What to do in a weekend in Florence: an unforgettable experience in the city of the Renaissance

Discovering what to do in Florence over a weekend is an experience full of art, culture and culinary delights. To avoid missing out on anything the city has to offer between Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it is important to plan your itinerary carefully.

Learn more about how to experience Florence like a true Florentine for an authentic and unforgettable experience. The historical centre of Florence is easily accessible on foot, so that it is possible to explore even the lesser-known districts, such as Sant'Ambrogio, to discover authentic hidden gems  and discover Florence as a true local.

Move between the various attractions and enjoy all that Florence has to offer. This itinerary prepared for you is a guide full of essential information to help you plan your what to do in a weekend in Florence in the best possible way so that it can be an unforgettable experience to be repeated every year.

Your weekend in Florence begins the moment you set foot in this city rich in history and culture. Friday night is the perfect time to be enchanted by the unique evening atmosphere of the Florentine Historical Centre, a UNESCO heritage site since 1982. After settling into your accommodation, in which you can choose from the best hotels and the many bargains the city has to offer, take an evening stroll through the illuminated streets, letting the vibrant energy of the city guide you. Take the opportunity to discover the most picturesque alleys and breathe in the air steeped in Florentine history and tradition.

For dinner, let yourself be tempted by the delights of Tuscan cuisine in one of the local trattorias, where you can savour authentic dishes such as ribollita or Florentine steak, accompanied by an excellent glass of Chianti wine. This evening will only be the beginning of your itinerary on what to do in an unforgettable weekend in Florence, which is ready to give you unique emotions and discoveries in the heart of the Tuscan city.

Saturday is a special day to immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Florence and be surprised by its many attractions. After a rich and energising breakfast, it is time to start your adventure in the Renaissance city. The morning will be dedicated to visiting Florence's famous art museums and taking a stroll through the streets of the historical centre, letting the beauty of the ancient palaces and picturesque squares guide you.

In the afternoon, take some time to explore the city's less-touristy neighbourhoods, where you can discover hidden and authentic corners of Florentine life. Wander the streets of Oltrarno, visit the Sant'Ambrogio market and enjoy unforgettable panoramic views. And when night falls, let yourself be tempted by the Florentine Saturday night movida with a late-night aperitif along the Arno. In short, Saturday in Florence promises to be a day full of emotions and discoveries, ready to give you unforgettable memories of your visit to this fascinating city.

Saturday morning presents a unique opportunity to explore Florence's unparalleled artistic and cultural wealth. Treat yourself to the privilege of immersing yourself in Renaissance art at the prestigious Uffizi Gallery. One of the most famous museums in the world and one of the most visited in Europe, it is, therefore, advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits and ensure your access to this treasure trove of art treasures. Once inside, be captivated by the timeless beauty of the works of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and many other great masters.

Let yourself be captured by the emotion that only such extraordinary works of art can arouse. Every brushstroke, and every detail tells a story, transports you back in time, and makes you feel part of an era of splendour and creativity. On the second day of your itinerary on what to do at a weekend in Florence, you can dedicate the entire morning to contemplating these extraordinary works, letting yourself be enveloped by this iconic museum's unique and evocative atmosphere. Treat yourself to the luxury of a semi-private Gallery tour to fully immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you, letting yourself be surprised and inspired by what is in front of you.

After spending the morning immersed in art at the Uffizi Gallery, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and reflection in one of the charming cafés in the city centre. Enjoy a rejuvenating break while sipping a fine espresso coffee or savouring a delicious artisanal pastry. If you prefer something more substantial, be tempted by local specialities in one of the characteristic Tuscan restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional dishes prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients. After lunch, take a walk to the Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore, the iconic symbol of the city, admiring its majestic dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top of the terrace to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and be enchanted by the timeless beauty of Florence. Don't miss the opportunity to also visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni and Giotto's bell tower, which are part of the cathedral's work.

Continue to Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge over the Arno River, famous for its jewellery shops and unique atmosphere. Along the way, stop at one of the picturesque cafés or wine bars along the Arno to sample local delicacies and enjoy the view over the river. Your walk through the Florentine alleys will be enriched by authentic culinary experiences and unforgettable views, making your afternoon in Florence even more memorable.

On a late Saturday afternoon, you can continue your weekend in Florence in the pursuit of art. In fact, after admiring the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery, dedicate yourself to exploring the Accademia di Belle Arti, another artistic jewel of Florence. The last access is at 18:15 but it is worth it because here you can admire one of the most famous works in the world, Michelangelo's David, which will leave you breathless with its majesty and artistic perfection. Be captivated by the other sculptures and works of art that fill the halls of the Accademia, immersing you completely in Florentine beauty and art.

