The Best of Florence in Just Two Days (And How to Actually Do It)

Only have 48 hours in Florence? Don’t worry! You can still see a ton without feeling rushed. Florence is one of those cities where art, food, and history are around every corner, so even a quick trip feels special. Whether you’re here for the Renaissance masterpieces, the views from Piazzale Michelangelo, or just the gelato (no judgment), this 2 day Florence itinerary will help you make the most of your time!

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Where to Stay in Florence

Florence is pretty walkable, so no matter where you stay, you’ll be close to great food, museums, and views. That said, some areas definitely have a different feel — and price point — so here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick what fits your trip best.

Historic Center (Duomo / Piazza della Signoria):
If it’s your first time in Florence and you want to be right in the middle of everything, stay here. You’ll be steps from the Duomo, museums, and restaurants, which makes it super convenient — just know it’s busier and pricier.

Oltrarno (across the river):
For a more local and relaxed vibe, stay across the Arno near Santo Spirito or San Niccolò. It’s full of small cafés, local wine bars, and artisan shops, and it feels a bit more “real Florence.” You’ll still be within a 10–15 minute walk of the main sights but with fewer crowds.

Santa Maria Novella:
This area near the train station is a great option if you’re arriving by train or traveling to other cities. Hotels here are usually a little cheaper, and you can walk to the main attractions in about 10 minutes.

San Lorenzo / San Marco:
Good mid-range area close to the markets and the Accademia Gallery. It’s lively during the day and quieter at night — perfect if you want to balance sightseeing and rest.

Tip: Florence is very walkable, but if you’re visiting during peak season, book early — especially near the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio.

Day 1: Art, Markets & Iconic Views in Florence

Start your first day in Florence surrounded by art, local flavor, and unforgettable views. From Michelangelo’s David to sunset over the city, this day captures everything that makes the city so special!

Accademia Gallery

Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. The gallery also features other incredible Renaissance artworks, so give yourself time to explore beyond the main attraction.

Tip: Book your tickets at least 3–4 weeks in advance. I thought we could wait until closer to the day, but unfortunately they were sold out. If this happens, you can wait in line, but be prepared for a very long wait.

Mercato Centrale

Afterward, take a short walk to Mercato Centrale to browse local goods, pick up souvenirs, and try some Florentine snacks. The first floor has various stalls ranging from fresh meat and produce to cheeses, pastas, and olive oils — perfect for sampling or grabbing gifts to take home. Upstairs, you’ll find a lively food hall with tons of vendors serving everything from handmade pasta to wood-fired pizza, sandwiches, and pastries. It’s a great spot to relax for a bit, enjoy a casual lunch, and soak up the local atmosphere.

Ponte Vecchio

Walk across the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most iconic bridge, lined with jewelry shops and small boutiques. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth a slow stroll to admire the views of the Arno River and the colorful buildings that line its banks. Early morning or just before sunset are the best times to go when it’s a bit quieter and the light is beautiful.

Boboli Gardens

On the other side of the river, spend some time exploring the Boboli Gardens or the Pitti Palace. The gardens are peaceful and full of greenery, sculptures, and incredible city views — a nice break from the busy streets around the Duomo. The Pitti Palace itself is stunning if you enjoy art, fashion, or royal history.

Take your time here — this part of Florence feels slower and more local, and it’s the perfect spot to relax, wander, and soak in the scenery.

Piazzale Michelangelo

For dinner, head to Spaccio Alimentare Firenze, a cozy spot known for its fresh ingredients and handmade pasta. If you aren’t in the mood for a full dinner, they also sell spritz to-go and you can grab one on the way to the Piazzale.

After dinner, make your way up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset. Be prepared, the walk there is all uphill but it will be worth it! From the Piazzale you’ll have panoramic view of Florence, with the Duomo and Arno River glowing in the evening light. Bring a bottle of wine or gelato to enjoy while you watch the sun go down.

Note: In the summer, the park gets very crowded. We arrived about 30–45 minutes before sunset and it was already packed. The view is still absolutely worth it — just be prepared for the crowds.

Day 2: Iconic Art, Stunning Views & Historic Squares

Spend your second day in Florence surrounded by world-class art, breathtaking city views, and some of the city’s most historic squares. From the Duomo to the Uffizi, this day is all about Florence’s masterpieces and iconic landmarks.

Duomo Complex

Start your day at the Duomo Complex (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) — one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks. The massive dome dominates the city skyline, and climbing to the top gives you an incredible panoramic view of Florence. If you prefer something slightly less crowded (and with a great perspective of the dome itself), climb Giotto’s Bell Tower instead. We climbed both and I actually preferred the view from the Bell Tower.

