Are you thinking of covering Florence in 2 days on your solo travel to Italy? If yes, then you are on the right page. Florence is an all-round Italian city. While there is no doubt on that part, I know doing all the must-do things in Florence with a 48-hour time limit is no walk in the park. But with an actionable plan, you’ll be able to tick off the highlights of Florence – the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, etc.
All these highlights of the city lie in a compact area. Thus, it is quite possible to walk and experience a major portion of Florence in 2 days.
In fact, on my solo trip to Florence, I had no time limit. Yet, I was able to explore a mixture of history and art and taste the culture in only two days in the Cradle of the Renaissance.
Based on my experience, I think having a two-day Florence itinerary makes all the difference. So, I decided to share my take on Florence’s guide-cum-itinerary.
Especially if you’re a busy person, this itinerary will save you from curating one yourself. It will guide you in navigating the cobbled-stone streets, skipping the peak hours, avoiding confusion, and prioritise what things to do in Florence in 2 days.
Can you explore Florence in 2 days?
Before moving further with all the nitty-gritty of a 2-day itinerary of Florence, let me answer the primary question. Yes, two days are just enough to see the must-visit places in Florence. You will be able to soak in the culture, explore the city centre and museums, catch sunsets from amazing locations like Piazzale Michelangelo, and also collect unique souvenirs.
2 days as a solo female traveller in Florence: The ultimate itinerary you will ever need
Take.a.deep.Breathe, get ready, and allow me to show you how you can plan and spend two days as a solo female traveller in Florence.
Day 1 of 2 days in Florence: The Duomo + Mercato Centrale + Accademia Gallery + Piazzale Michelangelo
On my first day in Florence, I chose to explore the city center. And it doesn’t require a lot of planning. Only a list of the places and their timing is good to go.
In fact, starting with this is a great way to get familiar with the city. Wear comfortable shoes to walk around without any discomfort.
The morning of Day 1: Start early with a stroll in the historic centre
Start early to witness Florence waking up to a vibrant atmosphere. It is a surreal feeling to experience the city in such a raw form. The morning glow is breathtaking. I loved every step I took. Every turn holds some sort of artistic architecture with Renaissance influence. As you walk through the streets, keep an eye on the miniature windows. Lastly, fill up on a classic Florentine breakfast – cornetti (croissants) and pair it up with a cappuccino or an espresso.
If you do not want to wander off alone, book a walking tour early in the morning. Usually, such tours take around 2 hours (minimum).
Visit the Duomo Complex around 8:30 a.m.
On a solo trip to Florence for two days, the first thing to do is to visit the Duomo. But why so early? Well, from my experience, I feel the earlier you reach, the emptier the place will be. Minus the crowd, you will be able to explore at your pace (isn’t that a bonus?)
Although the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore opens at 10:15 a.m., the other sites of the complex have different opening schedules. Here’s a list to give you an overview:
- Dome – 8:15 a.m.
- Baptistery – 8:30 a.m.
- Giotto’s Bell Tower – 8:15 a.m.
- Main Cathedral – 10:15 a.m.
- Santa Reparata – 10:15 a.m.
- Duomo museum – 8:30 a.m.
You can start with Giotto’s Bell Tower, followed by the Baptistery and climbing the dome (463 steps). Afterward, you can finish it off by exploring the main floor of the Church.
If you do not want to see all the sites, arrange your timing based on your preferences, too. But I would suggest to explore even the nooks and crannies of the complex. You never know what fascinating site you’ll stumble upon. On average, it took me 3-4 hours to cover everything here.
Walk to the Mercato Centrale by 12:00 p.m., which is 6 min from the Duomo.
By the time you complete the Duomo tour, it will be time for lunch. And what better place than Mercato Centrale to eat like a Florentine? (Let me tell you – it’s none!) Mercato Centrale is an indoor foodie’s paradise at San Lorenzo Market.
Here, you can taste-test some freshly prepared pasta with a glass of local wine. Aside from Italian delicacies, you can also taste a variety of international cuisine. But whatever you hog on, keep some room for gelatos (I have a separate tummy for that).
Post–lunch raid the outdoor market of San Lorenzo. If you love anything leather, you’ll love it here. Collect some souvenirs. Click some vibrant photos. Mingle with the locals and make your way to the next destination.
Accademia Gallery at 3:00 p.m.
Your solo trip to Florence, Italy, is incomplete without admiring the Statue of David. One of Michelangelo’s best-known works is sure to stun you. You can also check out the works of other Florence-based artists.
The gallery remains open from 8:15 a.m. to 6:50 p.m. Book tickets in advance to save time on your Florence two-day trip.
