Florence in 1 Day: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Florence is a city that captivates you from the very first moment. Its history, art, architecture, and cuisine make exploring it—even if only for a day—an intense and exciting experience. If you have just 24 hours to visit, it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully. Here’s a compact, practical, and charming itinerary so you can enjoy the highlights of this Renaissance gem without missing out on the most important sights.

Starting your day in Piazza del Duomo means immersing yourself fully in the soul of Florence. This square brings together some of the city’s most iconic monuments and is a true open-air museum. Strolling through it first thing in the morning, before it’s completely packed with tourists, lets you calmly admire the majesty of Florence Cathedral, the imposing Brunelleschi Dome, the elegant Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. The visit is well worth it whether you explore on your own or book a tour of Florence’s Duomo to better appreciate its history and architecture.

Useful Information

• This is one of the most visited areas in Florence, so it’s best to go early to enjoy it without the crowds.
• The square isn’t just home to religious buildings; you’ll also find museums like the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and intriguing structures such as the Loggia del Bigallo.
• In addition to admiring the monuments, you can check out all the sightseeing options in Piazza del Duomo to make the most of your time in this area.

Once in the square, you can’t miss a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo. With its striking facade of white, green, and pink marble, and its dome that dominates the Florentine skyline, this building is one of the jewels of the Renaissance. Although basic admission is free, if you want to climb the dome or visit other exclusive areas, it’s essential to book tickets for the Cathedral in advance.

Useful Information

• Designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, it is the third-largest cathedral in Europe after St. Peter’s (Rome) and St. Paul’s (London).
• Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect who designed the dome.
• It’s a good idea to check the details on what to see in the Cathedral and purchase tickets online to avoid lines.

Climbing Brunelleschi’s dome is a must-do experience if you want to see Florence from above. The climb is challenging (463 steps with no elevator), but every step is worth it for the final reward: panoramic views of the city you’ll never forget. Plus, along the way, you’ll get a close-up look at the frescoes of the Last Judgment.

Useful Information

• It is one of the masterpieces of the Renaissance, with a design that was revolutionary for its time.
• The interior decoration was created by Vasari and Zuccari and is rich in religious symbolism.
• You can book tickets specifically for the dome or choose tours that include it along with other monuments.

Across from the cathedral stands the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of Florence’s oldest buildings and a true symbol of the city. Even if you’re short on time, it’s worth stopping to admire its exterior, especially its Gates of Paradise, a bronze masterpiece by Lorenzo Ghiberti.

Useful Information

• Its octagonal floor plan and panels depicting scenes from the Old Testament make it an artistic gem.
• It’s worth stopping to take a photo, even if you don’t go inside.
• If you’d like a more comprehensive visit, you can book a combined tour that includes Brunelleschi’s dome.

Another structure that stands out in the square is Giotto’s Campanile, a bell tower with elegant lines and exquisite sculptural decoration. If you don’t have the energy to climb the more than 400 steps, at least don’t miss the chance to take a great photo with it in the background.

Useful Information

• Construction began under Giotto but was completed by Andrea Pisano.
• If you’ve already climbed the dome, you can skip this climb without any regrets.
• You can include it in a guided tour of the entire Duomo complex.

After a morning stroll through the historic district, it’s a great time for a culinary break at Florence’s Central Market, also known as the San Lorenzo Market. Here, you can not only satisfy your appetite but also soak up the local atmosphere and explore some of the region’s most traditional products. The star dish is the famous lampredotto sandwich—a snack that leaves no one indifferent—made with spiced, slow-cooked beef tripe.

Useful Information

• The market features a wide variety of food stalls, perfect for grabbing a quick bite without wasting valuable time on your itinerary.
• In addition to food, you’ll also find craft and souvenir stalls in the area, perfect for buying unique mementos.
• The market is open Tuesday through Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m., making it ideal for a mid-morning or midday stop.
• If you’re looking for a more complete experience, you can book a food tour of Florence to discover the secrets of Tuscan cuisine with the help of experts.

Right next to the market, you’ll find the Basilica of San Lorenzo, one of Florence’s oldest churches and a place steeped in history. It was rebuilt by Brunelleschi and decorated by renowned artists such as Michelangelo, who designed the impressive Medici Chapel, where several members of this influential Florentine family are buried.

Useful Information

• It’s open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., making it a perfect fit for a day trip.
• Its exterior façade is surprisingly austere, but the interior hides true artistic and architectural gems.
• You can book a guided tour of Florence that includes this church and other highlights of the historic center.

Just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll reach Santa Maria Novella Square, a charming, recently renovated spot. Here stands the basilica of the same name, a building of great beauty that blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its white and green marble façade, designed by Leon Battista Alberti, is one of the most photogenic in Florence.

Useful Information

• Inside the basilica, you’ll find works of art by Ghirlandaio, Masaccio, and Giotto, as well as beautiful frescoes and cloisters.
• Don’t miss the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy on nearby Via della Scala—one of the oldest in the world, famous for its traditional perfumes and historic atmosphere.
• You can book tickets for the basilica in advance to save time and enjoy a hassle-free visit.

As you walk through the historic center, make a quick stop at the Palazzo Strozzi, one of the most important buildings of the Florentine Renaissance. Its sober and monumental architecture symbolizes the power of the Strozzi family, rivals of the Medici.

Useful Information

• Today, the palace hosts temporary exhibitions of classical and contemporary art.
• While you can simply admire its façade and inner courtyard, it’s also a good idea to buy tickets to the Palazzo Strozzi and include it in a more cultural tour if you have extra time.
• It’s located very close to Piazza della Repubblica, so you can take advantage of the short walk to combine both visits.

