Florence in April - Your Essential Trip Planning Guide

Elyssa

By Elyssa Bernard

January 31, 2024

Are you coming to Florence in April?

You'll get to enjoy explore Florence with mild weather, lots of flowers, and a bustling city, full of life and offering plenty to do, indoors and out. 


view of duomo in springApril is a great time to enjoy a picnic with a view in Florence. Photo by Esther Baardemans.

April in Florence Italy - at a glance

Here's what you need to know about coming to visit Florence this time of year:


April weather in Florence Italy

florence skyline with moody skiesYou can expect some rainy days, but the average precipitation is not that high and won't stop you enjoying Florence's most popular destinations


Temperatures in Florence in April can vary wildly, not only from the beginning of the month to the end, but even on a given day.

The average temperature in Florence in April is pretty mild, with lows (at night) averaging 48-50 Fahrenheit/9-10 Celsius, and highs during the day of about 64-68 Fahrenheit/18-20 Celsius.

The difference between the start and end of April temperatures can be significant however!

April is a spring month which means:

  • it's not as warm as you are ready for it to be (it should be nice and warm by mid-May)
  • it can rain a lot
  • flowers are exploding all over the place.

Overall, Florence in April offers a super climate for sight-seeing (just be prepared for some rain at any time in the entire month.)


For more ideas for how to make the most of your time in Florence, take a look at these pages:

What to pack for Florence in April

spring in florenceComfortable shoes are always key no matter what time of year you visit Florence. Photo by Esther Baardemans.

Packing tips for Florence in April


It seems many people think that Florence in April will be sunny and warm.

While that can be true, we also get a fair amount of rain and some cooler, cloudy days.

So when you're packing for Florence, be sure to bring some long pants or jeans with you - it's not shorts weather yet!


ponte vecchio in aprilIn late April, people are still wearing long pants or leggings, mostly long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters and/or jackets.


Lighter layers and a good rain jacket are ideal for April, so you'll be prepared whether the sun is shining or you get caught in a rain shower.

These are my personal recommendations for the best things to include in your packing for Florence in April:


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If you are caught in the rain in Florence, you can easily buy a cheap umbrella from a street vendor. They just appear when it rains.

The quality of those umbrellas is not great, so I recommend coming prepared with your own travel umbrella, a quality one that lasts like this one.

Some of photos on this page may not reflect this, but believe me, Florence in April can be rainy.

A rain-hat is the perfect packable accessory - it doesn't take up much room but is so useful when you need it!

This rain-hat for men is a lot like the one my husband Alessandro wears.

We never let the rain stop us from going out, you can enjoy Florence in any weather!

I own this jacket and wear it all through spring and fall. Besides being stylish, it's the perfect weight for not-so-hot days, and it's 100% waterproof so I am all set in case of sudden rain.

It's a wardrobe investment but I will say it's one of my favorite jackets all-around.

I also own a lighter rain-jacket like this.

It's light, easy to pack and great for sight-seeing in Florence in spring.

And here's a men's lighter rain-jacket, excellent for packing and for carrying around while sight-seeing ready in case you need it.

I say this about every month - bring a scarf. Yes, even in April. First of all, it's going to be cooler than you might think, especially in the mornings and after the sun goes down.

Second of all, well, it's stylish. But seriously, trust me, you will want a scarf in your bag. You will be surprised at how much you use it!

The scarf thing goes for men too. You will definitely see Italian men wearing scarves, certainly in chilly April.

They don't weigh much, and are super useful. Trust me, you'll want to include at least one scarf when packing for Florence.

Another handy thing to pack for rainy weather in Florence is a light rain poncho.

I've seen so many people shelling out money to street vendors when it rains unexpectedly, but like the umbrellas, they can be poor quality.

So if you don't feel like packing, or wearing, a rain-jacket, this is a perfect alternative.

It’s essential to be prepared for rain and snow in Florence this time of year, so I would recommend including rain-hats, a sturdy umbrella and good quality waterproof shoes on your packing list.


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General Florence packing tips

What else do you need to consider when packing for Florence in April?

These are a few of my essential packing recommendations, any time of year:

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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 container, rather than packing them in your checked luggage.

generic passport image

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.

Travel insurance isn't something to pack 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!

Being prepared for your trip isn't just about packing the right clothes and accessories, it's also about planning ahead.

There's so much to do in Florence that it can be overwhelming sometimes to decide what to include in your itinerary, so why not leave it to the experts?

Take a look at some of the top Florence tours available for a deeper insight into one of the world's most popular cities!

What to wear in Florence in April

people at piazza del duomoWhen visiting Florence, dress comfortably for walking a lot. This includes natural fabrics and super comfortable walking shoes.


So how should you dress when you visit Florence in April?

You will probably be walking a lot, so you need good quality shoes.

Rule 1: Be Comfortable!

My number one rule for sightseeing in Florence, at any time of year: be comfortable.

This is most important when it comes to your shoes, it is crucial to wear good walking shoes, and good quality socks.

I would recommend only bringing shoes you have already broken in, and don’t worry about looking like a tourist - that’s exactly what you are!

Rule 2: Dress in Layers

The next rule, which is especially relevant for April is: dress in layers.

Since the weather in Florence can change significantly throughout the day, and it sometimes rains unexpectedly, it's necessary to wear layers that you can remove/put on easily such as cardigans/pullovers/jumpers and waterproof jackets.

This also means it's a good idea to wear a backpack as you travel around Florence, so you can have a place to put your layers if you take them off.

Bottom line, when packing for Florence in April, don't forget to:

  • Extremely comfortable shoes/sturdy walking sandals
  • Sturdy cotton long pants or jeans, or a long skirt
  • Long-sleeved polo shirt or other medium weight cotton top
  • Warm cardigan or pullover in your bag
  • A light waterproof jacket or shell in your bag.
  • Cotton scarf for men and women
  • Don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!

