Best time to visit Florence in 2025
Best season to visit Florence | Seasonal events & local tips
Best time to visit Florence
When is the best time to visit Florence?
Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is on top of almost every traveler’s must-visit list. That is rightfully so as it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its Renaissance masterpieces, stunning architecture, and rich history. It is home to famous landmarks like the Florence Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio, so it’s no surprise that millions of visitors travel to Florence each year. However, to make the most out of the trip, it’s important to choose the right timing. Whether you’re looking for the best weather, budget-friendly travel, an eventful experience with festivals, or a quiet visit with fewer crowds, this guide will help you choose the best time to visit Florence according to your wishes.
Spring in Florence
Average temperatures:
- March: 10°C (50°F)
- April: 14°C (57°F)
- May: 18°C (64°F)
Spring is considered the best time to visit Florence because of its mild temperatures allowing you to comfortably explore the city. In the spring, Florence wakes up from its winter slumber, and locals and tourists start to fill the streets, cafes, piazzas, and markets adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the outdoors.
Insider tips
BOOK TICKETS EARLY
Spring is one of the peak tourist seasons in Florence. So, reserving accommodation and tickets for more popular attractions like the Florence Duomo in advance is a must to avoid any disappointment.
ARRIVE EARLY AT MAJOR SITES
Even though there aren’t as many tourists as there are during the summer, Florence can still get pretty crowded in the spring. Visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening can help avoid long waits and crowds.
TAKE A DAY TRIP
Make use of the comfortable spring weather and beautiful sunny days by taking a day trip to the nearby Tuscan countryside. It’s sure to charm you with its green vineyards and hill towns.
Spring events and festivals
FLORENTINE NEW YEAR
This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when March 25th was regarded as the beginning of the civil calendar. This is remembered with a procession along the city’s streets starting at Palagio di Parte Guelfa up to the Santissima Annunziata Basilica.
SCOPPIO DEL CARRO (EXPLOSION OF THE CART)
This is a centuries-old tradition happening on Easter Sunday where a cart filled with fireworks is set on fire in front of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo).
MAGGIO MUSICALE FIORENTINO FESTIVAL
The oldest music festival in Italy which welcomes world-class operas, concerts, and choirs during May each year. Perfect for music lovers!
Summer in Florence
Average temperatures:
- June: 22°C (72°F)
- July: 25°C (77°F)
- August: 24°C (75°F)
Summer in Florence is full of life, with long daylight hours, fun festivals, and a lively atmosphere. However, summer is also the high season, with the most tourists visiting the city. This means large crowds, long queues at entrances to landmarks, high hotel and flight prices, and more intense heat. So, if you want a more relaxed visit, it’s recommended to avoid the summer months.
Insider tips
PREPARE FOR FLORENCE IN AUGUST
Florence in August can get pretty hot making your visit more challenging. Also, many locals take their vacations during this month, which means that some smaller restaurants and businesses will be closed. However, major attractions like the Florence Duomo will remain open.
GO EXPLORING EARLY IN THE MORNING OR LATE AFTERNOON
Avoid the summer heat by visiting the attractions either early in the morning or later in the day, after sunset. Most attractions and museums, such as the Uffizi, are open in the evening so you’ll have enough time to explore.
GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS
With summer being the busiest period, opt for skip-the-line tickets whenever possible to avoid waiting in long lines. Attractions like the Florence Duomo have very long waiting lines in summer.
Avoid summer crowds with our skip-the-line Duomo Florence Tours & Tickets!
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Tickets
Skip the lines and explore the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, one of Florence's largest churches. See Brunelleschi's stunning Dome, with the Vasari frescoes that include scenes from the Last Judgment. Inside, you'll find 44 beautiful stained glass windows illustrating biblical stories and an exquisite 16th-century marble floor. Don’t miss the iconic bronze Gates of Paradise and the intricate Gothic facades outside, reflecting the Cathedral's architectural beauty.
Full access to the Duomo Complex
Duomo Florence Small-Group Tour
Join our small group tour to explore one of the largest churches in the world. View its beautiful Gothic facade with Renaissance elements, stunning stained glass windows, and a detailed 16th-century marble floor. Ascend the Dome and Giotto's Bell Tower and enjoy the panoramic views of Florence. Skip the lines to enter the Baptistery and see the famous bronze Gates of Paradise, created by Ghiberti. Visit the Museum and Basilica of Santa Reparata and discover the rich history of the city and valuable artworks, including Michelangelo.
Events and festivals
FESTA DI SAN GIOVANNI
On June 24th, Florence celebrates their patron saint, San Giovanni, with a historic parade and fireworks over the Arno River.
FLORENCE DANCE FESTIVAL
In July, various venues all over the city host contemporary dance performances which are perfect for anyone who enjoys dancing or watching others dance.
