I will be taking a Mediterranean cruise in June that stops in Livorno, which is the closest port to Florence. I will only be in Florence for 5 - 6 hours. I will be doing the Florence On Your Own tour where I will be ped off at the Duomo square by the tour driver. I will need to return to the same place at a designated time. Based on the sights I want to see, a self guided tour would work out best for me. Because my time in Florence is limited, I've d a list of the nine sights that I want to see most. Here is the list: 1. Piazzale Michelangelo (for full view of city)(will require a cab ride from Duomo) 2. Accademia (for David statue) 3. San Lorenzo Market 4. Piazza G. Salvemini jewelry shop 5. Piazza della Republica 6. Piazza della Signoria 7. Ponte Vecchio bridge (walk across only/no shopping) 8. Santa Croce church
9. Duomo Will I have enough time to see all these sights? If not, should I skip the Piazzale Micheangelo which is across the river and climb the Duomo tower or the Bell Tower instead for a view of the city? How would these views compare?
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16235 posts
The best view of Florence is from Forte di Belvedere, up the hill from Ponte Vecchio. It's not a long walk but steep uphill. Climbing the Cupola (dome) or the campanile is an option. No matter which you choose, it will take at least 30-45 min of your time. Ditch Piazza della Repubblica, which has nothing to offer. It's part of a 19th century redevelopment of Florence totally out of place in a Renaissance city. However it's in the middle of everything, so you'll probably walk by it. But no need to stop unless you want to sit down at one of the overpriced bar-caffe' (paskowski, gilli, giubbe rosse). If you feel the need to be taken to the cleaners for an espresso, go to Rivoire in piazza Signoria, much better view and best chocolate in the city center. Piazza Salvemini is a time wasting detour. Is there a reason why you need to go to that jewelry? San Lorenzo Central market (food) closes at 2pm. The street stands close at 7pm. The David might take some time if the line is long. I think you can book in advance.
Posted by
New York, NY, 10025
392 posts
Not only is it possible to reserve the Accademia, it is imperative on your tight schedule. Otherwise, the line will mean you either turn away, which would be a shame, or spend a long time waiting. If you reserve, you can comfortably see the whole gallery within an hour. The David alone is worth it, though.