Florence in May: Warm Days, Blooming Gardens & the Best Time Before Summer
Timeless Wanderers: Posted January 4, 2026
Florence in May is when the city truly comes alive.
Spring has fully settled in, the days are long and sun-filled, and the city’s gardens, piazzas, and café terraces are buzzing with energy.
It’s warm without being stifling, lively without yet feeling overwhelming — a perfect time before the intensity of summer arrives.
This is the month when Florence feels open and Full of energy.
Locals spend more time outdoors, aperitivo stretches late into the evening, and walking the historic centre becomes a pleasure rather than a test of endurance.
Art, architecture, food, and daily life blend seamlessly, making Florence feel less like a destination and more like a city you’re temporarily part of.
While May is undeniably popular, it still offers moments of calm — early mornings, quiet side streets, shaded gardens, and relaxed dinners once the day-trippers leave.
For travellers who want great weather, rich culture, and that unmistakable Italian spring atmosphere, May is one of the very best months to experience Florence.
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Why Visit Florence in May?
1. Ideal Weather for Sightseeing
May offers some of Florence’s most comfortable weather of the year.
Days are warm and sunny, but not yet oppressive, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
You can walk between landmarks, climb towers, visit gardens, and enjoy outdoor dining without needing constant breaks from heat.
Evenings cool slightly, creating perfect conditions for strolling along the Arno or enjoying long dinners outdoors.
Compared to summer, sightseeing in May feels relaxed and enjoyable rather than rushed or exhausting.
2. The City Feels Alive, Not Overwhelmed
Florence in May has energy — but it hasn’t yet tipped into peak-season chaos.
Museums, piazzas, and popular streets are busy, but still manageable, especially if you plan your days well.
There’s a noticeable sense of change in the city.
Seasonal restaurants reopen, outdoor seating fills up, and cultural life expands beyond museum walls.
Florence feels vibrant and welcoming rather than strained.
3. Gardens and Green Spaces at Their Best
May is one of the best months to enjoy Florence’s gardens.
Boboli Gardens, Bardini Gardens, and smaller green spaces around the city are lush, colourful, and fragrant.
Wisteria, roses, and spring flowers are in bloom, and views over the city are at their most beautiful.
For travellers who enjoy mixing culture with nature, May offers a side of Florence that’s easy to miss in winter or summer.
4. A Great Balance for First-Time Visitors
For first-time visitors, May hits a sweet spot.
You get long daylight hours, open attractions, lively streets, and a full range of tours and experiences — without the extreme heat or packed conditions of July and August.
Florence Weather in May: What to Expect
May is officially spring, edging toward early summer.
Average daytime temperatures: 18–25°C (64–77°F)
Evening temperatures: 10–15°C (50–59°F)
Rain: Occasional spring showers
Sunshine: Frequent and bright
Most days are ideal for walking and outdoor sightseeing.
Rain tends to be brief and scattered rather than constant, and it rarely disrupts plans for long.
By late May, afternoons can feel quite warm, especially in the historic centre where stone buildings trap heat — but it’s still far more comfortable than summer.
What to Pack for Florence in May
Packing for May is straightforward but requires flexibility.
Light layers for changing temperatures
Comfortable walking shoes (essential)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A light jacket or cardigan for evenings
A compact umbrella or light rain jacket
Florence is a city best explored on foot, and May often involves long days outside — comfort matters.
Best Things to Do in Florence in May
1. Explore Florence’s Museums Early or Late
Museums remain a highlight in May, but timing becomes more important as visitor numbers increase.
The Uffizi Gallery is best visited early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Booking ahead is essential.
The reward is spending time with Renaissance masterpieces while still avoiding peak congestion.
At the Accademia Gallery, Michelangelo’s David remains unforgettable, but lines can grow quickly.
A timed ticket or early entry makes a big difference.
2. Visit the Duomo Complex
The Duomo dominates Florence year-round, but May’s light brings out the detail in its marble façade.
Climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome or Giotto’s Bell Tower is more enjoyable than in summer, when heat can be intense.
Early mornings are best for climbing, while afternoons are perfect for simply soaking in the atmosphere of Piazza del Duomo.
