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3 Days in Florence – Introduction
Florence, Italy—Welcome to our Florence Travel Guide. Florence, or Firenze in Italian is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. It’s a place where every cobblestone alley and grand piazza seems to whisper stories from centuries past. During our trip last fall, our 3 days in Florence weren’t just a stop on our itinerary. It was an experience that captured our senses with its rich history, incredible art, and unforgettable flavors.
Planning a trip to Italy? Start with our comprehensive Italy Travel Guides for tips and insights before diving into this 3-day Florence itinerary.
Coming from North America, the depth of Florence’s antiquity was simply astonishing. The oldest structure in Canada date back to the 1600s. In Florence, time is measured in millenia. Its foundation by Julius Caesar dates back to 59 BC. Amazing!
With our interest in mobility-friendly travel, Florence offered some challenges but also many rewarding experiences that we want to share with you.
Day 1: The Start of Our Trip – Mobility-Friendly Exploration and Renaissance Art
We arrived from Siena via the scenic Viale Michelangelo, and wow, what an entrance! That drive down the winding, tree-lined boulevard gave us our first breathtaking glimpse of historic Firenze, with the Duomo rising above the rooftops in the distance.
Our Airbnb was located in the historic center, right by Dei Tintori Parking. This central location was ideal for us, especially given our focus on mobility challenges.
As regular readers may recall, my wife Danielle, walks with a cane and had not yet undergone ankle-replacement surgery. So finding an apartment close to everything with as few stairs as possible was a must.
The apartment was spacious, but lacked an elevator that would have made getting in and out easy.
Fortunately, there was only one flight of stairs. In Italy, a first-floor apartment means it is on the second floor.
Where to stay in Florence – Hotels, Inns and Airbnbs
We are convinced that staying in or close to the heart of the city is the best approach. It means that everything is within walking distance. It also means you’re steeped in the atmosphere of the historic buildings and cobblestone streets.
On the negative side, parking is scarce and expensive, there are many areas not accessible by car and you’re perpetually surrounded by crowds of tourists. On the plus side, there is no lack of accommodation in the heart of the historic center as you can see on Google maps. There is something for every budget from luxury hotels to quaint inn and Airbnbs.
First Place to Visit: Uffizi Gallery – Renaissance Masterpieces and Tips for Accessibility
After settling in, we dashed off to the Uffizi Gallery. Honestly, we couldn’t wait. We’d been dreaming of seeing Botticelli’s masterpieces in person for so long. And seeing “Birth of Venus” and “Primavera” up close? Pure magic. We also took in “Calumny of Apelles”, “Dyptiche”, and Raphael’s “Madonna of the Goldfinch”, with its tender depiction of the Virgin Mary.
However, it wasn’t without its challenges. Even in the off-season, the Uffizi Gallery was packed with tourists, which can be tricky when navigating with mobility in mind. The gallery does offer elevators, but moving between floors with the crowds of tourists required a bit of patience.
Despite this, seeing these iconic works of art made it all worth it. If mobility is a concern, booking a guided tour that focuses on accessibility might be a great option for a smoother experience.
Exploring Piazza della Signoria – A Mobility-Friendly Florence Attraction
Afterwards, we stepped outside into the sunshine of Piazza della Signoria. The striking Neptune Fountain, the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, and the Loggia dei Lanzi all begged us to linger. Thankfully, the piazza itself is relatively flat (as is most of the old quarter) and easy to navigate, allowing us to enjoy the open-air sculptures without much difficulty.
Palazzo Vecchio
In Piazza della Signoria, we stopped to admire the Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace), which now serves as Firenze’s town hall. The imposing building also is home to a full-size replica of David by Michelangelo, an awe-inspiring sight that left us speechless.
Originally the residence of the powerful Medici family, the Palazzo Vecchio has an intriguing history. Inside, visitors can explore ornately decorated courtyards and the grand Salone dei Cinquecento, a hall steeped in Renaissance splendor. Unfortunately, during our visit, a symposium was taking place, so we were unable to access the interior.
Loggia dei Lanzi
Adjacent to the Palazzo Vecchio is the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air gallery with wide archways that house an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures. Among them is the iconic statue of Perseus with the Head of Medusa, a masterpiece of detail and emotion. Standing beneath the arches of the Loggia, we marveled at the incredible craftsmanship and storytelling embedded in the art. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Florence.
Evening: Aperitivo and Dinner in Florence
To unwind, we stopped at Osteria dell’Orcagna for an aperitivo, one of a series of terraces a stone’s throw away from the Uffizzi. Sitting there, sipping an Aperol Spritz and nibbling on local snacks, we began to feel that relaxed, easy vibe that Florence gives you—where time slows down, and you just take it all in. We enjoyed a plate of olives, cheeses, and meats, which was a perfect start to our Florentine evening.
Dinner that night was at Aroma Ristorante on Via Ghibellina. I can still taste the beautifully prepared fish, paired with a glass of Tuscan white. The cozy ambiance, delicious food, and attentive service made for a wonderful first dinner in Florence. We ended the evening with a moonlit stroll through the Centro Storico. The streets, though paved with cobblestones, were manageable, and the Santa Croce Church standing gracefully in the moonlight made it worth every step.
