Visit Florence in 2 days
20 must-see POIs, optimized routes and anecdotes.
48 hours in Florence: strolling, art and hidden treasures
Two days in Florence are lived as a succession of images that you keep for a long time. Starting from Santa Maria Nuova Hospital and ending at Loggia del Grano, this itinerary takes you through vibrant squares, elegant palaces and history-filled churches. You will walk a lot, you will stop at random, and you will leave with clear impressions rather than copied lists of monuments.
The route favors the historic center and nearby banks, alternating contemplative mornings and afternoons of more dynamic discoveries. The pace is designed so that you can savor each step without rushing: a coffee break, a prolonged look at a façade, a detour to a little shop. The idea is to enjoy the city as one leafs through a travel notebook, page after page.
Expect contrasts: busy streets, quiet squares, monumental art and discreet details. Some stops are obvious — Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Repubblica — others offer a more intimate feeling, like the palaces and small churches that dot the itinerary. The route emphasizes the stroll, the heritage and the scenic viewpoints that turn a short visit into a lasting memory.
Before you go, keep in mind that this program is designed to be modular: adjust breaks, replace a visit with a tasting, or linger in a place that attracts you. The goal is simple: to depart with the soul of the city, and not only its postcards.
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You will visit the most beautiful points of interest in Florence
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Day-by-day summary
Day 1: From Santa Maria Nuova Hospital in the morning, you move on to the Church of San Michele Visdomini and the Niccolini Palace before arriving at Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. After a break, continue to Palazzo Dardinelli-Fenzi and Palazzo Fenzi. In the late afternoon, stop at the monument to General Manfredo Fanti and let the city guide you for a peaceful stroll. This first day emphasizes discovery, architecture and local atmospheres.
Day 2: Dedicate the morning to Santa Maria del Fiore, then explore the Gate of the Mandorla and the statue of Giovanni delle Bande Nere. Continue to Palazzo Pola e Todescan and the Church of Orsanmichele. The afternoon takes you to Piazza della Repubblica, the Basilica Santa Trinita and the Ponte Santa Trinita, before crossing to the Pitti Palace. End your circuit at Loggia del Grano. The second day emphasizes major monuments, riverside walks and great squares, with moments to sit down and contemplate.
Day 1 - Florence
10 POIs to discoverDay 1 - Morning à Florence
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 1.2 km - Walking : 0h15
Palazzo Fenzi
- Palazzo Fenzi is a historical building which today belongs to the University of Florence, home to the Department of History, Archaeology, Geography, Art, and Performance (SAGAS).
- The building was designed by Gherardo Silvani and its construction started in 1628-1630 for the Castelli family.
- It underwent significant architectural and artistic transformations in the 17th and 18th centuries, including various notable frescoes, the works of Sebastiano Ricci from 1706-1707 being some of the most significant.
- One noteworthy development was the creation of a thoroughly independent building to house Francesco Marucelli's large book collection.
- This repurposing of the back area of the estate created what was the first public library of its kind in Florence.
- In 1783, it was bought by Brunaccini family and in 1829, by Emanuele Fenzi, a prominent banker and constructor of the Leopolda railway line.
- It is elaborately decorated, with a large central gated portal featuring grotesque figures of Satyrs, work of Raffaele Curradi, dating to 1634, and bronzed manuscripts of turtles on the ground floor window grates.
Palazzo Niccolini
- The Niccolini palace, formerly Ciaini-Da Montauto, was originally owned by the Ciaini da Montauto family, a wealthy family from the 1300s due to the economic skills of Bastiano Ciaini. In the 1500s, Bastiano Ciaini built the palace where some ancient houses already existed, yet he died shortly after its completion.
- In 1575, Ciaini's descendants had to sell the family palace to Giovanni Niccolini, who paid a considerable amount for the prestigious construction.
- Giovanni Niccolini significantly renovated and expanded the palace at the end of the century, adding a second courtyard facing a majestic facade, and enriching the building with paintings and murals.
- The palace underwent numerous ownership changes and transformations during the 20th century, including being used as a headquarters for the fascist party, housing for Anglo-American troops, headquarters of the Communist Party, and more.
- Today, the building is used as the regional Court of Accounts for Tuscany.
Monument to General Manfredo Fanti, Florence
- The Monument to General Manfredo Fanti commemorates the Italian general Manfredo Fanti (1806-1865), who played a significant role in battles for Italian independence and unification.
