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3-Day Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy

3 days

Illuminated Christmas street
Christmas market
Duomo During Christmas Season
Illuminated Christmas street
Celebrating New year's eve, fireworks around ponte vecchio on river arno

About Florence, Italy

Experience the heart of the Renaissance in Florence, Italy. This city is a treasure trove of art and architecture, home to masterpieces like Michelangelo's "David" and Brunelleschi's Dome. Wander through the Uffizi Gallery, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, and marvel at the grandeur of the Florence Cathedral. Don't miss the chance to taste authentic Tuscan cuisine, especially the famous Florentine steak. Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and enjoy the panoramic view from Piazzale Michelangelo. Florence's compact size makes it perfect for walking tours, allowing you to soak in its rich history and vibrant culture at your own pace. Whether you're an art lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Florence promises an unforgettable journey.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Florence

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. This magnificent cathedral is a symbol of the city and offers stunning views of Florence from its dome.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in the historic center of Florence. Try local specialties such as ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup, and bistecca alla fiorentina, a T-bone steak cooked over a wood fire.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world's most famous art museums. Here you can see works by Italian masters such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy trattoria in the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan shops and traditional restaurants. Try pappardelle al cinghiale, a pasta dish with wild boar sauce.

Evening

End your day by attending a Christmas concert at the Church of Orsanmichele, a unique combination of a market, a church, and a museum.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's David. This museum also houses a collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures.

Lunch

Lunch in a local osteria in the San Lorenzo District, famous for its bustling market and food stalls. Try lampredotto, a Florentine street food made from cow's stomach.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, and admire its impressive frescoes and courtyards. Don't miss the Hall of Five Hundred, decorated with murals by Vasari.

Dinner

Dinner in a family-run restaurant in the Santa Croce District. Enjoy a plate of tortelli, a type of stuffed pasta, accompanied by a glass of Chianti, a red wine from the Tuscan region.

Evening

Spend the evening at the Piazza della Signoria, where you can enjoy the Christmas lights and decorations, as well as a traditional nativity scene.

Morning

On your last day, visit the Boboli Gardens, a historic park filled with statues, fountains, and grottoes. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Florence.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local enoteca in the Santo Spirito District, where you can sample a variety of Tuscan wines and cheeses.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Pitti Palace, a Renaissance palace that houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments.

Dinner

For your last dinner in Florence, dine in a restaurant in the Piazza della Repubblica, one of the city's main squares. Try a traditional panforte, a dense fruit and nut cake, for dessert.

Evening

End your trip with a stroll along the Arno River and across the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge lined with jewelry shops. Enjoy the Christmas lights reflecting on the water.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

1
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

One of Italy's largest churches, and until development of new structural materials in the modern era, the dome was the largest in the world. It remains the largest brick dome ever constructed.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous fine art museums with collections of Renaissance paintings and sculptures.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Oltrarno district

3
Oltrarno district

Known as the 'other side of the Arno', this district is home to some of Florence's most famous landmarks, including the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens. It's also known for its artisan workshops.

Neighborhoods
Church of Orsanmichele

4
Church of Orsanmichele

The Church of Orsanmichele is a notable religious site in Florence, Italy. It's renowned for its ornate exterior, featuring statues of saints and biblical figures, and its historical significance in the city's development.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Accademia Gallery

A museum best known as the home of Michelangelo's sculpture David.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
San Lorenzo District

6
San Lorenzo District

San Lorenzo District is a lively neighborhood in Florence, Italy. Known for its bustling markets, rich history, and diverse food scene, it's a must-visit for any traveler.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Palazzo Vecchio

7
Palazzo Vecchio

The town hall of Florence, a massive Romanesque fortress-palace that is among the most impressive town halls of Tuscany.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Santa Croce District

8
Santa Croce District

Santa Croce District is a historic neighborhood in Florence, Italy. Known for its artistic heritage, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food scene, it's a must-visit for any traveler.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Piazza della Signoria

9
Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria is an L-shaped square in front of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy. It is the focal point of the origin and of the history of the Florentine Republic and still maintains its reputation as the political hub of the city. It is the meeting place of Florentines as well as the numerous tourists.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Boboli Gardens

10
Boboli Gardens

Historic park that houses a collection of sculptures and offers beautiful views of the city.

Parks
Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Santo Spirito District

11
Santo Spirito District

Santo Spirito District is a bohemian neighborhood in Florence, Italy. Known for its artisan shops, lively piazzas, and diverse food scene, it's a must-visit for any traveler.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Pitti Palace

12
Pitti Palace

A Renaissance palace that was once the residence of the Medici family, now a large museum complex.

