A Weekend in Florence: How to Get There and What to Do

Posted on February 26th, 2024

Florence is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Italy, and a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you are interested in art, history, architecture, or cuisine, Florence has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to plan your weekend in Florence, and how to get there by train from any other city in Italy.

How to get to Florence by train

Traveling by train is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Florence from any other city in Italy. You can choose between high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, or Italo) that connect Florence with major cities such as Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and Turin in less than two hours, or regional trains (Regionale or Intercity) that offer more frequent and cheaper services, but take longer and may require changes. You can check the timetables and prices, and buy your tickets online on the websites of Trenitalia or Italo, or at the station. You can also use the ItaliaRail website, which offers the same fares as Trenitalia, but in English and with more payment options.

The main train station in Florence is Santa Maria Novella (SMN), located in the city center, within walking distance from the main attractions. Some trains may also stop at Campo di Marte or Rifredi, which are less central, but well connected by bus or tram.

How to spend your weekend in Florence

Florence is a relatively small city, but it is packed with things to see and do. You can easily explore it on foot, or use the public transport system (bus or tram) if you prefer. Here are some suggestions on how to make the most of your weekend in Florence, depending on your interests and preferences.

A Weekend in Florence: How to Get There and What to Do 1

From left to right: The Birth of Venus by Botticelli at the Uffizi Gallery and David by Michelangelo at the Galleria dell’Accademia.

If you love art and history, you will be amazed by the wealth and variety of museums and monuments in Florence. You can start with the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous and visited art museums in the world, where you can admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and many others. You can also visit the Accademia Gallery, where you can see the original statue of David by Michelangelo, as well as other sculptures and paintings. Another must-see is the Duomo, the iconic cathedral of Florence, with its impressive dome by Brunelleschi, the baptistery, and the bell tower. You can climb to the top of the dome or the tower for a stunning view of the city. You can also explore the Palazzo Vecchio, the former residence and seat of power of the Medici family, and the Bargello Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Renaissance sculptures.

A Weekend in Florence: How to Get There and What to Do 2

From left to right: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazzale Michelangelo.

If you are looking for a romantic and relaxing weekend, you can enjoy the charm and beauty of Florence without following a strict itinerary. You can stroll along the Arno river, crossing the famous Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most picturesque bridge in Florence, lined with jewelry shops. You can also visit the Boboli Gardens, a vast and elegant park behind the Pitti Palace, where you can admire fountains, statues, and panoramic views. You can also take a short bus ride to Piazzale Michelangelo, a terrace overlooking the city, where you can watch the sunset and take some amazing photos. For a special treat, you can book a table at one of the many restaurants that offer a romantic dinner with a view, such as La Loggia, La Terrazza, or B-Roof.

If you are traveling with your family and kids, you can find many fun and educational activities in Florence. You can visit the Galileo Museum, where you can learn about the life and discoveries of the famous scientist, and see his original instruments and experiments. You can also visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, where you can interact with models and machines inspired by the genius inventor and artist. You can also take a break from the city and visit the nearby Fiesole, a charming hilltop town with Roman ruins, a medieval cathedral, and a panoramic view. You can also enjoy some gelato at one of the many ice cream parlors in Florence, such as Vivoli, Carabè, or Gelateria dei Neri.

Whatever your style and budget, you can find a wide range of accommodation options in Florence, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, from apartments to hostels. You can use websites such as Booking.com, Airbnb, or Hostelworld to find and compare the best deals for your weekend in Florence.

We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration for your weekend in Florence. Florence is a city that will enchant you with its beauty, culture, and atmosphere, and make you want to come back again and again. Buon viaggio!

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