One Day in Florence, Italy: 3 Ideal Itinerary Options to Choose From

How to Spend One Day in Florence

The magical part about Florence is that you’ll naturally see the top highlights while walking from A to B, checking off all the must-visit spots in just one day.

Walking around and taking in the sights is easy, but what truly matters is how you experience the city and the memories you take with you. As you plan your one day in Florence, keep in mind your arrival and departure times for the train or transfer. If you’re arriving from Livorno on a cruise, be sure to factor in all aboard time—give yourself a buffer to avoid any stress.

And here’s a foodie tip that fits into any itinerary: Make a reservation to enjoy Bistecca alla Fiorentina. It’s a must-try in Florence, and El Fagiole, one of our favorite Tuscan restaurants, is the perfect place to savor it.

Food Lover’s Day in Florence (Option 1):

Start the Day with a Walking Food Tour

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A food tour is always at the top of our list at Tasty Itinerary. The first food tour we took years ago was in Florence, and it remains one of the best experiences we’ve had.

On a walking food tour, you’ll explore the city with a local guide and indulge in the unique foods that Florence is famous for. This combination gives you an insider’s look into the city that no guidebook can provide. The food you’ll sample usually covers breakfast and lunch, so there’s no need to worry about finding a place to eat later. But we won’t blame you if you decide to return for seconds at one of the local foodie spots.

Since Florence is compact, you’ll likely hit many highlights that make this city so incredible. By your tour ends, you’ll have a good sense of the layout, making the rest of your explorations less intimidating.

Tour Ideas:
Small-Group Florence Food Walking Tour [book here]
Florence Walking Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours [book here]
Florence Food Tours With Devour [book here]

Cross the Ponte Vecchio Bridge

If you’ve already seen the Duomo and other highlights during your food tour, walk along the River Arno and cross the Ponte Vecchio. This bridge, one of the oldest in Florence, spans the Arno River. The original structure dates back to the 11th century and was one of the few bridges left intact after World War II.

The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most picturesque sights in Florence, so it does get crowded, but it’s a must-see in your one day in Florence. You’ll find many jewelry shops lining the bridge.

Visit Boboli Gardens

After crossing the Ponte Vecchio, head to the Boboli Gardens, one of the most exquisite gardens in Florence. This is a must-see behind the Pitti Palace on the other side of the bridge, especially if you’re visiting during the spring or summer months. The gardens are filled with beautifully landscaped greenery, fountains, and ancient statues, making it a perfect spot to unwind and take in the beauty of Florence.

The gardens have an entrance fee, and you can easily spend a couple of hours strolling through the grounds. If time permits, consider visiting Pitti Palace, which offers even more to explore.

Top Foodie Pick: While on this side of the bridge, stop by Babae on Via Santo Spirito for a glass of wine and experience their iconic wine window.

Classic Florence Highlights (Option 2):

Visit the Duomo di Firenze

You can’t spend time in Florence without seeing the spectacular Duomo di Firenze. The Florence Cathedral is so grand and iconic that it’s impossible to miss.

The cathedral stands magnificently with Brunelleschi’s Dome and Giotto’s Bell Tower. As you walk through the city streets, your eyes will naturally be drawn to this incredible structure. You can admire it from afar, walk around it, and take photos, which might be enough for your visit.

You can also go inside and discover what makes the Duomo so special. You could easily spend an entire morning or afternoon exploring the Florence Cathedral and climbing to the top of the structures without feeling rushed.

The entrance to the Cathedral is FREE but be prepared to wait in line. If you’re up for a climb, Brunelleschi’s Dome and Giotto’s Bell Tower are both worth the effort, offering stunning 360-degree views of Florence and the surrounding hills. Keep in mind that these two sites require an extra ticket and have separate lines. It’s best to make reservations in advance to secure your spot.

Get Gelato at Perche No! or Gelateria dei Neri

You can’t leave Florence without trying gelato, which history says is the modern gelato that originated here. Perche No! or Gelateria dei Neri are two excellent gelato spots near the Duomo, serving artisanal gelato you won’t miss.

