Spring in Florence: Ultimate Guide for Florence’s Best Season

Florence is a city that is beautiful year-round. I think Florence is worth visiting during any season that you get the chance to!

However, there’s something truly magical about Spring in Florence. As the winter season fades, the temperatures become more comfortable, allowing you to explore more of Florence’s outdoor attractions.

I personally think that Spring is the best time to visit Florence. The weather is usually mild and comfortable for wearing jeans and a light jacket, crowds are few and far between, and the gardens in Florence are especially beautiful.

But, let’s break down what you can expect if you visit Florence in the Spring so you know what you are getting yourself into!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.

Florence weather in the Spring

Spring in Florence is characterized by mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The temperate climate is perfect for exploring the city on foot, and you can easily fit all of your activities on your Florence itinerary.

The average temperatures in Florence for the months in Spring are:

• March: High of 61 °F (16 °C), low of 42 °F (5.5 °C)
• April: High of 67 °F (19.5 °C), low of 46 °F (7.5 °C)
• May: High of 76 °F (24.5 °C), low of 54 °F (12 °C)

The rainy season in Florence is typically during Fall and early winter, but there is still a chance of rain in Florence during the Spring. April has the highest probability for rain out of all of the Spring months, but the chance is still lower than during Fall and Winter.

Is it crowded in Florence in the Spring?

Spring can be a popular time for tourists to visit Florence, but it generally isn’t as crowded as the peak summer months (July and August).

March can still see a fair amount of visitors, especially during Easter, which is a significant event in Florence. Many tourists may come to witness the religious processions and participate in special church services. April and May, however, generally see fewer crowds than March, and the weather during these months is generally more pleasant.

But, it is important to keep in mind that Florence is a popular destination year-round. As with any of Italy’s major cities, like Florence or Venice, there will always be some level of crowds. But the crowds are considerably less in the Spring, making visiting one of Italy’s cities a much more pleasant experience.

Best things to do in Florence in the Spring

1. Visit the Uffizi Gallery

With fewer crowds, it will be much easier to explore the Uffizi Gallery, which is a must-visit in Florence. You will have more time and space to admire the masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci without feeling rushed.

I recommend that you book a walking tour of the city that includes a skip-the-line tour of the Uffizi Gallery, as this is the most efficient way to explore the gallery.

2. Stroll through the Boboli Gardens

In spring, Boboli Gardens is in full bloom, and this is the best time to see the beautiful flowers. You can send a day exploring Pitti Palace, Boboli Garden, and Palatina Gallery on a guided tour, as these attractions are all in close proximity to each other.

After exploring the garden, you can enjoy stunning views of Florence from the garden’s hilltop.

3. Take a day trip to Tuscany

Spring is a great time to explore the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany. The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like wine tasting and picnicking, and you can enjoy the beauty of the countryside in full bloom.

Take a day trip to visit wineries in Tuscany, as well as other villages, such as San Gimignano (one of Italy’s top wine destinations), Pisa, or Siena.

4. Climb the Duomo

Spring’s mild temperatures make the climb to the top of the Duomo more comfortable. From the top, you’ll have panoramic views of Florence and its surroundings, including the hills in Tuscany!

5. Attend the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is an annual music festival runs from mid-April to mid-June and features a variety of concerts, operas, and ballet performances. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor performances like this one!

6. Take a Boat Ride on the Arno River

Spring is a great time to take a leisurely boat ride on the Arno River. You can enjoy views of the city from a different perspective and relax on the water as you glide past famous landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio bridge.

7. Attend Easter Celebrations

Easter is a major event in Florence, with religious processions and special church services taking place throughout the city. You can immerse yourself in the local culture and witness centuries-old traditions during this festive time of year.

Top restaurants to visit in the Spring

Best Restaurants with Outdoor Seating

During the spring, when the weather is mild and pleasant, dining outdoors is a popular choice. Here are some of the best restaurants in Florence with outdoor seating.

• La Terrazza Rooftop Bar & Restaurant – Located at the top of the Hotel Continentale, La Terrazza offers breathtaking views of the city and the Arno River. The menu features traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, and the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view.
• Golden View Open Bar – This restaurant, located near the Ponte Vecchio, offers stunning views of the river and the city’s historic landmarks. The menu features classic Tuscan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• La Loggia Restaurant – Situated in the beautiful Villa San Michele, La Loggia offers panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding countryside. The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine in a romantic and elegant setting.
• Ristorante La Giostra – This family-owned restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and its delicious Tuscan cuisine. The outdoor seating area, located in a charming courtyard, is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
• Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco – Located in the heart of Florence’s historic center, this restaurant is known for its authentic Tuscan dishes and its cozy outdoor seating area. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and seafood, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Trattoria Quattro Leoni – This charming trattoria, located in the Oltrarno neighborhood, is known for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and its beautiful outdoor courtyard. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
• La Scaletta – This restaurant, located near the Pitti Palace, offers stunning views of Florence and the surrounding hills. The menu features a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.

Best Restaurants with Indoor Seating

Florence, Italy, is home to a plethora of restaurants offering indoor seating, which is ideal for rainy spring days. Here are some of the best restaurants in Florence with indoor seating.

1. Osteria Santo Spirito: This restaurant, located in the Oltrarno neighborhood, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with indoor seating. The menu features traditional Tuscan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
2. Trattoria Sostanza: This historic restaurant, located near the Santa Maria Novella train station, is known for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and its cozy indoor dining room. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
3. Il Latini: This family-owned restaurant, located near the Duomo, is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and its delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
4. Trattoria Zà Zà: This popular restaurant, located near the Mercato Centrale, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and its delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu features a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
5. Ristorante La Giostra: This restaurant, located near the Ponte Vecchio, offers a romantic and elegant indoor dining room. The menu features traditional Tuscan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
6. Cammillo: This historic restaurant, located near the Palazzo Pitti, is known for its cozy atmosphere and its delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
7. Ristorante Acqua al 2: This restaurant, located near the Bargello Museum, offers a modern and stylish indoor dining room. The menu features a variety of innovative dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.

Anything else to know about Spring in Florence

Visiting Florence in the spring is a wonderful experience, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your trip.

• Check the forecast: Approximately 1 week before your trip, check the weather report for Florence to ensure you have the appropriate clothing. Although rain is less common in Spring than other seasons, it is still possible. You may need to adjust your itinerary depending on the weather.
• Pack layers: Spring weather in Florence can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the temperature.
• Book tickets in advance: Major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery can have long lines, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid waiting, consider booking tickets in advance.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Florence is a city best explored on foot, so be sure to wear shoes that will be comfortable all day.

Conclusion

Spring is a magical time to visit Florence that shouldn’t be missed. From the beautiful weather and stunning landmarks to the colorful gardens and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during Spring in Florence.

If you are curious about what to expect in other seasons in Florence, read my helpful guides!

in it for later