Imagine strolling through the cobblestone streets of Florence, where art and history come together under the Tuscan sky. A 3-day weekend in Florence invites you to travel back in time to the heart of the Renaissance. Every street corner in this city-museum reveals a masterpiece, every local flavor awakens the senses. Florence is the perfect escape to immerse yourself in culture, architecture and gastronomy, for an unforgettable extended weekend in the heart of this Tuscan must-see.
Day 1: The Duomo, the Accademia Gallery and the Basilicas
The first day of this 3-day weekend in Florence starts off with a bang! From the Duomo to the Accademia Gallery, you're in for a real treat. In fact, the latter is one of the 10 best museums in Florence, so it would be a shame to miss out!
Morning: Florence's Accademia Gallery and Duomo
One of the highlights of the Galleria dell'Accademia is Michelangelo's David (given its popularity, remember to book your ticket online before your visit right here)! This iconic statue, over 5 meters high and carved from a block of marble weighing almost 5 tons, immediately immerses you in a grandiose artistic universe. The gallery is home to other notable works that you'll enjoy admiring, including unfinished sculptures by Michelangelo in the Gallery of the Captives. Another must-see during your visit is the Museum of Musical Instruments. Allow a good hour and a half for your first visit to Florence.
Then it's time to head for Florence's Duomo, just 500 metres from the gallery, by booking your guided tour of the cathedral here. Its white and green marble facade makes it one of the world's greatest cathedrals, behind St. Peter's in Rome and St. Paul's in London. Brunelleschi's dome, with its impressive dimensions, invites you to discover the frescoes of the Last Judgment. A true marvel! Finally, pluck up your courage and climb the 463 steps to a breathtaking view of Florence.
Afternoon: Piazza del Duomo and Florence's basilicas
We invite you to have lunch in the Piazza del Duomo, as many other surprises await you. Here, we take our time... time to discover, time to savor, time to soak up the Italian Dolce Vita.
Giotto's campanile, accessible by 414 steps, is one of the finest buildings to be discovered, offering a lovely view of the city (though not as impressive as that from the Duomo). Also worth a visit is the San Giovianni Baptistery, renowned for having been the baptismal site of historical figures such as Dante. Another major building not to be missed is the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.
There you have it! On to the Santa Maria Novella Basilicajust 600 metres away on foot. Let yourself go and contemplate its frescoes, including some by Brunelleschi.
Tip by Petit Futé : buy a ticket with an audioguide in French!
Not far away, the Basilica of San Lorenzo reveals the Medici chapels, as well as tombs and works by Michelangelo.
Time to spare? End your day at the San Lorenzo market, adjacent to the basilica. Here's a great opportunity to sample local dishes in a pleasant atmosphere under a large glass roof. This not-to-be-missed Florence market is open daily for lunch and dinner.
Day 2: Uffizi Gallery and Bargello Museum Palace
A good night's rest in a comfortable downtown hotel, and you're off on your adventure!
Morning: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte-Vacchio and Palazzo Vecchio
The second morning of your 3-day weekend in Florence begins at the Uffizi Gallerya must-see when visiting Florence. As with the Galleria dell'Accademia, we recommend that you buy your ticket in advance of your visit here, to avoid the wait at the entrance. Works by illustrious artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo are on display. To make the most of your visit, allow between 2 and 2.5 hours.
Before lunch, you'll have time to admire the Ponte Vecchio, close to the gallery. This astonishing structure is distinguished by the jewellers' stores directly above it. You've also found an ideal spot to take some of your best photos!
It's time to head for the Piazza della Signoria, renowned for its Neptune fountain and surrounding sculptures. Enjoy a bite to eat in the area, before embarking on the afternoon's program.
Afternoon: Bargello Museum Palace and Basilica of Santa Croce
Three minutes' walk later, you're at the Bargello Museum, with its impressive collection of sculptures by Michelangelo and Donatello. Florence, the cradle of art? Yes, it is, to our great delight! Allow 1h30 to 2h to visit this jewel of art in its entirety.
Treat yourself to a delicious gelato made in Italy, before visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce. In addition to a tour of the building, you'll discover the tombs of illustrious Italian personalities such as Machiavelli, Dante, Galileo and Michelangelo. This Franciscan church, the largest in the world, also invites you to stroll through its interior garden, a blend of different architectural styles. A great way to round off the second afternoon of your 3-day weekend in Florence!
