There’s a never-ending list of charming Tuscan towns to visit. But this region’s flagship is Florence, and its fame comes at a cost: the crowds. That’s why we’ve put together the perfect one-day itinerary for those seeking a softer way to experience the city. One where frescoes, palazzos, and duomos still take centre stage, but spaghetti, bikinis, and Negronis are equally important. Andiamo… 

MORNING 

Arrive at Villa La Massa in style 

If anyone knows how to do Florence in style, it’s the family who ruled it from the 14th to the 18th centuries. So, do as the Medici do, and stay at Villa La Massa (sister property to Villa d’Este, where you can spend a perfect day in Lake Como). To them, it was a perfectly placed countryside escape. And 800 years later, it still is. Insider tip: start your trip in Siena for its high-thrill twice-yearly Palio, then take one of Italy’s best road trips from Siena to Florence, arriving at Villa La Massa ready to wind down into la dolce vita. 

Prepare for the day poolside or pampered 

Olive and cypress trees line the landscape and staff in Wimbledon-worthy uniforms wander around straightening towels, serving spritzes, and pre-empting guests’ needs. The pool on the pristine lawn at Villa La Massa is unpretentious in the best way – which makes it the perfect place to ease into the day (and digest your local honey-smothered breakfast buffet of Tuscan specialities, too). And in the unlikely case the weather’s not playing ball? Head to the seriously serene Arno SPA for a signature massage instead. Both will leave you feeling weightless. 

AFTERNOON

Clock up your cultural quota 

Hop off your short shuttle ride from Villa La Massa to Piazza di Santa Maria Soprarno (they’re complimentary and every hour). First timers in Firenze should stroll over Ponte Vecchio, past Piazza della Signoria, through the Uffizi gallery, around the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, ending at the Statue of David. Just be sure to book tickets in advance to explore inside any of these spots. Virtuosos who want to volare away from the traditional tourist traps should pootle down the Arno on a ‘barchetto’ (translation: little boat) for a different perspective. 

Set off on a shopping (and sipping) spree 

The Italians are fond of – and famously good at – fashion. And for designer drops, there’s one street that’s a cut above the rest: Via de Tornabuoni, home to everything from established fashion houses to authentic Italian craftsmanship. Saunter around the side streets in this area, too, to stumble across spots for traditional Italian tipples and aperitivos. Our favourite is bar Giacosa – the birthplace of the Negroni – on the corner of Via de Tornabuoni and Via della Spada, or one of the city’s many wine windows. 

EVENING 

Nail the Negroni in a cocktail-making class 

Back at Villa La Massa, perch on the stools at Bar Mediceo for a masterclass in cocktail making. Expect to be asked your favourite cocktail, so they can tailor the class to your tastes. Just know that, when in Florence, there’s only one answer: the Negroni. You won’t just get a front-row seat to masterful mixology, but also a lesson in the history of this drink (and the chance to taste all its varieties, of course). You’ll be an expert on the classic Negroni, Americano, Mi-To, and Negroni Sbagliato in no time. 

Have a romantic riverside dinner 

A single row of white-clothed tables clings to the edge of the veranda at Il Verrocchio, Villa La Massa’s ridiculously romantic riverside restaurant. The orange of the tableside stonework matches the orange of the tabletop Aperol Spritzes, and attentive staff bring out plate after plate piled with proper local produce. First things first: dip your fresh bread in the estate’s own organic extra-virgin olive oil. Then, order the scampi and mussels with pecorino soup, the beef fillet with pink oyster mushrooms and asparagus, and (obviously) the tiramisu. Buon appetito.