5 days in Florence & Milan Itinerary

Considered a cultural, artistic, and architectural jewel of Italy, Florence is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

Museum-lovers will appreciate Gallerie Degli Uffizi and Museo di San Marco. Get some historical perspective at Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and The Baptistery of St. John. Change things up with a short trip to Duomo di Siena in Siena (about 1h 15 min away). And it doesn't end there: explore the world behind art at Florence Academy of Fine Arts, examine the collection at Pitti Palace, contemplate the long history of Basilica of Santa Croce, and enjoy breathtaking views from Campanile di Giotto.

For reviews, traveler tips, maps, and tourist information, use the Florence trip planner.

London, UK to Florence is an approximately 5.5-hour flight. You can also take a train; or do a combination of car and train. The time zone changes from Greenwich Mean Time to Central European Standard Time, which is usually a 1 hour difference. When traveling from London in January, plan for somewhat warmer days in Florence, with highs around 13°C, while nights are about the same with lows around 3°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 9th (Thu) to allow enough time to take a train to Milan.

In many ways the most modern of Italian cities, Milan is a busy, elegant metropolis with an impressive list of grand palaces, fine churches, and important museums.

Kick off your visit on the 10th (Fri): admire the landmark architecture of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, pause for some serene contemplation at Duomo di Milano, then take an in-depth tour of Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio, and finally explore the historical opulence of Castello Sforzesco.

To find where to stay, more things to do, photos, and other tourist information, go to the Milan road trip planning website.

You can take a train from Florence to Milan in 2.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or fly. Prepare for slightly colder weather when traveling from Florence in January: high temperatures in Milan hover around 9°C and lows are around 0°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 10th (Fri) to allow enough time to travel back home.