How to Visit Florence in 2 Days

Visiting this incredible city on a time crunch? Here’s how to visit Florence in 2 days and hit all the must-see spots!

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Piazza del Duomo

Tuscany, Tuscany, where to begin with Tuscany? This stunning region of Italy is teeming with mouth-watering food, sweeping countryside, welcoming locals and iconic Rennaisance sites. It is also home to the breathtaking city of Florence. Birthplace of one of the most remarkable sculptures to ever be created, everything in this aged city seems to reflect the skill and grace eminent in Michelangelo’s David. Each building is so intricate in its detail, yet so beautiful in it’s entirety.

Although only a mere two days of my travels were spent in Florence, this whirlwind tour left the sweet taste of Tuscany in my mouth and a yearning to explore the region further. If like me, you have a limited time to explore the region, here is a quick itinerary to ensure you hit all of Florence’s top sights.

DAY 1 ITINERARY OF FLORENCE, TUSCANY

1. Explore Piazza del Duomo

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Piazza del Duomo

Start your 2-day visit to Florence off in the heart of the city, the Piazza del Duomo. The majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is exquisite from both the outside and the inside and is well worth taking time to explore. I’d also recommend climbing up Giotto’s Bell Tower for stunning panoramic views over the city. I wish I’d taken the time to do this during my 2 days in Florence!

2. Wander along Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio | Florence in 2 Days

Take a moment to wander across and admire the Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) which crosses over the Arno river. It was the first segmental arch bridge to be built in the Western world. For the Middle Ages, this was quite the engineering feat!

3. Stop for gelato at Gelateria La Carraia

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Gelato

It’s always gelato time when you’re in Italy. Just off Ponte alla Carraia is one of Florence’s top gelato spots, Gelateria La Carraia. The gelato here is soft, creamy and comes in such a beautiful assortment of both traditional and more inventive flavours. Grab a cup or cone of gelato to fuel your exploration of the city!

4. Visit the Accademia Gallery

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Statue of David Accademia gallery

A must-see in Florence, the Accademia Gallery is home to one of the most famous statues in the world. Visitors from far and wide flock here to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David. The cues to get into the gallery are normally very long, so I’d recommend booking tickets in advance to skip the cue.

DAY 2 ITINERARY OF FLORENCE, TUSCANY:

5. Caffeinate at the Piazza della Repubblica

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Piazza dell Repubblica

Start the day with an espresso at one of the Piazza della Repubblica’s famous cafes- the Caffè Gilli, Paszkowski and Caffè Giubbe Rosse. The drinks may be a little overpriced, but it’s worth it for the view onto the charming square. If you are feeling spritely, you could even take a ride on the iconic carousel while you’re in the area.

6. Browse the vintage markets

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Markets

The vintage markets scattered around Florence are another highlight of the city. Whether you are looking for leather goods, unique trinkets or local Tuscan produce and wine, the markets are a great way to shop in Florence. For handmade leather goods, head to Mercato Nuovo. For souvenirs, San Lorenzo Outdoor market is the place to go. To sample some of Tuscany’s finest local produce, Central Market is the place to head.

7. Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Another must-visit for art lovers, the Uffizi Gallery. As one of Italy’s most prominent museums, it’s home to an outstanding collection of ancient artworks. Again, if you want to avoid wasting time cueing up, make sure you book tickets in advance.

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Streets

8. BONUS DAY ITINERARY: Take a roadtrip from Florence to Orvieto

Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Florence, Tuscany- Monteriggioni

If time allows, jump in the car and take a two-hour drive from Florence to the small city of Orvieto. Positioned on a natural hillock amidst the countryside, the village is achingly picturesque. Wander down the cobblestoned laneways, past vine-covered terracotta walls and hand-painted shopfront signs. Make sure you take time to stop at Orvieto Cathedral, which stands in the main square of Orvieto. It’s a truly grand centerpiece to an otherwise rather humble village.

WANT MORE ITALY INSPIRATION? READ THESE NEXT:

Enjoyed this guide to Florence in 2 days? Pin it for later!

How to visit Florence in 2 Days: all the best itinerary tips!
Nicola Easterby Bio Image

HEY THERE, I'M NICOLA!

I am on a mission to discover the BEST destinations & dishes from around the world. Whether it’s hopping on a plane or into the kitchen, come join the adventure!

Whole Roasted Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Whole Roasted Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

This whole roasted cauliflower cheese recipe makes the ultimate vegetarian centrepiece. Cauliflower is baked to crisp perfection before being drowned in the most delectable cheesy sauce. Cauliflower cheese is easily one of the most comforting foods in the world....

read more
20 Things to do in Stockholm in Winter (2023)

20 Things to do in Stockholm in Winter (2023)

Wondering what to do in Sweden's capital in winter? Look no further. These are the 20 best things to do in Stockholm come December! The days may be short and the temperatures may be low, but don't let that stop you from visiting Stockholm in winter. It's during this...

read more
Vegan Flammkuchen Recipe

Vegan Flammkuchen Recipe

This vegan flammkuchen recipe is a spin on traditional Alsace pizza. Thin, crispy flatbread is topped with vegan crème fraiche, red onion and coconut bacon to make a seriously addictive snack! Flammkuchen (Flammekueche), also known as tarte flambée, is a traditional...

read more

READ NEXT:

10 Traditional Foods in Paris, France + Where to Try Them

10 Traditional Foods in Paris, France + Where to Try Them

You can't visit Paris without sampling some traditional foods from France! These are the foods you need to try and the best places in Paris to try each dish. It’s no secret that Paris is an incredibly magical destination. Not only is it home to the most famous...

read more
19 Most Instagrammable Cafes in London (2023)

19 Most Instagrammable Cafes in London (2023)

From riverside igloos to retro pastel fit-outs, flower walls to former loos... Here are 19 of the most instagrammable cafes in London in 2023. "Camera eats first." No phrase could be more true when it comes to eating out these days. It's no surprise that more and more...

read more
Pistachio Overnight Oats

Pistachio Overnight Oats

These pistachio overnight oats are the ultimate healthy breakfast for pistachio lovers. Overnight oats are topped with vegan pistachio cream and finished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. If you love pistachio as much as I do, you are going to LOVE these...

read more

READ NEXT:

Pönnukökur: Icelandic Pancakes Recipe

Pönnukökur: Icelandic Pancakes Recipe

Pönnukökur, or Icelandic pancakes, are thin, crepe-like pancakes filled with thick, creamy skyr yogurt and topped with fresh berries. You need to try this healthy & delicious breakfast from Iceland! Almost every country in the world seems to have a version of...

read more
Minimalist Packing List for Females

Minimalist Packing List for Females

If you need to pack light for a trip but don't know where to begin, this minimalist packing list for females is going to be your saving grace! Ever felt overwhelmed by the number of things you need to pack for a trip? If you're the kind of person who crams their...

read more
10 Traditional Foods in Paris, France + Where to Try Them

10 Traditional Foods in Paris, France + Where to Try Them

You can't visit Paris without sampling some traditional foods from France! These are the foods you need to try and the best places in Paris to try each dish. It’s no secret that Paris is an incredibly magical destination. Not only is it home to the most famous...

read more