A Fun 4-Day Florence Itinerary For Families

Families who love art and history will appreciate this Florence itinerary! Known as the “cradle of the Renaissance,” it’s filled with kid-friendly museums, and its streets almost feel like a living history museum themselves – not to mention the scenic Ponte Vecchio that separates the two sides of the city. Plus, since it’s famous for its old-world charm, endless dining options, and world-famous attractions, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Italy for locals and international tourists alike. On this Florence itinerary for families, we’ve included things to do with kids, places to eat, and even where to stay in Florence with kids. You can mix and match the activities to build your own custom days and itineraries and even take a day trip to other nearby cities in Tuscany. Keep reading to find out more! 

Day 1: Piazza del Duomo, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, San Lorenzo Market

One of the first things you need to see when visiting Florence with kids is the Duomo. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi between 1420 and 1436, this architectural marvel tops the Florence Cathedral and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. We suggest visiting in the morning, since the line to go inside is always long. Families with teens can even take a long climb up the dome to get a gorgeous view of the Florence skyline! 

Once you’re done visiting the Duomo, take a short walk to the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum. A testament to one of the world’s greatest inventors and painters, this kid-friendly educational institution has an extensive collection of Da Vinci’s sketches, prototypes, and even a few paintings. It’s especially fantastic for kids because it’s a sensory experience, so little ones can touch and interact with most of what’s on display!

For lunch, stop at San Lorenzo Market. Located in a historic, cast-iron building, the market, also known as Mercato Centrale, you can spend a few hours touring the market, sampling prosciutto, cheese, and anything else your family can get its hand on! If you’d prefer a full meal, however, there’s also a wonderful Sicilian restaurant on the second floor. Plus, a variety of stalls selling pasta and to-go meals like Lampredotto, a type of fish sandwich. 

Additional Activity: Walking Tour

Short on time while visiting Florence? A walking tour is another fantastic way to see all the top attractions in Florence while keeping kids entertained. You’ll get to visit places like Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Repubblica, San Lorenzo Market, and the Duomo. There are many free options for families as well, including Florence Free Tours, La Bussola, etc. Or, check out Tours For Kids by With Locals, The Best of Florence: A Family-Friendly Private Tour by GetYourGuide, and a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. 

Afternoon Activity: Palazzo Pitti & The Boboli Gardens

Art lovers can’t miss another one of Florence’s architectural marvels, the Palazzo Pitti. It’s home to multiple museums, including the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Costume Gallery. Plus, once you’re done exploring, you can check out The Boboli Gardens behind the palace. It’s perfect for an afternoon stroll, as beautiful flora wraps around statues and other priceless artworks. If you really want an amazing view, however, you’ll have to climb to the top of the observation tower. Afterward, stop for a gelato break at Gelateria Santa Trinita. 

Evening Activity: Dinner & A Sunset Stroll

Families looking for a traditional dinner in Florence will love Trattoria ZaZa, which has a variety of pasta dishes as well as larger plates, making it a must-add to your itinerary. Then, you can take a sunset stroll along Ponte Vecchio. Connecting two sides of the Arno River, it is more like a road with shops on both sides, which sell everything from jewelry to leather goods. Little kids will love to spot animals from its entrance while older kids admire the funky shape and learn about its story, including when it wasn’t destroyed by bombs during World War II. 

Day 2: Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Cooking Class

Art lovers visiting Florence can’t miss a trip to the Uffizi Gallery. As one of the oldest and most visited galleries in the world, it houses an incredible collection of paintings. In fact, the museum is home to masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Remember to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines. (​​Viator offers this Early Access: Guided Uffizi Gallery Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket!) 

Once you’re done, stop at Piazza della Signoria. It’s home to several important landmarks, including the Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune. There are often street performers and musicians playing, making it a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Florence.

From there, make your way to Palazzo Vecchio, one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence. Dating back to the 13th century, this large palace showcases a unique mixture of Gothic and Renaissance-style architecture. It’s also home to the Museum of Florence, which contains a wealth of art and artifacts. For lunch, check out Osteria All’antico Vinaio. Famous for its colossal sandwiches, this is a quick and delicious lunch option. Grab your sandwiches and head to the nearby Piazza della Repubblica to eat them. Kids will love the antique carousel here! 

Afternoon Activity: Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class in Florence during your itinerary is a wonderful way for families to bond and learn more about the city’s diverse culinary traditions. With local companies such as Mama Florence, Eating Europe, and Florence Cooking Classes, families can learn how to make gelato, fresh pasta, and more delicacies in an intimate and personalized setting. Viator also offers a Florence Cooking Class: Learn How to Make Gelato and Pizza. Or, check out GetYourGuide’s Cooking with Kids 3-Hour Experience. 

