We are just making a short stop in Florence on our way to Venice. We are only going to be in Florence for just over 2 hours and would like to just look around a bit. What would you reccommend seeing in that short of time? I know there is a copy of David that we could go see but what else?
Posted by
Seattle, WA
1317 posts
The replica of David is in the Plaza della Signoria which is on the way to the Ponte Vecchio from the Duomo if I remember right.
Alternatively, if you reserved in advance, you do have enough time to see the original David--but you probably would have to cut the Ponte Vecchio and I don't know that it's worth it to you.
I would suggest sticking to the free things. Duomo, Plaza, Ponte. The inside of the Duomo is pretty plain compared to the outside. It's got interesting history but you could skip going inside if you felt pressed for time.
Posted by
Michigan
78 posts
If it were me I would probably just check out the Ponte Vecchio.
Posted by
Poulsbo, WA, US
223 posts
I would walk to the Duomo... Grab a quick sandwich at I fratelini... then walk down to Ponte Vecchio and visit Santa Maria Novella church if time still allowed as its right by the station.
Posted by
In the Mountains, USA
689 posts
I'd be sure and see Santa Croce.
Posted by
Singapore
354 posts
Walk to the Duomo, check out the bronze gates by Ghiberti at the Baptistery in front of the Duomo (the Duomo interior, as someone pointed out, is rather plain). On to Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio. If there's time, the Santa Croce church - lots of frescoes. Of course, some visitors will want to check out the stalls at the market around San Lorenzo, or make a pilgrimage to the Ferragamo shop!
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, USA
306 posts
See the Duomo and climb the dome. You will be lucky if you have time to climb the dome.
Posted by
Lake Forest, CA, USA
1633 posts
It really depends on what your individual interests are. For us, the real David in the Accademia was the highlight of our visit to Florence. It was beyond words and anything I have ever seen. On my first visit to Florence, I saw the copy--it just doesn't compare. If you can make reservations, and because this museum is very small, you could easily see it and another site.
Posted by
Orlando, Florida
676 posts
I agree with Denise. I love to go inside churches, and of course shopping, but what made me shiver my 1st visit to Florence was David. Amazing!! But it all depends on what you like. I don't think Santa Croce area was all that.
Posted by
Brooklyn, NY, USA
11 posts
definitely see the Duomo. the Duomo is Florence. and then see the real david at the accademia. actually better yet........do accademia first, then see the Duomo, and then see the Duomo's museum right across the street from it. its got 3 must-see pieces: donatello's david, his wooded mary magdalena, and one of michelangelo's pietas. it'll be close but u should be able to do it in 2 hours.
Posted by
Los Angeles, CA, USA
1003 posts
My favorite part of Florence is just wandering. Along the way I go in and out of shops, buy souvenirs, look at the beautiful architecture, grab a gelato (at Perche No, if I have the choice), and just wander til my feet will allow me to wander no more. I especially like the Oltrarno - there are some neat little shops along the borgo san jacopo. As not a huge fan of art, I would rather spend 2 hours trying to just soak a bit of the city's atmosphere, see the outside of the Duomo, wander through Piazza della Signoria, etc., instead of spend the time in one museum. But only you can decide what you would most enjoy.
My advice would be that the only thing you MUST DO is have a gelato :)