Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

5-Day Florence & Pisa Itinerary from Via Properizio 32, Rome — Fast Train, Art, Food & Leaning Tower

Viewed by 90 travelers
Day 1 · Sun, Dec 14
Florence

Travel Day — Rome to Florence by High-Speed Train & Orientation Walk

6:30 AM:

Light breakfast and final packing at Via Properizio 32 — enjoy a quick espresso and cornetto at the neighborhood bar (Bar Roma) and confirm train and luggage before leaving.

7:15 AM:

Short taxi or local bus to Roma Termini — allow time for traffic; grab bottled water and any last-minute snacks at the station.

7:40 AM:

Arrive at Roma Termini and go to the Frecciarossa platform; validate tickets (if paper) and find your carriage—board early to stow luggage securely.

8:05 AM:

Depart Rome for Florence on high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) — relax, enjoy the scenery, and use the 1.5-2 hour ride to review your Florence map and reservations.

10:10 AM:

Arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station — collect luggage and walk 10 minutes or take a short taxi to your hotel (suggestion: Hotel Spadai or Hotel Brunelleschi) to drop bags (early check-in if available).

10:45 AM:

Settle in and freshen up at the hotel — request a city map and ask concierge about any updated exhibit closures or timed-entry details.

11:15 AM:

Orientation walk: head toward Piazza del Duomo — admire the exterior of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Brunelleschi's dome, and the Baptistery (great first photo stop).

11:45 AM:

Light lunch at Trattoria ZaZa (near Mercato Centrale) — enjoy a plate of pappa al pomodoro or tagliatelle and a glass of Tuscan wine to fuel the afternoon.

12:45 PM:

Quick visit to Mercato Centrale — browse food stalls for local specialties (pecorino, cured meats) and consider grabbing a coffee or gelato to sample.

1:30 PM:

Florence walking orientation: stroll via Calzaiuoli to Piazza della Signoria — admire the Palazzo Vecchio and the Loggia dei Lanzi sculptures from outside.

2:15 PM:

Cross the Ponte Vecchio for the first time and explore the Oltrarno side — browse artisanal jewelry shops on the bridge and stop at a perfumery or workshop on Via de' Bardi.

3:00 PM:

Coffee break at Caffè degli Artigiani in Oltrarno or Ditta Artigianale — relax and plan the rest of the day; consider booking any remaining timed tickets for tomorrow.

3:30 PM:

Visit the Boboli Gardens (if open) or explore Santo Spirito square — enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, local craft shops, and people-watching at Piazza Santo Spirito.

4:30 PM:

Return toward the historic center and stop at the Duomo complex entrance to confirm access times for Baptistery/Campanile/Opera del Duomo museum for later in the trip.

5:00 PM:

Aperitivo time: sample an aperitivo at La Terrazza Rooftop Bar (Hotel Continentale) or nearby Rivoire in Piazza della Signoria — enjoy a spritz with views across the square.

6:00 PM:

Check into your hotel (if early check-in delayed, drop luggage and request a phone call when room is ready) and take a short rest before dinner.

7:30 PM:

Dinner at Trattoria 13 Gobbi or Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori — savor Florentine specialties like bistecca alla Fiorentina or ribollita in a cozy, traditional setting.

9:30 PM:

Evening stroll past the Duomo and along the Arno — admire the illuminated monuments and the peaceful nighttime ambiance; stop for a nightcap at La Ménagère or a gelato from Gelateria La Carraia.

10:15 PM:

Return to hotel — brief plan for Day 2: Duomo visits and museum reservations, ensure tickets and timed entries are printed/accessible and charge devices.

10:30 PM:

Lights out / rest — get a good night's sleep to maximize your first full day exploring Florence.

Day 2 · Mon, Dec 15
Florence (Centro Storico)

Historic Florence — Duomo, Baptistery, Campanile & Museum Highlights

7:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at your hotel or at a nearby café such as Caffè Gilli — fuel up with espresso, cornetto, and fresh fruit before a full day of sightseeing.

8:15 AM:

Walk to Piazza del Duomo to join your scheduled timed-entry for the Cathedral complex — enjoy the morning light on Brunelleschi's dome and take exterior photos before the crowds build.

8:30 AM:

Enter the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) for a calm, early visit — soak in the scale of the nave and admire the Vasari frescoes in the dome from below.

9:15 AM:

Climb the Duomo (if you have booked timed tickets) or queue for the climb to Brunelleschi's Dome — the steep staircases reward you with dramatic close-up views of the frescoes and a panoramic view across Florence.