Happy Travel Tip: Restaurants in Florence
Fittingly, as the capital of Tuscany, Florence is a Mecca for Foodie travelers. According to Tripadvisor, there are 2499 restaurants in Florence with everything ranging from Pizzerias to traditional Tuscan cuisine to fine dining.
The Michelin Guide lists 49 Florentine restaurants including 12 Michelin stared restaurants – the highest distinction in the culinary world. But Michelin guide doesn’t necessarily mean sky high prices. There are 21 listed as $ (on a budget) and $$ (moderate spend).
We relied mostly on our Hosts recommendations and we’re disappointed in the least. Your hotel concierge can also be a reliable sources of recommendations during your stay.
Day 2: 3 Days in Florence – Gardens, Iconic Sights, and Local Flavors
Morning: Breakfast and Walking Tour of Florence
We kicked off the day with croissants and cappuccinos from Ditta Artigianale. Being “only” gluten-sensitive, I was able to enjoy the wonderful buttery baked goods. Wheat in Italy is a different strain with a lower gluten content and is processed differently than North America durum wheat. Hence a milder, almost unnoticeable reaction. It was a delightful start to our morning.
From there, we headed to Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio—a bustling farmer’s market that gave us a true taste of local Florentine life. Not to be confused with the more commercial mercato centrale, the market was filled with fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and flowers, all neatly displayed by vendors who had clearly been doing this for generations. It was the perfect place to soak in the authentic charm of Florence and to sample some of the best ingredients Tuscany has to offer.
The vibrant atmosphere of Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio was energizing, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few fresh fruits and small bites to snack on throughout the day. The market itself is very accessible, with wide aisles that made navigating easy. It was a great way to start our exploration of the city, with the sights, sounds, and aromas adding a unique layer to our experience.
Since all the museums and galleries were closed on the first Monday of the month, we decided it was the perfect day for a walking tour. The crisp autumn weather made it even better as we explored some of Florence’s most iconic landmarks and architectural marvels. For anyone planning a multi-day stay or even a series of day trips to Florence, here are some must-see attractions:
Piazza del duomo and the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore
The Duomo, dedicated to Saint Mary of the Flowers, is the most iconic building in Florence. Its majestic dome dominates the skyline and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. As one of the world’s largest churches, it’s hard not to be in awe of its sheer size and beauty. Construction began in 1296 and was finally completed in 1436—a timeline that feels fitting for such a monumental project.
Two architectural elements stood out to us. First, the characteristic alternating layers of dark green and white marble, a motif also seen in other Tuscan cathedrals, such as the Duomo di Siena. Second, the world-famous Brunelleschi Dome, which is an unparalleled masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
The Brunelleschi Dome
The most remarkable feature o piazza del duomo f the Duomo is the Brunelleschi Dome, designed by the renowned architect Filippo Brunelleschi. This innovative structure is composed of two domes, one nested inside the other. The design allows the massive dome to stand seemingly unsupported, without the need for columns or internal struts. Its ingenuity and elegance are still marveled at by architects today.
The Piazza del Duomo
Walking around the Piazza del Duomo, we admired the cathedral grounds, which are more than just the Duomo itself. The Baptistery of San Giovanni and Giotto’s Campanile are equally captivating and together form the Cathedral Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Giotto’s Campanile (The Bell Tower)
The third prominent structure that standsin the Piazza is Giotto’s Campanile. It is a freestanding bell tower designed by the famed artist and architect Giotto di Bondone. This slender tower rises 84.7 meters (277.9 ft) tall and is a stunning example of Florentine Gothic architecture. Like the Duomo, its exterior features polychrome marble in green, pink, and white. Although Giotto passed away in 1337 before the tower was completed, his legacy lives on in this remarkable structure.
Happy Mobility Tip:
The Duomo and bell tower both involve many steps to climb. We chose to admire them from the outside, where the views and details are just as impressive.
Piazza della Repubblica
This historic square, originally the site of the Roman forum, was another highlight of our tour. The Piazza della Repubblica is said to have housed a temple dedicated to Mars during Julius Caesar’s era, symbolizing its deep historical roots. Today, it’s home to the Arcone, a prominent archway with an inscription that reads: “The ancient centre of the city / restored from age-old squalor / to new life.”
The square also features a beautifully restored antique merry-go-round, which delighted visitors of all ages. As we watched children ride the elaborately carved wooden horses, we couldn’t help but feel a whimsical sense of joy that added to the charm of the Piazza.
Lunch at All’Antico Vinaio – Local Street Food in Florence italy
For lunch, we couldn’t miss All’Antico Vinaio . This famous spot offers fantastic sandwiches filled with rich cheeses and savory meats. We took them with us to Boboli Gardens , where we discretely enjoyed them in the shade of beautifully manicured trees.
Exploring Boboli Gardens – Mobility Tips and Picnic Spots
The gardens are expansive, and while not all paths are mobility-friendly, there are plenty of areas that are accessible and perfect for a relaxed picnic. After a leisurely stroll through the gardens, we headed to the Pitti Palace, located just outside the gardens and closer to the city gates.