Following the itinerary, you’ll arrive at Piazza della Repubblica, one of the largest and most elegant squares in central Florence. With a grand triumphal arch and arcades surrounding the square, this spot is ideal for a short break—whether to grab a coffee or simply watch the hustle and bustle of the city.

Useful Information

• In the center, you’ll find the Column of Abundance, a symbol of the ancient Roman forum.
• The square is especially beautiful at sunset, when the lights of the cafés begin to come on.
• If you enjoy shopping, several luxury stores are located here, such as Dior, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana.
• You can book a guided tour to include this stop as part of a comprehensive tour of the city center.

From Piazza della Repubblica, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to one of Florence’s most iconic spots: Piazza della Signoria. Since the Middle Ages, this square has been the epicenter of the city’s civil power, and even today it exudes a solemn and majestic atmosphere. Strolling through this square is like stepping onto a historical stage, surrounded by statues, monumental architecture, and symbols of the Renaissance.

Useful Information

• The most prominent building is the Palazzo Vecchio, the former seat of the Florentine government, where you can admire the Sala dei Cinquecento and the Sala delle Mappe Geografiche.
• Next to the palace entrance, you’ll find a replica of Michelangelo’s David and other sculptures such as Hercules and Cacus.
• Don’t miss the Loggia della Signoria, an open-air gallery featuring impressive sculptures such as Perseus with the Head of Medusa and The Rape of the Sabine Women.
• Also worth noting is the famous Fountain of Neptune, the city’s first public fountain.
• To learn all the details about this square, you can book a guided tour of the Palazzo Vecchio or purchase tickets for the interior.

Very close to Piazza della Signoria is the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most important museums. Although a complete tour takes several hours, if you have some extra time and plan your itinerary well, you can take a quick tour focused on its most famous works. Having a plan ready will help you make the most of your visit without wasting time.

Useful Information

• Among its highlights are Botticelli’sThe Birth of Venus and Spring, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Annunciation, and works by Caravaggio, Giotto, and Titian.
• You can book a skip-the-line ticket if you just want to see the highlights.
• If you’d prefer to explore more deeply, opt for a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery or a private tour.
• Check here for the gallery’s must-see works and details on Uffizi tickets.

Very close to the Uffizi, you’ll find the Mercato Nuovo, home to one of the most curious and beloved sculptures among locals and tourists alike: the Porcellino. According to tradition, touching its snout guarantees your return to Florence, so don’t miss the chance to follow this good-luck ritual.

Useful Information

• The sculpture depicts a bronze wild boar and has been the subject of countless wishes and superstitions.
• The market is the perfect place to buy Florentine leather souvenirs, wallets, handbags, belts, and other handcrafted items.
• It’s a short but fun visit, especially if you want to take home a charming memento of your time in the city.
• You can include it in an alternative bike tour of Florence if you want to discover the city in a different way.

As you continue your stroll, it’s time to cross one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks: the Ponte Vecchio. This medieval bridge over the Arno River, with its hanging houses and traditional shops, is one of the most photogenic and romantic spots in Florence.

Interesting Facts

• It was built in the 14th century and survived World War II, unlike other bridges in the city.
• Throughout its history, it has housed butcher shops, but since the Renaissance it has been occupied by jewelers and goldsmiths, as it still is today.
• It’s one of the most popular spots at sunset, when the light reflects off the river and creates an unparalleled scene.
• If you want to explore the area in a unique way, you can book an electric scooter tour.

Once you cross the Ponte Vecchio, you’ll come upon the majestic Pitti Palace, one of the most important residences of the Renaissance. It was commissioned by the Pitti family, though it was later acquired by the Medici, who made it their official residence.

Useful Information

• Inside, it houses several museums: the Palatine Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Silver Museum, the Porcelain Museum, and the collection of historical costumes.
• The palace also features the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling park adorned with Renaissance sculptures, grottoes, and fountains.
• While visiting all the areas takes quite a while, you can limit your visit to exploring the gardens or admiring the impressive façade.
• For more in-depth visits, you can also book specific tickets.

To end the day on a high note, there’s nothing better than heading up to Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence’s best viewpoint. From this elevated spot, located south of the Arno River, you’ll have an incredible panoramic view of the entire city, with the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Tuscan hills as a backdrop.

Useful Information

• You can walk there, or if you prefer a more comfortable option, book the Florence sightseeing bus, which includes a stop at this viewpoint.
• It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset, so try to time your visit for that hour.
• In the square, you’ll find a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David, which adds a symbolic touch to the spot.

• Don’t try to see everything: With so little time, it’s better to prioritize and really enjoy a few places than to try to take in too much and end up rushing from one spot to another.
• Walking is key: Florence is a city best enjoyed on foot. Its compact size allows you to explore much of the historic center on foot, giving you the freedom to go with the flow of the day.
• Take smart breaks: Use your downtime to enjoy some delicious artisanal gelato, a slice of focaccia, or a coffee in a charming square. These little pleasures are also part of the trip.
• Avoid long meals: If you’re only there for a day, it’s best to opt for quick or casual meals—like at the Central Market—so you can continue your tour without wasting hours in a restaurant.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and many streets in the city center are made of stone or cobblestones, so the right shoes make all the difference.
• Bring a camera or a fully charged phone: Because in Florence, you’ll want to take lots of photos—from the monuments to the hidden details tucked away in narrow streets.
• Start at Piazza del Duomo: It’s the most central point and an excellent starting point for planning the rest of your itinerary in a circular route, ending south of the Arno at Piazzale Michelangelo.
• If you’d like more information about the places mentioned, or to explore other options, feel free to check out our post on what to see and do in Florence, where you’ll find itineraries for different time frames, special plans, and useful tips.