Florence 10 days

Check into your hotel, centrally located with a rooftop terrace offering views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio.

• Book a room with a river view if possible.
• Enjoy the sunset from the rooftop bar.

Walk across the iconic medieval bridge, famous for its shops built along it. It's the only bridge in Florence not destroyed during World War II.

• Look for the Vasari Corridor above the shops.
• Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.

Experience authentic Florentine cuisine in a bustling, no-frills trattoria. Famous for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina and traditional pasta dishes.

• Arrive early as they don't take reservations and fill up quickly.
• Share dishes to try more of the menu.

Marvel at Brunelleschi's dome, a feat of Renaissance engineering, and the vast interior of this magnificent cathedral.

• Dress code requires shoulders and knees to be covered.

Climb the 414 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, including an up-close perspective of Brunelleschi's dome.

• The climb is narrow and winding; suitable for those not claustrophobic.

Houses original artworks from the Duomo complex, including Ghiberti's 'Gates of Paradise' and Michelangelo's 'Pietà Bandini'.

• See the original panels of the Baptistery doors here.

The political heart of Florence, featuring the Palazzo Vecchio and the Loggia dei Lanzi with its impressive sculptures.

Indulge in massive, delicious Florentine sandwiches (schiacciata) from this world-famous spot. Perfect for a casual and filling dinner.

• Expect a line, but it moves relatively fast.
• Try the 'Boss' or 'Inferno' for classic combinations.

Home to masterpieces of the Renaissance, including Botticelli's 'Birth of Venus' and Leonardo da Vinci's 'Annunciation'. Allow ample time to explore.

• Book tickets well in advance to avoid long queues.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

Explore the expansive and elegant Italian Renaissance gardens, once the private grounds of the Pitti Palace. Offers beautiful sculptures, fountains, and city views.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and inclines.
• Find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Wander through the artisan workshops of the Oltrarno, known for leather goods, ceramics, and jewelry. Discover local crafts and unique boutiques.

A popular spot in the Oltrarno for traditional Tuscan dishes, especially known for its truffle gnocchi and vibrant piazza atmosphere.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for outdoor seating.
• The truffle dishes are a must-try.

See Michelangelo's David, a world-renowned sculpture, along with other significant works by Florentine artists. It's smaller than the Uffizi, making it more manageable.

• Book tickets in advance to skip the line for David.
• Don't miss the unfinished 'Prisoners' sculptures.

Explore the opulent mausoleum of the Medici family, featuring Michelangelo's sculptures in the New Sacristy and the Grand Ducal Crypt.

• The Chapel of the Princes is particularly dazzling with its pietra dura work.

A vibrant two-story market. The ground floor offers fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, while the upper floor is a gourmet food court with diverse culinary options.

• Great spot for lunch with many choices.
• Sample local specialties like lampredotto.

A refined yet cozy restaurant offering creative twists on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Known for its excellent wine list and seasonal dishes.

• Book ahead, it's a popular local favorite.
• Ask for wine pairing recommendations.

The most famous panoramic viewpoint of Florence, offering spectacular vistas of the city skyline, Arno River, and surrounding hills. Ideal for photos.

• Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and soft light.
• Consider visiting at sunset for a magical experience (though it will be crowded).

A beautiful Renaissance church designed by Brunelleschi, known for its serene interior and lack of ornamentation, allowing the architecture to speak for itself.

• Look for Michelangelo's wooden crucifix in the choir.
• The piazza outside is a lively local gathering spot.

One of the world's oldest pharmacies, offering exquisite perfumes, soaps, and skincare products made with traditional methods. The interior is stunning.

• Sample their signature 'Acqua di Rose' or 'Melograno' scents.
• It's a beautiful place to browse even if you don't buy.

An intimate and romantic restaurant with a unique ambiance, serving refined Tuscan dishes with a touch of creativity. Famous for its pear ravioli and truffle dishes.

