Italian Summer (Florence)

Arno River in Florence, Italy ; picture by Anieka Travels

As my Italian summer vacation in 2023 was nearing its end, I spent a brief day in Florence, while I was in Tuscany. I wish I had the opportunity to stay a few days in Florence, but unfortunately, there was not enough time. I absolutely loved the city and had the most fun with the limited time I had. Keep reading to learn more about Florence, but for information about Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or the countryside of Tuscany, read my other Italian blogs listed under my blogs page. The Italian Summer blogs are meant to help my readers, who are planning future vacations to Italy and may need some inspiration for their itineraries. In this blog, I list my itinerary for my day spent in Florence as well as attractions I wish I had time to see. Keep reading, if you're planning a trip to Florence, for an idea of the attractions you should visit while you're there.

Itinerary

Galleria Accademia Firenze (Statue of David)

Close up of the Statue of David at the Galleria Accademia in Florence; picture by Anieka Travels

This was my favorite attraction I visited while in Florence, and one I may go to again, if I ever find myself in Florence in the future. The Galleria Accademia Firenze is the home of the majestic statue of David. The museum was actually designed and built for the statue, replicating the interior of the common catholic church, with David being presented underneath the dome. The statue of David had been in the Piazza della Signoria  for centuries, but after being vandalized on a few occasions, the museum was created to keep him protected. Now, people wait in lines for hours to have a view of him. However, you don't need to be one of these people. I would suggest booking a self guided tour through Viator or Tripadvisor, and getting to the museum early in the morning to beat the crowds. The hassle will be very worth it, believe me. I was amazed by the detail Michelangelo put into every muscle and vein while carving David. As I admired the statue, I was filled with wonder at how a man could have had so much vision and talent to sculpt something so perfect. Whether you're an art fanatic or not, the statue of David is a must see while in Florence.

Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore

Street view of the infamous dome of the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy; picture by Anieka Travels

After getting out of the Galleria Accademia Firenze, I grabbed a quick bite to eat around the corner from the museum, and then continued along to the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore. Being the third largest church in the world, it looms over the Piazza del Duomo, where it has stood since the 15th century. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and I would recommend walking around its exterior to observe the details of its design. Unfortunately, I did not go inside of the church, because it was already midday and the lines were insane to get in. Instead, I got gelato at a gelateria on the square and admired the church from afar, before moving along to another attraction.

Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio

An alleyway connected to Piazza della Signoria in Florence, Italy; picture by Anieka Travels

The Piazza della Signoria is the original home of the statue of David, before he was vandalized and moved to the Galleria Accademia Firenze. This square wasn't the most impressive square, in my opinion, but it has many castings of famous statues scattered around its perimeter, which you may be interested in. There is a casting of David's statue still there from where he used to stand along with many others. This is also where the Palazzo Vecchio is located, which is another museum of art and history. I did not have the time to go in, and only saw it on my way to Ponte Vecchio, but if you're looking for a museum to visit while in Florence, this is one of many you should visit.

Ponte Vecchio

The bridge, Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy; picture by Anieka Travels

Known for its street vendors, shops and eateries, you will have a beautiful view of the canal as you walk over the bride, Ponte Vecchio. I walked along the bridge as my final attraction and window shopped, before eating dinner at a quaint restaurant down the street. This bridge is a very busy tourist attraction so don't be surprised if it's buzzing with people. To avoid the crowds, I would recommend visiting this spot early in the morning, however I think going at sunset is most beautiful. 

After visiting Ponte Vecchio we made our way back to the train station to make our journey back to the Tuscan countryside. Everything I listed in my itinerary was what I was able to accomplish in a day in Florence. Keep reading for other attractions which I wish I had been able to see if I had stayed a few more days there.

Other Sights I Recommend Visiting

Palazzo Medici Riccardi

The Medici family was one of the most influential families in Italian history, and one of their most famous estates is located right in the heart of Florence. Now used as a museum, the Palazzo Medici Riccardi is known for its historical Italian galleries, and possessions of the Medici Family. If you're a history fanatic, or simply someone who is interested in the Medici family, I recommend adding this 15th century palace to your itinerary.

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

This Dominican 14th century basilica is a beautiful blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque, and Classical architecture. It is considered the first great basilica of Florence, and a must see when you're traversing through the city. With the Basilica being just a quick stroll from the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, these two breathtaking religious buildings can both be easily visited all in one day.

Palazzo Pitti

From the 15th century, this predominantly Renaissance palace was produced by a Florentine Banker, Luca Pitti, and was later sold to the Medici family in 1550, becoming a symbol of the family's power over Tuscany. The palace is located on the other side of the Arno River, which is a bit of a walk from the city center. However, behind the palace are the stunning Gardens of Boboli, which houses many picturesque spots like the Fontana del Carciofo, Fontana del Nettuno, and the Fontana dell'Oceano. Plan to explore this area of Florence on a sunny fresh day, where you can appreciate the statues and botanicals throughout the gardens, as well as the palace.

Portrait in front of the Arno River with Ponte Vecchio in the background in Florence, Italy; picture by family member

After the fact, I now know I shouldn't have tried to cram Florence all into one day, while still expecting to appreciate the city. The entire day, my family and I were rushing around, trying to see all the attractions we had on our list. By the end, we were tired and felt like we didn't truly get a feel for Florence as a city. This being said, I recommend that you plan a few days in Florence, and book a hotel room or airbnb directly in the city. This way, you can take breaks in between excursions, and have enough time to see everything in a relaxed manner. What I saw of Florence, I absolutely loved and I would say that the city is a must see when you're in Italy, especially if you're already going somewhere in Tuscany. There's so much artistic, spiritual, and societal history there. I know you'll love it as much as or even more than I did. 

I do wish this blog gave you some ideas for your Italian summer vacation. Like always, thank you for reading and if you're wanting updates on new destinations and blog articles, follow me on instagram @aniekasarmer, or subscribe to this blog's newsletter.

Now go out and explore the world!

Love,

Anieka  ♡