Explore Santa Croce

After experiencing the bustling crowds around the Duomo, head to the quieter Santa Croce area, this historic district is one of Florence’s most beautiful and serene spots, offering a welcome break from the busier parts of the city.

Santa Croce is home to the iconic Basilica of Santa Croce, where the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli are located. Take a moment to sit in Piazza Santa Croce and soak in the view of one of Florence’s most stunning squares.

This district is perfect for exploring on foot. Wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the beautiful architecture that reflects Florence’s rich history. Santa Croce is also known for its leather and boutique shops, including The Leather School of Florence, where you can browse and purchase high-quality leather goods.

Top Foodie Pick: Stop by Salumeria Verdi for a panino while in the area.

Art and History Day in Florence (Option 3):

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

If you enjoy great works of art, the Uffizi Gallery is a must-see. However, if you find museums boring, you might want to skip this one and explore other things to do in Florence.

The gallery houses a vast collection from the 13th century to the present day, featuring masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. You could easily spend an entire day exploring the exhibits. To make the most of your visit, I recommend reserving timed tickets in advance or booking a guided tour with skip-the-line entry.

On our first visit, we were overwhelmed by the sheer amount of art and exhibits. During our second visit, we hired a guide, which transformed our experience. Understanding the history and the Medici family’s connection to the art made our visit more meaningful. We spent about four hours there and still didn’t see everything.

Tour Ideas:
Uffizi & David at the Accademia Tour Exclusive [book here]
Highlights of Florence and the Uffizi Gallery [book here]

Explore Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio

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Right next to the Uffizi Gallery is Piazza della Signoria, home to Palazzo Vecchio, the reproduction of David, and Neptune’s fountain. Modern statues have been added to this historic square in recent years, making it a fascinating blend of old and new.

Piazza della Signoria is one of Florence’s most beloved squares. It is rich in history, as it was once the main political center for the Florentine Republic.

Today, Palazzo Vecchio serves as Florence’s city hall. You can purchase tickets in advance to tour this historic building, once home to the Medici family. I highly recommend the Secret Passage Tour for a unique and fascinating behind-the-scenes experience.

In the square, you’ll also find Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery with many statues, including the famous Perseus with the Head of Medusa. If you’d like to sit and admire the view, Cafe Riviore is an excellent spot with a full view of Palazzo Vecchio from its outdoor patio. They also serve some of the best hot chocolate in Florence.

End Your Day at Piazzale Michelangelo

At sunset, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for some of the best views in Florence. If you’re short on time due to your cruise schedule or a return train, this spot is still worth the trek at any time. The terrace offers a stunning panoramic view of the city, featuring a giant bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David.

Remember that getting to Piazzale Michelangelo involves an uphill walk, so you might prefer to take a short taxi or Uber ride. On your way, consider stopping at a wine shop or market to pick up a bottle of wine. Don’t forget to ask for disposable cups—you’ll thank me later when you’re sitting on the steps, enjoying a drink while watching the sunset alongside locals and tourists.

Florence in a Day: What You Need to Know

Is One Day in Florence Enough? While one day isn’t ideal, it can still be one of the best days of your trip. Focus on experiencing the top 1-3 things you’re most excited about rather than trying to do it all. This way, you’ll leave with a sense of the city and a desire to return.

How to Get to Florence for a Day Trip

Getting to Florence from Livorno Cruise Port

How far is Florence from Livorno Cruise Port? Florence is approximately a 1 hr 20 min drive or a 1 hr 12 min direct train ride from the Port of Livorno, the closest cruise port to the city.

Making the most of your day in Florence: Our biggest advice for cruisers spending a day in Florence is to wander around the city, soak in the sights, stop for an espresso now and then, have a nice lunch, and don’t forget the gelato. If there’s something specific on your must-do list, booking it in advance or considering taking a tour to maximize your time is best. Just remember not to cram too much into a short time—enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.