After this intense artistic experience, take a rejuvenating break at one of the many cafés or ice-cream parlours nearby, where you can enjoy a delicious artisanal gelato or an energising espresso. Then, continue your day by heading to the San Lorenzo district, famous for its open-air market, where you can explore stalls full of local products, and handicrafts and experience unique Florentine flavours and traditions.

For Saturday night dinner on your weekend in Florence, let yourself be tempted by the city's vast culinary offer. Book a table in a traditional Tuscan restaurant or a cosy trattoria, where you can enjoy typical Florentine dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Savour the flavours of the Tuscan tradition, accompanied by seasonal side dishes and a glass of red wine, possibly from the Chianti area, one of the most beautiful and famous regions of Italy that you can visit at another time for an authentic and unforgettable food and wine experience. If you prefer something lighter, opt for a dinner of fresh fish dishes, or a pizza baked in a wood-fired oven, to be enjoyed in the company of friends or family. End the evening with a typical Florentine dessert, such as schiacciata alla fiorentina or cantucci with vin santo, and toast to your experience in Florence in one of the city's many bars or cafés.

Sunday presents itself as the perfect epilogue to your weekend in Florence full of emotions and discoveries. It is time to treat yourself to one last taste of this fascinating city, exploring unexplored corners and being surprised by new beauties. Among the narrow streets of the historic centre and the elegant boulevards, there is so much to discover and admire, including characteristic shops, cosy cafés and suggestive views.

Take advantage of this day to reflect on the extraordinary experience and to capture the last moments of this Florentine adventure through photos and indelible memories. And what better way to end your weekend than with a memorable dinner in one of the city's renowned restaurants, where you can sample local delicacies and toast to the unforgettable moments spent in Florence.

The last day of this short guide on what to do on a weekend in Florence opens with a green morning. In fact, Sunday morning is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the nature and tranquillity of the Boboli Gardens, a green area of extraordinary beauty that stretches behind the Pitti Palace. These historic gardens are a true oasis of peace in the heart of the city, offering a refuge from the urban hustle and bustle. Take some time to explore their evocative paths, lined with ancient trees and embellished with fountains and ancient statues that lend a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Admire the craftsmanship of the landscape design that characterises this place and be enveloped by its serenity. And if you want to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the Piazzale Michelangelo hill, where you can admire Florence from a privileged vantage point, enjoying a unique and unforgettable perspective.

On a Sunday afternoon, take some time to shop along the elegant streets of Florence, immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere that characterises these renowned streets. From Via de' Tornabuoni to Via del Corso, every corner offers a wide selection of fashion boutiques, jewellers and souvenir shops, ready to satisfy your every shopping urge. Take this opportunity to explore the latest trends in Italian and international fashion, perhaps treating yourself to a little luxury to take home as a souvenir of your unforgettable trip to Florence.

If, on the other hand, you prefer a relaxing moment, stop at one of the many outdoor cafés along the route and treat yourself to a sweet, refreshing break. Try a bar or café in Piazza della Signoria, Florence's main square, the historic seat of civic power and the heart of the city's social life, some sweets, prepared with fresh and genuine ingredients, or treat yourself to a coffee while you soak up the lively and authentic atmosphere of everyday Florentine life. Whether you are an avid shopper or simply want to enjoy the Italian dolce far niente, by the Arno river (or even on its waters!), walking in the warm afternoon light of Sunday afternoon in Florence offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all tastes and preferences.

On Sunday evening, before ending your weekend in Florence, treat yourself to one last unforgettable experience immersed in the city's magical atmosphere. Opt for a nocturnal visit to the city's most iconic monuments, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Ponte Vecchio, which, illuminated by moonlight, take on a whole new and breathtaking charm.

If you are a music fan, why not attend a concert or a live performance in one of the city's venues? Florence offers a lively music scene, with events to suit all tastes and preferences. In short, Sunday nights in Florence offer plenty of possibilities to end your weekend on a high note and leave you with indelible memories of this extraordinary city.

Your weekend in Florence comes to an end after exploring the city on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, immersing yourself in its rich history, artistic beauty and Tuscan culinary delights. Before we say goodbye, we offer you a longer itinerary should you wish to stay for a week in Florence that includes the best experiences and attractions to enjoy, for an even more exciting and surprising return to the Renaissance city!

We are certain that after this weekend, Florence will remain in your heart as an unforgettable destination and experience!