3 Days In Florence, best option by us.
Are you ready to plan the ultimate Italian getaway? Packing your bags for a long weekend in the birthplace of the Renaissance is an absolute dream come true. If you only have 3 days in Florence, you want to make sure you hit the absolute best sights, eat the most mouthwatering local food, and capture memories that will make your friends back home instantly jealous.
Day 1: Historic Icons and Authentic Eats
To kick off your 3 days in Florence, head straight to the beating heart of the city: Piazza del Duomo. Standing in front of the massive Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is an experience you will never forget. Since this area can get incredibly busy, it is a fantastic idea to jump on a local tour to get your bearings and learn the hidden secrets of the Medici family. To maximize your time and skip the typical tourist traps, check out the incredible routes offered by Florence Free Walking Tour.
After working up an appetite exploring the historic center, it is time to try some legendary Tuscan cuisine. Skip the flashy places with menus translated into five different languages. Instead, head to a cozy, traditional spot like Trattoria le Mossacce, where locals have been eating for over half a century. You can read more about authentic lunch spots on Firenze Made in Tuscany. Make sure to order a plate of hearty Ribollita (a delicious bread and vegetable soup) or a classic Pappardelle al Cinghiale (wild boar pasta).
Day 2: Photo Spots and the Ultimate Gelato
On your second day, cross over the famous Ponte Vecchio to explore the cooler, artsy side of town known as the Oltrarno. If you want to snap the perfect postcard picture, the absolute best place to go is Piazzale Michelangelo. Walking up the hill rewards you with a breathtaking, panoramic view of the entire city skyline—especially right at sunset.
Of course, no afternoon of sightseeing during your 3 days in Florence is complete without a sweet treat. Finding real, artisan gelato is a serious mission, so you must know what to look for. Avoid the giant, brightly colored mountains of ice cream you see in shop windows. True artisan gelato is kept in covered metal tins and uses natural ingredients. For a truly unforgettable scoop, walk over to Perché no! or try the famous Buontalenti flavor at Badiani. You can discover more top-rated gelaterias across the city guide on The Florence Insider.
Day 3: Markets and Masterpieces
Before your incredible trip comes to an end, spend your final morning wandering through the vibrant Mercato Centrale. The ground floor is packed with local butchers and vendors selling regional cheese, olive oil, and fresh truffles, making it a paradise for foodies.
If you are looking for a casual but incredibly delicious meal on a budget, look for a historic “buca” or a family-run establishment. The culinary inspectors at the Michelin Guide have put together a fantastic list of affordable, traditional trattorias in Florence that offer amazing value without sacrificing flavor. Finally, wrap up your afternoon by visiting the spectacular statue of David at the Accademia Gallery or browsing the famous leather markets. Wrapping up your 3 days in Florence this way ensures you experience the perfect blend of local culture, world-class art, and unforgettable flavors before heading home!
For a visual guide to the best culinary experiences and hidden food spots in the city, check out this video on What to EAT in FLORENCE! 5 typical foods you MUST try, which gives an excellent overview of the local culture and authentic dishes you shouldn’t miss.
