Don’t let a little rain ruin your trip to Florence! There is so much to explore in this beautiful Italian city. No matter the weather, you’ll be able to experience the rich history that Florence has to offer—so here’s what to do in Florence in the rain!
You can easily find shelter in one of the city’s many museums, by hopping from cafe to cafe, or even by dropping into a wine bar to enjoy the delicious local treats Tuscany has waiting for you.
To make the most of your trip, keep this list of things to do in Florence in the rain on hand. You’ll never have a bad day on your trip!
Discover the History of Florence
Florence is home to some of the most-visited museums in the world. You’d miss out if you didn’t get a chance to wander the elegant halls of the Uffizi, or gaze upon the famous David sculpture.
But since Tuscany can be so beautiful on a sunny day, you might want to save these indoor activities for a rainy day. The Accademia, where Michelangelo’s David is located, is a shorter visit, and the waiting line may stretch outside if it’s long. But the Uffizi is sure to fill an entire day, and even if you need to wait in line, you’ll be able to wait under the porticoes and stay dry.
But if the rain doesn’t stop there are plenty more museums to explore. Pitti Palace may be known for its gorgeous Boboli Gardens, but they also have many halls to explore indoors.
For more inspiration, check out our full list of the best Florence museums to explore.
Grab a Bite to Eat
If the weather is not looking like your friend in Florence today, there’s no reason to skip out on one of the best parts of visiting Italy: the food!
Take a day to indulge in the Italian tradition of a never-ending lunch. Enjoy a taste of appetizers with a slow aperitif, move on to your first and second courses, and save plenty of room for dessert.
You can follow through with this plan at any restaurant on your list, but it can also be a great experience at a local agritourism. Here they often have a fixed menu with plenty to eat, all using their very own products—an authentic Italian experience that you’re sure to love! Trattoria del Contadino is one option not too far away.
Or, Cook Your Own Meal
There is nothing better on a rainy day in Florence than to head into the kitchen and try your hand at some authentic Italian cooking! You’ve already been eating some amazing food—wouldn’t you love if you could recreate those unforgettable meals back at home?
Luckily, Florence is home to many skilled chefs who love to share their knowledge with visitors. Learn to cook delicious pasta from scratch, whip up the perfect sauce, refine your second course, and even make a mouth-watering dessert. Plus some cooking classes will even teach you a thing or two about wine pairing!
For a real professional class check out the APICIUS International Hospitality School but if you want something a little more casual, check out all our recommended cooking classes in Florence.
Settle In and Enjoy a Read
Gloomy weather can get us all down, so maybe today isn’t the best day to explore—but just to settle in with a good book instead. But no need to stay in your hotel room; you can curl up with a good book and a great cappuccino at a number of Florence’s cafes or even local libraries.
- Fetrinelli RED in Piazza della Repubblica is a great bookstore and cafe with plenty of tables indoors to enjoy a light meal while you work or dig into your latest read.
- Todo Modo is another bookstore that has its very own cafe, though it is a little smaller. This is a cozy independent bookstore that is worth stopping by even on a sunny day!
- Oblate is another great spot to curl up with a book. As long as it isn’t too windy, you’ll be able to stay covered and enjoy a nice view of the Duomo from its terrace.
Enjoy a Spa Day
Let’s face it: as amazing as it is to travel and see so many new things, it can also really tire you out. Take the rainy day as a sign that it is time to relax a little and check out one of Florence’s day spas.
Relax Florence is a wonderful stop if you’re in need of a massage or little holistic healing. This is the spot to turn down the outside noise and really take a break.
If you’re looking to just lounge between the sauna and the pool for the day, you may prefer a trip to Hotel River Spa. Here you’ll find Turkish baths, saunas, a multi-sensory shower, and a relaxation area, as well as bookable beauty treatments and massages. Not to mention an attached gym if you’d like to use it!
You can also always take a look at your own hotel or one nearby. Many in downtown Florence, such as the Four Seasons, have an in-house spa that is open to non-guests for a fee.