10:30 AM:

Descend and visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni for its glittering mosaics and the famous Gates of Paradise (exterior bronze doors) — allow time to admire the octagonal interior and the ceiling mosaics.

11:00 AM:

Climb Giotto's Campanile (Bell Tower) using your combined Duomo ticket or visit the Opera del Duomo Museum nearby — the Campanile offers another fantastic vantage point over the Duomo complex and city rooftops.

12:00 PM:

Visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to see original sculptures by Donatello and Ghiberti and learn about the cathedral's construction — spend time with the priceless original panels and models.

1:00 PM:

Lunch at Trattoria Sergio Gozzi or Buca Lapi (reservations recommended) — enjoy Tuscan classics like pappardelle al cinghiale or a light insalata di farro to recharge for the afternoon.

2:15 PM:

Stroll across to Piazza della Signoria and explore the exterior of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Loggia dei Lanzi — photograph the replica of Michelangelo's David and the open-air sculptures.

2:45 PM:

Head to the Museo Nazionale del Bargello (short walk) to see masterworks in sculpture, including Donatello's David and elegant Renaissance reliefs — this museum is less crowded and richly rewarding.

4:00 PM:

Take a gelato break at Gelateria La Carraia or Perché No! near the Duomo — relax on a bench and people-watch as you plan the final stops of the day.

4:30 PM:

Visit Museo di San Marco (if interested in Fra Angelico) or the Medici Chapels (San Lorenzo) depending on your interests — the Medici Chapels offer impressive Michelangelo-designed tombs and a compact, evocative experience.

5:45 PM:

Return to the hotel to rest briefly and freshen up before evening activities — check any museum opening hours for tomorrow and confirm reservations.

6:30 PM:

Aperitivo at La Terrazza (Hotel Continentale) or Caffè Gilli in Piazza della Repubblica — enjoy a spritz or glass of Vernaccia while watching the golden hour spill over the historic center.

7:30 PM:

Dinner reservation at Trattoria 13 Gobbi, Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori, or Il Latini — savor Tuscan specialties such as bistecca alla Fiorentina (share if large) and local Sangiovese.

9:30 PM:

Evening stroll to the Arno and Ponte Vecchio — admire shop windows on the bridge and the softly lit reflections in the river; stop for a nightcap at La Ménagère if you like cocktails.

10:15 PM:

Return to your hotel and review plans for Day 3 (Uffizi & Oltrarno) — ensure Uffizi and other timed tickets are confirmed on your phone and charge devices overnight.

10:30 PM:

Lights out — rest well to be ready for an early start at the Uffizi the next morning.

Day 3 · Tue, Dec 16
Florence (Uffizi & Oltrarno)

Uffizi, Oltrarno & Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

7:30 AM:

Wake and breakfast at the hotel or nearby Caffè Gilli; enjoy a strong espresso and a sweet cornetto while reviewing the Uffizi timed-entry and map for the morning.

8:15 AM:

Short walk to the Uffizi Gallery to queue for your timed entry; use this quieter pre-opening time to photograph Piazza della Signoria and prepare for the highlights tour inside.

8:30 AM:

Enter the Uffizi (timed ticket) and follow a focused route: Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera first, then Tondo Doni and works by Leonardo and Raphael to beat larger midday crowds.

10:00 AM:

Continue exploring the Uffizi’s rooms devoted to Caravaggio and Titian; pause in the central loggia overlooking the Arno for a coffee and a quick rest while taking in the riverside view.

11:15 AM:

Finish the Uffizi visit with the later rooms and prints/engravings; stop at the museum shop for postcards or a catalog if you want a tangible memory of favorite works.

12:00 PM:

Cross the Ponte Vecchio and grab a leisurely lunch in Oltrarno at Trattoria La Casalinga (via dei Michelozzi) or Osteria Santo Spirito; savor a rustic pasta and a glass of Chianti.

1:15 PM:

Explore artisan workshops in Oltrarno: visit the jewelry workshops on Via de' Tornabuoni and the antique shops along Via Romana, stopping at a leather or bookbinder’s studio to watch craftspeople at work.

2:15 PM:

Walk to Santo Spirito Square and visit Basilica di Santo Spirito for its peaceful interior; if interested, pop into the nearby Museo Horne for a small collection of Renaissance interiors and decorative arts.

