Florence

Florence

Italy

Wander through Renaissance masterpieces and climb the iconic dome of the Duomo for breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops.

💱 Currency Euro (EUR)
🗣 Language Italian
🕐 Time Zone CET (UTC+1)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Apr–Oct
🚢 Typical Duration 7-10 nights
💰 Price Range $1,015-$2,050 per person
Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port No

Gateway to Renaissance art and culture, offering cruisers access to world-class museums, historic landmarks, and the artistic treasures of Florence and Tuscany.

Cruises that visit Florence

Build Your Day in Florence

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 8:00 PM
Usually about 12 hours ashore
Getting around:
Ponte Vecchio Medieval bridge spanning the Arno River lined with jewelry shops and goldsmith history. Bridge · ★ 4.7 · 151k
Piazza del Duomo Florence's iconic cathedral plaza featuring the Duomo, Baptistery, and Renaissance architecture. Plaza · ★ 4.8 · 142k
Piazzale Michelangelo Hilltop plaza with panoramic Florence views, rose garden, and bronze David replica. Plaza · ★ 4.8 · 110k
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Florence's iconic Gothic cathedral with Brunelleschi's dome, offering panoramic city views and Renaissance art. Cathedral · ★ 4.8 · 109k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10:15 AM
Uffizi Galleries World-renowned Renaissance art museum housing masterworks by Botticelli, Leonardo, and Michelangelo. Art museum · ★ 4.7 · 92k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:15 AM
Piazza della Signoria Renaissance plaza featuring Michelangelo's David replica and historic sculptures; open-air museum atmosphere. Plaza · ★ 4.8 · 86k
Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence Florence's largest Franciscan church with Renaissance art, frescoes, and tombs of notable figures. Basilica · ★ 4.8 · 41k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Trattoria Zà Zà Italian trattoria serving exquisite cuisine and specialty truffle fries in intimate setting. Italian · ★ 4.5 · 33k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella There is a lot to do here with many frescos and interesting art work Basilica · ★ 4.7 · 32k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Boboli Gardens Renaissance palace gardens with sculptures, fountains, and historic architecture overlooking Florence. Garden · ★ 4.2 · 30k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:15 AM
Palazzo Vecchio Renaissance palace with art, secret passages, tower views, and historic halls in Florence's center. Museum · ★ 4.7 · 25k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Brunelleschi's dome its 3,600 square meters envelop you, creating an immersive experience. Historical landmark · ★ 4.8 · 12k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:15 AM
Basilica di San Lorenzo With a quirky natural history museum in the basement. Basilica · ★ 4.6 · 12k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Fontana del Porcellino A free and popular activity that kids will love. Fountain · ★ 4.5 · 12k
Baptistery of St. John It has some great sculptures and artwork. Basilica · ★ 4.6 · 10k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
The Mall Firenze Outdoor outlet mall with major brand selection near Florence; convenient shopping destination. Outlet mall · ★ 4.2 · 10k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Museo Nazionale del Bargello Small museum but quite fascinating with a fair share of masterpieces. Art museum · ★ 4.7 · 9k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:15 AM
Giotto's Bell Tower Definitely an experience you'll want to sensorially immerse yourself in. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 8k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:15 AM
Trattoria Giovanni Italian trattoria serving traditional cuisine with attentive service and quality wine selection. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 7k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Eataly Firenze Italian food market and restaurant with fresh produce, specialty items, and competitive pricing. Italian · ★ 4.2 · 6k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Osteria San Fiorenzo Italian osteria featuring excellent pasta, curated wines, and craft cocktails in intimate setting. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 5k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Osteria del Fiore - Piazza del Duomo Firenze Casual Italian restaurant on Piazza del Duomo offering quality food and relaxed dining atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 4k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
The Old Stove Irish Pub Traditional Irish pub with live music and craft drinks in authentic atmosphere. Irish pub · ★ 4.6 · 4k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Ristorante dei Rossi Ponte Vecchio Riverside Italian restaurant near Ponte Vecchio serving handmade pasta and premium steaks. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Osteria del Giglio The truffle beef and pumpkin risotto were unforgettable. Tuscan · ★ 4.8 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Stibbert Museum 10 bucks a person for an hour and a half group tour of cool stuff! Art museum · ★ 4.8 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM Fri
Museo delle illusioni Firenze / Museum of illusions Florence Lots of interactive things to do and.be mesmerized with. Science museum · ★ 4.4 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
La tenda rossa Tuscan restaurant offering excellent cuisine, service, and warm atmosphere in traditional setting. Tuscan · ★ 4.8 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Osteria Vecchio Cancello Traditional Tuscan osteria serving authentic regional cuisine including wild boar stew. Tuscan · ★ 4.8 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Angel Roofbar & Dining We had the best experience here—excellent service and great cocktails. Italian · ★ 4.6 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Vale Leathershop Florence The items are stylish, and priced fairly for the quality. Leather goods store · ★ 4.9 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Loggia dei Lanzi You can walk right up to world-class sculptures without barriers or tickets. Historical landmark · ★ 4.8 · 2k
Locale Firenze Amazing drinks and great service, the vibe was spectacular Bar · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
La Petite Amazing cocktails, cozy decor, great staff and good music Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Osteria del Corso Delicious food and delicious drinks and a great atmosphere! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Osteria Cancello dei Macci Both the food and the ambiance were brought to another level by the service. Tuscan · ★ 4.8 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
SE·STO on Arno - reopened as COSIMO Rooftop Restaurant & Bar Drinks are on the pricey side but worth it for an amazing view of the city. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Mad - Souls & Spirits Outstanding cocktails in a relaxing setting! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Rasputin Good music, amazing atmosphere, and top tier cocktails. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.3 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
Mayday Club Delicious cocktails, perfect service and mesmerizing atmosphere. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 PM
Love Craft Welcoming, knowledgeable bartenders, delicious cocktails, cool ambiance. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Mysterium Cocktail Bar Firenze Super amazing attentive staff, delicious drinks and great atmosphere! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Mio Concept Store A wonderful store full of art from local artisans and a helpful host. Craft store · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
Street Doing Vintage Couture THE NICEST PEOPLE the best prices best things so lovely Vintage clothing store · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
Boutique Nadine Great selection of good quality products. Women's clothing store · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
High End Stores Totally worth it Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Best Shopping I live nearby and often come here for lots of small things around the house. Home goods store · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Tous Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Firenze pelle Shopping mall · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Florence

