If you want a mixture of sun, food and culture, you go to Italy. If you then want it at its arguable best, then you head to Florence. This ancient city is still a bit of a magnet for tourists within the epicentre, but don’t expect it to be to the level of Venice or comparable to the bustling hub of Rome. There are places to retreat and the whole experience feels far more residential and sophisticated. In my opinion, 48 hours is the perfect time to explore Florence. You’ll be able to experience the magic of this wonderful city, all without feeling too rushed.
Here is my ultimate guide on how to spend 48 hours in Florence. I hope that you enjoy it.
48 Hours in Florence | Your Ultimate Guide
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Florence
Florence is one of the main hubs and destinations in Italy, and so is incredibly easy to get to. The city has the nearby Amerigo Vespucci Airport, which is the second largest in the Tuscan region. Once you get to Amerigo Vespucci, you can then take the T2 Tram right into the heart of the city. The journey takes around 25 minutes.
Top Tip: The largest airport in Tuscany is Pisa, which is only around 50 miles away from Florence. You therefore have a bit of a choice of where to fly to and I would strongly advise looking for the best deal first. You can easily catch a train from Pisa to Florence.
The second easiest way to get to Florence is from another European city with a train line. European train systems are excellent and you’ll find it incredibly easy to get from one hub to another, all the whilst enjoying the views as they fly past you. I particularly like the Italian trains; they are incredibly stylish (as you’d expect) and comfortable, running regularly throughout the country. If you are doing a multi-centre trip, I would 100% recommend catching the train to Florence.
Top Tip: If you purchase an Interrail Pass as part of your multi-centre trip it could save you money. Check out my post on How to plan an Interrail Trip | Your Ultimate Guide.
Where to Stay in Florence
When we stayed in Florence in 2025, we decided to Airbnb it. We decided to do this as we wanted a far more residential experience and away from the large crowds of tourists. Our accommodation was near the Santo Spirito area, just south of the river. I thought that this was ideal more multiple reasons, mostly because we seemed like some of the only tourists nearby. The views whilst walking along the river at dusk were also beautiful.
If you are looking for specific hotels, here are my top recommendations:
| Traveller Type | Hotel Recommendation |
| Lower Price | Casa Santo Nome di Gesu |
| Best of Both | La Fonderia Firenze |
| Luxury | Le Logge |
Day 1 Guide
Morning
Begin your morning by making your way into the Old Town. If you can, wake up early and experience this like a local, away from the crowds. Typically, tours arrive from 09:00am, and so heading out early is the ideal time to meander and explore (especially in the summer, where it gets hot quickly!).
After grabbing a cappuccino and a cornetto (an Italian croissant), head towards the Duomo; the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Fiore. This is easily the most iconic building in the city and dates back to as early as 393, though its dome and more modern architecture actually comes from the early 15th Century.
Whilst the main part of the cathedral opens at 10:15 (with Sundays closed for worship), you can access the bell tower from 08:15 each day. The dome is also accessible each day from this time, with the exception of Sunday where it opens later at 10:45.
Prices vary to access different part of the Cathedral and you’ll need to purchase a pass which includes various parts of the building. The main part is actually completely free, but you’ll need to pay to climb up to the dome or to see the bell tower and Baptistry. You can purchase your tickets through the official Duomo website.
Top Tip: One of the best viewpoints for the Duomo is Via dei Servi. It is ideal for those ground-level photos before the crowds arrive.
Midday
Begin to meander South from the Duomo. This is Florence’s Old Town and it is as gorgeous as you imagine. Stop by the various souvenir shops, explore hidden small churches, and definitely sample as many gelato shops as you can. We probably ate our body mass in ice cream whilst we were here and it was well-worth it.
Make your way towards Piazza della Signoria. This is one of Florence’s most famous squares and is essentially an open-air museum featuring some of the most famous sculptures in Italy. The main attractions are undoubtedly Michelangelo’s David and Bandenelli’s Fountain of Neptune. You can’t really miss these once you’re at the Piazza, but be prepared for some hefty crowds to surround them! On the square is the architecturally contrasting Loggia dei Lanzi building from the 14th Century. Whilst a shift from the typical Renaissance architecture of the city, it is incredibly beautiful and impressive. It also houses some more world-famous statues, such as Perseus with the Head of Medusa.
From here, I would walk to the Piazza della Repubblica. This is one of Florence’s most lively squares. There are some lovely restaurants and cafés here, but the main attraction is undoubtedly a small vintage black-and-white Photo Booth. It costs €2, but you’ll need coins! To make it more complicated, it also only takes €1 or €2 coins…
Lunch
You can’t go wrong. in Italy when it comes to lunch. The streets of Florence are adorned by traditional Trattorias and they serve everything from local pici pasta to the local Tuscan Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
On our first day, we visited La Bussola, which is a short walk down from the Photo Booth. The food (pizza in particular) was outstanding and it was relatively far from the main tourist trail.
Early Afternoon
Continue south towards the Uffizi Gallery, supposedly one of the world’s greatest art museums. Even if you aren’t an art enthusiast, you will have an unforgettable experience seeing the masterpieces from Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Botticelli (including the Birth of Venus) to name but a few.