3. Wander the Oltrarno District
May is a wonderful time to explore Oltrarno, Florence’s artisan heart.
The neighbourhood feels local and lived-in, with workshops open, small trattorias busy, and streets full of everyday life.
It’s ideal for slow wandering — stopping for lunch, browsing shops, and enjoying quieter piazzas away from the busiest tourist routes.
4. Spend Time in Florence’s Gardens
Florence’s gardens truly shine in May.
Boboli Gardens offer shaded paths, fountains, and panoramic views
Bardini Gardens provide some of the best viewpoints in the city
Smaller gardens and green spaces feel fresh and peaceful
They’re perfect for a slower afternoon or a break from museum hopping.
5. Enjoy Outdoor Dining and Aperitivo
May is prime time for outdoor dining. Cafés and restaurants expand onto piazzas, and aperitivo becomes a nightly ritual.
This is when Florence’s social life moves outside — relaxed, unhurried, and atmospheric. Even simple meals feel special when enjoyed under warm evening skies.
6. Evening Walks Along the Arno
Longer daylight hours make evenings magical.
Walking along the Arno as the sun sets, with reflections dancing on the water, is one of the simplest yet most memorable experiences Florence offers in May.
You can read my full Comprehensive Guide on Florence here
Tours of Florence
Joining a tour can help save you time waiting in line, allow you to learn more about Florence from a knowledgeable guide, and introduce you to sights that you may not be able to do on your own.
Here are some of the best tours in Florence.
This small group tour is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to the Uffizi Gallery.
Climb the dome, visit the Baptistery, and tour the Opera del Duomo Museum with an experienced guide on this small group tour.
Take a guided tour of the Uffizi and Accademia.
Go shopping in the central market in Florence and then learn how to cook a Tuscan meal. This tour gets nothing but rave reviews.
Take a food tour of Florence or a 2-hour guided sightseeing bike tour.
Where to Stay in Florence in May
Whether you base yourself in Florence for day trips or spend your whole Tuscany trip there, May offers great accommodation choices with excellent weather for walking everywhere.
Here are the best neighbourhoods for a May visit:
1. Duomo / Historic Centre
Best for first-time visitors and sightseeing.
Why stay here in May:
Close to major sights
Great for sunrise/sunset walks
Ideal for travellers wanting everything on their doorstep
Hotel picks:
Hotel Spadai – Modern, stylish rooms steps from the Duomo with exceptional comfort and soundproofing.
FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli – Bright, comfortable rooms on Via Calzaiuoli, perfectly located near the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria.
Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy (Luxury) – Elegant 5-star hotel on Piazza della Repubblica with refined rooms and classic Florentine luxury.
2. Santa Croce
A lively, local neighbourhood with great restaurants.
Why stay here in May:
Perfect for dining outdoors
Close to the Arno River for evening strolls
Less touristy than the Duomo area
Hotel picks:
La Maison du Sage – Cozy boutique hotel with elegant rooms, warm service, and central Santa Croce location.
Hotel Mulino di Firenze – Quiet riverside stay with comfortable rooms and friendly hospitality.
Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – Stylish hotel with rooftop pool and panoramic views of the Arno River.
3. Oltrarno (Santo Spirito / San Frediano)
Florence’s artisan heart with a local feel.
Why stay here in May:
Best cafés and trattorias spill onto small piazzas
Lovely May evenings for aperitivo
Close to Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace
Hotel picks:
Hotel Lungarno – Luxury hotel on the Arno with elegant rooms and excellent service.
Casa Botticelli – Boutique accommodation with stylish interiors and a charming, local vibe.
Palazzo Guadagni – Boutique property with historic character and central access to artisan shops.
4. Santa Maria Novella
Convenient and surprisingly stylish.
Why stay here in May:
Great for day trips by train
Easy arrival/departure
Wide choice of modern hotels
Hotel picks:
The Place Firenze – Modern, comfortable rooms with central location near Santa Maria Novella station.
c-hotels Ambasciatori – Contemporary hotel offering easy access to Florence sights and transport links.
25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino – Stylish boutique hotel with fun design and convenient central location.
5. Fiesole (Just Outside Florence)
A quiet hilltop escape with stunning views.
