Florence is a city filled with art, history, and culture. We only had one day, but with a well-planned itinerary, we managed to do most of the best things in Florence. Here’s a detailed 1 day itinerary in Florence on how to spend your time in Florence, filled with great sights, delicious food, and personal reflections on our experience.
We arrived at Florence Santa Maria Novella train station from Bologna. The station itself is beautiful, with its classic architecture welcoming us to the city. Our train back was scheduled for 9:15 PM, giving us a full day to explore.
9:15 AM – 9:45 AM
Our first stop was the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, the oldest pharmacy in Florence, founded in 1221. Stepping inside was like walking into a historical gem. The aromas of herbal remedies filled the air, and the beautifully preserved interiors were captivating. We admired the antique bottles and unique products on display.
10:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Next, we headed to the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David. Arriving early was crucial; it allowed us to avoid the long queues and to appreciate the statue without the usual crowds. Seeing David in person was really amazing. The detail in Michelangelo’s work is hard to describe; it felt almost alive. We spent time learning about the other Renaissance masterpieces in the gallery as well. We were truly impressed by the size of David’s statue and it was the best attraction we visited in this city.
12:15 PM – 12:50 PM
After our cultural morning, it was time for lunch. We found a cozy trattoria nearby where we enjoyed authentic Tuscan dishes. We opted for traditional sandwiches. Each bite was a reminder of how delicious and comforting food can be in Italy.
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
After lunch, we took a short walk to Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence. The grandeur of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) was breathtaking. The intricate details of the façade, the tall Campanile, and the Baptistery made for a stunning backdrop. We took plenty of photos, capturing the beauty of the cathedral and the vibrant atmosphere of the piazza. While we didn’t enter the buildings to save time, we enjoyed soaking in the sights. If you plan to visit, be prepared for potential lines if you choose to go inside.
1:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Our next stop was the Galleria degli Uffizi, one of the most renowned art museums in the world. Knowing how busy it gets, we had booked our tickets in advance, which made entry smooth and hassle-free. The museum is home to incredible works by artists like Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the galleries, marveling at the art and learning about the artists.
4:15 PM – 4:45 PM
After the Uffizi, we strolled to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge. The bridge is lined with jewelry shops, and its charm is undeniable. We paused to take in the views of the Arno River, enjoying the lively atmosphere. The history behind the bridge is fascinating, and we loved wandering around, soaking up the sights. The prices at the shops are high, so unless you’re a jewelry enthusiast, it’s more about the walk than the shopping.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
No trip to Florence is complete without gelato! We found a local gelateria and indulged in flavors like pistachio and stracciatella. Each spoonful was a delight, and we enjoyed our gelato while sitting in a nearby square. To find the best gelateria and avoid the tourist traps, we advice you to look their rating and reviews on google.
5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
Next, we made our way across the river to visit the Boboli Gardens behind the Palazzo Pitti. The gardens provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. We wandered through the beautifully landscaped paths, admiring the statues and fountains. The views of Florence from the gardens were stunning, and we took a moment to relax and reflect on our day. You have to be prepared to walk plenty. It offers great views of the city from a high point which is great for pictures.
7:15 PM – 8:15 PM
To end our day, we headed to All’antico Vinaio, famous for its panini. The line was long, but we knew it would be worth the wait. We savored the flavors of our hearty sandwiches, enjoying every bite. It was the perfect way to conclude our day in Florence. We truly recommand it, it was delicious and there was a large choice of options!
Spending one day in Florence was challenging but rewarding. We left with beautiful memories and a desire to return. If you’re looking for a quick but fulfilling exploration, this 1 day itinerary in Florence is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and cuisine.
Moreover, if you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to explore our guides on Rome, Malta, and Stockholm for more travel inspiration! Safe travels!
© Match On The Map 2025 – All rights reserved
Website Designed and Built Exclusively by Us (Cyprien & Martina)!
Submit Your Travel Pictures Here!