- The statue was created by Pio Fedi and was erected in 1873.
- The statue stands before the headquarters of the Royal Military Command, seemingly ready to step off its pedestal.
- The base of the statue features two marble bas-reliefs: one depicting the arms of war, and the other an event from the Battle of San Martino.
- Corner figures symbolize politics, strategy, tactics, and fortifications.
- The statue shows Manfredo Fanti bare-headed and balding, a stark contrast to Fedi's helmeted figure of Pyrrhus in his other masterpiece, the Rape of Polyxena.
- The inscription on the plinth details Fanti's life, highlighting his love for freedom, exile in 1831, military learning in Spain, and his role in uniting Italy.
- He passed away on April 5, 1865.
Piazza della Santissima Annunziata
- Piazza della Santissima Annunziata has been named since the second half of the 13th century, in connection with the primitive church founded in the same period by the Servi di Maria.
- The piazza is considered an architectural model of Renaissance urban design, featuring a uniform character amongst Florentine squares and best represents the ideals of the city during the Renaissance.
- The Basilica of Santissima Annunziata, one of the most important sacred buildings in Florence, dominates the square.
- In the center of the square stands the equestrian monument to Ferdinando I de' Medici, completed by Pietro Tacca, with two fountains featuring sea creatures, masterpieces of Tacca and Mannerist sculpture.
- The piazza, with its basilica, has undergone several phases of expansion since its establishment, involving some of the greatest Renaissance architects and leading its current harmonious stylistic appearance.
- Today, the square is the focal point of several city festivals and markets, particularly the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary (25 March) and the Nativity of Mary (8 September).
Palazzo Dardinelli-Fenzi
- The Palazzo Dardinelli-Fenzi was built for the Dardinelli family in the late 16th century.
- Its facade is well recognized for its lavish graffiti.
- The architect of the building was Santi di Tito.
- The Dardinelli family's coat of arms is located at the center of the facade.
- The Fenzi family, who purchased it in the 19th century, also has their coat of arms displayed higher up on the building.
- The Fenzi family combined it with their other large family palace.
Day 1 - Afternoon à Florence
5 Points of interest - Duration : 2h45 - Distance : 1 km - Walking : 0h13
Florence Cathedral
- �� The construction of the cathedral began in the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century.
- It is an important landmark in the history of architecture.
- It is a stunning example of Italian Gothic architecture with its large dome, bell tower and elaborate facade.
- The dome of Santa Maria del Fiore, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is one of the largest in the world and an architectural marvel.
- The bell tower, known as Giotto's Campanile, is a free-standing structure that offers panoramic views of Florence.
- The cathedral is an important place of worship and has been the scene of significant religious events over the centuries.
Orsanmichele
- �� Originally a barn, the Church of Orsanmichele was converted into a church in the 14th century.
- The church features an impressive facade and a series of statues in its niches.
- The name "Orsanmichele" is derived from "Orto di San Michele", meaning "Orchard of St.
- Michael", referring to its origin as a granary.
- Inside it houses a collection of remarkable sculptures and paintings, including works by prominent artists.
- Throughout its history, the church has served as a place of worship and prayer.
Palazzo Pola e Todescan
- Palazzo Pola e Todescan, also known as casa Paggi, is a civil building that was erected between 1901 and 1903 by Fratelli Taiuti construction company based on the designs of Giovanni Paciarelli.
- Originally, the building hosted a large warehouse, specializing in the sale of affordable goods.
- It is now occupied mostly by a bank and as of 2021, a restaurant inspired by Sofia Loren's cuisine.
- The architectural style of the building, designed by Paciarelli, is a blend of the emerging Liberty style and 19th century style, showing an imposing mass decorated with sculpted protomes, colored ceramic friezes, and wrought iron works.
- The building extends over three more floors beyond the ground floor, with travertine-coated colonnades on the ground floor and a mezzanine floor.
- The ground floor spaces feature large window displays.
- The ornamentation of the building, with ceramic mirrors and balconies enhanced with male and female protomes, breaks away from the traditional architectural styles of the 16th and 17th centuries.
- Despite initial criticism for deviating from the traditional architectural styles, this building is now heralded as an early example of the penetration of modernist style in the city's ancient center.
Statue of Giovanni delle Bande Nere
- The monument to Giovanni delle Bande Nere was commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici in 1540 and made by Baccio Bandinelli.