Why stay here in May:
Perfect weather for panoramic sunsets
Great base for hiking
Peaceful alternative to staying downtown
Hotel picks:
Belmond Villa San Michele – Luxury hilltop hotel with breathtaking views, historic charm, and exceptional service.
Hotel Villa Fiesole – Elegant property with panoramic terraces, peaceful gardens, and a relaxing atmosphere.
P.S. You can read my full guide on where to Stay in Florence for more hotel recommendations and insights!
Other accommodation in Tuscany.
Florence in May for Food & Wine Lovers
May brings a noticeable shift in Florence’s food scene.
Lighter spring dishes begin appearing
Seasonal vegetables feature more prominently
Wine bars and enotecas feel lively
Long lunches and outdoor dinners return
It’s a rewarding month for relaxed, social dining.
Getting Around Florence in May
Walking remains the best way to explore
Buses and trams are reliable
Taxis are useful during busy periods
Comfortable footwear remains essential on cobblestone streets.
- Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in March.
Best Day Trips from Florence in May
Pisa (½ day)
Lucca (full day)
Siena (full day)
San Gimignano & Volterra (full-day duo)
Chianti wineries
Val d’Orcia road trip (ideal with a Car Rental:)
May temperatures make exploring comfortable and uncrowded.
12 Amazing Day Trips From Florence.
A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca
Bologna or Venice (Train Option)
Train enthusiasts will love how connected Florence is: Bologna is roughly 35–40 minutes away by high-speed train, and Venice is around 2 hours — both offering extraordinary culture, food, and architecture for a long day trip.
Fiesole — Local Hilltop Escape
For a closer getaway, the small Etruscan town of Fiesole is just a short bus ride away, offering quiet ruins, sweeping views, and a peaceful contrast to the city below.
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day City Break
Day 1: Florence – Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, sunset market stroll.
Day 2: Day trip to Siena for the market and Gothic architecture.
Day 3: Lucca city walls by bicycle and a Aperitif in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
5-Day Countryside Escape
Days 1–2: Florence highlights.
Day 3: Chianti for winery tastings and olive oil sampling.
Day 4: Val d’Orcia—Pienza and Montepulciano under a golden sunset.
Day 5: Hot springs soak in Bagno Vignoni.
How to Spend 7 Magical Days in Tuscany by Car
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in May.
Florence in May FAQs
1. Is May a good time to visit Florence?
Yes — it’s one of the best months for weather, atmosphere, and sightseeing.
2. Is Florence too crowded in May?
It’s busy, but not overwhelming compared to summer.
3. Is May hot in Florence?
Warm but comfortable, with cooler evenings.
4. Do I need to book attractions in advance?
Yes, especially for Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery.
5. Is May good for day trips?
Absolutely — Tuscany looks its best in spring.
6. What’s the downside of visiting in May?
Higher prices and increasing crowds toward late May.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for Tuscany?
(Short Answer: Yes — It’s Still a Smart Idea)
Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit Tuscany, but it’s one of the smartest things you can have when travelling in Italy.
Even in a relaxed destination like Tuscany, things can go wrong — from delayed flights and lost luggage to medical issues, rental car damage, or unexpected trip cancellations.
And while Italy has excellent healthcare, medical treatment for visitors can still be costly without proper coverage.
As long-term travellers living in Italy, we’ve found SafetyWing to be a practical option for trips around Europe, offering coverage for medical care, travel delays, and lost belongings without complicated fine print.
SafetyWing
(Best for Long-Term Travel & Affordability)
We personally use SafetyWing, and have since 2019.
It’s perfect for travelling, spending multiple weeks or a whole year abroad.
You can get a Quote here.
It’s the kind of insurance you hope you never need—but you’ll be very glad you have if something unexpected happens.
Final Thoughts: Florence in May
Florence in May offers one of the most complete experiences of the city.
The weather is welcoming, the streets are full of life, and the balance between culture and everyday rhythm feels just right.
While it’s no longer a quiet season, it’s far from overwhelming — especially for travellers who plan thoughtfully.
If you want Florence at its most expressive — warm days, long evenings, blooming gardens, and a sense of celebration — May is hard to beat.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS –OMIO – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.