Day 3: Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo
Your weekend in Florence is coming to an end, but you still haven't had your fill of the city's 21 must-see sights!
Morning: Medici immersion
Your last morning starts at the Palazzo Pitti, the former main residence of the Medici family from the XVIᵉ century onwards (you can book your admission ticket online right here to best prepare your visit). A must-see during your 3-day weekend in Florence! You'll admire a wide range of collections and beautiful museums. Among them, we invite you to discover the Palatine Gallery, with its works by Botticelli, Caravaggio and Raphael. The Palace is also home to
- the Gallery of Modern Art,
- the Costume Gallery,
- the Silver Museum,
- the Royal Apartments.
Each presents curious visitors with a unique aspect of Florence's history and culture, from neoclassicism to the XXᵉ century.
The morning ends at the Boboli Gardens, adjacent to the Palace (avoid the queues by booking your entrance to the Boboli Gardens right here). In the heart of a Renaissance-style space, you'll enjoy a moment of relaxation amid shady paths, fountains and other ponds. Zen atmosphere guaranteed! This is also where you'll find the Musée de la Porcelaine, making your stroll both cultural and relaxing.
Afternoon: shopping time!
After enjoying a Pappa al pomodoro or a Panino al lampredotto, you're off for your final visits of the weekend.
Good to know: the combined ticket for the Boboli Garden includes access to the Bardini Garden, a 5-minute walk from the top of Boboli. Some people like the Jardin Bardini because it's less crowded than its counterpart. The icing on the cake (or Panettone, if you prefer): it offers an exceptional panoramic view of Florence and the Duomo.
After this digestive stroll in the fresh air, head for Piazzale Michelangelo, less than 15 minutes from the Jardin Bardini. Here, you'll be delighted to discover an unmissable belvedere offering a complete view of the city, including the cathedral, dome, campanile and tower of the Palazzo Vecchio. To discover yet another new perspective, we recommend a visit to the church of San Miniato al Monte, offering a new vantage point.
Funfact: it's close to the cemetery where Carlo Collodi, the author of Pinocchio, is buried.
Got a little time left before your flight? Treat yourself to a Florence shopping spree, especially on Via della Vigna Nuova and Via Tornabuoni. If you're a fashion lover, you're in for a treat, as you're visiting one of the top 10 shopping cities in Europe.
Looking for a longer trip? Discover the top 10 cities to visit in Italy!
Where to stay in Florence for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
The Duomo district is ideal for weekend visits. Santa Croce, close to the center, offers a trendy and picturesque atmosphere! Would you prefer to discover the heart of Italy? Santa Maria Novella, a much less touristy district, offers a more authentic experience. Even quieter, you can set down your suitcases in Oltrarno, an area farther from the center, on the other side of the river.
- The best value for money
Situated on one of Florence's liveliest streets, the Hotel Maxim - Axial offers top-of-the-range services without breaking the bank. The beautiful period decor in no way detracts from the modernity of the premises, for a comfortable stay in a warm atmosphere. Click here to book your room at this beautiful Tuscan address, where a French-speaking welcome is a welcome bonus.
- The quietest
A quiet, upscale hotel in the heart of Florence? It's possible at theHotel Perseo, a beautiful address featuring a suite with a terrace overlooking the rooftops. The charm of the period building is complemented by a modern, bright and colorful interior. A place to remember! Click here for rates and availability of this beautiful Florentine address.
- The most romantic
Villa Liana 's period decor immerses you in an old-fashioned atmosphere that's 100% romantic. Let yourself be carried away by the charm of this refined establishment, where every detail is designed to pay homage to this city of art and history. Book your room here in just one click.
Whether you'retraveling with a baby, older children, as a couple or with friends, Florence is sure to delight! From budget to luxury hotels, there's something for everyone in Tuscany!
Florence, between art and gastronomy, reveals its treasures of the past for a 2 or 3-day weekend. Why not take advantage of the May bank holidays to travel to Tuscany? Temperatures are milder and the crowds a little lighter than in summer. Florence the magnificent convinced you? Discover the 27 must-sees in Italy, on an in-depth tour of the country. From Naples to Venice, via Milan, a truly cultural road trip awaits you!
See below for the hottest things to do in Florence:
