8 Essentials to Pack for a Week in Florence, Italy
During my year in Florence, I experienced every season. From the sweltering heat of summer to the torrential downpours of spring, this stunning and complex Italian city certainly taught me a few lessons on what to pack while visiting (if only I had known these things my first time around).
Florence is an enchanting, historic place. In the evenings, the sun sets over the Arno and casts a golden shadow that feels like a Sepia filter over the entire city. Art and fashion are prevalent here- just as they were so many years ago. Afterall, artists like Da Vinci and Botticelli walked the same streets. They studied and felt inspired by Florence’s beauty.
In Florence, Italians are dressed to the nines; the streets are perfumed with the scent of leather, and every man dawns a custom suit. White linen dots the lungarno as everyone stays cool in the summer. In winter, there's no shortage of furs and handmade leather gloves. The food will leave you dreading the thought of store-bought sauce and longing for just one more sip of Italian red wine.
So, what should you pack to have the perfect Florentine getaway? I’ve rounded up a few must haves below.
An Umbrella: Florentine weather is unpredictable. The city is known for its cloud bursts and downpours. While it can be sunny one minute, that can change in an instant. November is the rainiest month of the year. June, July, and August offer the driest days. However, even in the summer, expect to see a few thunderstorms. Always bring an umbrella and check the weather to avoid ruining that new leather bag.
Comfortable Shoes: From the Duomo to the Uffizi, there are so many wonderful things to see and do in Florence. This requires a lot of walking. Also, the streets are made of cobblestone, making them very uneven. Although it might be tempting, do NOT wear flip flops. Italians only wear flip flops to one place- the beach. It is a major faux paux and you might get a look or two from a local. Instead, opt for a fashionable sneaker or flat, and consider adding an insert for extra comfort.
Water Bottles: While this isn't necessarily something you would pack, it's something to make sure to bring on your way out of the hotel in the morning. Walking around all day can be exhausting, and you will get thirsty. Many grocery stores and street stands in Florence sell liter bottles for just 1 euro. It's a good idea to stock up and bring one with you each day to stay hydrated while exploring. Side note: Restaurants in Florence (and most of Italy) charge for water.
Cash. While many shops and restaurants do take cards in Florence, it’s always a good idea to carry a little cash. Some of the best traditional spots are cash only. It's convenient to have euros handy for a quick gelato or espresso while you are wandering the streets. You can convert your money at a bank before you leave, or from the airport when you arrive. If you do decide to use cards, make sure to check with your bank regarding any foreign transaction fees.
Scarf. One of the “must dos” of Florence is visiting all of the incredible churches. To be able to enter, you have to be dressed appropriately. This includes no short-shorts, tank tops, or flip flops. Having a scarf handy to tie around your shoulders or drape over your legs will ensure that you can see all of the beautiful sites and not be denied access. Oftentimes, vendors sell scarves outside of the churches, but they markup the prices. Some churches, but not all, provide free paper shawls to those who might need them. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Stay respectful and remember to bring your own.
Bug Spray. Florence is built on the river Arno. No matter where you are in the city, water is not far. That being said, the nights can get gruesome with mosquitos. To get the most out of your Florentine experience, don’t let the bugs bother you. A few spritzes in the morning and evening will do the trick. I love this natural bug spray from Amazon, it comes in a 2.7 fl oz container that is perfect for travel.
Plug Adaptor: It is very important to bring a European adaptor to charge phones, cameras, etc. European outlets are not the same as American outlets, and without an adaptor nothing will be able to charge. I recommend investing in a “universal” travel adaptor, which comes with multiple plugs, to use in any country around the world. If you are not ready for the investment, you can purchase a simple USA to Italy adaptor from Amazon for under $20. I like this Tessan Brand here .
Fashionable Outfit: To really feel like an Italian, bring your favorite outfit and dress up a little. Sip a spritz while you people watch; feel inspired by the cutting-edge style around you and set some trends of your own! Big names in fashion such as Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo are headquartered in Florence. Here, fashion is more than just clothes. It is an art, a status symbol, a way of life.
With these few essentials, your trip to Florence will be off to a great start. Florence is a romantic city with so much to offer. Its art, food, history, and culture are unmatched. Use these tips and plan accordingly so your adventure is as smooth and seamless as possible. Need help planning the perfect Florentine adventure? Reach out on our website here. Happy Travels!
