Florence in 1 Day: Best Hop-On Hop-Off Route & Stops

Only have one day in the Cradle of the Renaissance? Don't panic. You can see the highlights without burning out if you use the bus strategically.

Morning: The Art Start (Line A)

09:30 AM | Start at Stop 1 (Station) Grab a seat on the top deck. As the bus winds towards Donatello (Stop 8), enjoy the breeze.

10:15 AM | Hop Off at Santa Croce (Stop 14 - nearby) Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, the resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo. It’s less crowded in the morning. Coffee break: Grab a cappuccino at a cafe in Piazza Santa Croce.

Midday: The Views (Line A or B)

12:00 PM | Hop On towards Piazzale Michelangelo Stay on until the bus climbs the winding Viale dei Colli. 12:30 PM | Stop: Piazzale Michelangelo This is the photo spot. The whole city spreads out before you. You’ll see the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio tower, and the bridges. Lunch: Grab a panino at the food truck or walk up to the church of San Miniato al Monte for an even higher view.

Afternoon: Historic Center

02:30 PM | Hop On and ride down to the River Get off near the Ponte Vecchio. Walk across the bridge (watch for gold jewelry shops!). 03:15 PM | Explore the Duomo Area From the river, walk 10 minutes to Piazza del Duomo. Marvel at Brunelleschi's Dome.

Evening: Aperitivo

Finish your day back near the station or in the Oltrarno district for a Spritz.

Note: This itinerary assumes you have a 24-hour ticket. If you have 48 hours, split this into two relaxed days!