Pitti Palace – A Look at Florence’s Rich History
The grand structure of the Pitti Palace was imposing—a reminder of the wealth and power of Florence’s past. By then, we were ready for a little pick-me-up, so we stopped at Pitti Bistro for an Aperol Spritz and a small selection of panini. It was the perfect way to recharge before continuing our exploration of Florence.
Evening: Dinner at La Tavernetta della Signiora – A True Taste of Tuscany
Dinner that night was at La Tavernetta della Signiora, a cozy spot that felt like home. The meal was rustic and hearty—exactly what we needed after a day of walking. We lingered over a bottle of Chianti, savoring the flavors and the warmth of the restaurant.
Day 3: Mobility-Friendly Florence – Views, Shaves, and Sunset Over the Arno River
Morning: Crossing the Arno River – Mobility-Friendly Views of Florence
Our third day started with a walk to the other side of the Arno River. We climbed the steep streets leading to Belvedere Vittorio Sermonti, which offered one of the most spectacular views of Florence we’d seen yet.
The Duomo, rising above the terracotta rooftops, looked even more impressive from above. It’s worth noting that the climb can be a bit challenging, but the reward at the top is well worth the effort. If steep climbs aren’t ideal, taking a cab to the viewpoint is an easy alternative.
Traditional Shave at Machete Barber Shop – Relaxing in Florence’s Centro Storico
After our morning exploring, I decided to treat myself to a shave at Machete Barber Shop. Yes, the name does sound a bit ominous, but the experience was anything but! It was an authentic throwback—classic barbershop chairs, straight razors, and a skilled barber who knew exactly what he was doing. I left feeling refreshed and, I have to admit, quite dapper.
While I was out getting spruced up, my wife enjoyed some quiet time back at our beautiful apartment—relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere of the Centro Storico. Once I returned, suitably presentable, we got ready for the evening ahead.
Sunset Stroll and Dinner at Trattoria La Casalinga – Classic Florentine Cuisine
Later, we took a leisurely stroll along the Arno River as the sun began to set. Watching the colors change over Ponte Vecchio was one of those picture-perfect moments that I’ll never forget.
For our last dinner in Florence, we chose Trattoria La Casalinga. The food was comforting and flavorful, with simple Tuscan dishes bursting with fresh ingredients. It was the perfect way to end our stay in this remarkable city.
After dinner, we slowly made our way back to our apartment, savoring every last view of Florence at night, knowing we’d soon be moving on.
Reflections on Our 3-Day Florence Travel Guide: Mobility Tips and Local Experiences
Florence is a city that doesn’t just offer you sights—it gives you experiences. Yes, there were challenges. Like navigating the crowds at the Uffizi Gallery. And the cobblestone streets. But the beauty and magic of Florence more than made up for it. Every moment we spent here felt rich and meaningful, and every corner had a story to tell.
Happy Travel Tips for Mobility-Friendly Florence
- Comfortable Shoes Are a Must: Florence’s cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tricky to navigate. Make sure you’re prepared, especially if mobility is a concern.
- Plan for Accessibility: Many major attractions, such as the Uffizi Gallery, offer elevators and ramps, but it’s worth checking ahead and planning accordingly. Guided tours focusing on accessibility are a great option.
- Plan Your Visits Wisely: Many attractions are closed on Sundays and the first Monday of the month, so planning ahead is key. Arriving midweek is ideal for avoiding the rush and ensuring a more relaxed experience.
- Savor the Moments: Whether it’s a glass of wine at sunset, a stroll through a historic piazza, or a visit to a world-famous museum, take your time. Florence is a city that rewards the patient traveler.
Conclusion: 3 Days in Florence – A Guide for Mobility-Friendly Travelers
Florence is more than a destination—it’s a journey into the past, a celebration of human creativity, and a city that leaves you in awe. From navigating the beautiful, sometimes challenging streets to exploring world-renowned art and history, our 3 days in Florence offered us a rich and memorable experience. We hope our story inspires you to explore Florence, to walk its cobblestone streets, to gaze at its masterpieces, and to fall in love with this Renaissance jewel.
If Florence has inspired you, discover more about Italy with our curated Italy Travel Guides to plan your next destination.
Yes, 3 days in Florence is the perfect amount of time. It allows you enough time to leisurely explore its iconic landmarks, such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio, while leaving room for hidden gems and local experiences.
Florence is compact and walkable, but for mobility-friendly travel, taxis, trams, accessible buses, and routes tailored to wheelchair users are great options. Many major attractions, like the Duomo and Uffizi, offer accessible entrances.
Yes, many of Florence’s top museums, including the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia, offer accessibility options like ramps, elevators, and special entrances. It’s best to check accessibility details online or contact the venue in advance.
Pack comfortable, flat-soled shoes (even for mobility aids), weather-appropriate clothing, and a lightweight day bag for essentials. Accessibility aids or mobility devices should also be prepared based on your needs.
Key highlights include the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David), Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and a visit to the Oltrarno district.