- The statue should initially have been placed in the Neroni Chapel inside the San Lorenzo basilica, thus explaining the depicted warrior seated atop the base. ⌛ Despite an initial deadline of two years, the work was not completed before Bandinelli's death in 1560.
- The base of the monument was transformed into a public-use fountain by Giuseppe Del Rosso in 1812.
- The statue was only put in its current place in 1850 under the supervision of engineer Alessandro Manetti.
- The monument went through various restorations and renovations, the most recent of which took place in 2012.
Porta della Mandorla
- �� The construction of the Mandorla Door was done between 1391 and 1423 by various sculptors, including Giovanni d'Ambrogio, Donatello, and Nanni di Banco.
- The door's sculptures are significant in art history as they were crafted during the transition between the final Gothic phase and the early Renaissance.
- It was the last side door to be constructed and is regarded as the most beautiful of all four.
- Between 1489-1490, the Annunciation mosaic in the lunette was completed by artist David Ghirlandaio with help from his more famous brother Domenico.
- The portal was subject to significant restoration, commencing in 2002 and concluding on June 5, 2012.
- The sculptural decoration theme is of the Virgin Mary and her saving mission for humanity, with a significant part of it being the handover of the cinch during her ascension (the apex's relief).
- The portal is decorated with bas-relief plant decorations on the half-pillars, crosspiece, and archivolt.
Day 2 - Florence
10 POIs to discoverDay 2 - Morning à Florence
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h15 - Distance : 2.7 km - Walking : 0h36
Loggia del Pesce
- The Loggia del Pesce, located in Florence, Italy, in the Piazza dei Ciompi, is one of the city's loggias.
- Unlike conventional loggias, its four sides are open, and it is not attached to any other building.
- It was built by Giorgio Vasari by order of Cosimo I in 1567 to relocate the fishmongers who used to be near the Ponte Vecchio.
- It was dismantled during the redevelopment of Florence in the 1880s and rebuilt in its present location in Piazza dei Ciompi in 1956.
- The loggia is decorated with nine arches and features pillars and columns of pietra serena.
- It has medallions depicting the sea, fishing and activities related to its original function as a fish market.
- At the corners of the loggia, there are four coats of arms, and in the center of the main facades, there is a cartouche that recalls the commission of the grand duke.
Basilica of the Holy Trinity
- �� This Gothic-style church was built in the 13th century and is known for its history and its connection to the Order of Friars Minor.
- The church features an elegant bell tower that is part of the Florence skyline.
- It houses an impressive collection of sacred art, including paintings and sculptures by prominent artists.
- The church has been of great religious importance over the centuries and remains a place of worship today.
- In addition to its historical and artistic value, the church continues to be a place where religious services are held.
Hospital of Santa Maria Nuova
- The Hospital of Santa Maria Nuova in Florence, Italy, is one of the oldest and most functioning hospitals in the city.
- Founded between 1285 and 1288, it can accommodate approximately 2000 patients.
- It was founded by Folco Portinari, the father of Beatrice Portinari, who was idealized by Dante Alighieri in his works.
- Monna Tessa, a servant of the family, persuaded Portinari to build the hospital in 1285.
- Over the years, the hospital has grown thanks to donations from citizens.
- Some of the masterpieces that decorated the hospital have been moved to nearby museums, such as the National Museum of San Marco.
San Michele Visdomini
- The Church of San Michele, also known as San Michelino Visdomini, is a Catholic place of worship with its current building commencing in 1364.
- The church houses various artworks such as the pales from Poppi, Empoli, and Passignano, and Pala Pucci, a masterpiece by Pontormo, made in 1518.
- The Church underwent major renovations upon the arrival of Celestine monks, creating new chapels and shifting the entrance to open to a small square.The flood of 1966 severely damaged the church, during the restoration, remains of frescoes from the 14th century were discovered in the transept.
- Renowned painter Filippino Lippi was buried in the church as per a plaque on the church facade.
- The church has a single nave layout with lateral altars and a transept opening into two more chapels and a central one.
Loggia del Grano
- La Loggia del Grano in Florence is a listed national artistic heritage building, according to a list made by the Direzione Generale delle Antichità e Belle Arti in 1901.
- The loggia has historically been used as a grain market, with the purchase and sale of grain happening daily, supervised by the "Ufficiali della Grascia" who ensured the quality, quantity, and price regularity.
