3-Day Itinerary + Optional Extension designed for discerning travelers, this guide combines luxury stays, insider experiences, and unique excursions to immerse you in Florence’s art, history, and cuisine. Enjoy a seamless journey balancing cultural exploration with Tuscan getaways in this elevated Italian itinerary.

Tuscany, Italy

Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy

First Class Florence Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Italian Aperitivo Experience

On arrival day in a new city, it’s best to keep things light and low-cost—something easy to skip if anyone’s too tired. --Oliver

Upon arrival at Florence Airport or Train Station, enjoy a seamless journey to your hotel with a private transfer service.

Private Transfers | Project Expedition

The Art of the Italian Aperitivo with a Local* – Enjoy a hands-on introduction to the Italian aperitivo, a cherished pre-dinner ritual. This experience, led by a local “Cesarina” (a trusted home cook specializing in Italian tradition), teaches you to craft Italian appetizers paired with regional wines or cocktails.

Private Tour: Italian Aperitivo Experience

The Art of Italian Aperitivo with a Cesarina in Florence - Florence | Project Expedition

Having dinner at or near your hotel on arrival day keeps logistics and stress low. --Oliver

Starting the first full day with a comprehensive tour covers the key highlights, giving you a broad overview of the city. This way, you’ll feel oriented and ready to explore more on your own. --Oliver

Explore Florence's top cultural highlights on an all-inclusive day tour that includes skip-the-line access to iconic sites: the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Duomo, Michelangelo’s *David*, *The Birth of Venus*, *Primavera*, *Venus of Urbino*, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and Accademia Gallery.

Florence Full Day Tour With An Expert Guide - Context Travel

For an exquisite fine dining experience, choose from one of Florence's Michelin-starred gems. --Oliver

Day 3: Tuscany Wine Region with Unique Experiences

 Most of Florence’s highlights can be covered in a day unless you’re a serious history buff. The city also makes a great base for exploring Tuscany’s wineries, many of which can ship bottles home if you find a favorite. Choose one of the options below to take you into Tuscany. --Oliver

Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, including private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch at a Brunello di Montalcino estate. *Note: You'll have to provide weights of all passengers for booking.

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour - The Tour Guy

Private Tour: Horseback Wine Tasting Tour

Explore the scenic Tuscan countryside on horseback, followed by a wine tasting and Tuscan lunch.

Horseback Riding in Tuscany - LivTours

Private Tour: Val d'Orcia Wine Tour by Car

Embark on a private chauffeured tour through Val d'Orcia with wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a leisurely lunch.

Full-Day Tuscany Day Trip - Context Travel

Return to Florence for a final dinner at **Borgo San Jacopo**, featuring refined Italian cuisine and panoramic river views. --Oliver

A luxury outlet shopping experience featuring Italian and international designer brands at reduced prices. Enjoy a private transfer to *The Mall Firenze*, a designer outlet center. Consider adding on a Personal Shopper for the day to assist and navigate you through the mall.

Florence is a great hub to explore even more towns to the west without dedicating actual hotel movement over there. Consider the following. --Oliver

Private Tour: Shopping Experience at The Mall Firenze

The Mall Outlet Shopping Tour - Prestige Tour Italy

Venture from Florence to explore four of the five colorful villages nestled along the Ligurian coastline, including Vernazza, Monterosso, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Cinque Terre Full-Day Tour - Context Travel

A private, guided day trip to the historic cities of Lucca and Pisa, offering visits to landmarks like Pisa’s Leaning Tower and the medieval walls of Lucca.

Private Lucca and Pisa Tour - LivTours

Or Continue Travel: Popular Combos with Florence

Venice: Head north to explore Venice’s canals, palaces, and cultural treasures.

Rome: Travel south to the Eternal City for historic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Pantheon.

For a seamless transition to these destinations, consider booking private transfers from your Florence hotel to the airport or train station:

Private Transfers - Project Expedition

If the tours aren't exactly what you are looking for, swap them out for something different but focus on these high quality private tour suppliers. --Oliver

Project Expedition ELEVATE

Context Travel - Expert-Led Walking Tours

Liv Tours

Many high-end hotels offer their own exclusive tours or guides. --Oliver

Private Tours in Florence | Tailored Experiences with Four Seasons

Private Tours in Florence | Tailored Experiences with St. Regis

Months: June, July, August. Weather: Warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Notes: This period sees the highest tourist numbers, leading to crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices. August is particularly hot, and many locals take vacations during this month, resulting in some businesses closing.

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October)

Months: April, May, September, October. Weather: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Notes: These months offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. The September to October period is ideal for visiting Tuscany’s vineyards, as grape harvests are in full swing.

Months: November, December, January, February, March. Weather: Cooler temperatures, ranging from 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C). November is the rainiest month. Notes: This period has the fewest tourists, offering a more relaxed experience. However, some attractions may have reduced hours, and certain outdoor activities might be limited due to weather conditions.

On the first Sunday of each month, many state-owned museums and archaeological sites in Florence offer free admission. Most do not offer purchasable tickets on these days, so expect larger crowds and plan accordingly.

Many museums, including the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery, are closed on Mondays. If the first full day falls on a Monday, consider swapping days to avoid missed highlights.

Major churches, like the Duomo and Santa Croce, require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered). Bring a scarf or shawl, especially in warmer months.

Florence’s historic center limits vehicle access. If renting a car, plan to park outside the ZTL area to avoid fines.

For popular attractions like the Uffizi and Accademia, book tickets ahead to skip lines and ensure entry.

Enoteca Pinchiorri

Degusteria Italiana

Stay in luxury at The St. Regis Florence, the best 5 star hotel address in the city center. With Arno river view accommodations, spa suites, dining, butler service and more.

First Class Florence Itinerary

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