So much to see, so little time. Florence, the Renaissance city, offers so much that you should carefully consider in advance what is most important to you. Having visited Florence several times, we've created a two-day itinerary with several alternative options for you. It's easy to fall into the trap of overplanning, but it's much better to leave out a couple of things to truly enjoy your time in Florence. At the end of the day, treat yourself to a nice dinner, take a romantic walk along the banks of the Arno, and relax.

Here are a few important points for your planning:

• Choose your must-see spots, such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, or the Galleria dell’Accademia, and plan the rest of your stay around these.
• Check opening times in advance, as some places are closed on Sundays or Mondays.
• For these three attractions, it's recommended to book tickets with a time slot online, especially in high season. This will save you time in the queues.

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Day 1 in Florence

1. Visit the Florence Cathedral and Enjoy the View

The Duomo is the shining heart of the city. Build between 1296 and 1436, it claims the title of the third-largest cathedral in Europe, surpassed only by St. Peter's in Rome and the Duomo in Milan. Start by admiring its stunning green-and-white marmor façade and Brunelleschi's revolutionary dome. Once inside, view the intricate frescoes and sculptures by legends like Michelangelo and Donatello.

For the best experience, combine your visit with a climb to the top of the Cathedral's Dome . Your effort will be rewarded with an unparalleled view over the red-tiled rooftops of Florence, perfect for capturing impressive photos!

Alternatively, save your energy by taking the elevator up to Giotto's Campanile .

Short on time? Factor in the potential for lengthy queues at both sights. If time is of the essence, opt for climbing the dome without visiting the interior of the cathedral. This way, you can get a glimpse inside as you enter without having to queue twice.

An advance reservation with a time slot is essential if you want to maximize your sightseeing in two days.
Booking: If you plan to visit the Duomo and the Baptistery, a combi-ticket is your best option. Find more ticket infos at the official booking site.

Best time to visit? Early morning allows you to stay flexible afterward, or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and get the best photos.

Note: The Cathedral is closed on Sundays to visitors due to worship.

2. Treat yourself to a panini

The panini shop All’Antico Vinaio is famous for its delicious and affordable paninis. Don't be discouraged by the long lines - it moves quite quickly.

3. The Baptistery of Florence

Right next to the Duomo lies the Battistero , an architectural gem of particular beauty. Admire the distinctive octagonal shape and the intricate bronze doors, including Ghiberti's famous Gates of Paradise. You don't necessarily need to go inside. But if you do, enjoy the tranquility while you gaze at the magnificent mosaic-covered dome.

4. Bargello or Medici Chapel

You have the choice – what interests you more?

A: Bargello Museum

The Museo Nazionale del Bargello , located south of the Palazzo Vecchio in a former prison, is a hidden gem. Despite housing a first-class collection of sculptures by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Verrocchio, it is often overlooked by many tourists.

B: Discover Michelangelo's hidden artworks

Alternatively, visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo , Florence's oldest cathedral. Though unassuming from the outside, it contains the Medici Chapels and the Medici Library, both designed by Michelangelo.

While Michelangelo's David is world-famous, true art lovers should also explore the lesser-known masterpieces in the monumental Medici Chapel . Through the basilica’s apse, you’ll find the splendid mausoleum of the princes and Michelangelo's New Sacristy . Here, sculptures like Day and Night, which adorn the opulent Medici tombs, showcase Michelangelo's genius. These hauntingly beautiful pieces contrast beautifully with the colorful marble and magnificent semi-precious stones of the Medici Chapels.

If you also want to see the Laurentian Library , note its limited hours, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It’s best to confirm the exact times when buying tickets. Designed by Michelangelo and completed in 1571 by Giorgio Vasari and Bartolomeo Ammannati, the library is a marvel. In the vestibule of the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, you’ll encounter an extraordinary staircase by Michelangelo. The spacious reading room, with its red and white terracotta floor, is one of the few 16th-century rooms worldwide that has remained almost entirely intact. Look for the Medici coats of arms on the stained glass windows by Giorgio Vasari.

5. Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Just around the corner from the Medici Chapels lies the Mercato di San Lorenzo, home to the bustling Mercato Centrale . After all your sightseeing, you’ve certainly earned a break. Here, you can savor regional specialties and pick up a few souvenirs. A stop for a simple yet delicious lunch is, of course, a must.

Short on time? If your priority is art, you can skip the market and find something to eat near one of the more significant sights on your list.

6. Stroll to Piazza della Signoria

A stroll through the old town to Piazza della Signoria is essential when in Florence. Along the way, you'll pass numerous palazzos, narrow streets, boutiques, and gelaterias. Simply soak in the atmosphere and the lively city buzz.

Once at the piazza, head towards the adjoining Loggia dei Lanzi . Originally, the Loggia housed the pikemen of Cosimo I, but today it serves as an impressive open-air sculpture gallery that will thrill any art enthusiast. Right in front of the Palazzo Vecchio stands a detailed replica of Michelangelo's David . Nearby, the mighty Neptune Fountain draws the attention of every visitor. It was a gift to commemorate the marriage of F. Medici I and Grand Duchess Johanna of Austria.

