte Vecchio, a storybook bridge adorned with shops next to the Arno River. Soaking in the picturesque views that Florence has to offer!
Dinner
So many delicious options to choose from! We highly recommend booking reservations early for any sit-down places. One of the places we really loved was L’Osteria Di Giovanni for the unique flavors of Florence and the authentic taste of Tuscan cuisine. Whatever you choose to Indulge in, enjoy mouthwatering dishes, and local ingredients, paired with fine regional wines, and let the evening unfold in the warmth of this city.
Day 2: Florence Exploration Day- Climb, Views, Food, and Art
Prepare yourself for another day of immersion in Florence's cultural richness and architectural splendor!!
Breakfast
After a light breakfast, we suggest starting the day with a Bell Tower Climb.
Giotto Bell Tower Climb - A Panoramic Perspective
We start the day with an ascent of the Giotto Bell Tower (part of the Duomo Complex). A nice climb that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence.
Exploring the Sights and Sounds
As you explore the area, marvel at the Basilica de Santa Maria Novella, a stunning church dating back to 1279, and admire the grandeur of the Basilica of San Lorenzo from the outside. Don't miss the chance to visit the Medici Chapel, an architectural gem that reflects the opulence of Florence's influential Medici family.
Take a leisurely stroll to Piazza della Repubblica, a lively square offering a perfect blend of history and modernity.
Just a short walk away, you'll find Piazza Della Signoria, a must-visit plaza that brims with sculptures and architectural marvels.
Within 5 minutes of walking, you can reach the magnificent Basilica de Santa Croce, where luminaries such as Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei rest in eternal peace.
Lunch: All’Antico Vinaio - A Sandwich Sensation!
We suggest you take your food and walk over to the Arno River and enjoy your lunch taking in the views.
Discovering Artistic Gems and Scenic Delights
Next on your itinerary is the enchanting Vasari Corridor, a passageway connecting the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace. Traverse this historical gem and admire the captivating artworks that line its walls.
Uffizi Gallery - A Journey Through Art
Tips: Set aside approximately 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the masterpieces on display, ranging from Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" to Leonardo da Vinci's "Annunciation." Take a guided tour or at the very least an audio tour to elevate your experience!
Time for Breathtaking Views: Choose one or do both!
Giardino Bardini
For breathtaking views of Florence, head to Giardino Bardini, an enchanting garden that offers a stunning panorama of the city and the iconic Duomo. An 8-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio, this hidden gem is a perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Florence.
Piazzale Michelangelo
End your day at Piazzale Michelangelo, which not only provides an impressive viewpoint but also treats you to a mesmerizing sunset if you time it right. Make the short 10-minute walk from the Pitti Palace, and let the hues of the sky and the cityscape dazzle you.
Dinner
So many delicious options! As always, we suggest you make reservations ahead of time to ensure a table. We had dinner at Cucina Torcicoda and absolutely loved the delicious Tuscan food accompanied by fine wines. Lots of great vegetarian options too!
Day 3: Day Trip to Cinque Terre- Seaside Villages and the Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, is a destination that captures the hearts of travelers from around the world! It is a recently discovered hidden gem that is now becoming more popular and is absolutely stunning!
Fun fact- Did you know the village in the movie Luca was inspired by Cinque Terre?!
While you can choose to drive, take trains, or create your own trip through the villages, we highly recommend the guided tour Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence. When on vacation we personally enjoy being driven around and the tour company did an amazing job of driving us and taking us through an elevated experience through the villages.
However you choose to explore-here are our highlights and must-do's!
Villages
Manarola: The Romantic Gem
Manarola is often hailed as the most romantic of the Cinque Terre villages, thanks to its charming ambiance and stunning vistas. It is easy to see why with so many colorful houses clinging to the cliffs, creating a postcard-worthy scene.
Take a leisurely walk along the famous Lover's Lane (Via dell'Amore) that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore, enjoying breathtaking views of the sea or along many of the winding paths in town. Don't forget to savor the local Sciacchetrà wine, renowned for its sweet and aromatic flavors.
Corniglia: The Hilltop Oasis
Corniglia is unique among the Cinque Terre villages, as it sits atop a rocky promontory rather than being directly on the coastline. To reach Corniglia, you'll need to climb a flight of stairs. There is also an option to take a shuttle bus from the train station with limited time.
Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and terraced hills!
Explore the medieval streets, visit the charming Santa Maria church, and indulge in the local wines produced in the terraced vineyards. Be sure to try the pesto here too as it is a local delicacy!
Vernazza: The Picturesque Fishing Village
Vernazza is arguably one of the most picturesque of the Cinque Terre villages, with its colorful pastel buildings cascading down the hillside to the small harbor. Explore the narrow, winding streets lined with quaint shops and trattorias, and make your way to the Doria Castle, perched atop a cliff. Immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal charm!
If you are looking for a hike that is moderately challenging, we recommend the hike from Corniglia to Vernazza. Depending on your level of fitness and interest there are so many different hikes you can pick from.
Monterosso al Mare: The Lively Beach Town
Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages and offers a vibrant coastal atmosphere. Its expansive sandy beach, azure waters, and colorful umbrellas create a postcard-perfect setting. Stroll along the seaside promenade, explore the charming old town, and indulge in the local delicacy, and anchovies.
Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning 17th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista, which features beautiful paintings and intricate marble details.
Riomaggiore: The Quaint and Charming
Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of the Cinque Terre, is a delightful charm with its pastel-colored buildings and narrow alleyways.
The village is known for its small harbor and picturesque waterfront, where fishing boats bob gently in the crystal-clear waters.
Whether you choose to visit one, two, or all five of the Cinque Terre villages, you're in for an unforgettable experience. Each village holds its own unique allure, from the lively beaches of Monterosso al Mare to the romantic ambiance of Manarola. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Ligurian coastline, savor the delicious local cuisine, and let the charm of the Cinque Terre transport you to a coastal paradise like no other!
Back to Florence
After returning from your day trip, you can enjoy a culinary experience at a sit-down restaurant or go check out the Mercato Centrale Firenze for some delicious bites.
Day 4: Day Trip through Tuscany Filled with Wine and Charming Regions- Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa
With so little time and so much to do, we decided to take a full-day trip through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany. We loved this well-organized guided tour offering us a comprehensive experience of the region's charms including visits to Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa, a delightful lunch at a winery, and time to soak in the essence of Tuscany's captivating beauty.
Here are our highlights and all the things to do in the Tuscan countryside!
Siena
Our adventure begins in the heart of Tuscany, in the captivating city of Siena filled with medieval charm and beautiful streets and sites.
From this Medevil City, we make our way to the rolling Tuscan Hills!
Tuscan Wineries
Nestled in the heart of Italy's picturesque countryside, Tuscan wineries offer an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Sample the diverse flavors of renowned wines, from full-bodied reds like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino to crisp whites such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano, there is no wrong answer! From vineyard-covered hills to charming stone villas, each winery tells a unique story, inviting you to savor the essence of Tuscan winemaking and create lasting memories!
San Gimignano
A medieval gem in the heart of Tuscany, offers a captivating array of highlights and must-dos. Marvel at the town's iconic skyline, adorned with 13 well-preserved medieval towers that have earned it the nickname "the Manhattan of the Middle Ages." Stroll through the enchanting historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and lose yourself in its narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and picturesque architecture! Be sure to try the town's famous saffron-infused gelato, wander through artisanal shops showcasing local crafts, and capture even more panoramic views of the rolling Tuscan countryside.
Pisa
At this point, we have climbed many towers in Europe and can confidently say we felt tilted and swayed as we were climbing. It is definitely a must-do experience!
Last Night in Florence
Conclude your day with a memorable dining experience at the many delicacies in Florence! As your time in Florence comes to an end, you'll carry with you memories of amazing art, awe-inspiring architecture, and the flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Florence, with its rich history and captivating experiences, leaves an impression on every traveler fortunate enough to explore its treasures.
Modifications/Tips
Make reservations for any sit-down dinner spots ahead of time to minimize belly-to-food time!
Stay centrally, since the city is so walkable
Florence makes a great spot for day trips to the Tuscany countryside and beautiful villages!! See above for inspiration!
Thank you for reading!! To continue your dream getaway to Italy check out our posts on Rome and Venice!
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