- The old Florentine saying "a tutto spiano" (with total abundance) is connected to the loggia, since "spiano" was the measure of grain assigned to bakers each month, if there were no product shortages.
- The current structure was commenced in 1619 by architect Giulio Parigi, commissioned by Grand Duke Cosimo II, to replace the previous structure that was no longer suitable for the city's needs.
- By 1690, the loggia lost its original role and underwent various transformations.
- It was used as a printing house, the editorial office of the Il Monitore Toscano newspaper, and was even converted into a theatre by architect Andrea Scala, commissioned by actor Tommaso Salvini.
- As of December 14, 2022, the loggia became the location of the Coin department store, after having been used as an ethnographic market, a restaurant, and an outdoor bookstall in the early 1990s.
Day 2 - Afternoon à Florence
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 1.2 km - Walking : 0h16
Ponte Vecchio
- �� Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest bridges in Europe and its history dates back to the Middle Ages.
- From the bridge, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Arno River and other bridges in Florence.
- The bridge is famous for its medieval architecture and for being lined with jewelry stores and workshops.
- The stores along the bridge offer jewelry and luxury goods, making it an exclusive shopping destination.
Palazzo Vecchio
- Palazzo Vecchio is an iconic building that houses the offices of the city's Town Hall and is open to the public as a museum.
- The building is notable for its iconic Arnolfo Tower.
- Palazzo Vecchio served as the residence of Cosimo I de Medici and was the seat of government when Florence became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy between 1865 and 1871.
- Inside, the palace features an impressive accumulation of artwork, including murals, paintings and sculptures.
- Palazzo Vecchio also boasts an impressive inner courtyard and a bell tower that was used as a prison in the past.
Loggia del Mercato Nuovo
- �� This loggia, also known as the "Porcellino" because of the famous fountain nearby, dates back to the 16th century.
- It is famous for being a place where leather goods and souvenirs are sold, making it a popular shopping destination.
- The nearby fountain depicts a wild boar and is an iconic symbol of the city.
- The loggia features Renaissance architecture with columns and arches that have been maintained over time.
Ponte Santa Trinita
- �� Santa Trinita Bridge was built in the 16th century and is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture.
- It is known for its elegant architectural design, with three arches reflecting in the water.
- From the bridge, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Arno River and other Florentine monuments.
- In spring and summer, the bridge is adorned with flowers, which gives it an additional charm.
Pitti Palace
- �� Pitti Palace, built in the 15th century, has witnessed the history and royalty of Florence.
- It features an impressive Italian Renaissance style with its imposing façade and gardens.
- The beautiful Boboli Gardens, which are part of the complex, offer a unique natural experience.
- The palace houses several art galleries with masterpieces by famous painters, such as Titian and Raphael.
- From the gardens, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Florence.
Practical details for visiting Florence
Where to stay
Choosing accommodation close to the center helps maximize discovery time: favor the historic center to be within walking distance of the main sites, or a neighboring district if you are seeking calm and softer rates. Types of accommodation range from small charming hotels to independent apartments, including family-run inns. For a two-day stay, a boutique hotel or a central apartment offers a good balance between comfort and accessibility.
Prices vary by season and location: economical options near the tourist hubs, mid-range establishments with more services, and comfortable addresses for a more polished experience. Consider checking the walking proximity to the start and end points of your itinerary to optimize your movements and breaks. Keep in mind that the essential is to be near the places you want to explore to fully enjoy your two days.
Getting around
The best way to approach this itinerary is walking: many of the stops are within short distances of one another and the city lends itself to a stroll. For longer journeys or if you prefer to spare your legs, check local bus lines and available ride-sharing options. The center is generally accessible without a car, which encourages strolling and spontaneous discoveries.
If you want to save time, combine walking and public transport as needed. Also consider cycling for certain connections, but take into account cobblestone streets and the pedestrian pace. In short: walking, buses as needed, and bikes for the more active; always favor smooth transitions between stops to leave time for visits.
What to bring
Adapt your suitcase to the season, prioritizing comfort for walking several hours a day. Comfortable and flexible shoes are essential, as well as a lightweight bag to carry a bottle of water, a camera and a few purchases. Plan for a lightweight rain garment if the weather is uncertain and layers that are easy to remove if temperatures fluctuate.
