One Day in Florence Itinerary (Photos, Location and Google Maps Route)
I have visited many cities in Italy before, but Florence has undeniably stolen my heart. It’s a city full of culture, beauty, life, and… tourists. An unrealistic dream of mine? One day in Florence with no tourists, says a tourist herself (although I like to call myself a traveler).
Quick Tip: TAKE THE TRAIN - If you are visiting Florence for a day even if you have a car if possible take the train. It’s the easiest way to navigate the city and the train station is located in the heart of town, no need to search or pay for parking and your car will most likely be safer somewhere else.
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Just a few minutes walk from the train station, you will come across the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. With its striking black-and-white marble façade, this church is a perfect example of the common architectural style you’ll encounter throughout Tuscany. Quite likely, you’ll see this look so much, you’ll think you’re in a stylish historical Groundhog Day.
Google Maps Location | Website: Admission Fees & Opening Times
Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
Just around a corner, you will find one of Florence’s lesser-known gems: Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. This historic perfume shop dates back to 1221, when the Dominican monks first cultivated a garden at their monastery. Whether or not you plan to buy a bottle of perfume, a visit to this beautiful, fragrant space is a must. The interior is stunning, and the soothing aromas will transport you back in time—plus, it’s free to enter!
Google Maps Location | Website & Opening Times
Giunti Odeon Libreria e Cinema
Truly unique spot in Florence: the Giunti Odeon Libreria e Cinema. Imagine a bookstore right inside a cinema – or, perhaps more accurately, a cinema with a bookstore at its heart. It’s an absolutely amazing concept. Throughout the day the projection screen shows old animated cartoons without the sound but once the store closes, the cinema comes alive with films. It’s free to enter outside of screening times.
Google Maps Location | Website & Opening Times
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
No visit to Florence would be complete without a stop at the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Whether you step inside or simply gaze up at the magnificent façade, this is the must see landmark in Florence.
Google Maps Location | Website: Admission Fees & Opening Times
Piazza Della Signoria
Take a walk to Piazza Della Signoria. This grand square offers beautiful fountains and impressive statues. It’s a great spot to sit and relax, and you might even catch some live street music to add to the experience.
Uffizi Galleries
Short walk from Piazza Della Signoria you’ll find the Uffizi Galleries. Inside, you can explore some of the most celebrated art collections in the world, featuring works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Even if you’re not in the mood to go inside, simply strolling around the galleries and observing the street artists, who often draw and paint nearby, is an experience in itself.
Google Maps Location | Website: Admission Fees & Opening Times
Ponte Vecchio
Another must-see in Florence is the Ponte Vecchio. This historic bridge, famous for its rows of jewelers’ shops, offers picturesque views of the Arno River. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city, and for good reason—it’s unique and charming.
Piazzale Michelangelo
For the best panoramic view of Florence, take a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s a bit of a climb, but trust me, the breathtaking view of the city’s red-tiled rooftops and the rolling Tuscan hills beyond is worth every step and you might even catch some live entertainment to enhance the experience. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to, again and again.
Fotoautomatica
To wrap up your day, stop by one of Florence’s vintage Fotoautomatica photo booths. These charming, analogue photo booths, dotted around the city, offer a nostalgic experience and produce timeless black-and-white film photos. Whether you’re capturing a memory at the start or end of your trip, it’s the perfect way to remember your day in Florence.
Florence in a day: stunning churches, secret perfume shops, iconic landmarks, art-filled galleries, and the breathtaking city view - all walkable and unforgettable. Are you ready to explore? Let’s map it out - full google map route of my day in Florence:
Some more moments I have captured along the way.
