✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Florence, Italy: Mar or Apr 2025

Florence, Italy travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise over the Arno from Piazzale Michelangelo during ideal visiting season — Image: FirenzeDec092023 01.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

✈️ Ready to book your trip?

Compare flights, hotels, and packages on Trip.com

Quick Answer:

For a truly captivating Florentine experience, aim for the shoulder months of April through June, or again in September and October. During these periods, the Tuscan sun casts a warm, inviting glow, perfect for lingering over gelato in sun-drenched piazzas. Imagine strolling across the Ponte Vecchio with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of blooming jasmine, or witnessing golden sunsets paint the Arno River in hues of amber and rose. The crowds are more manageable than in peak summer, allowing for a more intimate connection with the city's Renaissance treasures and the vibrant hum of local life before the winter months bring a quieter, more introspective charm.

Best Months to Visit:

MarAprMayJunSepOctNov

Airport Code

FLR

Coordinates

43.77°, 11.26°

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Traveler Recommended

One Travel Essential Almost Everyone Forgets

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Compact all-in-one adapter with US, UK, EU and AU plugs plus fast USB charging, so you can charge your phone and laptop in 150+ countries without hunting for the right plug.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things to Do

Sunrise over the Arno from Piazzale Michelangelo

Witness Florence awaken from this iconic panoramic viewpoint. The soft morning light bathes the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo in a warm glow, offering a truly magical start to your day before the crowds descend.

Culinary Secrets of the Oltrarno

Venture into the Oltrarno district, Florence's artisan heart, and join a small-group cooking class in a local home. Learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, followed by a delightful meal you helped create.

Uffizi Gallery's Hidden Courtyards

While the masterpieces inside the Uffizi are undeniable, seek out its lesser-known internal courtyards for moments of quiet contemplation. These tranquil spaces offer a unique perspective on the Renaissance architecture and a respite from the bustling galleries.

A Stroll Through the Boboli Gardens at Dusk

Escape the city's heat and explore the sprawling Boboli Gardens as the sun begins to set. The changing light casts dramatic shadows on the sculptures and fountains, creating an atmospheric and romantic experience away from the main tourist paths.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

food

Skip the tourist traps right by the Duomo for your *pranzo* (lunch). Wander a few blocks into the Oltrarno district or near Mercato Centrale for authentic trattorias where locals actually eat. You'll get better food and a much more reasonable price – think a delicious *panino* for €5 instead of €15.

money

Carry some Euros in cash for smaller purchases, especially at markets or smaller artisan shops. While most places accept cards, some might have a minimum spend or prefer cash to avoid fees, and it's handy for gelato or a quick espresso at a standing bar.

culture

Embrace the *passeggiata*! Every evening, especially around 5-7 PM, Florentines take a leisurely stroll, often along the Arno River or through Piazza della Signoria. Join them, even if you're just window shopping or people-watching – it's a beautiful way to soak in the city's atmosphere.

transport

Florence is incredibly walkable, so ditch the idea of relying heavily on taxis. For longer distances, like reaching Piazzale Michelangelo, the local ATAF buses are efficient and cheap. Grab a ticket from a *tabaccheria* (tobacco shop) before boarding and validate it on the machine inside.

packing

Pack comfortable, broken-in walking shoes! You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, and blisters are the quickest way to ruin your exploration. Consider stylish sneakers or comfortable loafers that can transition from daytime sightseeing to evening aperitivo.

safety

Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Ponte Vecchio or around the Uffizi Gallery. While Florence is generally safe, pickpocketing can occur. Keep your bag in front of you and avoid displaying expensive items openly.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