7. Palazzo Vecchio

The Palazzo Vecchio is one of the highlights of the Renaissance city, offering deep insights into Florence's rich political and artistic heritage. Initially designed as a fortress-like town hall, it provided protection and security during turbulent times. However, don't let the grim outside fool you. Inside awaits the impressive interior, that reflects the power of the Medici's and will leave you breathless. We were especially captivated by the spectacular ceiling frescoes, the opulent chambers and the map room.

8. Walk across the Ponte de Vecchio

End your day with a walk across the nearby Ponte Vecchio . Enjoy the view of the Arno River and explore the charming jewelry shops lining the bridge. The atmosphere becomes particularly romantic at sunset, when the sky is painted with shades of red and yellow. This is the ideal time for capturing picture-perfect souvenir photos. Afterwards, savor a delicious dinner at one of the city's many excellent restaurants.

P.S.: You'll likely find yourself passing by here often, experiencing both the vibrant daytime and serene evening atmospheres. For the best views, take a leisurely walk along the Arno River bank.

Day 2 in Florence

1. Uffizi Gallery

A visit to Florence without the Uffizi Gallery ? Unthinkable.
If possible, start your day with a visit to this famous art museum. Here you can admire some of the world's most renowned artworks, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli's "Birth of Venus," and Leonardo da Vinci's "Annunciation."
It's a must for art lovers, but beware of the long lines. Especially in high season, a reservation is highly recommended. For a well-deserved break, we recommend the cafe terrace of the Uffizi. Sip your espresso while enjoying a direct view of the Palazzo Vecchio.

Duration: Plan for 3-4 hours.

Unsure? If you're short on time and need to prioritize, be aware that a visit to the Uffizi will take at least half a day, mainly due to the waiting lines. You will likely have little energy left for other sights afterward. Therefore, we believe that visiting the Uffizi is not a must. True art lovers will, of course, disagree, and that's okay. Everyone has different priorities.

2. Boboli Gardens or Church Visit

With so much to see in the city and only two days, you'll often have to choose between multiple fantastic attractions. After the Uffizi, however, we recommend taking a break to recharge.

A: Resting in the Garden

Cross the Ponte Vecchio and head towards the Palazzo Pitti. Tucked away behind it, the Boboli Gardens offer a serene oasis in the midst of Florence's bustle. After the overwhelming experience of the Uffizi, you'll appreciate this peaceful respite.

Created in the 16th century, the lush garden captivates visitors with its array of sculptures, fountains, and meticulously maintained pathways. Explore its hidden grottoes, charming rose gardens, and enjoy sweeping views of the city.

We suggest bringing a snack to enjoy in this beautiful garden. (It will save you valuable time.)

B: Basilika Santa Croce

The incredible Basilica is known as the Pantheon of Florence. After all, this is the final resting place of Italian legends such as Galileo Galilei, Niccolò Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and Vasari. Dante also has a funerary monument here, although he is buried in Ravenna where he died in exile. Dating back to the 13th century, the largest Franciscan church features 16 chapels, with the Capella de Pazzi being the most famous. Admire the stunning frescoes that adorn the chapels and wander through the vast interior filled with incredible art and history. We recommend you take either an audio tour or a local tour guide, since their are so many interesting things to learn.

At the charming Piazza Santa Croce, just outside the basilica you can relax at a cafe and absorb the atmosphere. As a hub for young people, the area gets busy with street artists and people who want to have fun.

After your visit to the basilica, the Piazzale Michelangelo is not far away.

Check out the official Santa Croce website for current opening times. (Closed on Tuesday) And remember to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and avoid sandals.

A bit more history? Look at the campanile - do you notice something? The style doesn't match the rest. It actually dates back to 1842, because the original bell tower was struck by lightning.

3. Panoramic Views or Art Enjoyment

A: San Miniato al Monte & Piazzale Michelangelo

A visit to Piazzale Michelangelo is very popular for its fantastic panoramic views of the city. From the Boboli Gardens, it takes about 30 minutes to climb to the piazza, or you can opt for a taxi ride.

Just 10 minutes further is the San Miniato al Monte Basilica . Perched on a hill, the basilica offers great views and numerous photo opportunities of Florence. This 11th-century Romanesque church, with its splendid marble facade and richly decorated interior, is considered one of the city's most beautiful. HParticularly impressive are the altarpiece and the crypt, but the frescoes and mosaics are also very beautiful. Slightly off the typical tourist paths, the basilica is less crowded, making it one of the best free attractions in the city.

If you time it right, you'll arrive at the Piazzale Michelangelo before sunset. From here, you have a breathtaking view over all of Florence, especially at sunset when the golden light bathes the city in warm colors.

B: Discover Artistic Brilliance at the Galleria dell’Accademia

If you have the energy for more art, spend your afternoon visiting the original David statue in the Galleria dell’Accademia . As one of Florence’s top highlights, it’s wise to book an advance ticket with a time slot. In addition to the legendary David, you’ll find works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Ghirlandaio. Take your time to fully appreciate these masterpieces up close.

Tip: A guided tour can provide deeper insights into the history and significance of the artworks.