Are you coming to Florence in April? You’ll find flowers beginning to bloom, warmer weather finally arriving, and a city full of life with activity happening everywhere.
April is a great time to enjoy a picnic with a view in Florence
April in Florence
Here’s what you need to know about coming to visit Florence this time of year:
Where to stay in Florence in April
Santa Croce is one of the best areas to stay in April, when the weather is perfect for wandering around the neighborhood. The piazza is one of the most open and lively spaces in Florence, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a sunny aperitivo.
As the season starts to welcome more visitors to the city center, you are positioned away from the growing crowds at the Duomo.
Santa Croce is perfect for having access to the main attractions within walking distance
This area of Florence is also known for its shops, as you can find many local handmade items. It’s one of my favorite places to buy leather and other unique souvenirs.
Staying in Santa Croce keeps you within walking distance of the historic center, with a more neighborhood-like atmosphere – lively restaurants, cafés, and markets everywhere.
April weather in Florence Italy
Temperatures in April are known to vary quite a bit in Florence, both throughout the month and from day to day.
The average temperature in Florence in April is fairly mild, with nighttime lows around 48–50°F (9–10°C) and daytime highs of about 64–68°F (18–20°C).
You can expect some rainy days, but the average precipitation is not that high and won’t stop you enjoying Florence’s most popular destinations
April is officially a spring month, which is one of the best seasons to be in Florence Fair warning it can be cooler than you’re expecting, and that old saying definitely applies here… April showers bring May flowers.
Overall, though, it’s one of the best times for sightseeing and exploring the city. Just be sure to check the weather and be prepared for a bit of rain now and then.
Organize your transport easily and stress-free for any trip to Florence and Tuscany:
What to pack for Florence in April
Keep these packing tips in mind
I think we are all hoping that Florence in April will be sunny and warm after the long winter, but as previously mentioned the weather is known to fluctuate.
While we do get some gorgeous days, there are also chilly ones that sneak in, so packing for this month can be a bit tricky. I would say that a good pair of jeans are essential, but definitely long pants, shorts are a bit ambitious for April.
An umbrella is definitely important, and a compact one is best so you can carry it with you without it becoming a hassle.
For jackets, something lighter works well – denim, leather, or another midweight option. It’s also a good idea to bring a scarf. If the temperature drops or you get caught in a quick rain shower, it comes in handy for sure.
Of course, our number one packing rule still applies in April: bring those layers. During spring you can leave the heavier sweaters and cashmere at home, but it’s smart to pack a mix of versatile options you can add or remove throughout the day.
Ponte Vecchio is one of the top Florence attractions to see during the good weather of the April shoulder season
Discover all our must-have items for any trip to Italy in the spring:
General Florence packing tips
These are a few of my essential packing recommendations, any time of year:
- Sunglasses! Yes it can be rainy in Florence occasionally, but the sun will be shining more often than not so you’ll want a good pair of sunglasses.
- Any medications you take, along with a list of these medications. I would recommend keeping these with you in your carry-on in a dedicated organizer, rather than packing them in your checked luggage.
- Photocopies or clear photographs saved on your phone of your passport – much safer than carrying your actual passport around Florence!
- Plug converters for your dual-voltage appliances. Voltage in Italy is 220, and in the US and some other countries, it’s 110. Most electronic devices will default to dual voltage, but you will need a plug adapter as the plug shapes are different here. This universal adapter covers you in multiple locations, perfect for travel to different parts of the world.
- Carrying a well-stocked first-aid kit gives you peace of mind when traveling. I always like having one with me when I travel, it’s very handy for when you need something quickly.
Finally, travel insurance isn’t something to pack per se, but it is something you should not forget!
It is not uncommon these days for visitors to have to deal with lost luggage or cancelled or delayed flights, and your credit card coverage may not be as extensive as you think.
Chances are you are not covered for what you need when these things happen!
What to wear in Florence in April
For me, April is usually the time I can start putting away my heavy boots and switching over to sneakers or flats.
Since it’s the perfect time to wander around Florence, it’s important that your shoes are comfortable (bonus points if they’re waterproof).
No matter when you visit Italy, here are some essential things we recommend never leaving home without:
Use the arrows or scroll to view all recommendations
As for outfits, a good daily wardrobe might include long-sleeve tops or short sleeves, a sweater, or just a jacket for those beautiful spring days.
And don’t forget sunglasses. While April can bring some rain, when the sun comes out it’s often very bright, so it’s always nice to have a pair of shades for an afternoon aperitivo.
Want to know more about what to pack for a trip to Florence?
Check out our guide dedicated to what to pack including recommended and must have items, and our personal tips from years of travel experience:
Is April a good time to visit Florence?
April in Florence is when you can really feel the transition from winter to spring. The city really opens up, and I am always excited to be able to sit outside at restaurants again.
The days are longer, the weather is cool but comfortable, and the flowers begin to bloom in gardens everywhere.
New in 2026: Outdoor Seating Regulations
Starting in 2026, Florence introduced new regulations for outdoor dining in the historic center. On around fifty narrow streets within the UNESCO area, restaurants are no longer allowed to place tables outside, and on others the space for outdoor seating is more limited.
The goal is to protect historic streets and make it easier for pedestrians to move around the city.
In April in Florence, you will find wisteria in full bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit the city.