Attractions
Museums
Architecture
Piazza della Repubblica

13
Piazza della Repubblica

Piazza della Repubblica is one of the main squares in Florence, Italy. Known for its historical significance, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning architecture, it's a must-visit for any traveler.

Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Ponte Vecchio

14
Ponte Vecchio

Historic bridge over the Arno River, known for the shops that are built along it.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A large, thick cut of T-bone steak that is grilled over a wood or charcoal fire, seasoned with salt, sometimes with black pepper, and olive oil, applied immediately after the meat is retired from the heat. This dish is closely tied to the identity of Florence.

Panzanella

Panzanella

A Tuscan chopped salad of soaked stale bread, onions and tomatoes that is popular in the summer. It often includes cucumbers, sometimes basil and is dressed with olive oil and vinegar. It is a staple of Florentine cuisine.

Pappa al Pomodoro

A thick Tuscan bread soup typically prepared with fresh tomatoes, bread, olive oil, garlic, basil, and various other fresh ingredients. It is usually made with stale or leftover bread, and can be served hot, room temperature, or chilled.

Ribollita

Ribollita

A famous Tuscan soup, a hearty potage made with bread and vegetables. There are many variations but the main ingredients always include leftover bread, cannellini beans, lacinato kale, cabbage, and inexpensive vegetables such as carrot, beans, chard, celery, potatoes and onion.

Lampredotto

Lampredotto

A typical Florentine dish, made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow, the abomasum. It is a popular street food in Florence and it is served in a bun with green sauce and spicy oil.

Cantucci

Cantucci

Also known as Biscotti di Prato, Cantucci are almond biscuits that originated in the city of Prato. They are twice-baked, oblong-shaped, dry, crunchy, and may be dipped in a drink, traditionally Vin Santo.

Schiacciata Fiorentina

A fluffy, orange-flavored cake that is traditionally made and served in Florence during the Carnival period. It is usually sprinkled with powdered sugar and a cocoa image of the Florentine lily.

Chianti

Chianti

A red wine that ranges from light-bodied to almost full-bodied, named after the Chianti region in central Tuscany. It is one of the most popular wines in Italy and it pairs well with many traditional Florentine dishes.

Vin Santo

Vin Santo

A style of Italian dessert wine. Traditional in Tuscany, these wines are often made from white grape varieties such as Trebbiano and Malvasia. It is typically served with cantucci at the end of a meal.

Negroni

Negroni

A popular Italian cocktail, made of one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari, garnished with orange peel. It is considered an apéritif and was invented in Florence, Italy.

Espresso

Espresso

A type of coffee preparation method and an important part of Italian culture. In Florence, like in the rest of Italy, espresso is a staple and is often enjoyed multiple times throughout the day.

Pecorino Toscano

Pecorino Toscano

A firm-textured ewe’s milk cheese produced in Tuscany. Since 1996 it has enjoyed protected designation of origin (PDO) status. It can be enjoyed as a table cheese or used grated in many traditional Florentine recipes.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Florence, Italy is typically during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. These seasons also coincide with some of the city's popular events like the Gelato Festival in spring or the wine harvest festivals in fall. However, if you're interested in visiting museums and indoor attractions without the crowds, winter can also be a good time to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 25

Thu

Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 2

Sun

Republic Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Florence is a compact city with most of the major attractions located in the city center. Walking is often the best way to get around, especially in the pedestrian-only zones.

Florence is a bike-friendly city with many bike rental services available. It's a quick and eco-friendly way to get around the city.

The public bus system in Florence is extensive and can take you to most parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at tobacco shops, newsstands, and some cafes.

Florence has a modern tram system that connects the city center with the suburbs. It's a quick and efficient way to travel longer distances.

Taxis are readily available in Florence. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked in advance.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Florence. It's a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Renting a car can be useful if you plan to explore the Tuscan countryside. However, driving in the city center can be challenging due to the limited traffic zones and narrow streets.

Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella, offers connections to other Italian cities and towns. It's a good option if you plan to do day trips outside of Florence.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type FPower socket type L

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Florence, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Florence is a city that is best explored on foot, so pack comfortable walking shoes.

2

The city can be quite crowded, especially during the peak tourist season (April to October), so be prepared for crowds.

3

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

4

Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it's customary to leave a small amount if you're happy with the service.

5

The official language is Italian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

6

Florence is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

7

The city has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to August) can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 86°F to 95°F (30°C to 35°C). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C).

8

Florence is known for its leather goods, so consider visiting the local markets for a unique souvenir.

9

The tap water in Florence is safe to drink.