Evening Activity: Boat Cruise Or Walk Along The Arno River

End your day by taking a nighttime stroll along the Arno River. Families can cross Ponte Santa Trinita for stunning night views of Florence. The city lights reflecting on the river create a magical ambiance! Or, you could even take a boat cruise. River cruises are also a great way to learn about Florence and its history. Your tour guide will point out all of the important sights and tell you about their significance. Then, for dinner, stop at Trattoria 4 Leoni. Showcasing a cozy atmosphere, this charming trattoria is located in Piazza della Passera. Try the Florentine steak! 

Day 3: Accademia Gallery, Marble Paper Class, Museo Galileo

Families can’t plan a Florence itinerary without including the Accademia Gallery. Of course, it’s famous for a good reason, since it showcases some of the most famous art in the world! This includes Michelangelo’s famous statue of David, which you can see on display in all its glory. Aside from the statue, the gallery also has a collection of paintings by Renaissance artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. To make the experience more interesting for your family, make sure to pick up an audio tour specifically for kids. 

If you have extra time on your Florence itinerary for families, you could also visit The Palazzo Strozzi. Though it may not be the most interesting for toddlers or younger kids, it’ll definitely be a hit with teens or older children! Upon arrival, little ones will receive a unique “children’s explorer’s bag,” which comes with torches, pens, and paper games to make the experience more enjoyable. For lunch nearby, indulge in authentic Neopolitan pizza at Il Pizzaiuolo. 

Afternoon Activity: Marble Paper Class

When visiting Florence for the first time, be sure to take a marble paper class with your kids. This is a unique opportunity to get your hands dirty and learn how to make beautiful works of art using only marble paper and a few simple tools. Ideal for families with kids who are older than six, the classes are small and intimate, typically last two or three hours, and all materials are included. Many local providers offer this class, and you can even take a class with a local artist like Giulio Giannini or Francesca Vannini.

Optional Activity: Galileo Museum

For a quick stop after your class, check out the Galileo Museum. Focusing on all things Galileo Galilei, the museum walks visitors through his various inventions, including telescopes and microscopes, all the while highlighting the story of the astronomer’s life. It’s one of few museums in Florence you’ll be able to attend without waiting in line, and you can probably tackle its tiny interior in an hour or so. 

Evening Activity: Climb To Piazzale Michelangelo

For one of the last evenings of your Florence itinerary for families, visit Piazzale Michelangelo on the south bank of the Arno River. Offering sweeping views of Florence, it’s a scenic place to see at sunset because of its elevated position over the city. Though the viewpoint requires some steps to reach, so it’s not stroller-friendly, it’s worth it if you’re up for the climb. After, you can stop for dinner at Il Latini, a family-style restaurant known for its warm hospitality and delicious Tuscan dishes.

For more things to do in Florence with kids, check out these 20 Things You Can’t Miss When Visiting Florence With Kids! 

Day 4: Tuscany Day Trip

If you have extra time while visiting Florence with kids, consider taking a day trip to nearby destinations in Tuscany. One popular option is Siena, known for its striking Gothic architecture. Kids can roam the narrow streets of the historic center, home to the Siena Cathedral, with its intricate marble floors. Don’t miss the bustling Mercato di Siena, Palazzo Pubblico, and climbing the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside! 

A day trip to Pisa offers the chance to see one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, located in Piazza dei Miracoli. Don’t forget to capture the perfect photo of yourself holding it up! Then, explore the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery, or walk around the historic center and stop at a cafe. 

San Gimignano is sometimes called the “Medieval Manhattan” due to its iconic medieval towers that punctuate the skyline. Families can stroll through the historic center to see the medieval architecture and fortified walls. Then, the town has charming artisan shops, art galleries, and gelato made from local ingredients! 

Where To Stay In Florence With Kids

Looking for the best places to stay in Florence with kids on your itinerary for families? If you are planning an upcoming family vacation to Florence, you can check out the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, a grand palatial hotel overlooking Giardino Della Gherardesca. 

Families who want to stay in an upscale hotel near Santa Maria del Fiore and the Uffizi Gallery during their Florence itinerary will love Palazzo Vecchietti, which offers rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Hotel Lungarno is set along the river overlooking Ponte Vecchio, and St. Regis Florence is only a 10-minute walk from the train station. Finally, Hotel Savoy is another great option for families to consider when staying in Florence. Check out our list of the best hotels in Florence for families for more options! 

Happy Travels! 

We hope you liked this 4-Day Florence Itinerary For Families! From the Duomo to Ponte Vecchio, there’s so much to see in this historic city. Enjoy your trip to Italy with kids!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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