Spending three days in Florence lets you take in all the iconic sights, learn to make authentic Italian gelato, explore the Chianti wine region, and more! As a travel advisor, I professionally plan and personally manage getaways for couples and families all over the glob.

Recently, Florence has exploded in popularity, and it isn’t hard to see why! From unforgettable sights like Michelangelo’s David to some of the best street food in Europe, Florence has something for everyone. Find out how to spend three days there to make the most of the first leg of your 10-day Italian getaway!

Itinerary for 3 Days in Florence

Day 1

On your first morning in Florence, head out on a walking tour. Exploring the city streets will help you acclimate, plus you’ll see tons of iconic sights and learn about the city’s history! I recommend this small group Florence Walking Tour, which will take you to the Duomo and past the long lines outside the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. You’ll check those sights off your list in three hours, plus the Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio!

Tip: Florence’s museums are closed on Monday (including the Accademia Gallery), so I recommend booking your tour for a different day of the week.

After the tour, grab lunch in a Piazza to people-watch and enjoy your surroundings. Then, go for a walk to explore more sights and indulge in retail therapy! I recommend the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy, the oldest pharmacy in the world, or the jewelry shops near the Ponte Vecchio.

Then, in the evening, take a cooking class and learn to make authentic Italian pizza and gelato. This one is fun and laidback! Afterward, head to Edoardo il Gelato Biologico for REAL gelato, unlike anything you’ll get in the States.

Tip: You’ll know it’s authentic gelato if it’s under a lid and not fluffy. Anything else is fake!

Day 2

Florence’s proximity to Chianti and the Tuscan countryside necessitates doing a winery tour! Even if wine isn’t your thing, it’s worth it solely for the views and the incredible food. At each tasting, you’ll enjoy authentic Tuscan treats like pecorino cheese, Proscuitto, and homemade bread dipped in local olive oil!

I recommend this tour of the Chianti Hills, hosted by an English-speaking driver. You’ll see country wineries up close and enjoy a three-course Tuscan lunch—paired with Chianti wine, of course!

I like this tour because it’s only seven hours long, whereas some take 12-13 hours. You’ll return early enough to enjoy dinner in Florence, and I recommend ordering a Florentine steak. I’ve eaten so much delicious food in Florence, but the steak at Novella Osteria Toscana took the cake!

We sat outside sipping on prosecco, and they sliced the steak right in front of us so we could watch the juices flow. It was the best meal of my trip, hands down! While I haven’t eaten there myself, I’ve also heard great things about Regina Bistecca if you like a more upscale, romantic atmosphere.

Day 3

I recommend not planning anything for your last day! Instead, sleep in and awake to the sound of the Duomo bells chiming throughout the city. Enjoy the freedom of having nowhere to be, and explore the city like a local. Here are a few activities I recommend:

— Head to a cafe for espresso and a pastry. Take your time and people-watch!

— Stop at the leather markets in the Mercato Nuovo and search for the bronze boar statue. Legend says that if you put a coin inside its mouth and it doesn’t fall out, you’re destined to return to Florence. Mine fell out, but I’m already planning to return next summer!

— Grab a sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio for lunch. Street food is a must in Italy!

— Shopping galore. Leather and cashmere are super cheap in Florence, so stock up! For an ultra-luxury experience, treat yourself to a handbag from the original Gucci store.

— Visit the Gucci Garden, where you’ll see one-of-a-kind Gucci pieces. They don’t allow photos! There’s an upscale restaurant inside, but you’ll need to make a reservation in advance to eat there.

— Visit the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum if you’re into fashion! He was the first designer I learned about when I attended fashion design school for one semester.

— Visit the Mercato Centrale Firenze, a marketplace with all kinds of food! Think Eataly, but authentic!

After a day of exploring, have an aperitivo at Caffè Gilli in the Piazza della Repubblica. Then enjoy one last dinner before heading to your next destination!

Kick Off Your Italian Adventure with 3 Days in Florence

Italy’s breathtaking natural landscapes and captivating cities exude romance. Three days in Florence are just the start of an incredible adventure in this famed destination! Book your romantic escape with Bridie Travel today, and I’ll take care of the planning. All you have to do is show up!