Itineraries for Your Trip to Florence
3 Days in Florence for Families
Sure, Florence is home to the most iconic Renaissance art and architecture in the world. But this Tuscan capital also has a compact historic center that’s easy to explore on foot, a wide variety of engaging museums, and plenty of car-free squares and parks—making it one of Italy’s most kid-friendly cities.
Florence has long been our family’s go-to destination for a day trip or weekend away. Over the years, our sons have progressed from tot-sized entertainment like the beloved carousel in Piazza della Repubblica to sights suited for teens like the Galileo Museum. But certain highlights have withstood the test of time—like the best gelato in Italy. Here’s how to make your family visit special for all ages.
Ringed by hills, Florence is muggy in the summer and damp in the winter. Pack your coolest or warmest clothes, depending on when you visit.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome.
Spend your first morning getting a lay of the land. A walking tour designed for families—complete with games and gelato—is a great way to bring the city’s rich history to life for young visitors.
Afterwards, it’s time to get a bird’s-eye view. Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s famous dome or Giotto’s bell tower, both part of the city’s cathedral complex, or the Arnolfo Tower adjacent to Palazzo della Signoria. If you’re with tots who can’t handle the steps, head to the Bardini Garden or Rose Garden (about 15 minutes from Ponte Vecchio on foot) for great views and space to play.
End the day in Piazza della Repubblica, Florence’s grandest square. Toddlers will make a beeline for the carousel, older kids will be entertained by the buskers and street artists, and teens can pop into the trendy shops nearby. And for the grownups, a Spritz awaits at Caffè Gilli.
Start your day at the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David and a guaranteed hit for the whole family. Skip-the-line tickets are a must.
Take a break from culture this afternoon and explore Florentine cuisine. Opt for a food tour that stops for tastings at local markets, gourmet shops, and street food stands—or a hands-on cooking class to make crowd-pleasers like pizza and gelato from scratch.
Pick another one of Florence’s excellent museums to explore this morning. The blockbuster Uffizi Gallery is best for older kids, while the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Galileo Museum, and Natural History Museum will keep younger ones entertained.
Florence hosts many traditional workshops where everything from paper to leather is crafted by hand. This afternoon, explore the city’s artisan culture in the Oltrarno—watch masters create one-of-a-kind treasures or try making your own.
