Florence 5 days

Home to Michelangelo's iconic David, this gallery also houses a significant collection of Florentine paintings from the 13th to 16th centuries. It's a must-visit for art lovers, offering a deep dive into the evolution of Renaissance art.

• Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially for David.
• Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the collection.

A classic, no-frills Florentine trattoria renowned for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, particularly its Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Expect a lively atmosphere and communal seating, a true local experience.

• Arrive early as they do not take reservations and tables fill up quickly.
• Try the daily specials for a taste of seasonal ingredients.

The magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, with Brunelleschi's dome, is the symbol of Florence. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome or Giotto's Campanile for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

• The climb to the dome is strenuous with narrow stairs; wear comfortable shoes.
• Purchase a combined ticket for access to the dome, bell tower, baptistery, and museum.

This L-shaped square is the political heart of Florence, featuring the Palazzo Vecchio and a stunning collection of sculptures in the Loggia dei Lanzi, including a replica of David. It's a vibrant spot for an evening stroll and people-watching.

• Enjoy an aperitivo at one of the cafes lining the piazza, soaking in the atmosphere.

One of the world's most important art museums, housing an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. It's an essential stop for understanding the artistic achievements of the era.

• Book tickets well in advance online to secure your entry time and skip the ticket line.
• Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.

Famous for its enormous and delicious schiacciata (Tuscan flatbread) sandwiches, stuffed with high-quality Italian cured meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. It's a popular spot for a quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly lunch.

• Be prepared for a line, but it moves relatively fast.
• Choose from their signature combinations or create your own.

Florence's oldest bridge, unique for its shops built along it, primarily jewelers. It spans the Arno River and offers picturesque views, especially at sunset.

• Admire the Vasari Corridor (exterior view), which connects the Uffizi to Pitti Palace.
• The bridge can get very crowded, so be mindful of your belongings.

A vast Renaissance palace housing several important museums, including the Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art. The adjacent Boboli Gardens are a stunning example of Italian garden design, offering sculptures, fountains, and scenic views.

• Allow ample time to explore both the palace and the extensive gardens.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking the large garden grounds.

Located on the south bank of the Arno, this artisan quarter is known for its workshops, traditional crafts, and authentic trattorias. It offers a more local and less touristy vibe than the areas north of the river.

• Explore the smaller side streets to discover hidden artisan studios.
• Enjoy dinner at a traditional trattoria for a genuine Florentine meal.

While many know it for housing David, the Academy also preserves important works by Florentine painters and sculptors from the 14th to 19th centuries, including a significant collection of unfinished Michelangelo sculptures. It provides context to the artistic training of the era.

• This is the same as Galleria dell'Accademia; ensure you are booking the correct entrance for the context of the day's plan.
• Focus on the unfinished 'Prisoners' by Michelangelo for a different perspective on his process.

A bustling indoor market where the ground floor offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties, while the upper floor is a vibrant food court with diverse culinary options. It's a fantastic place for lunch and to sample various Tuscan flavors.

• Sample Lampredotto, a traditional Florentine street food, from one of the stalls.
• The market is great for picking up edible souvenirs like olive oil, pasta, or biscotti.

Part of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, these chapels house the opulent mausoleums of the Medici family. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, features his stunning sculptures of allegorical figures.

• Combine your visit with the Basilica of San Lorenzo if time permits.
• The detailed marble work and Michelangelo's sculptures are highlights.

Immerse yourselves in Florentine food culture with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic Tuscan dishes like pasta from scratch, tiramisu, and regional sauces, often followed by enjoying your creations for dinner.

• Book in advance, as classes are popular and have limited spots.
• Look for classes that focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.

This grand square offers the most iconic panoramic view of Florence, with the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo dominating the skyline. It's a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the city's layout.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the soft morning light.
• Consider walking up from the Oltrarno for a more scenic ascent.

A lesser-known but equally beautiful garden offering stunning views of Florence, particularly famous for its wisteria tunnel in spring. It provides a more tranquil escape than the Boboli Gardens.

• Best visited during spring for the wisteria and roses, but beautiful year-round.
• Combine with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo as they are nearby.

A popular local spot in the Oltrarno district, known for its hearty Tuscan dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Their truffle gnocchi and Florentine steak are highly recommended.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Sit outside in Piazza Santo Spirito for a charming dining experience.

Explore the outdoor stalls surrounding the Mercato Centrale, famous for leather goods, scarves, and souvenirs. Haggling is expected here, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

• Check the quality of the leather carefully; look for 'Made in Italy'.
• Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right; you can often find similar items elsewhere.

A highly-rated gelateria offering a wide array of artisanal gelato flavors made with fresh, natural ingredients. It's a perfect stop for a sweet treat after dinner.

• Try unique flavors like pistachio, dark chocolate, or seasonal fruit sorbettos.
• Enjoy your gelato while strolling through the historic center.

Florence's town hall and a formidable medieval fortress, featuring the Salone dei Cinquecento with impressive frescoes and sculptures. You can also climb Arnolfo's Tower for more city views.

• Allocate sufficient time to explore the various rooms and courtyards.
• The tower climb offers a different perspective than Brunelleschi's dome.

A beloved, family-run trattoria in the Oltrarno district offering traditional Tuscan dishes at very reasonable prices. It's known for its authentic, home-style cooking and friendly service.

• Expect a simple, rustic ambiance and delicious, unpretentious food.
• They offer a fixed-price menu which is excellent value.

This Gothic church is the final resting place for many of Italy's greatest figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Its frescoes by Giotto are also significant.

• Look for the tombs of famous Italians and learn about their contributions.
• The Pazzi Chapel is a Renaissance architectural gem within the complex.

An exceptional wine bar located directly opposite the Pitti Palace, offering an extensive selection of Tuscan and Italian wines. It's a perfect spot for a sophisticated farewell drink and small bites.

• Consider a wine tasting flight to sample a variety of regional wines.
• Pairs perfectly with their charcuterie and cheese boards.