If you are planning to go to an event, for example a wedding, opera or dinner at a special restaurant, then you may wish to bring something elegant to wear.

Otherwise, it is fine to wear more casual clothes to eat out at many restaurants in Florence so you do not need to pack much, if any, evening-wear.


View from Uffizi window - Ponte VecchioPonte Vecchio is one of the top Florence attractions to see during the good weather of the April shoulder season

Is April a good time to visit Florence?

view of florence from villa bardiniIn April in Florence, you will find wisteria in full bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit the city.


April is a great time to visit Florence for a lot of reasons, like the beautiful cool spring weather, flowers beginning to bloom, lots of new openings, and longer days.

The best time to visit is always subjective, but the April weather in Florence can still be cool, which makes it comfortable for sight-seeing.

It's also a good time to enjoy some tasty Florentine meals indoors with good Tuscan wine, be sure to try the Florentine steak (bistecca fiorentina)!


Duomo outside view verticalThe Florence Duomo or cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is one of the top things to do in Florence, with its impressive architecture and dome by Filippo Brunelleschi

How crowded is Florence during April?

I get this question a lot, in particular because Easter is around this time of year.

The answer is: yes, it will be crowded in Florence in April, Easter or no Easter.

Florence in April is a beautiful month, weather-wise, it's not too hot (perfect for sight-seeing), and many schools have breaks. 

People who have the option to travel outside of a school calendar tend to choose spring and fall to visit Florence, for the milder weather.

That is why spring and fall months are the busiest times to be in Florence.

Just plan for it, and book things in advance when you can.


Ready to plan your trip?

Florence Seasonal Food in April

As I've written on other pages on this site, food in Florence (and in Italy) is eaten seasonally.

It's supposed to be, anyway.

And besides the fruits and vegetables you'd expect to find in spring, like asparagus and peas, there are some typical Florentine foods that must be tried in spring.

If you are in Florence in April, don't miss these: 

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!

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!

Discover the best of Florentine cuisine on a Florence food tour, led by a local expert who will show you what to eat and what's in season!

What to do during April in Florence

April holidays and special dates in Florence 2024

Special dates in Florence in April include Liberation Day and often, Easter.

easter 2024

In 2024 the Easter weekend and preceding Holy week is at the end of March.

Good Friday is on March 29, Easter Sunday is March 31, with Easter Monday on April 1.


scoppio del carro easterThe exploding cart is an Easter tradition in Florence!


The Easter celebrations in Florence include a unique event known as the Explosion of the Cart.

This takes place on Easter Sunday morning, when a huge cart is pulled by oxen to the Piazza del Duomo, ready for the Easter mass in the cathedral.

As part of the mass, the archbishop comes out and lights a firework rocket known as the colombina because it is shaped to look like a dove, which ignites a cable running to the cart.

The cart, which is also rigged with fireworks then 'explodes' for a fun display!

As with many of the ways Florence celebrates major events, this tradition dates back hundreds of years.

APRIL 25 - LIBERATION DAY

liberation day processionOn 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.


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.


Current exhibits and events at Florence's museums in April

The cooler spring months are a great time to take in the arts indoors. Some museums stay open later on the weekends.

There are several events in Florence in April 2024 at various museums around the city:

mucha art nouveau exhibition

Museo degli Innocenti

Alphonse Mucha - The Seduction of Art Nouveau

Explore more than two hundred works from the era of the 'Belle Époque', the Paris art movement at the end of the 1800's that Mucha spearheaded, creating the iconic Art Nouveau images we still know today.

October 27, 2023 to April 7, 2024

Find out more details here.

anselm kiefer exhibition

Palazzo Strozzi

"Fallen Angels" by Anselm Kiefer

This exhibition displays many of Anselm Kiefer's works, which through painting, sculpture and installations investigate the themes of memory, myth, war and existence.

March 22, 2024 to July 21, 2024

For opening hours and ticket information, click here.

giacometti fontana exhibition

Florence Half-Marathon

Taking the participants on a route through the historic center and across the river to Oltrarno, this is a fun event for both runners and spectators.

Be aware some roads will be closed on this day and you may need to take an alternative route to your destination.

April 7, 2024

To enter or find out more information, click here.

Florence Concerts, Operas and other shows on in April

There are lots of concerts and other events available to book for your trip to Florence in April - take a look at some of our suggestions here:

gyg-santa-monica-opera

Enjoy operatic pieces from famous Italian composers live in concert in the evocative surroundings of the Santa Monaca church.

Concerts take place every evening, booking highly recommended.

gyg-three-tenors

See the Three Tenors live in concert at the Santo Stefano al Ponte church.

You will be treated some of the best-known arias from the operas of Puccini, Verdi and Rossini, as well as Neapolitan songs.

Takes place twice a week - why not book your tickets to include a special 3-course Tuscan meal for an extra special evening!

teatro-niccolini

Enjoy a variety of concerts and events in Florence's oldest theater, Teatro Niccolini.

Florence Concert Tickets
teatro-verdi-small

Teatro Verdi hosts many contemporary shows and concerts almost every day of the week.

Teatro Verdi Events Calendar

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.


Close view of the ceiling of the Uffizi GalleryThe Uffizi Gallery is one of the best things to see in Florence


These free admission events are very popular, so plan to arrive early to be sure you get in.


More ideas for things to do in Florence in April

Maybe it's your 2nd (or 3rd or 4th) time in Florence.

Or you have more than 3 days here, or you just want to see and do lots of fun things.

Besides the obvious must-see tourist attractions, there are lots of great things to see and do in Florence! 

While you can of course look at a day trip to the Tuscan countryside, Rome or even Venice, here are some ideas for your visit:


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