Spring Travel Tips To Florence From An Italian-American Destination Wedding Planner
Springtime in Florence is pure magic. The rolling hills are lush, wildflowers bloom across the countryside, and cities emerge from their winter slumber with a renewed vibrancy. April is one of my favorite times to visit—mild weather, fewer crowds than peak summer months, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to move here forever.
As a destination wedding planner specializing in Italy, I always remind my couples (and fellow travelers) that packing and planning strategically is essential, especially in spring months like April, when the weather can be unpredictable. Whether you’re visiting for a wedding, a romantic getaway, or scouting a future celebration, here’s my spring travel tips with everything you need to know!
Spring Travel Tips To Florence: What Weather to Expect
April in Florence is all about transitions. You’ll get warm, sunny afternoons, crisp mornings, and the occasional rain shower. Temperatures typically range between 45°F (7°C) in the early morning and evening to 65°F (18°C) in the afternoons. Some days will feel warmer, especially in the sun, while others might require an extra layer.
While April crowds aren’t as intense as summer, Florence and other major cities do start seeing an uptick in visitors, especially around Easter week. If you prefer a quieter Tuscan experience, spending time in the countryside, smaller hill towns, and Florence’s lesser-known spots is a great way to go.
What To Pack For A Spring Trip To Florence
With varying temperatures and plenty of walking, layering is the key to a perfect April wardrobe.
Clothing Must-Haves
✔️ Light Sweaters & Long-Sleeve Shirts – Ideal for layering when the temps fluctuate.
✔️ Comfortable Walking Shoes – Florence’s cobblestone streets + vineyard strolls = a must for stylish yet comfy footwear.
✔️ A Chic Trench Coat or Light Jacket – A water-resistant trench or stylish raincoat is a lifesaver for those April showers.
✔️ A Versatile Dress or Two – Pair a flowy midi dress with a jacket for day-to-night style.
✔️ Dark Denim or Lightweight Trousers – Polished, comfy, and practical.
✔️ A Scarf – Italians love scarves! They add warmth and a touch of effortless style.
✔️ Sunglasses – The Tuscan sun is no joke, even in spring!
Other Essentials
✔️ A Compact Umbrella or Packable Raincoat – Be prepared for occasional April showers.
✔️ A Crossbody Bag or Backpack – Secure and chic for exploring city streets or the countryside.
✔️ Sunscreen – Even in the cooler months, the sun is strong in Tuscany.
Spring Travel Tips To Florence: Highlights
April is a dream for those who love nature, art, and a little off-the-beaten-path magic.
The Best Hidden Garden in Florence: Giardino Bardini
While most visitors flock to Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini is one of Florence’s best-kept secrets. This stunning garden features:
• A breathtaking wisteria tunnel that blooms in a cascade of purple each spring.
• A charming café at the top, where you can sip wine or coffee with sweeping views of Florence.
• Beautiful Renaissance-style landscaping, making it the perfect quiet escape from the city’s hustle.
If you’re visiting Florence in April, this is a must-see spot—especially when the wisteria is at its peak!
Other Must-See Spring Experiences
• Giardino dell’Iris – Open only for a few weeks each year, this Florence garden near Piazzale Michelangelo showcases thousands of iris varieties in bloom.
• Chianti & Val d’Orcia’s Rolling Hills – Covered in wild poppies and wisteria, this is prime time for countryside drives and vineyard visits.
• Florence’s Easter Celebration – Scoppio del Carro – If you’re here for Easter, don’t miss this firework-filled tradition in front of the Duomo!
Where to Stay In Florence: My Favorite Hotels
Looking for the perfect place to stay? Here are my top picks, whether you want a city escape or a countryside retreat—bonus: these also double as amazing wedding venues!
In Florence:
• Hotel Savoy – A stylish, centrally located hotel offering impeccable service and timeless luxury.
• Hotel Lungarno – A dreamy boutique hotel right on the Arno River with stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio and incredible hospitality.
• The St. Regis Florence – A lavish, historic hotel with five-star service, beautiful frescoed ceilings, and a luxurious riverside setting.
• Portrait Firenze – Another Lungarno Collection gem, this intimate, stylish hotel has unmatched attention to detail and the best city views.
Outside of Florence:
• Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco – A stunning Val d’Orcia estate with luxury villas, wine tastings, and rolling countryside views.
• Vignamaggio – A historic vineyard rich in Renaissance charm, ideal for romantic getaways and intimate weddings.
Where to Eat & Sip in Florence
✔️ Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco – Cozy, rustic, and known for amazing wild boar pasta.
✔️ Il Santo Bevitore – A refined yet relaxed spot for modern Tuscan cuisine.
✔️ Caffè at Luisa Via Roma – Rooftop café with coffee, cocktails, and a stylish crowd.
✔️ The bar at Helvetia & Bristol – A chic spot in a historic hotel near Tornabuoni.
✔️ Companion Bar at 25hours Hotel – Trendy, fun, and unexpected, with a great cocktail menu.
✔️ Rivoire – The legendary café and bar in Piazza della Signoria, perfect for aperitivo with a stunning view of Palazzo Vecchio.
✔️ Perché No!… – One of the best gelato spots in Florence.
Pack Your Bags for Your Trip To Florence!
Florence in April is a dream come true – perfect weather, gorgeous landscapes, and a relaxed yet vibrant energy. Whether you’re travelling for a destination wedding, a romantic getaway, or an unforgettable spring vacation, knowing what to pack and where to go makes all the difference.
Planning a wedding or trip to Italy? Let’s chat!
Buon viaggio e a presto! ✨
Be sure to check back for more recommendations on where to stay, eat and visit throughout Italy from your favorite Italian American Wedding Planner, Michelle Durpetti!