3:00 PM:

Coffee break at Ditta Artigianale (Oltrarno) or Caffè degli Artigiani; enjoy a pastry and review plans for the afternoon, including a possible visit to the Bardini Garden if you’d like another green viewpoint.

3:30 PM:

Head to Palazzo Pitti and choose between the Palatine Gallery (for more grand paintings) or the Costume Gallery (for fashion lovers); stroll briefly through part of the Boboli Gardens if weather allows.

4:45 PM:

Return toward the Arno and begin the gentle uphill walk to Piazzale Michelangelo, taking small streets to enjoy local shops and stopping for a quick photo of the city panorama from the steps.

5:15 PM:

Arrive at Piazzale Michelangelo in time for golden hour; find a comfortable spot on the terrace to watch daylight soften over the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and the river — perfect for wide-angle photos.

5:45 PM:

Continue to enjoy the sunset as the city lights come on; take the short walk to the adjacent rose garden (Giardino delle Rose) for a slightly different angle of the skyline and quieter atmosphere.

6:30 PM:

Descend back toward Oltrarno and stop for an aperitivo at La Terrazza or SE·STO on Arno (if you prefer a riverside view) to sip a spritz and discuss favorite artworks from the day.

7:30 PM:

Dinner reservation at Trattoria 13 Gobbi, Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori, or Il Santo Bevitore in Oltrarno; enjoy seasonal Tuscan dishes and a bottle of local red to round out the day.

9:30 PM:

After dinner, take a relaxed evening stroll across Ponte Vecchio and along the Arno toward the Duomo to admire the illuminated skyline and reflect on the day’s highlights.

10:15 PM:

Return to your hotel to charge devices and prepare for tomorrow’s Pisa day trip; confirm train times to Pisa and set out any essentials for the morning.

10:30 PM:

Lights out — get a good night's rest so you’re refreshed for the Leaning Tower and riverfront stroll in Pisa tomorrow.

Day 4 · Wed, Dec 17
Pisa

Day Trip to Pisa — Leaning Tower, Cathedral & Riverfront Stroll

6:30 AM:

Early wake-up and quick breakfast at your Florence hotel or nearby café — pack a light day bag, tickets, passport/ID, and phone charger; buy a coffee to go for the train.

7:15 AM:

Walk or take a short taxi to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station — arrive with time to validate tickets (if needed) and locate the correct platform for the regional train to Pisa Centrale.

7:35 AM:

Board the regional train to Pisa Centrale (approx. 55-70 minutes) — use the ride to relax, glance over your Pisa map, and confirm the timing for the Piazza dei Miracoli visit.

8:45 AM:

Arrive at Pisa Centrale and take a 10-15 minute taxi or local bus (LAM Rossa / Bus 1) to Piazza dei Miracoli — enjoy the short ride and watch the city change from station to historic center.

9:05 AM:

Arrive at Piazza dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) and pause to take wide-angle photos of the Leaning Tower, Cathedral (Duomo) and Baptistery before the crowds swell.

9:20 AM:

Enter the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo di Pisa) for a guided or self-guided visit — admire the Romanesque marble façade, mosaics, and ornate pulpit inside.

10:00 AM:

Head to the Baptistery of San Giovanni to view its remarkable acoustics and mosaic-decorated interior; if your schedule allows, listen for the subtle echo demonstration by staff or visitors.

10:30 AM:

Join your scheduled timed-entry for climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa — follow the steep spiral stairs, experience the tower’s tilt up close, and enjoy the unique views over the Piazza dei Miracoli from the top.

11:15 AM:

Descend from the tower and visit the Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery) nearby to see fresco fragments and the cloistered atmosphere; take a moment to rest on a bench in the square.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at Ristorante Il Toscano or La Buca di Sant'Antonio (both within walking distance) — try Tuscan seafood or classic pappa al pomodoro and a glass of local white wine (Vermentino).

1:15 PM:

Leisurely stroll from Piazza dei Miracoli toward the Arno River, crossing to Piazza dei Cavalieri — admire the Palazzo della Carovana and the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, a quieter historic square.

1:45 PM:

Walk along the Arno riverfront toward Ponte di Mezzo and take photos of colorful riverside buildings; stop at Borgo Stretto for window shopping and to sample a gelato at Gelateria De' Coltelli.

2:30 PM:

Visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (if open) or the Museum of the Sinopie to see preparatory drawings and learn more about the art history of the cathedral complex.

