I think we can all safely agree that Florence is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. But, let's say that you've got limited time in the Renaissance City maybe you're on a cruise with a day stop or you have a short layover, what should you eat? What are the musts? Here you'll find information on how to spend a day in Florence, Tuscany’s capital.

24 hours in Florence: The perfect one-day itinerary

Breakfast at Finisterrae

Italians like to start their day with a simple breakfast; a cappuccino and a croissant at the banco and they’re off with their day, or la dolce vita as they like to call it. However if you prefer to soak up the views and people watch for a little while Finisterrae in Piazza Santa Croce has an unbeatable location with stunning views. You’ll be spoilt for choice at this Europe meets US breakfast spot; with a selection of juices, coffees and culturally diverse delicacies.

Visit Secret Rose Garden

For a tranquil morning, bask under the Tuscan sun at The Secret Rose Garden. Enjoy the quietness away from the crowds in this extraordinary haven; home to a collection of roses, lemon trees, and a unique Japanese garden. Covering around one hectare of land giving you a panoramic view of the city, this land beautifully represents its twin city of Kyoto.

Lunch at Cafe Gilli

Florence’s oldest bar, Café Gilli has been serving coffee since 1733. This place is always buzzing with stylish aficionados enjoying an espresso or cold spritz. With a central location, classic interiors and dapper baristas you can take a seat on the terrace outside, enjoy a light lunch, people watch and take in the architecture around you.

Explore Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

Home to many age-old buildings; the world’s longest operating pharmacy exists in this ancient city too. Located a stone's throw from the Santa Maria Novella train station, this historic pharmacy has been serving it’s iconic products for over 800 years. Though many practices are no longer on site, you can appreciate the beautiful glass bottles and the scent of essential oils against the renaissance interiors that were once frequented by monks.

Wine Aperitif at Cantinetta Antinori

What trip to Italy is complete without wine-ding down at a local enoteca? Cantinetta Antinori, one of the biggest names in Tuscan wine offers a warm, understated locale tucked inside the courtyard of the eponymous family’s grand palazzo. With a vintage feel, this locale has an extensive wine list that will have even the wine connoisseurs amongst us feeling indecisive.  Located on Florence’s Rodeo Drive – Via Tornabuoni – it is the perfect place to take a wine-infused shopping break.

Dine at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura

Well, this time "the best of the best" has an amazing location in Piazza della Signoria and affordable prices. The food and presentation deserve a Michelin star. Definitely, worth a visit every time you are in the Tuscan capital. This is the perfect way to end your day in Florence.

Tour Florence like a Local

Art, architecture, food, culture, history: few cities have as much to offer as Florence. The itinerary above saves you days of research time but if you rather have us handle the details, make the most of your precious time with our Best of Florence in a Day Private Tour, exploring the city from top to bottom. You’ll be able to not just see everything, but truly experience it – not to mention get every one of your questions answered by our friendly expert local guides.

Get more out of Florence with a curated itinerary!

We are here to help. Whether you dream of exploring Florence‘s cobbled streets in search of culinary delights, want to explore the city hidden gems or spend your day at the Uffizi, our travel designers can create the perfect trip with activities and experiences that cater to all age ranges. For inspiration see our sample Florence Family Vacation Itinerary which includes activities for all ages. Contact us and start making memories.