If you book in advance, you’ll pay €29, but if you buy on the day you’ll pay €25 – almost the opposite to what you expect. Whilst more expensive, I would 100% recommend buying them early. It gets incredibly busy, especially in peak season. Reduced rates (€2) are also available too for European Citizens.
Late Afternoon and Evening
The highlight of my 48 hours in Florence back in 2025 was watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. Even if you don’t want to stay up late during the summer months, heading here in the evening is really special. Without a doubt, it is the best view of the city and will give that postcard-level shot of Florence. It is also the perfect place to enjoy an Aperol or a gelato; maybe both?
Getting here is really simple – you’ll need to catch the CSF Line A from the gallery.
Day 2 Guide
The second day of your 48 hours in Florence is a much slower pace. I like to see it as your opportunity to see the more hidden side of the city and you’ll be doing things which tourists won’t always do.
Early Morning
Start the day walking across Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence. If you staying south of the river, you don’t necessarily need to walk across this as we’re heading further south today. However, if you want an early walk through the Old Town again before the crowds descend then this could be perfect.
Usually, the bridge is completely crowded and it is genuinely tricky to get across. I’d suggest arriving earlier than 08:00am to make the most of it. You can then pick up a nearby cappuccino to start your day right.
Top Tip: If you look up and left (approaching from the south) you’ll see the secret passageway of the Medici family. These ruled the city for years during the early Renaissance and build a hidden walkway above the city to observe their subjects.
Mid-Morning
From Ponte Vecchio, start walking south towards the Oltrarno District. This is one of the most creative and artistic neighbourhoods in Florence and is home to many independent boutiques and workshops.
Before you arrive, I’d suggest making a detour to the nearby Basilica di Santo Spirito. This is one of my favourite churches in Florence due to its simplicity, but it also houses an early treasure from Michelangelo. If you pay a little extra to enter, you’ll be taken to see a wooden carving of Jesus on the cross. It was carved when Michelangelo was just 17 and is one of the most underrated sculptures in the city.
Continue walking to Oltrarno. The main attractions here are the colourful buildings and those classic, thin Italian streets. One of my favourite cafés – La Ménagère – is also here and serves both coffee and brunch early in the morning.
Midday
From Oltrarno, it is a short walk to the Pitti Palace. Once the stronghold of the Medici family, nowadays this is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Florence. Whilst the inside of the Palace is, of course, gorgeous, I actually think that the attached Boboli Gardens are the real reason to come here.
We spent hours slowly walking here, stopping for an ice cream whilst doing so. The gardens are beautifully laid out and feature different styles, fountains, and plenty of seating areas to escape the midday sun.
My favourite part of the garden though is right at the top. You’ll find winding stairs which lead up to a hidden elevated garden. What I find staggering about this place is that you have a viewpoint over the Tuscan countryside. It feels less like a city and more of a country retreat; a must-see for anyone visiting Biboli.
Early Afternoon
Wander back into the district of Santo Spirito and spend the next part of your day exploring, dining and relaxing. This area of Florence is again less-crowded and home to plenty of independent shops and cafés, as well as quieter piazzas to sit and relax. The trattorias and pizzerias around here are also perfect for lunch; they are often cheaper and more local than those places found deep in the Old Town.
Whilst you’re here though, one must-do is to visit the Buchetta del Vino di BABAE. This is one of Florence’s famous hidden historic wine windows. Simply ring the bell and you’ll be served a glass of local Tuscan wine through the window. Apparently, this tradition dates back to the Renaissance and is one of the most unique experiences in Florence.
Late Afternoon and Early Evening
Your final destination in Florence are the legendary Central Markets (Mercato Centrale). These are on the other side of the town, so either slowly walk from Santo Spirito (18 minutes) or catch the bus here. Alternatively, if you are staying north of the river you can always head here after a short stop back at the hotel after exploring.
You might be wondering why we’re heading all the way here. This is because the Mercato Centrale is the place you go if you want local Tuscan treats to either enjoy in the evening or take home with you. You’ll find everything from fresh pasta and truffles, to local cheeses and handmade chocolates. Everything here is completely authentic and I think makes for a far better souvenir than those you find in the mass-produced shops.
After you leave the markets, head back into the Old Town. End your 48 hours in Florence the Italian way; find a rooftop bar and enjoy a spritz whilst overlooking the beautiful terracotta rooftops of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 48 hours enough in Florence?
Yes. Two days is enough to see Florence’s main attractions, enjoy incredible Tuscan food and experience the city’s unique atmosphere.
Can you walk everywhere in Florence?
Absolutely. Most major attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other, making Florence one of Italy’s easiest cities to explore on foot.
What’s the best month to visit Florence?
May, June and September offer warm weather, fewer crowds than peak summer and ideal sightseeing conditions. July and August are also good, but expect it to be hot and busy.
Final Thoughts | 48 Hours in Florence
I hope I’ve convinced you why 48 hours in Florence should be high up your list for a holiday this year. If you are after delicious food, incredible architecture, rich culture and sunny weather, then this is the city to go to in 2026. I hope that I’ve covered everything you want to know but, as always, reach out if you want to know anything else specific. I always love hearing from you.