8 days

Feb

7 days

Mar

9 days

Apr

10 days

May

9 days

Jun

7 days

Jul

5 days

Aug

6 days

Sep

8 days

Oct

10 days

Nov

11 days

Dec

9 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	10°C	1°C	50°F	34°F	75mm	8 days	9.5h
Feb	12°C	2°C	54°F	36°F	70mm	7 days	10.5h
Mar	16°C	5°C	61°F	41°F	70mm	9 days	12h
Apr	19°C	7°C	66°F	45°F	80mm	10 days	13.5h
May	24°C	11°C	75°F	52°F	75mm	9 days	14.5h
Jun	28°C	15°C	82°F	59°F	60mm	7 days	15h
Jul	31°C	17°C	88°F	63°F	50mm	5 days	14.5h
Aug	31°C	17°C	88°F	63°F	60mm	6 days	13.5h
Sep	27°C	14°C	81°F	57°F	75mm	8 days	12h
Oct	22°C	10°C	72°F	50°F	90mm	10 days	11h
Nov	16°C	6°C	61°F	43°F	95mm	11 days	10h
Dec	11°C	2°C	52°F	36°F	80mm	9 days	9h

Florence, Italy Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Florence, Italy? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Florence, Italy

Weather

10°C°C / 50°F°F

8 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

5 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Weather

11°C°C / 52°F°F

9 days rainy days • 80mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Sunrise over the Arno from Piazzale Michelangelo

nature

Best time: Apr-Oct

Culinary Secrets of the Oltrarno

food

Best time: Year-round

Uffizi Gallery's Hidden Courtyards

attraction

Best time: Year-round

A Stroll Through the Boboli Gardens at Dusk

nature

Best time: May-Sep

Mercato Centrale's Upper Floor Feast

food

Forget the tourist traps and head to the vibrant upper floor of the Mercato Centrale for an authentic Florentine food hall experience. Sample regional specialties from various vendors, from lampredotto sandwiches to fresh pasta, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Best time: Year-round

Artisan Workshops of San Frediano

shopping

Wander through the narrow streets of San Frediano, a neighborhood brimming with traditional artisan workshops. Discover craftsmen meticulously creating leather goods, ceramics, and intricate jewelry, and perhaps find a unique, handmade souvenir.

Best time: Year-round

Evening Aperitivo with Locals in Santo Spirito

activity

Experience Florentine nightlife like a local by joining the evening aperitivo ritual in the Piazza Santo Spirito. Sip on a Negroni or Aperol Spritz at a neighborhood bar, accompanied by delicious small bites, as the piazza comes alive with conversation.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Climbing Brunelleschi's Dome at Dawn

attraction

Book your ticket well in advance for an early morning climb up Brunelleschi's Dome. The 463 steps are worth it for the unparalleled, up-close views of the dome's interior frescoes and the city stretching out beneath you in the quiet morning air.

Best time: Year-round

Planning your Florence, Italy adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

Getting Around Florence, Italy

Walking

Florence is incredibly walkable, with most major attractions within a 20-30 minute stroll of each other. This is by far the best way to soak in the atmosphere, discover hidden alleys, and stumble upon charming trattorias.

Cost:Free

Tip:Wear comfortable shoes – cobblestones are beautiful but unforgiving! Don't be afraid to wander off the main tourist paths; that's where the real magic of Florence lies. Be mindful of Vespas and scooters, especially on narrower streets.

ATAF City Buses

Florence's public bus system is efficient for reaching areas slightly outside the historic center or when your feet need a break. Key lines connect the train station (Santa Maria Novella) to Piazzale Michelangelo and the Oltrarno district.

Cost:€1.50 for a 90-minute ticket, €5 for a 24-hour pass. Tickets can be purchased at Tabacchi shops (look for a white 'T' sign) or sometimes from machines at major stops. Validate your ticket immediately upon boarding using the machines on the bus.

Tip:Download the 'Moovit' app for real-time bus schedules and route planning. A common mistake is trying to buy tickets from the driver – this is usually not possible and will cause delays. Be aware that buses can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available at designated stands (e.g., outside the train station, Piazza della Signoria) or can be hailed (though less common). They are convenient for late-night travel or when carrying luggage.

