3-Day Florence Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Got a long weekend? Florence is one of those rare destinations where three days is enough to experience the highlights, discover a couple of hidden corners, and still feel like you had a real vacation — not a sprint.

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local flavor so you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Before You Go: Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Best time to visit	April to June and September to October
Currency	Euro (€)
Language	Italian
3-day budget (mid-range)	$420
Climate	Humid subtropical with hot summers and cool wet winters

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & First Impressions

Morning

Arrive in Florence and head to your accommodation in the Centro Storico — Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazza della Signoria neighborhood — the best base for a short trip thanks to its central location and walkability. Drop your bags and grab a quick breakfast or brunch at a local cafe.

Afternoon

Start with Uffizi Gallery, Florence's most iconic landmark. Arriving in the early afternoon means you avoid the morning rush while the light is still excellent for photography. Budget about 2 hours here to explore fully.

After that, walk to Ponte Vecchio — it is close enough to reach on foot and offers a completely different experience. The contrast between these two sites captures the essence of Florence.

Evening

Head to the San Lorenzo — Medici Chapels, leather market, and Mercato Centrale district for dinner. This is where locals go, and the prices reflect it. Order Bistecca alla Fiorentina — thick T-bone steak grilled rare over charcoal — it is the signature dish of Florence and the perfect way to begin your culinary journey.

Day 1 budget estimate: $126

Day 2: Deep Dive Into Florence

Morning

Rise early and head to Piazzale Michelangelo before the crowds arrive. The first hour after opening is golden — fewer visitors, better light, and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Grab a mid-morning coffee in the San Niccolò — quiet neighborhood with the best sunset viewpoints area and people-watch for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments are unplanned.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Florence Cathedral (Duomo). This is one of Florence's cultural gems and deserves at least 90 minutes of your time. If you are feeling adventurous, detour to San Miniato al Monte — Romanesque church above Piazzale Michelangelo with even better views nearby — most tourists walk right past it.

Next, stroll through the Santa Croce — basilica quarter with lively bars and gelaterias neighborhood. Try Ribollita — hearty Tuscan bread and vegetable soup from a street vendor — it costs a fraction of what restaurants charge and tastes just as good (arguably better).

Evening

Tonight is your splurge dinner. Find a well-reviewed restaurant in the Centro Storico — Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazza della Signoria area and order Schiacciata — Florentine flatbread with olive oil, plain or stuffed. A mid-range dinner with drinks will run about $42 per person.

After dinner, take an evening walk — Florence has a completely different energy after dark. Santo Spirito piazza — outdoor bars and aperitivo culture in Oltrarno

Day 2 budget estimate: $154

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell

Morning

Use your final morning to see what most tourists miss. Head to Bardini Gardens — less crowded alternative to Boboli with Duomo views — a spot that rewards early risers with quiet beauty and authentic Florence charm.

Pick up souvenirs at San Lorenzo leather market — bags, jackets, and belts from market stalls. Skip the airport gift shops — the markup is brutal and the selection is generic.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

End your trip with a leisurely brunch featuring Lampredotto — tripe sandwich from a lampredotto cart, a Florentine street staple and a final coffee. Take a last photo from Duomo dome from the Giotto Bell Tower stairway before heading to the airport.

Day 3 budget estimate: $112

3-Day Budget Summary

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation (3 nights)	$53	$147	$480
Food (3 days)	$45	$126	$360
Activities	$30	$84	$240
Transport	$23	$63	$120
Total	$150	$420	$1200

Pro Tips for a 3-Day Trip

1. Stay central. With only three days, commuting from the outskirts wastes precious hours. Centro Storico — Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazza della Signoria is your best bet.
2. Pack light. A carry-on means no baggage claim wait — you gain 30–45 minutes on arrival.
3. Pre-book the big attractions. Skip-the-line tickets for Uffizi Gallery can save you an hour of queuing.
4. Eat one meal at a market. Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than a sit-down restaurant.
5. Do not over-schedule. Two or three activities per day is plenty. Leave room for serendipity.

Is 3 Days Enough for Florence?

Three days will not cover everything, but it will cover enough to give you a genuine feel for the city. You will hit the highlights, eat the essential dishes, and — if you follow this itinerary — discover at least one spot that makes you feel like a local. For most travelers, that is the sweet spot.

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