For visits to churches and religious sites, bring a scarf or clothing that covers the shoulders. Don’t forget electrical adapters if needed and a digital copy of your reservations. In short: comfortable shoes, modular clothing and a small practical bag to enjoy without being burdened.
Advance reservations
For an efficient two-day stay, it is wise to book some key visits and a few restaurants if you have precise preferences. Prioritize reservations for highly demanded museums, themed guided tours and reputable restaurants, especially in high season. This will save you from queues and guarantee you a spot at times that fit well into your program.
It is also useful to plan time slots for specific activities in order to organize your days without improvising too often. In short: reserve museums, guided tours and popular restaurants in advance if you want to optimize time and avoid setbacks.
Extras not to miss
Beyond the main itinerary, consider adding a few experiences to enrich your getaway: peaceful strolls through less frequented alleys, stops in small artisan shops, and pauses in cafés that allow you to watch the city go by. Local markets and small galleries can reveal unexpected treasures, perfect for unique souvenirs.
For a different activity, inquire about Coddy's urban escape games which offer playful and immersive city routes. These games allow you to discover neighborhoods from a new angle and blend puzzles and exploration. Finally, favor moments of observation of the squares and bridges to feel the city's true atmosphere.
Local delights
The city is tasted along the pauses: stop for local specialties in neighborhood cafés and trattorias, sample the small pastries and the drinks that pace the day. Markets and small stalls offer take-away products ideal for an improvised picnic between two visits. Look for establishments where there is attention to the quality of the products and a friendly atmosphere.
For an authentic experience, try simple, well-made dishes in places frequented by locals. Morning coffees and late-afternoon aperitifs are perfect moments to immerse yourself in local life. Focus on fresh produce, traditional flavors and neighborhood addresses for tasty discoveries that accompany your strolls.
When to visit Florence and how much it costs
Best seasons
Choosing the right moment strongly influences the experience. The intermediate seasons often offer a balance between pleasant weather and moderate crowds, while peak periods bring more bustle but also longer waits for must-see sites. Local occasional events can add an interesting dimension to your stay if you enjoy a more festive atmosphere.
If you are seeking calm and comfortable visits, favor less touristic periods; if you want a livelier city, aim for more crowded moments. In any case, weigh weather, crowds and events to choose the window that best matches your priorities.
Crowds
Footfall varies by season and place. The major sites naturally attract more people, and some squares can be very lively during the day. To avoid the crowds, start your most popular visits early or book time slots in advance. Side streets and some lesser-known palaces offer calmer pauses if you want to escape the tourist flows.
By planning trips outside peak hours and favoring walking, you will easily find moments of quiet. Consider including breaks in cafés or gardens to space out your visits and reduce the sense of crowds. Useful strategies include booking, temporarily distancing yourself from major sites, and morning visits to enjoy more breathable spaces.
Estimated budget
<h3>Economical budget</h3><p>Economical budget: Plan for modest accommodation or a hostel, simple meals in trattorias and market snacks, and favor outdoor and free visits. The main expenses will be accommodation and food; balance with walking and inexpensive activities. Tip: buy some local products at the market for a cheap and tasty meal.</p>
<h3>Medium budget</h3><p>Medium budget: Choose a mid-range hotel or central apartment. Combine mid-range restaurants, paid entries for certain visits and one or two guided experiences. This budget allows for decent comfort, fewer time constraints and the ability to book slots for museums or popular tours. Plan a little extra for souvenirs and small side trips off the itinerary.</p>
<h3>Comfortable budget</h3><p>Comfort budget: Opt for a neat hotel or boutique accommodation, book tables in renowned restaurants and enjoy private guided tours or tailor-made experiences. This budget level offers more flexibility, pleasant rest times between visits, and the possibility to choose add-on services to save time and increase comfort.</p>
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Florence
Ready to go?
These two days are an invitation to feel the city rather than skim it. Between Santa Maria Nuova Hospital and Loggia del Grano, you will have traversed major arteries and hidden corners, alternating large squares, palaces and riverside strolls. Let yourself be surprised by detours, take time for a pause, and keep a few moments to breathe in the local atmosphere.
By traveling this way, you turn a time-bound visit into a succession of lasting impressions. Carry with you the feel of the narrow streets, the calm of a basilica between two flows, and the warmth of a well-chosen pause. Have a great stay, and enjoy every step.
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Discover our urban escape games to transform your visit into an interactive adventure!
