We'll be in Florence over a weekend in mid-May; we'll be there for 4 nights. I'm trying to figure out the best time of day to visit the Uffizi and Accademia with minimal crowds, since I take it that it'll be busy given the time of year and the week. (I'm planning on asking our hotel to book in advance for us, so lines are not a concern.) Also, any recommendations for nice restaurants? My father-in-law's birthday occurs one of the nights that we're in Florence. :)
Thanks!
Posted by
Seattle, WA, United States
5 posts
If you get to the museums right when they open, there will be less crowds. Sadly though, both museums will be quite crowded. Just be brave and shove your way through the school groups. :) If you are looking for a great Italian restaurant Quattro Lione near the Ponte Vecchio is my favorite! There are several amazing restaurants throughout Florence. The menus are posted outside the doors, so look and see if the price is right before you go in. Don't be afraid to ask Italians where they like to eat either, they are very proud of their food!.
Posted by
OP
Portland, OR
31 posts
Thanks, Anna. I was wondering about that-if it's just plain busy. :) Maybe late afternoon would be better than mid-morning with all the tour groups? Thanks for the restaurant recommendation. Sounds like it's yummy from other reviews I've seen!
Thanks!
Posted by
Happy Valley, PA
672 posts
We were in Florence 3 weeks ago. About 8 weeks before our arrival, I sent an email to our hotel asking if they would please book reservation times for both the Accademia and the Uffizi; they did so immediately at no cost to us. It was a breeze and avioded a long wait in line. As for restaurants, we discovered an excellent one not far from the Accademia: Mangiafuoco Bracerie (Via Guelfa, 24/R). It was mentioned previously by another contributor to this Helpline and we confirm that the food is great and reasonably priced, and that the owners (Barbara, Daniella, et al.) were very friendly and provided excellent service. We actually ate there twice in our 5 days in Florence! It was a cozy, neighborhood place. Another good restaurant in Florence is Acqua Al 2 (Via della Vigna Vecchia 40R). If you like pasta, they offer some sampler dishes that can be shared so everyone gets a taste. Interestingly, they also have restaurants in Washington, DC and San Diego.
Posted by
Ballwin
833 posts
I would go in the mornings instead of late afternoon, as far as crowds are concerned. But do try to make a reservation. Inside the museum it may still be crowded, but it will reduce the lines you wait in.