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Is May a Good Time to Visit Florence?
Yes, May is a great time to visit Florence. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, and there are plenty of things to do. The weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the city's many attractions.
Why You Should Visit Florence in May
- The weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the city's many attractions
- Since there are fewer tourists in Florence in May, visitors can enjoy the city's parks and gardens without having to deal with long lines.
What to Look Out for
- Florence in May is the best time to visit, with the city at its busiest and throngs of tourists throughout May through September.
- The weather in Florence in May is pleasant, with up to 11 hours of sunshine each day and 15 hours of daylight.
Overview of Weather in Florence in May
During the month of May, Florence experiences some of the best weather of the year. The average high temperature is a comfortable 25°C, while the average low temperature is a cool 15°C.
- Average Temperature: 16°C
- High Temperature: 25°C
- Low Temperature: 12°C
- Average Rainfall: 1.8 inches (8 days)
- Average Wind Speeds: Light breeze, 4 mph
- Daylight Hours: 13 - 14 hours
Best Things to do in Florence in May
1. Uffizi Gallery
Art Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most popular art museums in Florence. It houses a large collection of Renaissance art, including paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. In May, the gallery will undoubtedly be packed, but you can't afford to miss this historical treasure.
May Timings: 8:15 am - 6:50 pm (Tues-Sun)
from €30
2. Boboli Gardens
Outdoor Attraction | Garden
The Boboli Gardens are a beautiful outdoor attraction located behind the Pitti Palace. The gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and a manicured lawn. This 16th-century garden is filled with sculptures, fountains, and greenery making especially lovely in May.
May Timings: 8:15 am-6:50 pm (Tues-Sun)
from €16
3. Accademia Gallery
Art Gallery
The Accademia Gallery is another popular art museum in Florence. It houses a large collection of Renaissance art, including paintings by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The Accademia Gallery is also home to Michelangelo's famous sculpture of David.
May Timings: Tues-Sun 8:15am-6:50pm
from €20
4. Duomo Florence
Architectural Attraction
The Duomo of Florence is a large cathedral with a beautiful Brunelleschi dome. The cathedral is open every day, and visitors can climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Florence.
May Timings: Mon-Sat 8:30 am-7 pm, Sun 8:30 am-2 pm
from €20
5. Medici Chapel
Architectural Attraction
The Medici Chapel is a beautiful chapel located in the church of San Lorenzo. The chapel is decorated with marble sculptures by Michelangelo is the final resting place of several members of the Medici family.
May Timings: Mon-Sat 9 am - 5 pm
from €15
6. Museo del Bargello
Art Gallery
The Bargello Museum houses a significant collection of Renaissance art, including works by Michelangelo and Donatello. This museum is smaller and less crowded than the Uffizi or the Accademia, making it a great option for visitors who want to avoid crowds.
May Timings: 8:15 am-1:50 pm
from €18.50
7. Palazzo Vecchio
Medieval Palace | Museum
The Palazzo Vecchio is a large medieval palace that now houses a museum. The palace is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and the museum houses a collection of Renaissance art. The exterior of the building is adorned with statues, and the interior is filled with artwork and tapestries.
May Timings: Mon 8:30 am-2 pm, Tues-Sun 8:30 am-7 pm
from €17
8. Siena Cathedral
City Landmark
The Siena Cathedral is a magnificent cathedral in the city of Florence. It was constructed in the early Gothic style and has an architecture that is based on two previous churches. The exterior of Siena Cathedral features pilasters, rustications, and archivolts as well as other architectural features.
May Timings: Mon-Sat 10 am-5 pm, Sun 1:30 pm - 5 pm
from €9
9. Ponte Vecchio
Architectural Attraction
The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone bridge that spans the Arno River. The bridge is lined with shops, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence. The Ponte Vecchio is a must-visit for the views of the river and the city from the bridge.
10. Take a day trip from Florence
Day Trip | Nearby
There are several beautiful cities located within a short drive of Florence. Sienna, Lucca, and Pisa are all popular day trip destinations. Florence is surrounded by beautiful countryside that is worth exploring. Take a day trip to one of the nearby hill towns or vineyards for a taste of the real Italy.
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11. Piazza della Signoria
Public Square
The Piazza della Signoria is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence. The square is home to several important monuments, including the Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune. Visitors can also admire the views of the Duomo from the square.
12. Museo Galileo
Science Museum
The Museo Galileo is a science museum that houses a collection of scientific instruments from the Renaissance. The Galileo Museum, which is housed in the Palazzo Vecchio, commemorates astronomer and scientist Galileo Galilei.
May Timings: Tues-Sun 8:30am-7:00pm
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Festivals in Florence in May
La Maggiolata Lucignano
Date: 22 May – 1 Jun
Location: Lucignano
This festival celebrates the return of spring with a parade of people in traditional costumes. The parade is followed by a fair, and there are also food stalls and live music. The festival takes place in the town of Lucignano, which is located about an hour from Florence.
