Weekend in Florence
- Stephanie Michaud
- Nov 12, 2017
- 3 min read
The birthplace of the Renaissance and home to the Negroni, Florence seemed a logical first destination to kick off our exploration of Italy. A quick 1.5 hour flight from Paris, we met up with some friends from Canada who were already in country on a longer trip.
Trip Itinerary
Florence is a large city, but you really don't need a car to get around and see the main sights. We stayed right at the the Piazza de Duomo, which is walking distance to all the major museums, galleries, food destinations, and the main train station. November is hit and miss with weather, so we did have to rearrange our schedule a bit due to the weather- but the upside is that the crowds were smaller than during the summertime. Just make sure to pack rain gear or umbrella if you are visiting during the shoulder season!
Approximate Trip Cost
Splitting an AirBnB apartment with our friends, traveling in offseason, and being sure to avoid the major tourist restaurants in the major piazzas made for a relatively affordable trip. Museum tickets are also in the range of 8-20 euros, so you can see plenty without spending top dollar. The first Sunday of the month is also free admission to most museums, so we were also able to take advantage during our visit.
Accommodation for 4 nights, museum tickets for per couple: approximately $600.
Destination Map
Even if you are visiting during low season, it is essential to book museum tickets in advance in order to avoid waiting in the ticket purchase line, then the entry line. In some cases, like climbing up into Brunelleschi's dome, they only allow a certain number of visitors per day, and you don't want to miss out! Also, double check you are purchasing your tickets and tours from the official museum sites. I was surprised at how many 3rd party ticketing sites there were- be certain your tickets are legit before you buy.
The highlight of our trip was the 'Little Peek on Florence' tour of the Duomo Complex. This tour includes entrance into the Cathedral on a tour with an english speaking guide, and access to areas that are closed to regular visitors. Since the Duomo Complex sees so many visitors each day, a typical visitor must walk single file through a small designated area of the Cathedral- but with the tour, you can walk and truly admire the stunning marble floor, sunset clock, and frescos. You also gain access to the North Terrace of the Cathedral, exclusive to the tour. The tour only lasts an hour, but you can skip the line to climb up to the Dome after, and visit all the other areas of the complex within 48 hours of your visit. Totally worth the extra cost.
As for visiting other sites, we mostly enjoyed walking around the city. Even with some fairly consistent downpours on Saturday and Sunday, it was still beautiful, and we found plenty of fun restaurants and shops along the way. I tried to compile as many places as possible in the Google Map pictured below here.
Helpful Links
This was how I discovered the 'Little Peek on Florence' tour. Great recommendations on making the most of your day at the Duomo Complex, including timing and scheduling.
A direct link to purchase the tour from the Il Grande Museo del Duomo website. A must see!
I absolutely loved this collection of city guide tips and recommendations from several different people's perspectives: photographer, web designer, art historian, social media blogger, and entrepreneur. In each of their recommendations, there is something for everyone- and makes it easy to step out of your typical itinerary and try something new!
The official website, use the link to purchase your tickets online and book your entrance time in advance.
A great list with personalized descriptions of top cocktail bars in Florence- I would highly recommend Manifattura. Excellent service, authentic Italian spirits, with classic and modernized cocktails.
A great explanation of 'coperto' cover charge at restaurants, and standing vs sitting when ordering an espresso.
Girl in Florence's blog is a wealth of information and there are plenty of relevant posts- no matter your interests.
Happy Adventures!
Stephanie
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