Some places end up on your travel list because you’ve seen the photos. Florence landed on mine because of homework.

Back in college, I took an entire class on Dante’s Divine Comedy, and somewhere between wandering through the circles of Hell, climbing the mountain of Purgatory, and reaching Paradise, I knew I wanted to see the city that inspired one of history’s greatest literary works. Fast forward a few years (okay…more than a few), and there I was standing in Piazza del Duomo, trying to decide whether to stare at Brunelleschi’s incredible dome or simply wonder how people managed to build something this spectacular nearly 600 years ago.

If you only have one day in Florence, don’t worry—you can still pack in plenty of history, art, food, and just enough gelato to justify all the walking.

Start Early at the Duomo

The early bird doesn’t just get the worm in Florence—it gets to skip some very long lines.

The Duomo complex is one of Italy’s most visited attractions, so plan to arrive before the crowds. Depending on how adventurous (or energetic) you’re feeling, there are three ticket options that let you experience different parts of this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you choose to climb Brunelleschi’s famous dome (time permitting, or course. I skipped it to stay on schedule), tackle Giotto’s Bell Tower, or simply explore the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the excellent Opera del Duomo Museum, you’ll quickly understand why Florence became the birthplace of the Renaissance.

Don’t skip the museum. While everyone rushes toward the cathedral itself, the museum tells the story behind the masterpiece, housing original sculptures, stunning artwork, and the original bronze doors from the Baptistery. It’s the perfect place to appreciate not just what you’re seeing, but how revolutionary it all was for its time.

See the Highlights on Foot

Once you’ve soaked in the Duomo, you don’t have to wander aimlessly wondering what to see next. A guided walking tour is one of the easiest ways to experience Florence when you’re short on time, and even better—it meets just around the corner from the cathedral.

Over the next couple of hours you’ll stroll through Florence’s historic center, hearing stories about the Medici family, spotting hidden details you’d otherwise walk right past, crossing famous piazzas, and discovering why this relatively compact city changed the course of art, architecture, science, and politics. Sometimes having someone connect the dots between buildings turns a pretty city into an unforgettable one. It’s a great way to see the city highlights and learn something along the way!

Save Time for the Uffizi

Conveniently, many walking tours wrap up just steps from the Uffizi Gallery—which works out perfectly because if you enjoy history or art even a little, this museum belongs on your itinerary.

Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and countless others, the Uffizi isn’t just another art museum—it’s one of the most important collections in the world. Even if you don’t know your Renaissance artists by heart, you’ll probably recognize more famous paintings than you expect. Reserve your tickets ahead of time and you’ll spend more time admiring art and less time admiring the back of someone else’s head in the ticket line.

Take a Break…But Don’t Fill Up Yet

After a day filled with Renaissance masterpieces, it’s time to slow the pace. Wander back toward the Duomo through Florence’s charming streets, duck into a café, sip an Aperol Spritz or a glass of Tuscan wine, and enjoy a small bite while watching the city go by. Just don’t spoil your appetite—you’ve got a delicious finale waiting.

End the Day Like an Italian

When in Rome…I mean, Florence…

What better way to finish your visit than learning to make two of Italy’s greatest culinary gifts? An evening pizza and gelato making class is equal parts dinner, dessert, and entertainment. You’ll stretch dough, perfect your pizza, create authentic Italian gelato, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor with your fellow travelers. Sure, you could just order pizza. But saying you made your own in Florence? That’s a much better souvenir.

Looking for a Place to Stay?

If you’re planning to spend the night—or simply want to treat yourself—consider splurging on Hotel Duomo. Book one of the balcony rooms and you’ll wake up with one of the most iconic views in all of Italy right outside your window. It’s hard to beat sipping your morning coffee while staring directly at Brunelleschi’s masterpiece.

Have More Than One Day?

Lucky you! Florence deserves more than a whirlwind visit, with incredible museums, hidden neighborhoods, day trips into Tuscany, and enough amazing food to keep you happily exploring for days. Check out more Florence inspirations here—you might just find an excuse to extend your stay.

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