Fun and affordable things to do in Florence in 1 day

If you only have one day to spend in Florence, Italy, it’s vital to make the most of your limited time. With careful planning, you can make the most of your time there. Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do in this beautiful city, and I compiled a list of must-see attractions to add to your itinerary.

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Things to do in Florence in 1 day

Check out the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

First on our itinerary is the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This iconic landmark is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with a stunning marble facade and intricate details that will take your breath away. As you approach the cathedral, you’ll be struck by its magnificence and the beauty of the surrounding square.

Grab a drink with an amazing view at View on Art Rooftop Bar

For a unique and unforgettable experience, head to the View on Art Rooftop Bar for a drink with a view. This rooftop bar offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the sights. Don’t forget to order an Aperol Spritz!

Have the best pizza at Ristorante Ciro & Sons

If you’re a fan of pizza (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), you won’t want to miss the chance to try the best pizza in Florence at Ristorante Ciro & Sons. This authentic Italian pizzeria is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling completely ready to tackle the day. You’ll love the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the incredible flavors of the pizza. And the best part? They offer gluten-free options! Try the Mamma pizza (pictured above) from the pizza gourmet section (if they still have it on the menu!)

See the statue of David at the Accademia Gallery

No trip to Florence would be complete without a visit to the Accademia Gallery, home to the famous statue of David. This iconic masterpiece is a testament to the incredible skill of Italian sculptor Michelangelo, and it’s a sight that you won’t soon forget. Take your time to appreciate the details, and marvel at the incredible artistry that went into creating this magnificent work of art.

See all the sculptures at Piazza della Signoria

Another must-visit destination in Florence is the Piazza della Signoria. This beautiful square is home to numerous sculptures that are sure to leave you in awe. From a replica of the iconic “David” statue by Michelangelo to the “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” sculpture by Benvenuto Cellini, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll through the square and appreciate the intricate details of each piece of art.

Cross Ponte Vecchio

For a leisurely stroll, make your way to the beautiful Ponte Vecchio, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic bridges. Admire the views of the Arno River and take in the charming shops and cafes that line the bridge. You’ll love the atmosphere and the beautiful scenery. 

Buy wine from a wine window

Finally, be sure to check out one of Florence’s hidden gems: a “hole in the wall” wine shop. These not-so-tiny restaurants may not look like much from the outside, but they offer some of the best locally produced wines in the city, and they’re a great way to experience the local culture and flavors. After you buy your glass of wine from the wine window, grab a table outside to enjoy your drink. Or head inside to see how the “hole in the wall” wine shop really works. I recommend going to Babae, on the southwest side of Ponte Vecchio.

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The best part of all these attractions is that they’re all pretty close together! So you can easily walk from one to the next. With a little bit of planning you can see and do everything on this list in just one day. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Florence today!

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