While one day in Florence is certainly not enough time to see everything the city has to offer, there are still plenty of things to see and do to get a taste of its history, culture, and beauty. Here are some top suggestions for things to see in one day in Florence.
Start your day by exploring Florence’s old city center. Visit Florence’s iconic cathedral, the Duomo, located in the heart of the city. You can even climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city. After the Duomo, head to Piazza della Signoria. This square, often called an open-air sculpture gallery, is home to the Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia dei Lanzi and the Neptune Fountain. Just next to it there’s and Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the most important works of Renaissance art in the world, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. From the Uffizi windows you will see Florence’s most famous bridge, the Ponte Vecchio, which dates back to the 14th century. But it’s even better to stroll along the Ponte Vecchio and look at all the jewellery shops that line up the bridge.
Take a break and grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and trattorie in the city center or head to the famous food market Mercato Centrale. End your day by visiting the Santa Croce basilica, which houses the tombs of many famous Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Or head just before the sunset to Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic terrace on one of the Florentine hills that offers stunning postcard views of the city.
These are just a few of the highlights of Florence, but there is so much more to see and do. If you have more time, consider visiting other landmarks such as the Accademia Gallery, the Boboli Gardens, or the Pitti Palace.