• Reservations are essential.
• The atmosphere is intimate, perfect for couples.

A vast Renaissance palace housing several important museums, including the Palatine Gallery (Raphael, Titian), the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Costume and Fashion Museum.

• Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit multiple museums within the palace.
• Focus on one or two galleries to avoid museum fatigue.

A lesser-known but beautiful garden offering stunning views of Florence, especially famous for its wisteria tunnel in spring. More tranquil than Boboli.

• Combine with a visit to Palazzo Pitti for a scenic walk.
• Look for the Baroque staircase and the 'Dragon' fountain.

A casual and popular spot in the Oltrarno serving delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas from a wood-fired oven. Great for a relaxed lunch.

• The queues can be long, but the pizza is worth the wait.
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Santo Spirito piazza.

Enjoy an aperitivo with stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio and Arno River. Offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a good selection of cocktails and wines.

• Book a table with a view in advance.
• Perfect for pre-dinner drinks.

A bustling outdoor market famous for leather goods, scarves, and souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle for the best prices.

• Have a price in mind before you start negotiating.
• Check the quality carefully before purchasing.

Return to the vibrant food court for lunch. Explore diverse stalls offering pasta, pizza, lampredotto, gelato, and more.

• Try different stalls for a varied tasting experience.
• It's a great place to people-watch.

Located behind the Basilica di Santa Croce, this school offers high-quality, handmade leather goods. You can see artisans at work and purchase directly.

• The quality is excellent, justifying the price.
• Consider a custom order if you have time.

A historic, family-run trattoria in the Oltrarno, offering simple, delicious, and very affordable Tuscan home cooking. A true local gem.

• It's cash only.
• The menu changes daily based on fresh ingredients.

Explore the medieval city of Siena, famous for its shell-shaped main square, Piazza del Campo, and its magnificent striped Gothic cathedral.

• Climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding countryside.
• Visit the Duomo di Siena, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture.

Discover the 'Medieval Manhattan' with its iconic medieval towers. Wander through its charming streets, sample local Vernaccia wine, and enjoy the views.

• Try the award-winning gelato at Gelateria Dondoli.
• Walk up to the Rocca di Montestaffoli for great views of the town and towers.

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan dinner in Siena before returning to Florence. Look for local specialties like 'pici' pasta.

• Many restaurants offer outdoor seating in the picturesque squares.
• Try 'Panforte' for dessert.

Step back in time at this remarkably preserved 14th-century merchant's home. It offers a glimpse into daily life in medieval Florence.

• Pay attention to the details of the frescoes and furnishings.
• It's a less crowded museum, offering a more intimate experience.

A small market near Ponte Vecchio, known for its leather goods, including replicas of the famous 'Il Porcellino' boar statue.

• Rub the nose of the bronze boar for good luck and to ensure your return to Florence.
• Bargaining is expected.

Cross the Arno River via this elegant bridge, offering excellent views of Ponte Vecchio and the surrounding cityscape. It's less crowded than Ponte Vecchio.

A unique concept store and restaurant combining a flower shop, home decor, and a stylish café/bistro. Offers a relaxed atmosphere for lunch or coffee.

• Enjoy the creative ambiance and Instagrammable decor.
• They serve excellent coffee and brunch options.

One of Florence's oldest restaurants, renowned for its authentic Bistecca alla Fiorentina and traditional Tuscan dishes served in a historic cellar.

• Reservations are essential, especially for the Bistecca.
• The wine cellar is impressive.

While the Accademia is famous for David, this section explores contemporary art, offering a different perspective on artistic evolution.

• Check current exhibitions.
• A good option for a shorter, focused art experience.

One of Florence's oldest and most revered gelaterias, offering a vast array of artisanal gelato flavors made with high-quality ingredients.

• Try seasonal fruit flavors or classic pistacchio.
• Enjoy your gelato in the nearby piazza.

Check out from your hotel and arrange for transport to the airport or train station.