Cost:Metered fares start around €3.50, with surcharges for luggage, Sundays, and holidays. Expect to pay €10-€15 for most rides within the city center. Use official white taxis with a 'Comune di Firenze' sign on the door.

Tip:Avoid unmarked cars offering rides. Use the app 'Free Now' (formerly MyTaxi) to book and pay for taxis digitally, often with upfront pricing. Confirm the meter is running when you start your journey.

Bicycle Rentals

Renting a bike offers a fun and active way to explore, especially for venturing into the Oltrarno or along the Arno River. Several rental shops are scattered throughout the city.

Cost:Typically €15-€25 per day, depending on the bike type and rental duration. Some shops offer e-bikes for an additional fee.

Tip:Be cautious of traffic – Florence's streets can be narrow and busy. Consider renting from a shop slightly away from the main tourist hubs for potentially better rates. Lock your bike securely whenever you leave it unattended, as bike theft can occur.

Regional Trains (Trenitalia)

While not for getting *around* Florence itself, regional trains are essential for day trips to nearby Tuscan towns like Siena, Pisa, or Lucca. The Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station is the main hub.

Cost:Varies greatly depending on distance. A round trip to Pisa is typically under €20. Book tickets online via the Trenitalia website or app, or at the station.

Tip:Crucially, *validate* your paper train ticket in the small machines on the platform *before* boarding. Failure to do so results in a hefty fine. For digital tickets bought via the app, this step is not necessary. Arrive at the station with enough time to find your platform, as SMN is a large station.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Florence to truly savor the art and avoid the biggest crowds?

While spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer lovely weather, I personally find late October into early November to be magical. The summer heat has subsided, the autumn light is incredible for photography, and you'll find fewer tour groups lingering in front of the Uffizi. Just be prepared for slightly cooler evenings and pack a light scarf!

Beyond the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, what's a Florentine experience that truly captures the city's soul?

For a taste of authentic Florentine life, head to the Oltrarno district, across the Arno River. This is where you'll find artisan workshops – leatherworkers, ceramicists, bookbinders – still practicing centuries-old crafts. Wander through the quieter streets, pop into a small bottega, and you might even find a unique souvenir made with incredible skill.

I'm planning to see the 'David' at the Accademia. Any insider tips for a smoother visit?

Absolutely! Book your tickets online *well* in advance, and aim for the earliest possible entry slot, ideally right when they open. This allows you to have a few precious moments with Michelangelo's masterpiece before the main rush descends. Also, don't just rush in and out; take time to appreciate the other sculptures and paintings in the gallery too.

What's the deal with 'coperto' on restaurant bills, and should I tip in Florence?

Ah, the 'coperto' is a cover charge per person, usually a few euros, which covers bread and table service – it's not a tip. You'll see it listed on the menu. Tipping isn't expected in the same way it is in the US; if the service was exceptional, leaving a few extra euros or rounding up the bill is a nice gesture, but not mandatory.

How do I navigate Florence without a car, and are taxis reliable?

Florence is incredibly walkable, and honestly, that's the best way to discover its charm! For longer distances or tired feet, taxis are readily available at designated stands or can be hailed via apps like FreeNow. Just ensure the meter is running; they're generally reliable and a good option if you're heading to a specific address outside the main tourist zones.

I want to try authentic Florentine steak. Where should I go, and what should I know?

For the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina, seek out a traditional trattoria, often found slightly away from the most crowded piazzas. Look for places that advertise 'cucina tipica fiorentina.' The steak is typically very thick-cut, grilled rare, and seasoned simply with salt and pepper – it's meant to be shared! Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations; they're usually passionate about their local cuisine.

How many days do you need in Florence, Italy?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Florence, Italy to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Florence, Italy expensive to visit?

Florence, Italy can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Mar and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Florence, Italy famous for?

Florence, Italy is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Mar or Apr for the best experience.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.

Book Hotels on Booking.com Find Hotels on Trip.com Find Tours on GetYourGuide

Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!