Hi all, Still debating over where to go for a nice long day trip from Rome. Now we are thinking of a day trip to Florence for 2.
We would especially like to see the David, the Duomo, enjoy a quick lunch, gelato, and nice dinner, see the pretty sights and enjoy the ambiance of the city, etc. Any suggestions on itinerary, places to eat? We would take the high speed train to get there in the morning and leave later in the evening/night. Thanks :)
Personally I would do an overnight. But it is critical to get an advance reservation for David. Or just enjoy the copy in the plaza which is very good. Take a City Walking Tour arrange through the TI just off the plaza.
I agree, it would be rushed, but here goes an optimistic itinerary -From SMN, walk by SMN the church, head towards the Medici Chapel, wander about, maybe go inside or look around the market. -From here head to the Accademia (make sure to have a reservation - times online are sometimes hard to get, I've heard to call, at least for the Uffizi). Go in, see David, maybe go upstairs if there's something cool going on. -Grab a cappucino. - Head to the Duomo, gauge the line, consider going in, or check out the Baptisery. Head down to Piazza Della Signoria, check out the other David and some other cool statues. -Consider the Uffizi - it's huge, focus on the masters rooms; if you're hungry, go to their decent cafe (with superb views). -Check out Ponte Vecchio -head to Piazzalla Michaelangelo and San Miniato -More coffee. -Dinner? If you're in the area, by the Pitti Palace and Chiesa Santo Spirito, there's a great pizza place by the church (we went twice in our 2 nights in Florence.. so much for gourmet Italian).
-Gelatto - Gelateria al Carraia on the south side of Ponte al Carraia; which would be en route to SMN if you were on the south side of the river already. Good luck. I'd make appts with some space between and be happy with what you can do.
In a day trip, I wouldn't hassle with the Accademia to see David. I'd content myself with the copy in the Piazza de Signoria. That is because I would want to visit Santa Croce,
Amanda, I would encourage you to make the reservation and the effort to see the real David. He is magnificent and seeing him in the museum is an experience you won't forget. To me, the copy in the plaza absolutely pales in comparison! You're in Florence!!!! Go for the real thing!!!!
If the Accademia is too busy, I'd opt to see the copy in Plazzo Vecchio where the "Original" David once stood.