NIGHT OF THE SHOOTING STARS
August 10th is the day when Florence celebrates the city’s co-patron, San Lorenzo with a festival called the Night of the Shooting Stars. The San Lorenzo neighborhood turns into a festival with free pasta and ragu along with DJs that keep the streets lively.
Florence in Fall
Average temperatures:
- September: 21°C (70°F)
- October: 16°C (61°F)
- November: 11°C (52°F)
Along with Spring, Fall is one of the best times to visit Florence. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the mild weather, fewer crowds, and the beautiful fall colors. The enjoyable weather is a perfect setting for walking through Florence’s historic streets, exploring the delicious Tuscan cuisine, and visiting iconic attractions with less time wasted waiting in lines.
Insider tips
AVOID WEEKENDS IN SEPTEMBER
Even though there are fewer tourists than in the summer, weekends during September can still get pretty busy so avoid them if you can.
DRESS IN LAYERS
To comfortably explore the city, it’s best to dress in layers. Even though the days are pleasant, mornings and evenings can get cool.
Events and festivals
RIFICOLONA FESTIVAL
On September 7th, Florence is filled with colorful and creative traditional paper lanterns. This festival is a unique experience so if you find yourself in the city then, make sure to check it out.
GRAPE HARVEST SEASON
On the fourth Saturday in September, you can see a parade marking the arrival of the Carro Matto. The Carro Matto is a cart that carries 1,000 flasks of new wine commemorating the grape harvest and wine-making season.
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Best views
Brunelleschi Pass
Climb to the top of the Dome for amazing panoramic views of Florence. This ticket allows you to skip the line at the entrance and go through an express security check, saving you precious time. Also included is access to the Cathedral, the Opera del Duomo Museum, the Santa Reparata Crypt, the Bell Tower, and the Baptistery. The ticket includes an audio guide app, too, so you can learn about the Dome's innovative construction method. Your ticket is valid for 3 days, so you don't have to worry about rushing anywhere.
Exclusive access
Giotto Pass
Climb the 84-meter Giotto’s Bell Tower, and see Pisano’s beautiful allegorical artwork alongside panoramic views of Florence - all with our Giotto Pass! The pass also offers skip-the-line access to the Florence Duomo museum, the cathedral’s baptistery, and the cathedral’s crypt, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
Florence in winter
Average temperatures:
- December: 8°C (46°F)
- January: 7°C (45°F)
- February: 8°C (46°F)
Winters in Florence are not as warm as in other Italian cities however, the temperatures don’t usually fall below zero and it’s still easy to enjoy exploring the city. The dropping temperatures offer the perfect opportunity for indoor activities and exploring museums like the Uffizi Gallery or the Galleria dell’Accademia.
Insider tips
SHORTER DAYLIGHT HOURS
Because there are fewer daylight hours during the winter, plan to start your days earlier in the morning and end them in the late afternoon to make the most of the day before the sun sets.
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY
January and February are the calmest months in Florence, making them a perfect time for enjoyable, crowd-free sightseeing.
CHECK ATTRACTION SCHEDULES
All museums in Florence are closed on Mondays and the holiday season may impact the working hours of many attractions. Most museums, attractions (including Florence Duomo), and restaurants are closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day so be sure to check the working hours if you’re planning on visiting during the holidays.
Events and festivals
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
During the holiday season, Florence is full of Christmas markets. The market in Piazza Santa Croce is particularly popular. You can also visit the Christmas tree and nativity scene presentations in Piazza del Duomo during Christmas.
FLORENCE LIGHTS UP AND FLORENCE WINTER PARK
Florence Lights Up is the city’s light festival, which lights up key landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio. To add to the holiday atmosphere, a Ferris wheel and ice-skating rink are set up at the Parco delle Cascine.
PITTI IMMAGINE
For over 70 years, Florence has hosted a big international fashion event every January at the Fortezza da Basso. The headline event is the Pitti Uomo which brings in many fashion lovers from all over the world.
Months to avoid: July and November!
July is the busiest month of the year in Florence, which also makes it one of the most expensive months to visit. The high prices combined with the intense heat and crowds make it a very challenging month to visit. November is the rainiest month in Florence with the fewest events in anticipation of the Christmas markets during December. The weather is also colder which makes it harder to enjoy exploring the city.
Best seasons to visit Florence
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September and October)
Best time to visit Florence if you’re looking for great weather, fewer crowds, and more events
Winter (December to February)
Provides a quieter, festive atmosphere and lower prices. However, the temperatures can get pretty cold.
Get ready for your Florence visit!
No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Florence always has something to offer. From the vibrant energy of spring and summer to the cozy charm of winter, each season brings its own unique experiences. While you’re in Florence, be sure to visit iconic landmarks like the Florence Duomo. Check out our visiting guide to learn everything about this remarkable complex and make sure you don’t miss a thing.