WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE IN TWO DAYS
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is considered one of the most beautiful art cities in Italy. It is an amazing destination with an important history and an immense cultural and artistic heritage.
Deciding what to see and do here can, therefore, prove a little overwhelming. Every corner and every building have something to tell. There are so many amazing places in Florence that you’d struggle to visit them all in a lifetime.
So, here is a brief guide of what to see in Florence to fall in love with the city of artists.
WHAT TO SEE IN FLORENCE IN ONE DAY
1) ADMIRE THE PIAZZA DEL DUOMO
Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral square, is in the heart of the historic centre of Florence and is the most iconic area of the city for good reason. It is flanked by medieval masterpieces, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery of St. John, all decorated with sculptures and marble. The details of the buildings are truly breath-taking and conjure up a magical atmosphere.
2) VISIT THE UFFIZI
What is the fascination of the Uffizi Gallery? That’s simple: it is nothing less than one of the best art galleries in the world. The beautiful building with its coffered ceiling houses works by Leonardo Da Vinci and Rubens, as well as masterpieces by Botticelli. You can’t go to Florence without admiring the “Birth of Venus” it all its splendour.
3) WINDOW-SHOP ON THE PONTE VECCHIO
Ponte Vecchio is the picturesque medieval bridge which crosses the River Arno. It is unique because it is lined by numerous jewellery shops on both sides of the bridge, which were historically the homes of butchers. It is definitely worth crossing but make sure you also view it from one of the other bridges nearby to take an epic photo with the Ponte Vecchio in the background.
4) TAKE A STROLL IN THE BOBOLI GARDENS
In a city with the most amazing green areas, the Boboli Gardens, however, reign supreme, looking out over and protecting the city it all its glory. To access the gardens, you need to buy a ticket for Palazzo Pitti and cross the central courtyard as far as the majestic fountains. The statues add an artistic air to all the paths in the gardens and the views of the city from above are nothing short of amazing.
The Boboli Gardens are superb and lots of fun to explore. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to photograph the city and also one of the top must-see places in Florence.
5) ENJOY THE SUNSET IN PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO
Piazzale Michelangelo, without a doubt, offers one of the best view panoramic views of the city of Florence. Situated on the south bank of the River Arno, it is a little further away from all the main tourist attractions but definitely worth visiting to admire the view of the houses that make up the skyline over Florence at sunset. There is also a bar at top of the hill where you can revive yourself with a refreshing cocktail after the long climb.
WHAT TO SEE IN FLORENCE IN TWO DAYS
In addition to the activities listed above, if you get the opportunity to visit Florence for an entire weekend, here are some other memorable attractions not to be missed.
1) VISIT PALAZZO PITTI
Not only does Palazzo Pitti have an incredible history, it also deserves to be on the list of the most photoworthy places in Florence. Home to no less than three dynasties of the Medici family, the building bears the name of its first owner, the Florentine banker, Luca Pitti, who in the mid-15th century wanted it to be built – possibly to a design by Brunelleschi – on the other side of the Arno, at the foot of the Boboli hill.
It currently houses four different museums: the Treasury of the Grand Dukes on the ground floor, the Palatine Gallery and the Imperial and Royal Apartments on the first floor, and the Gallery of Modern Art with the Fashion and Costume Museum on the second floor.
2) GO UP ONTO THE ROOFTOP OF THE RINASCENTE
The Rinascente is a large Italian department store filled to the brim with high fashion brands. Its location in Florence offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Duomo. Head up to the rooftop and enjoy a spectacular view while sipping an excellent freshly-made Bellini.
3) STROLL IN THE GARDEN OF ROSES
As you go up or down the steps just south of Piazzale Michelangelo, you will notice a small door set into the wall to one side. You can visit one of the prettiest gardens in the city inside it, free of charge. The colourful rose garden, dotted with numerous sculptures, fills the air with perfume and provides a splendid backdrop to the city skyline.
4) DINE AT THE OSTERIA GUCCI
Florence, the iconic fashion capital, is the only place in the world where you can dine in full Gucci Glory style, with a menu created by a celebrity chef at the Osteria da Massimo Bottura Gucci. As the birthplace of this well-known luxury brand, the Gucci Osteria and museum are certainly worth a visit among the many things to do in Florence.
5) EXPRESS YOUR CREATIVITY AT THE SELFIE MUSEUM FIRENZE
The Selfie Museum, with its internationally successful format, has also arrived in Florence, providing the perfect location for a few hours taking photos and having lots of fun. Over 1,000 sqm dedicated to the creative reinterpretation of art and culture of every era and style, with immersive installations and scenarios created by over 400 artists from all over the world. A new way of experiencing art where visitors are free to express their creativity with photographs, images and video clips.
6) VISIT THE FERRAGAMO MUSEUM
The Salvatore Ferragamo Museum is a corporate museum dedicated to the history of the Ferragamo company, the life of its founder and his creations. Founded in May 1995 by the Ferragamo family with the goal of spreading awareness worldwide of Salvatore Ferragamo’s artistic talents, as well as the role he played in the history not only of footwear, but also international fashion, the museum of a thousand colours selects a different theme every year, changing its layout and contents. It is definitely one of the things to see in Florence in two days for die-hard fashion enthusiasts.
7) TAKE A PHOTO IN ONE OF THE PHOTO BOOTHS AROUND THE CITY
The photo booths scattered around the city of Florence give the narrow streets a unique vintage vibe. There are lots of booths scattered around the city, but we highly recommend the one located in Via Santa Monaca. Be sure to pop inside one of the cabins and take some funny black and white photos… they’re bound to be the best souvenir of your holiday.
Our journey through the streets of a city that has so much to tell has come to an end. Come and discover all the secrets and mysteries of Florence; treat yourself to a holiday in beautiful Tuscany.
