Florence remains one of Italy's most rewarding destinations for a long weekend, with its walkable historic centre and a perfect blend of Renaissance art, evolving food scenes, and stylish shopping. Despite ongoing challenges from overtourism, a wave of new hotels, restaurants, and cultural spaces has injected fresh energy into the city. For UK travellers, direct flights from London Heathrow, Gatwick, and regional airports like Manchester and Edinburgh make it an accessible getaway.
Day one should start at the Duomo, but skip the queues inside and instead visit the underrated Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to learn about the cathedral's construction. For a quick espresso, head to retro favourite Scudieri rather than tourist-heavy Gilli. Lunch at Trattoria Da Sergio offers classic Florentine dishes like pappa al pomodoro and rosemary-spiked arista. Afternoon options include the Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi's rotating exhibitions and the Gucci-owned Richard Ginori flagship store. Evening drinks at Zefiro lounge atop the new W Florence hotel provide stunning rooftop views, followed by dinner at Casa Ciabattini for seasonal pasta and peposo beef stew. End the night at Manifattura Tabacchi, a converted 1930s tobacco factory now hosting music, art, and late-night food outlets.
Day two begins south of the Arno in the Oltrarno district with a cappuccino at Pasticceria Buonamici, then the Brancacci Chapel's recently restored frescoes. The area is filled with artisan studios: Heart to Heart for velvet slippers, Angela Caputi for resin jewellery, and Castorina for handcrafted wooden objects. Piazza Santo Spirito's daily market and Brunelleschi's church offer quieter cultural moments. Across Via Maggio, Gelateria della Passera serves award-winning gelato in the charming Piazza della Passera.
Practical advice for UK travellers: The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises normal travel precautions for Italy. UK passport holders can visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Travel insurance is essential, covering medical expenses and trip cancellation; policies starting from £20-£40 for a weekend trip are widely available. Budget around £100-£150 per day for mid-range accommodation, meals, and entry fees to major museums. New flight routes from Bristol and Newcastle to Florence have increased capacity this summer, with return fares from £80-£150.
Implications for UK tourists: Florence's popularity means booking key attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia well in advance, especially during peak seasons. The city's efforts to manage overtourism include timed entry slots and limits on large tour groups. For a more relaxed visit, consider shoulder months like late September or early May.