4:00 p.m.: Stroll around at Piazza Della Repubblica
Next, just take some time to soak in the beauty of the commercial hub of Florence. You can sit at the square, take a coffee break at a café, or savour some gelatos (there’s no such thing as too many gelatos!). If you are an early diner, finish it here before moving on to the last part of your first day in Florence. For some great views while dining, opt for a rooftop bar and restaurant like Tosca and Nino.
Reach San Miniato Al Monte by 5:30 p.m.
This black-and-white Church is a stunner! The Romanesque architecture, interior, and hilltop location all contribute to its uniqueness. You need to visit it before making a stop at Piazzale Michelangelo. It is just a little walk uphill from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Piazzale Michelangelo by 7:30 p.m.
Now, it is time to slow down and wrap up your day. Once you reach Piazzale Michelangelo in the Oltrarno neighbourhood, find yourself a suitable spot. It gets crowded pretty quickly. To sit back and relax, I would suggest reaching an hour before sunset.
The sunset depends on the time of your visit. If you’re travelling to Florence in the summer, sunset takes place between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. And, if in winter – sunset happens around 6:00 p.m. Accordingly, time your visit in your Florence itinerary.
After catching the city masked in the golden hours, head back to your stay in Florence and call it a night.
Day 2 of 2 days in Florence: Palazzo Vecchio + Uffizi Gallery + Ponte Vecchio + Pitti Palace
After a full-fledged day 1, start your second day in Florence on a soothing note at Palazzo Vecchio. Later in the day, explore your inner art aficionado at the Uffizi Gallery and other gems of Florence like Ponte Vecchio and more.
Visit Palazzo Vecchio around 9:30 a.m.
First, take a walk towards Piazza della Signoria for breakfast. It is the most popular square in Florence, Italy. If you’re already staying in and around the area, you will know it is placed exactly in front of the Palazzo Vecchio.
The square boasts an open-air gallery. You will see Neptune Fountain and a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Thereafter, enter the Palazzo Vecchio for its tour. Plus, for another surreal view of Florence from the top, climb the Arnolfo Tower (highly recommended, ticket price: €12.50).
Around 11:30 a.m., head to the Uffizi Gallery
Piazza della Signoria is also a gateway to the Uffizi Gallery. It is a paid entry. It is 100% worth it if you are an art lover. Who would want to miss a chance to gaze at the work of Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Titian, Cimabue, etc.? I know I didn’t.
Stroll towards Ponte Vecchio around 12:30 p.m.
Okay, this stone bridge has my heart. I have lost count of how many times I have crossed this bridge over the Arno River on my Florence trip. So, there’s no way I would skip this one on the Florence itinerary. The shop windows on the sides are adorable. They mostly sell jewellery.
For your information, Ponte Vecchio is the only bridge to survive World War II. That is another strong reason to visit it on your two-day adventure in Florence.
You will also find several eateries there. It is perfect for lunch.
Take a tour of Pitti Palace at 3:30 p.m.
Are you ready for another walk after lunch? Not much? Do not worry; head over to Pitti Palace. It is right near Ponte Vecchio. You can even visit it for free on the first Sunday of each month from October to March! You must explore the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments here!
Visit one of the popular Florence Gardens – Boboli Garden, at 4:30 p.m.
Just behind the Pitti Palace is Boboli Gardens. This Renaissance garden showcases Florence in a new light. The manicured garden with fountains and pathways will give you an idea of how Italian gardens are.
End your day 2 in Florence with a Tuscan feast
The best way to end this Florence in a 2-day marathon is by having a feast. Some restaurants serve multi-course Tuscan delights.
Where to stay in Florence for 2 days
As a solo traveller in Florence, Italy, for two days, I would suggest you stay in the central location. Although it might be a bit costlier, being close to the attractions is a major advantage when time is limited. Do book them in advance to avoid any last-minute issues!
Three days in Florence – Here’s how to plan an extra day in the city
If you can have an extra day in Florence, Italy, then there’s nothing better than that. I would love to extend my solo trip to Florence for days. It is a city where you can never have enough. But what do you do with extra days? You can explore the neighbourhoods, visit the not-so-known museums, take some classes, or book a Vespa tour in Florence (LINK-1). And, of course, take day trips from Florence (LINK – 4) to delve deeper into the Tuscany region.
Tips to plan a 2-day trip to Florence
- Keep in mind the closed days. Several places remain closed on Sundays and Mondays. Adjust your visit to the city based on that.
- Book tickets for all the tours you wish to do in advance.
- Get yourself a Brunelleschi Pass, in particular for the Duomo. It includes everything.
If you are still wondering about how to reach Florence, the best season to visit Florence, and more basics 101, read my ultimate solo travel guide to Florence. It covers everything you need to know before you start your venture in Florence for two days as a solo female traveller.
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