10

Public restrooms can be hard to find, and many charge a small fee for use.

11

Florence is generally safe, but like any major city, it's wise to be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

12

The city has strict laws against eating or sitting on steps and public buildings, so be mindful of where you take a break.

13

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places in Italy, including bars and restaurants.

14

Florence has a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) in the city center, which means that only authorized vehicles can enter.

15

Public transportation in Florence is reliable and efficient. The city has a network of buses and trams that can take you around the city.

16

Many museums and attractions in Florence require advance booking, so plan your itinerary ahead of time.

17

Florence is known for its cuisine. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine Steak) and Gelato.

18

Florence has a tourist tax that is charged per person, per night for stays in the city. The amount varies depending on the type of accommodation.

19

It's customary in Italy to say 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening) when entering shops and restaurants.

20

Most shops in Florence close for a few hours in the afternoon for 'riposo' (rest), so plan your shopping accordingly.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ciao

Chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Arrivederci

Ah-ree-veh-der-chee

Leaving someone

Please

Per favore

Pair fa-voh-re

Asking for something

Thank you

Grazie

Graht-see-eh

Showing appreciation

Yes

Sì

See

Agreeing with someone

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Mi scusi

Mee skoo-zee

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Mi dispiace

Mee dee-spya-che

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parla inglese?

Par-la in-gle-se?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Non capisco

Non ka-pee-sko

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

Dove è il bagno?

Doh-veh eh il ban-yo?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

Kwan-toh costa?

Asking for the price of something

I would like...

Vorrei...

Voh-rei

Making a request

Help!

Aiuto!

Aye-oo-toh

In case of emergency

Can I have the bill, please?

Posso avere il conto, per favore?

Pos-so ave-re il con-to, per fa-voh-re

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Where is...?

Dove è...?

Doh-veh eh

Asking for directions

Good morning

Buongiorno

Bwon-jor-no

Greeting someone in the morning

Good evening

Buonasera

Bwo-na-se-ra

Greeting someone in the evening

Good night

Buonanotte

Bwo-na-not-te

Saying goodnight

Cheers!

Salute!

Sa-loo-te

Making a toast

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Long-sleeve shirt (1)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Sleepwear (1)

  • Light jacket or sweater (1)

  • Swimsuit (1, if you plan to swim)

  • Sunglasses (1)

  • Hat/Cap (1)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush (1)

  • Toothpaste (1, travel size)

  • Deodorant (1, travel size)

  • Shampoo and conditioner (travel size)

  • Body wash or soap (travel size)

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen (1, travel size)

  • Hand sanitizer (1, travel size)

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for leisure reading

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Zip-lock bags for organization

  • Umbrella or raincoat

Weather Conditions

Florence, Italy, is a city that experiences a humid subtropical climate. This means that it has hot, humid summers and cool, damp winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months (June to August), be prepared for high temperatures that can reach up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Also, ensure to stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas when sightseeing. In contrast, the winter months (December to February) can be quite chilly with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C). Therefore, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Despite the cold, winter can be a great time to visit as the city is less crowded and the lines for major attractions are shorter. The shoulder seasons, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), offer more mild and comfortable temperatures, ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 77°F (25°C). These periods are often considered the best times to visit Florence, as the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded than in the summer. Regardless of when you visit, always remember to check the local weather forecast before your trip to pack appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket. Lastly, Florence is a city best explored on foot, so regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful Italian city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Florence with occasional snowfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

February

16° / 2°

February is still chilly, but the city starts to warm up slightly. It's a great time to explore the city without the crowds.

March

19° / 5°

March sees the arrival of spring with warmer temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a good time for outdoor activities.

April

22° / 8°

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures. It's a great time to visit the gardens and parks in Florence.

May

25° / 11°

May is a beautiful month with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

June

29° / 15°

June is the start of the summer season with hot temperatures. It's a perfect time for beach trips and outdoor dining.

July

32° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Florence. It's a great time to enjoy gelato and cool off in the city's fountains.

August

32° / 18°

August is another hot month, but the city is less crowded as locals go on vacation. It's a good time to visit popular tourist spots.

September

29° / 15°

September is a pleasant month with mild temperatures. It's a great time to visit the vineyards and enjoy the wine harvest.

October

25° / 11°

October sees the arrival of autumn with cooler temperatures. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the fall foliage.

November

21° / 7°

November is a cool month with occasional rain. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the local cuisine.

December

17° / 3°

December is a festive month with Christmas markets and lights. It's a good time to enjoy the holiday spirit in Florence.

Did you know?

Did you know that Florence, Italy is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, a period of great cultural and artistic change in Europe?

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