Tip: Go early to beat the crowds and book a timed entry ticket online ahead of time. Tickets options range but can include access to the Dome, Bell Tower, Baptistery, and museum, so plan a couple of hours to explore everything.

Afterward, step inside the Baptistery of San Giovanni, right next to the cathedral. The interior mosaics are breathtaking, and it’s one of the oldest buildings in Florence.

Note: Dress appropriately — bare shoulders, short shorts, or strappy sandals might not be allowed inside religious sites.

Uffizi Gallery

Next, make your way to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. If you only visit one museum in Florence, this should be it. You’ll find masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael — with Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera being two of the absolute highlights.

Tip: Prebook your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines, and plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring. That’s enough time to see the major works without getting too overwhelmed (the museum can be huge!).

Piazza della Signoria

After your visit, take a stroll through Piazza della Signoria, just outside the Uffizi Gallery. This lively square feels like an open-air museum. Its home to beautiful sculptures like a replica of Michelangelo’s David, Cellini’s Perseus, and the striking Fountain of Neptune. The marble fountain, created in the 16th century, celebrates Florence’s maritime history and looks especially stunning in the soft evening light when the square starts to quiet down. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take photos, or enjoy a quick gelato before heading to dinner.

For dinner, try a classic Florentine steak — it’s one of the city’s must-try dishes. I recommend Il Bacaro Fiorentino for great food and an authentic vibe.

Where to Eat In Florence

Florence has endless dining options, but these guidelines will help you find the spots worth your time (and appetite)

Look for places with mostly locals:
Restaurants near major attractions are usually overpriced and target tourists. If the crowd is mostly locals, it’s usually a better sign of authenticity.

Check for fixed-price menus (“Menu Turistico”):
Tourist-heavy restaurants often push a fixed-price menu that’s more expensive and lower quality. If you see this advertised aggressively, it’s usually a tourist trap.

Beware of towering gelato displays:
If the gelato in the case is piled super high or looks overly colorful, it’s usually a sign it’s not the real deal. Authentic gelato is stored in flatter, covered metal tubs to stay fresh and creamy — not whipped up for show. Look for natural colors and simpler displays instead of bright neon ones.

Check signage and freshness:
If ingredients are pre-packaged or dishes are sitting under heat lamps for hours, it’s likely not fresh.

Ask locals or staff for recommendations:
Sometimes the best spots aren’t in obvious—they’re tucked down small streets or squares. Usually hotel staff or shop owners can point you to hidden gems.

Timing:
Lunch is usually 12:30–2:30 pm and dinner 7:30–10 pm. Some of the best spots might be closed in between, so check hours.

2 Days in Florence: Tips

Book Your Big Three Tickets ASAP

Florence’s most famous sites draw massive crowds.

• The Key: Purchase timed-entry tickets online weeks in advance. Arriving without a reservation means waiting in lines that can easily last two hours or more.
• Dome Priority: If climbing the Duomo is on your list, secure that ticket first. Time slots are strictly limited and are often the first to sell out.

Master the ZTL (and Avoid a Fine!) 🚗

If you are renting a car, this is the most important warning you will read. Florence’s historic center is a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), a Limited Traffic Zone.

• The Warning: The center is monitored by cameras, and if you drive inside without a special permit (which tourists rarely have), you will receive a hefty fine in the mail months later.
• The Solution: Do not drive into the center. Park your rental car at an authorized paid lot outside the ZTL boundary and walk or take public transport in.

The Center is Walkable: Comfort is Key

The beauty of Florence is its compact size, but you will be logging miles on foot across uneven surfaces.

• Wear Good Shoes: You will be walking miles a day on cobblestones and ancient pavement. Leave the thin-soled or brand-new shoes at home! Comfortable, supportive footwear is non-negotiable.
• Best Transportation: Walking. You will discover hidden piazzas and great shops this way. Use the local ATAF bus system or a taxi only for longer distances, like visiting Piazzale Michelangelo.

Understanding the Dining Culture

Italian dining customs are relaxed, but there are a few things to note:

• The Coperto: Expect a coperto (cover charge) listed on your bill, usually €2–4 per person. This is a mandatory charge for service, linens, and bread, and it is not a tip.
• Tipping is Optional: Tipping is not required or expected. If you received truly exceptional service, a small extra tip (rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra Euros) is a kind gesture.

2 Day Florence Itinerary

Even with just 48 hours, Florence leaves a big impression. Between the art, history, and amazing food, there’s something magical about wandering its streets. Use this 2 day Florence itinerary to make the most of your time in Florence!

Spending more time in Italy? Checkout my 7 Day Dolomites Itinerary or How to Plan the Perfect Trip to the Dolomites.