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Sign inFlorence: The Ultimate One-Day Cultural Itinerary - Churches
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Archie TaylorIf you’ve only got one day in Florence and want a serious dose of culture, here’s the perfect game plan.
Start your morning at the Accademia Gallery. Because seeing Michelangelo’s David in person is a whole different experience. Photos absolutely don’t capture it. The scale, the detail, the sheer presence of it? It’s breathtaking.
Next, head to the Florence Cathedral (aka the Duomo). The outside is a masterpiece of pink and green marble—almost too pretty to be real. If you’re up for it, climb to the top. Yes, it’s a leg-burner, but the view over Florence? Unbeatable.
After that, take a breather in Piazza della Signoria. This square is basically an open-air museum, packed with dramatic statues, including a replica of David and Perseus casually holding Medusa’s severed head. It’s the kind of place where history feels alive.
Then, make your way to the Uffizi Gallery. Even if Renaissance art isn’t usually your thing, this place might change your mind. Botticelli’s Birth of Venus is one of those paintings that just hits when you see it up close, way more magical than any textbook image.
End your day at Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens. It’s the perfect contrast—opulent palace rooms stuffed with art, then sprawling, peaceful gardens with dreamy views. Wandering through, you’ll half-expect to bump into a Medici prince.
It’s a jam-packed day, sure, but the kind you’ll remember forever.
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Florence Cathedral 
Florence's cathedral, a stunning icon of the city, towers majestically with its impressive Renaissance dome, the brainchild of Filippo Brunelleschi. Right across, you'll find the baptistery. The cathedral, named in honor of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a sprawling Gothic masterpiece built on the site of the ancient 7th-century church of Santa Reparata. You can still peek at its remnants in the crypt below. The outside is a visual feast, adorned with a striking blend of pink, white, and green marble. Step inside, and the vibe shifts dramatically: it's surprisingly plain yet refreshingly cool, a welcome relief during those toasty summer afternoons. Don't miss the quirky clock above the entrance. Crafted in 1443 by Paolo Uccello, it's a fascinating piece that follows the ora italica, where the 24th hour of the day wraps up at sunset. Amazingly, it still ticks away today! While you're there, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic view of Florence from the top of the dome. It's a bit of a hike, but the breathtaking sights are worth every step. And if you're a history buff, the nearby Museo dell'Opera del Duomo houses original artworks and sculptures from the cathedral, offering a deeper glimpse into its rich past.
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