3:15 PM:

Enjoy an espresso or late afternoon aperitivo at L'Ostellino or a riverside café — sit, relax, and recap the morning highlights while planning your return to Florence.

3:45 PM:

Return to Pisa Centrale by a 10-15 minute taxi or bus from the historic center — arrive early to find seats on the regional train back to Florence and store any purchased souvenirs safely.

4:15 PM:

Board the regional train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (approx. 55-70 minutes) — use the journey for a brief rest, check photos, and confirm dinner plans back in Florence.

5:30 PM:

Arrive back at Florence SMN station and walk or taxi to your hotel to freshen up; drop off purchases and recharge devices before evening plans.

6:15 PM:

Aperitivo near the Duomo or Piazza della Repubblica — try Caffè Gilli or La Terrazza Rooftop Bar for a drink and light bites while reflecting on the day’s Pisa highlights.

7:30 PM:

Dinner in Florence at Il Santo Bevitore (Oltrarno) or Trattoria ZaZa (near Mercato Centrale) — celebrate a successful day trip with a seasonal Tuscan meal and a bottle of Chianti.

9:30 PM:

Evening stroll along the Arno and across Ponte Vecchio to see the city lights — stop at Piazzale degli Uffizi viewpoints for final photos and a peaceful end to the day.

10:15 PM:

Return to your hotel to pack lightly for the next day’s markets and Medici Chapels; review train times for your scheduled return to Rome tomorrow and charge all devices.

10:30 PM:

Lights out — rest well after a full day of Leaning Tower views, riverfront walks, and Tuscan flavors.

Day 5 · Thu, Dec 18
Florence → Rome

Markets, Medici Chapels & Return to Rome

6:45 AM:

Wake up, finish packing and leave any larger luggage with the hotel concierge for storage; enjoy a quick hotel breakfast or a coffee and cornetto at a nearby bar such as Caffè Gilli to kick off your final morning.

7:30 AM:

Walk to Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio to browse stalls while they're just opening — sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and a regional breakfast pastry while observing locals doing their morning shopping.

8:15 AM:

Stroll toward Mercato Centrale and climb to the mezzanine food court for a second coffee and a light bite; use this spot to pick up small edible souvenirs (olive oil, biscotti) if you haven't yet.

9:00 AM:

Head to the San Lorenzo complex and visit the leather market stalls outside for last-minute shopping of gloves, belts, or a handcrafted leather jacket — haggle politely and inspect stitching and lining before buying.

10:00 AM:

Walk to the Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee, San Lorenzo) for your timed visit; spend time viewing the New Sacristy with Michelangelo’s tombs and the opulent Cappella dei Principi to appreciate Medici patronage.

11:15 AM:

After the Chapels, step into the adjacent Basilica di San Lorenzo to see its austere interior and the Laurentian Library vestibule (designed by Michelangelo) from outside or by brief entry if time allows.

12:00 PM:

Return toward the Duomo area for a relaxed lunch at Trattoria Sergio Gozzi or La Giostra (reservations recommended) — savor a final Tuscan dish like pappardelle al ragù di cinghiale with a glass of Chianti.

1:15 PM:

Collect your stored luggage from the hotel and check out; ask the concierge to call a taxi to Santa Maria Novella station or walk if you prefer a scenic route past the Mercato Centrale.

1:45 PM:

Arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station with time to spare — purchase any last souvenirs at the station newsstand, use the restroom, and confirm your Frecciarossa/Italo seat and platform.

2:10 PM:

Board your high-speed train to Rome (Frecciarossa or Italo) — stow luggage, settle into your seat, and enjoy the 1.5-2 hour ride reviewing photos and memories from the trip.

4:05 PM:

Arrive at Roma Termini; take a taxi or local transit back to Via Properizio 32 (or to your next destination) with time to relax and unpack — reflect on highlights and any keepsakes you brought home.

4:45 PM:

Arrive at Via Properizio 32 and return home or to your accommodation; put away purchases and freshen up, then consider a casual dinner locally to celebrate the trip or rest after travel.

7:30 PM:

If you have energy, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby Roman trattoria (suggestion: Trattoria Vecchia Roma) to compare Tuscan flavors with Roman cuisine and savor the final evening of your journey.

9:30 PM:

Unwind at home or your room: organize photos, back up favorites, and make brief notes about restaurants and sights you loved for future trips or recommendations to friends.

10:30 PM:

Turn in for the night — rest after a full, art- and food-filled five days and start thinking about which Florence memory you’ll relive first.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version