Florence in One Day: Renaissance icons and river views

Florence is a city that feels like a living museum. With every step, you pass masterpieces of art, architecture, and history. Start early at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome offers panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and Arno River. Continue your route to Piazza della Signoria, home to Palazzo Vecchio and an open-air sculpture gallery. Just a short walk away is the legendary Uffizi Gallery, where you can see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and other Renaissance treasures. Many travelers opt to book skip-the-line tickets or guided tours here, highly recommended to make the most of your time. Cross the Ponte Vecchio for a view that looks like a painting come to life, and end your afternoon at Piazzale Michelangelo to catch a golden sunset over the city skyline. Tips: • Book your Uffizi or Accademia Gallery tickets in advance, these are Florence’s most visited spots • If possible, reserve a table on a rooftop bar near the Arno for sunset drinks • Early morning is best to visit the Duomo without crowds • Many day tours also include Florence + Pisa or Chianti, ideal for short stays #florence