Your flight lands at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi (BLQ). Expect 45–75 minutes to disembark and clear luggage/customs; then transfer to Bologna Centrale by Aerobus or taxi to catch the train to Florence.
Take a high-speed Frecciarossa/Italo train (40–50 minutes). Book a mid-afternoon train to allow time for deplaning and transfer from BLQ to the station.
Walk the Cathedral square to orient yourself: admire Brunelleschi’s dome, Giotto’s campanile and the Baptistery — a great first photo set and light evening atmosphere. Note interior timed-entry sites for another day.
Classic Tuscan trattoria in Santo Spirito with hearty pasta and bistecca options; lively atmosphere and friendly service — reserve a table for a smooth NYE week opening. (Non-alcohol dining friendly.)
Visit the Duomo interior, Baptistery (optional) and climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views. Pre-book your dome time — winter slots fill quickly.
Book a 2:30pm timed ticket to see Botticelli, Leonardo and Michelangelo works; guided tours are worth it if you want context (2–2.5 hour visits recommended).
Explore the Pitti Palace collections and stroll Boboli Gardens for Renaissance landscaping and views over Florence. Winter opening hours may be shorter — aim for a morning visit.
Wander independent artisan shops for leather, bookbinding, mosaics and bespoke shoe/hat makers — great for unique souvenirs and watching artisans at work.
Saturnia is ~3.5–4 hours each way from Florence. For one-day visits a private driver or an organized all-day tour is strongly recommended to maximize time at the springs and minimize stress.
The famous free thermal waterfalls and natural pools are open year-round; enjoy warm bathing in the natural setting — bring towels, waterproof shoes and warm clothes for after the bath. Note: facilities are minimal at the natural site.
Return by private car; expect late evening arrival in Florence (around 9:00–10:00pm depending on stops). Consider a light dinner near your hotel after return.
Choose a special NYE prix-fixe at a well-reviewed restaurant (La Giostra, a hotel fine-dining option, or a cozy trattoria). Expect multi-course menus and a festive atmosphere — reserve early and note NYE service times.
Florence often hosts free concerts and a midnight countdown in major squares — bring warm clothes; festivities continue after midnight with fireworks or light shows.
Use the morning for last-minute shopping in artisan neighborhoods or a short visit to Museo dell'Opera del Duomo if open — check each museum’s Jan 1 schedule.
Explore Bologna’s medieval market quarter full of specialty food shops, tortellini stores and pasta shops — a great first-night introduction to Bolognese cuisine.
Take the Aerobus (or taxi if heavy luggage) from the central station to the airport; allow at least 1.5–2 hours at the airport for international check-in and security.