Florence a week

Home to Michelangelo's iconic David, this gallery also houses a significant collection of Florentine paintings from the 13th to 16th centuries. Explore its impressive array of sculptures and religious art.

• Book tickets online well in advance to skip the long queues.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time.

A beloved, no-frills trattoria near the Mercato Centrale, known for its authentic Florentine dishes like Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Ribollita. Expect communal tables and a lively, bustling atmosphere.

• It's cash-only, so come prepared.
• Be ready to share a table with other diners; it's part of the experience.

The magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, crowned by Brunelleschi's dome, is an unmissable symbol of Florence. Admire its intricate facade and consider climbing the dome or Giotto's Campanile for breathtaking city views.

• The climb to the top of Brunelleschi's Dome requires a separate timed ticket and is strenuous. Book this well in advance.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if climbing.

Located in the charming Oltrarno district, this popular osteria offers a cozy ambiance and delicious Tuscan cuisine, famous for its truffle gnocchi. It's a great spot for a romantic dinner.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings.
• Try their 'gnocchi tartufati' (truffle gnocchi) for a memorable dish.

One of the world's most important art museums, the Uffizi houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. Plan for several hours to explore its vast halls.

• Pre-booking timed entry tickets is essential to avoid extremely long waits.
• Consider a guided tour to get the most out of the extensive collection.

Famous for its enormous and delicious schiacciata (Tuscan flatbread) sandwiches, this spot is a Florentine institution. Grab a sandwich to go and enjoy it on the go or at a nearby piazza.

• Be prepared for a line, but it moves relatively quickly.
• The menu is extensive; choose from classic combinations or build your own.

Florence's oldest bridge, famous for the shops built along it, which traditionally housed butchers but now primarily sell jewelry. It offers picturesque views of the Arno River and is a popular spot for photos.

• Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Look for the Vasari Corridor entrance above the shops, a historic passageway.

A romantic and atmospheric restaurant tucked away in a medieval cellar, known for its sophisticated take on Tuscan cuisine and excellent wine list. It's a favorite for special occasions.

• Reservations are essential, book well in advance.
• The pear ravioli is a signature dish not to be missed.

This vast Renaissance palace houses several important museums, including the Palatine Gallery (with works by Raphael and Titian), the Royal Apartments, and the Gallery of Modern Art. Explore its opulent rooms and extensive art collections.

• Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit the Boboli Gardens.
• Allocate ample time as there are multiple museums within the palace.

A historic, family-run trattoria in the Oltrarno district offering traditional Florentine home cooking at incredibly reasonable prices. It's a local favorite for its authentic flavors and unpretentious atmosphere.

• The menu changes daily based on fresh ingredients.
• It's a simple, no-frills place; come for the food, not the fancy decor.

The magnificent historic gardens behind Palazzo Pitti, offering a stunning example of Italian garden design. Wander through its tree-lined avenues, fountains, sculptures, and enjoy panoramic views of Florence.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the gardens are extensive and hilly.
• Look for the Amphitheatre, Neptune Fountain, and the Isolotto.

A stylish and popular restaurant in the Oltrarno district offering creative interpretations of Tuscan cuisine. It's known for its excellent wine selection and vibrant atmosphere.

• Reservations are strongly advised, especially for dinner.
• Their seasonal specials are often highlights.

This bustling indoor market is a foodie paradise. The ground floor features stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies, while the upper floor is a vibrant food court with diverse culinary options.

• Great place to sample local products like cheese, cured meats, and olive oil.
• The upper floor food court is perfect for a casual lunch.

Part of the Basilica di San Lorenzo complex, these chapels are the opulent mausoleum of the Medici family. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, is a highlight with its powerful sculptures.

• The entrance is separate from the main Basilica.
• Admire Michelangelo's allegorical figures on the tombs.

The parish church of the Medici family, this basilica is one of Florence's oldest churches. While less ornate than others, its architectural significance and historical connections are considerable.

• The interior is more restrained than the exterior might suggest.
• Consider visiting the Medici Chapels first, as they are part of the complex.

One of Florence's oldest restaurants, located in a historic cellar, renowned for its classic Tuscan dishes, especially its exceptional Bistecca alla Fiorentina. The ambiance is traditional and cozy.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a must-try for meat lovers.

This iconic piazza offers the most famous panoramic view of Florence, with the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo dominating the skyline. It's a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the city's beauty.

• Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
• Consider walking up from the city center for a more rewarding experience.

The Oltrarno district is known for its traditional artisan workshops, where you can find leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, and more. Wander through the streets like Via Romana and Via Maggio to discover unique crafts.

• Look for workshops where you can see artisans at work.
• This is a great area for unique souvenir shopping.

One of the world's oldest pharmacies, established by Dominican friars in the 13th century. It sells exquisite perfumes, soaps, and skincare products made with traditional methods and natural ingredients.

• The building itself is beautiful, like a museum.
• Consider trying their famous 'Acqua di Rose' (rose water).

A contemporary and stylish restaurant in the Santo Spirito area, offering innovative dishes with a focus on high-quality ingredients and creative presentation. It has a vibrant atmosphere and excellent cocktails.

• Reservations are recommended.
• The tasting menu can be a good way to experience their culinary range.

Take a direct bus from Florence's main bus station (near the train station) to Siena. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Tuscan countryside.

• Buy tickets in advance at the bus station or online.
• Sit on the right side of the bus for potentially better views on arrival into Siena.

Siena's stunning shell-shaped main piazza, famous for the Palio horse race. Admire the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia.

• Enjoy a coffee or gelato at one of the cafes lining the piazza.
• Climbing the Torre del Mangia offers incredible views of Siena and the surrounding countryside.

From Siena, take a local bus to the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano, famous for its well-preserved towers. The journey is scenic and takes about 1 hour.

• Check bus schedules in advance as connections can be infrequent.
• Consider a guided walking tour of San Gimignano to learn about its history.

Wander through the charming streets of San Gimignano, admire its unique skyline of medieval towers, and enjoy a traditional Tuscan dinner in one of its trattorias.

• Try the local Vernaccia white wine.
• Visit the Duomo di San Gimignano for its frescoes.

Take a bus from San Gimignano back to Florence. Depending on connections, this might involve a change in Poggibonsi. The total journey time can be around 2 hours.

• Ensure you know the last bus departure times.
• This will be a late return to Florence.

Embark on a guided food tour to explore Florence's culinary scene. Sample local specialties like lampredotto, cheese, cured meats, and pastries, often visiting markets and small eateries.

• This is a great way to discover hidden food gems.
• Come hungry – you'll be tasting a lot!

A more local and less touristy market than Mercato Centrale, offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and a few small eateries. It's a great place to experience authentic Florentine daily life.

• Visit on a weekday morning for the most authentic experience.
• Look for local trattorias nearby for a simple, delicious lunch.

A beautiful, often less crowded alternative to Boboli Gardens, offering stunning panoramic views of Florence, especially from its wisteria-covered pergola in spring. It's a tranquil escape with lovely terraces.

• The views from the upper terrace are spectacular.
• Visit during wisteria season (typically April-May) for a truly magical experience.

A small, highly-regarded restaurant specializing in truffle dishes. It offers an intimate dining experience with exceptional quality and creative preparations centered around this prized ingredient.

• Reservations are absolutely essential due to its small size.
• Their truffle pasta and truffle steak are famous.