About Florence

Florence serves as a port of call on Western Europe's most captivating cruise itineraries, with Virgin Voyages offering six upcoming sailings from this iconic Italian destination. While a single cruise line operates here, the routes are thoughtfully designed to showcase the Mediterranean's most coveted ports, including Barcelona, Rome, Cannes, and the Greek islands of Mykonos. Seven-night cruises dominate the schedule, with peak travel occurring during the summer and early fall months when the Tuscan sun shines brightest.

Stepping ashore in Florence rewards cruise passengers with immediate access to one of the world's greatest artistic treasures. The city's Renaissance masterpieces, from Brunelleschi's iconic dome to the world-class galleries, await just beyond the port. Whether you're exploring the Uffizi Gallery's unparalleled collections or wandering the charming streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city, Florence offers an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and Italian charm that makes every port day memorable.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Marvel at the Duomo's Masterpiece

Stand beneath Brunelleschi's iconic dome, one of the Renaissance's greatest engineering feats, and explore the stunning Florence Cathedral in the heart of the city. The intricate marble façade and soaring bell tower dominate the skyline and offer breathtaking views of Tuscany from above. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an absolute must-see for first-time visitors.

2

Taste Authentic Tuscan Cuisine

Indulge in bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick-cut Tuscan steak grilled to perfection, paired with local Chianti wine at traditional trattorias near the Ponte Vecchio. Sample handmade pasta, creamy ribollita soup, and artisanal gelato that showcase Florence's culinary heritage. The food markets burst with fresh produce, aged cheeses, and cured meats perfect for a quick lunch.

3

Stroll Through the Uffizi Gallery

Immerse yourself in Renaissance art at one of the world's greatest museums, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Even a focused 2-3 hour visit reveals iconic works like 'The Birth of Venus' and stunning frescoes. The gallery's loggia offers panoramic views of the Arno River and surrounding hills.

4

Explore the San Lorenzo Market

Wander through Florence's vibrant leather market and bustling San Lorenzo neighborhood, where vendors sell handcrafted wallets, jackets, and accessories at unbeatable prices. The covered market overflows with colorful scarves, souvenirs, and local crafts. Haggling is expected and welcomed, making it an authentic Florentine shopping experience.

5

Cross the Legendary Ponte Vecchio

Walk across this medieval bridge lined with glittering jewelry shops and soak in the Arno River's romantic atmosphere. Built in 1345, the Ponte Vecchio is Florence's most iconic landmark, offering postcard-perfect views and access to the charming Oltrarno neighborhood. Sunset views from the bridge are particularly magical for cruise visitors.

Cruise Lines at Florence

Cruises Departing From Florence

Cruises Visiting Florence

Ship Schedule at Florence

Florence Location

Other Cruise Ports in Italy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Florence?

Spring (Apr–Jun) or fall (Sept–Oct) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

What are must-see attractions in Florence?

The Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Michelangelo's David at the Accademia are top picks.

What local foods should I try in Florence?

Try ribollita, lampredotto, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and gelato from a gelateria.

Is Florence walkable for a day trip?

Yes, the historic center is compact and best explored on foot.