This month is amazing for visiting Florence, and one spot you shouldn’t miss is Boboli Gardens. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll, where you can admire sculptures, see the gardens in bloom, or simply sit and enjoy one of the most peaceful corners of the city.
How crowded is Florence during April?
This is a popular question, especially since Easter festivities happen during this month. The truth is that April will be crowded, during the holiday week and throughout the rest of the month.
With the nice weather comes the crowds, and since April temperatures are close to perfect, everyone is out and about in Florence, especially the locals.
Schools also have breaks during this month, so the large student groups add to the chaos around popular sites and museums.
Fall and Spring do tend to pick up in Florence, which doesn’t mean it’s impossible to navigate the city, just be sure to plan ahead with tickets and reservations.
Seasonal Food in April
As seen on our other pages, food in Italy is meant to be eaten seasonally. Oftentimes if something is not in season, it’s either hard to find or not sold at all, so it’s good to know what should be eaten when.
There are many fruits and vegetables you can expect to find in spring, such as asparagus and peas, and there are also some other types of produce that shine in April.
Here’s what to add to your list:
Artichokes – these are definitely seasonal, but besides that, there are several varieties of artichoke that start to show up in Florence markets around November and go through to early May.
You’ll find the carciofi empolesi variety only in Tuscan markets. This artichoke is smaller and more delicate in flavor than the classic varieties, so if you see a raw artichoke salad on the menu, go for it.
Be sure to check ony delis you see during your exploration of Florence to find the best fresh produce at this time of year
Peas – fresh podded peas start showing up in April, which are surprisingly sweet. Try them in the classic Florentine dish of piselli alla fiorentina, stewed peas flavoured with garlic, parsley and pancetta – delicious!
Indulge in Florence’s famous food and drink 🍷
Join this fun food tour in Florence and get into the heart of the city’s food scene. As you you explore, you’ll do multiple food tastings, try Tuscan wines as well as local desserts and coffee, all at authentic family-run businesses. Click here to secure your spot today!
What to do during April in Florence
April holidays and special dates in Florence
Special dates in Florence in April include Liberation Day and Easter celebrations.
Holy Week in Florence
The week leading up to Easter, known as Holy Week (Settimana Santa), is an important period in the Christian calendar. Churches throughout Florence hold special services and religious events, particularly on Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, and Good Friday, leading up to Easter Sunday.
While most celebrations are centered around church services, visitors may notice a quieter, more reflective atmosphere in the city as locals prepare for Easter.
Easter
One of Florence’s most unique Easter traditions is the Scoppio del Carro, or Explosion of the Cart, which takes place on Easter Sunday morning in Piazza del Duomo.
A historic cart filled with fireworks is pulled by oxen to the square in front of Florence Cathedral. During Easter mass, a dove-shaped rocket called the colombina is lit inside the cathedral and travels along a wire to the cart, igniting the fireworks in a dramatic display.
This tradition dates back centuries and remains one of Florence’s most beloved Easter celebrations.
You can learn more about the specifics of Holy Week and the holiday traditions in Florence on our dedicated Easter page.
The exploding cart is an Easter tradition in Florence
Pasquetta (Easter Monday)
The day after Easter is known as Pasquetta (Little Easter), and is a national holiday across Italy. Italians often say “Natale con i tuoi, Pasqua con chi vuoi”, meaning Christmas with your family, Easter with whoever you want.
So, Pasquetta is traditionally the day spent with friends. Many people head outdoors for picnics, countryside outings, or long lunches together.
If you’re visiting Florence at this time, you may notice locals heading to parks, gardens, and nearby countryside towns to celebrate the start of spring.
Many museums and attractions remain open, though some smaller shops and restaurants may close for the holiday.
April 25 – Liberation Day
Liberation Day, the Festa della Liberazione, is an important national holiday in Florence and in Italy. It celebrates the end of Nazi occupation during WWII, and the end of Fascist rule in Italy (Benito Mussolini was shot 3 days later).
Being a national holiday, schools, banks and shops are closed. No tourist sites are closed.
On April 25, Liberation Day, you’ll find celebrations across Italy. In Florence, a procession goes through the center, finishing at Piazza della Signoria where the mayor gives a speech praising the Allies and the Italian resistance.
Free Things to do in Florence in April
On the first Sunday of each month you can access Florence’s state-run museums, archeological parks and cultural sites for free – yes, completely free. This includes the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens, Accademia Gallery and many more.
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the best things to see in Florence
If you’re looking for something more relaxed, April’s mild spring weather is also perfect for a walk through Parco delle Cascine, Florence’s largest public park. Locals come here to walk, cycle, picnic, and enjoy the weather along the Arno River.
More ideas for things to do in Florence in April
If you’ve already seen the major sights and are looking for a memorable experience in Florence, a food tour is a great option.
April’s mild spring weather makes it the perfect time to walk through the city while discovering some of Florence’s most authentic markets and restaurants.
It’s also a fantastic way to explore a different neighborhood and experience its highlights through local food.
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To sum up…
Florence in April is when the crowds really start to arrive, but that’s because the weather is perfect for sightseeing, the spring flowers are blooming and Easter brings a lot of travelers. You can easily deal with the crowds by pre-booking popular tickets in advance and adding in some smaller sights to your itinerary where less people visit.
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