THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE ITALY
Half Day Florence Itinerary
When in Florence, the Duomo is a must-visit things to do on any list. Centrally located, you can easily walk around its p
erimeter on the way to or from any other. If time is limited, walk around the duomo’s exterior and skip the long line to get inside. Take the time to admire intricate façade and appreciate Filippo Brunelleschi’s dome and Giotto’s Bell Tower from various angles. Look closely at the incredible marble work, a masterpiece for any era. The marble has been cleaned recently exposing the incredible greens, browns, blacks, and terracotta colors. Pictured below is some of the outstanding detail.
Conveniently adjacent is the Baptistery. In a half day you won’t have time to check out its interior but do take the time to stop in front of Lorenzo Ghiberti’s doors. The biblical stories told in the worked bronze of these extraordinary doors are awesome.
The Accademia di Belle Arti Firenze, home to Michelangelo’s David is a short 15 to 20 minute walk from the duomo. To save time waiting to get in be sure to order your tickets in advance—you can do this before your trip, or your hotel concierge can help once you’ve arrived in town.
Full-Day Florence Itinerary
If you have a full day in Florence, consider taking the time to tour the duomo’s interior. For the fit and active, explore Brunelleschi’s revolutionary achievement first-hand by climbing to the top of the dome. Next, you’ll have to choose between the Accademia to check out David or heading to the Uffizi Gallery to see the some of the greatest works of the Renaissance. Again, advance ticket purchase through the web or through your hotel concierge is recommended. The Uffizi is one of the world’s most visited museums. A certified guide can make the visit a pleasure. Guides will take you to see the highlights and describe the masterpieces housed within the walls. If you prefer modern works of “art,” head to the Ferragamo Shoe Museum. In the evening, stroll the streets. Street musicians, gelaterias, and people watching are but a few highlights to enjoy.
