Visiting the birthplace of the Renaissance for the first time can be overwhelming. With so much beauty packed into just a few square miles, the risk is rushing through without truly seeing anything. For this reason, we have created the definitive guide to enjoying your Florence: Perfect First Day.
The Morning: Orientation and History
Starting on the right foot is essential. The best way to understand the city isn’t by reading a map, but by listening to its stories.
- The Free Tour: Book a walking tour starting from Piazza della Repubblica. In about two hours, you will see the Duomo, Brunelleschi’s Dome, and Piazza della Signoria. Furthermore, a local guide can share anecdotes you won’t find in standard guidebooks.
- Why do it: This is the core of a Florence: Perfect First Day because it allows you to mentally map out the main landmarks.
👉 CTA: The best way to start Florence is with a Free Walking Tour Florence.
Lunch: Authentic Flavors in the Heart of the City
After walking among masterpieces, hunger will surely set in. However, you should strictly avoid tourist menus with photos of the food.
- The Central Market: Head toward the San Lorenzo district. On the ground floor of the market, you’ll find historic stalls where you can taste the real Panino al Lampredotto.
- The Alternative: If you prefer to sit down, look for a small “fiaschetteria.” A glass of Chianti and a platter of local cold cuts are the ideal break for your Florence: Perfect First Day.
The Afternoon: Artisans and Oltrarno
Once you’ve recharged your batteries, cross the Ponte Vecchio. Instead of just window shopping at the jewelers, continue toward the Oltrarno district.
Subsequently, spend your afternoon exploring the artisan workshops of Via Maggio or Piazza Santo Spirito. This is where the city’s heart still beats at a human pace. You can also visit the Boboli Gardens for a stroll among monumental sculptures and fountains—an essential element of any Florence: Perfect First Day.
The Sunset: San Miniato al Monte
To end on a high note, avoid the excessive crowds at Piazzale Michelangelo and climb just a little higher.
- The Abbey: Reach the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte.
- The View: From here, the view over the city is the finest available. Finally, if you are lucky, you might hear the monks singing Gregorian chants during vespers.
Useful Resources for Your Trip
To make your stay even smoother, here are some authoritative external links:
- Visit Florence: For updates on events and temporary exhibitions.
- Feel Florence: The official tourism portal of the City of Florence.
- Uffizi Official Tickets: The only official site to book Uffizi tickets without extra fees.