Body Music Weekend
Date: 21 – 22 May
This festival celebrates music and dance with performances, workshops, and parties. The festival takes place in various venues around Florence, and visitors can purchase tickets for individual events or for a pass that gives access to all events.
Know Before You Visit Florence in May
Travel Essentials
What to Wear
What to Pack
Transport
Stay
Food
- Time Zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Euro EUR (€)
- Language: Italian
- Country code: +39
- Emergency numbers: Fire - 115, Police - 113, ambulance - 118
What to wear in Florence in May
- Visitors should pack light clothing such as t-shirts and shorts, and they should also bring a jacket or sweater for cool evenings.
- Comfortable shoes are also a good idea, as there may be a lot of walking.
- Shorts and sundresses are ideal for traveling to several outdoor locations.
- Wear headgear, such as hats or caps, to protect yourself from the heat and sunlight during the day.
What to Pack For Florence in May
- Sunscreen is recommended, as the weather will be warm and sunny.
- For days when you'll be exploring Florence's museums and churches, consider packing a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders. Many of these buildings have a strict dress code that requires visitors to have their shoulders covered.
- If you plan on doing any hiking or walking in the hills around Florence, pack comfortable shoes and clothing.
Getting Around Florence in May
- By Bus: ATAF operates a bus network that covers the city of Florence. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, tobacco shops, and some supermarkets.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available throughout Florence, and they can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone.
- By Bike: Visitors can rent bikes from several companies in Florence. This is a good option for visitors who want to explore the city at their own pace.
- By Car: Visitors can also rent cars in Florence. This is a good option for visitors who plan on making day trips to other cities and towns in Tuscany.
Where to Stay in Florence in May
There are many accommodation options in Florence, ranging from budget hotels to luxury apartments. Visitors should book their accommodation in advance, as the city is very popular with tourists.
- Luxury: Palazzo Vecchietti, The St. Regis, Palazzo Castri 1874
- Moderate:Hotel Duomo Firenze, Hotel Perseo, Hotel la Fortezza
- Budget: New Generation,PLUS Florence,Orcagna Hotel
What to eat in Florence in May
The food in Florence is based on simple, fresh ingredients. The city is known for its Tuscan cuisine, which includes dishes such as ribollita (a bread and vegetable soup) and bistecca alla Fiorentina (a grilled steak).
- Strawberry Tart: This tart made with fresh strawberries, puff pastry, and vanilla bean custard is the perfect summer dessert.
- Grilled Squash Blossoms: These delicate flowers are usually only available for a short time in early summer, so make the most of them while you can.
- Zucchini Flowers in Tempura: These tempura-fried zucchini flowers are popular street food in Italy. They can be served as an appetizer or main course.
- Pizza Margherita: This classic pizza is named for Queen Margherita of Savoy, who is said to have been the first to eat it.
All Your Questions About Visiting Florence in May Answered
Is May a good time to visit Florence?
May is a great time to visit Florence. The weather is mild and the city is less crowded than it is in the summer months.
What are the best things to do in Florence in May?
Some of the best things to do in Florence in May include visiting the Duomo, exploring the Boboli Gardens, and walking across the Ponte Vecchio.
Is Florence cold in May?
No, Florence is not cold in May. The average temperature in May is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit).
What should I pack for a trip to Florence in May?
For a trip to Florence in May, pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen. If you plan on visiting churches and museums, be sure to pack a scarf or jacket to cover your shoulders and knees.
How hot is Florence in May?
The average temperature in May is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can feel hotter than this, so be sure to pack sunscreen.
Can you swim in Florence in May?
The average water temperature in May is 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit). While this is technically swimmable, it is not recommended as the water is quite cold.
Is it sunny in Florence in May?
Yes, it is sunny in Florence in May. The average number of hours of sunshine per day is 9.5.
What are the chances of rain in Florence in May?
The chance of rain in Florence in May is 40%. However, this varies depending on the year.
Is Florence expensive to visit?
Florence can be expensive to visit, especially during peak season. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in a hostel or an Airbnb.
How safe is Florence?
Florence is a safe city to visit. However, as with any large city, there are areas that are best avoided at night. Be sure to research your route before walking around after dark.
Is it worth visiting Florence?
Yes, Florence is definitely worth visiting. It is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Italy.
What are the must-see sights in Florence?
Some of the must-see sights in Florence include the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio.
What is the average temperature in Florence in May?
The average temperature in May is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can feel hotter than this, so be sure to pack sunscreen.
What are the best things to do in Florence in May?
Some of the best things to do in Florence in May include visiting the Duomo, exploring the Boboli Gardens, and walking across the Ponte Vecchio.
What are the best things to do with Kids in Florence in May?
Some of the best things to do with kids in Florence in May include visiting the Duomo, exploring the Boboli Gardens, and visiting one of the many museums. If you're traveling with children, consider purchasing a Florence City Pass. This pass allows children under the age of 18 to enter many of the city's museums for free.