How to Spend One Day in Florence with Citalia

How to Spend One Day in Florence: What To See in Florence, Italy

I know that there is so much to see in Florence and it's merely impossible to see everything in one day. Luckily, Florence is a small city and you can easily explore the city by foot! I had friends and family who visited me for a day and I was able to show them a lot of things in one day. This might exclude entering all of the museums since visiting a museum takes a lot of time, but it's possible to visit maybe just one of them(usually you spend at least 2hours in a museum) and then the rest will be exploring the city. So here's how you can spend one day in Florence with Citalia.

1. Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiori a.k.a. Duomo

This iconic 19th century Gothic Revival Cathedral with Renaissance style interior is hard miss this one if you're in Florence. This is the most iconic building of Florence and definitely a must see! Getting in the Cathedral is free, but to climb up the dome, the bell tower, the crypt, and the baptistry you need to buy a ticket(and a couple of days. their ticket is valid for 3 days and it's for a reason). So I suggest you start with lining up for Cathedral early in the morning, be there around 8 and start lining up. They open at 8:30. 

2. Basilica della Santissima Annunziata

8 minute walk from the Duomo

This Renaissance Basilica with rich Baroque interior is one of the most beautiful churches in Florence in my own opinion. This basilica leaves you stunned by the magnificent frescoes, vaults, motifs, and all of the other details. The exterior may look simple, but the interior is a true marvel.

3. Mercato Centrale

10 minute walk from Basilica della Santissima Annunziata

Have lunch at Mercato Centrale. In this market, you will definitely feel what it's like being a local. This market has two floors, on the ground floor you will find mostly fresh food products and some food stalls/restaurants. The second floor you will find more options of food stalls, cafes, and restaurants with various cuisines. 

Tip: If you visit Mercato Centrale, try out "Lampredotto." It's a Florentine dish, a sanwhich that is made up of cow's innards. I know it doesn't sound good, but I tell you it's very delicious and definitely a must try! Especially that you can only try this one out here in Florence. 

4. Piazza della Repubblica

8 minute walk from Mercato Centrale

It is a square that is surrounded by 19th century buildings, a beautiful arch, and a charming carousel. There are a lot of bars and cafes around this square, so this place is a nice resting stop. 

Tip: If you want to have an amazing view of Piazza della Repubblica and the Duomo, try having a coffee or a drink at the Rinascente roof top. 

5. Piazza della Signoria

3 minute walk from Piazza della Repubblica

This is probably the most beautiful and interesting square in Florence! In this Piazza, there are a lot of things to see around here. You will see Palazzo Vecchio(you can enter the first floor and see the courtyard for free), the Loggia della Signoria(free entrance), Grand duke of Tuscany bronze, Fountain of Neptune, and the Uffizi Gallery nearby. 

Tip: At the left side of Palazzo Vecchio, there's a fountain that has both natural and sparkling water!

6. Ponte Vecchio

4 minute walk from Piazza della Signoria

Another iconic structure in Florence. The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most beautiful bridges in the world and the oldest stone bridge in Europe. It is also the oldest bridge of the city, hence the name "Ponte Vecchio" which means old bridge. On this bridge, you will see a beautiful view of the arno river, and it becomes more romantic at night time. 

Tip: Head over to the next bridge, Ponte Santa Trinita or Ponte alla Grazie, for a full a full view of Ponte Vecchio.

7. Piazzale Michelangelo

20 minute walk from Ponte Vecchio

End your day at Piazzale Michelangelo with a beautiful panoramic view of Florence. Watching the sunset here is just magical! And if you're lucky, there will be someone who will be playing some live music.  

So that's how you discover the real Italy with Citalia. I know one day is not enough to see Florence, but it is definitely enough for you to be blown away by its beauty. Happy travels! :)

If you are staying for more than one day, check out Citalia's website and choose which of the hotels you want to stay.

*This post is in partnership with Citalia*