Florence in September is where summer warmth meets autumn charm. With golden light over the Duomo, open-air dinners by the Arno River, and harvest-season day trips into Tuscany, it’s one of the most rewarding times to explore the city. Read on to experience early fall like a Florentine local.
The late high season brings the best of both worlds in Florence. Enjoy lively streets without the peak summer crush, comfortable weather for sightseeing, and a full lineup of seasonal experiences. You can climb Brunelleschi’s Dome under clear skies, browse artisan markets with fresh fall finds, or sip aperitivo as the sun sets behind Ponte Vecchio.
When it comes to planning, September makes things simple. Train tickets and flights to Florence are widely available, making it easy to visit the city. Renting a car in Florence offers an easy way to explore the city and visit the vineyards and hill towns just beyond the city.
For a more structured itinerary, choose from the largest selection of travel packages in Florence. These packages pair well with the season’s pace, letting you focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Keep reading to discover what to wear, where to go, and what not to miss in Florence in September!
Weather in Florence in September
If you're looking for the best time to visit Florence, September offers a sweet balance of sunshine and manageable crowds. It offers ideal conditions for sightseeing, dining outdoors, and exploring nearby towns, making it one of the most pleasant months to be in the city.
Expect the following when it comes to the Florence climate in September:
- Average temperatures: 59 F to 80 F (15 C to 27 C)
- UV index: Moderate to high (5 to 7), especially around midday
- Rainfall: Around 6 to 8 days of light, brief showers
- Humidity: Moderate (65% to 75%), often more noticeable early in the month
- Daylight hours: Around 11 to 13 hours per day
- Sunset times: From 19:45 (early September) to 19:00 (late September)
The weather in Florence in September shifts subtly through the month. Here’s how early, mid, and late September typically feel:
- Florence in early September: Warmest part of the month, with average highs around 84 F (29 C). Still feels like summer and is great for rooftop aperitivo (aperitif) or long evenings out.
- Florence in mid-September: Temperatures ease into the upper 70s F (around 26 C). Occasional light showers may appear, and layering becomes useful in the mornings and evenings.
- Florence in late September: Daytime temperatures drop to the low-to-mid 70s F (around 23 C). Expect cooler evenings and a greater chance of short rain showers, perfect for countryside visits or slower-paced trips.
Note: For a more up-to-date weather forecast, visit the ItaliaMeteo official website.
Crowds and Costs in Florence in September
September is part of Florence’s late high season, and that means the city is lively, crowded, and fully back in motion. International travelers fill the historic center, while locals return from their August holidays. Streets, piazzas, and museums all feel more energized again, especially during the first half of the month.
One unique aspect of Florence in September is the reopening of many high-end experiences. Some of the city’s fine-dining restaurants, boutique galleries, and smaller private museums close during August and only resume operations in early September.
Prices, however, reflect the popularity of this period. Hotels, especially those in the historic center, are still charging peak-season rates. Booking the best accommodations in Florence early is key if you want good availability and better value.
Tours and attraction tickets also get snapped up quickly in September. Tickets to major attractions in Florence, like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia, and Brunelleschi’s Dome, often sell out several days in advance. So it’s wise to reserve your tours and tickets in Florence as early as possible.
Transfers and transportation in Florence—whether airport pickups, train seats, or car rentals—also book out faster than in the shoulder season. If you’re planning a day trip or onward travel, locking in those logistics in advance will save you stress and often money.
Events and Festivals in Florence in September
September is an ideal time for city breaks in Florence, as the cultural calendar picks up and the city comes back to life. Locals return from their vacations, venues reopen, and the streets fill with activity.
Events in Florence, Italy, in September range from historic parades and live music to seasonal food and wine fairs. Some are long-standing traditions, while others are more contemporary. However, each one adds something special to the atmosphere.
Festa della Rificolona (Festival of Lanterns)
Held annually on the evening of September 7, the Festa della Rificolona is one of Florence’s most charming traditions. This festival honors the Nativity of the Virgin Mary with a lively procession of children carrying handmade paper lanterns through the streets.
The historic celebration fills the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata with music, laughter, and glowing lights.
This beloved Florence parade in September draws both locals and visitors, and it's one of the most kid-friendly activities in Florence. While not a public holiday, the city center becomes especially crowded in the evening, particularly around major piazzas and church areas.
Note: Plan for limited vehicle access, detours near the parade route, and larger-than-usual crowds after sunset.
Bacco Artigiano and Carro Matto Parade
Among the most distinctive events in Florence, Italy, in September, the Bacco Artigiano celebration brings wine culture to the heart of the city. The main festivities take place in Rufina, a town just outside Florence. However, the highlight for visitors is the Carro Matto Parade, held on the last Saturday of the month, in the city center.
This unique event features a traditional wooden cart stacked with hundreds of wine flasks and pulled by oxen through Florence’s streets. Accompanied by costumed performers, drummers, and flag-throwers, the procession winds its way to Piazza della Signoria.
Note: Although this isn't a public holiday, it still draws significant crowds, especially in the afternoon and around parade routes. If you're visiting that weekend, expect some road closures and temporary detours in the historic center.
For travelers interested in exploring beyond the parade, September is also the perfect time to book wine-making tours in Florence or visit the nearby Chianti Region. Many estates open their doors for tastings and vineyard walks during harvest season.
Firenze Jazz Festival
The Firenze Jazz Festival is one of the standout music events of the season, adding rhythm and energy to Florence in September. Held across various venues, the festival brings together a mix of Italian and international jazz performers.
It's a great way to experience Florence through a different lens, with music echoing through some of the city’s most atmospheric settings.
If you're interested in shows and concerts in Florence in September, this is one of the top choices. Performances span several days and include both ticketed headline acts and free, public events.
Note: Since schedules vary by venue, it's a good idea to check listings in advance and book early, especially for indoor evening sets, which tend to sell out.
Pitti Fragranze
Blending design, craftsmanship, and sensory exploration, Pitti Fragranze is one of the most refined events in Florence in September. Held at Stazione Leopolda, this international fragrance fair brings together niche perfume houses, industry experts, and curious visitors for a deep dive into the world of scent.
The event showcases new launches, artisan blends, and talks on fragrance culture, making it a unique experience for travelers with an eye (and nose) for detail.
While it’s primarily a trade event, parts of the fair are open to the public, offering a chance to explore the creative process behind some of the world’s most exclusive perfumes. It also adds variety to your itinerary, especially if you're seeking learning experiences in Florence that go beyond traditional sightseeing.
If you're in town during its mid-September run, it's worth checking the schedule to see which sessions or exhibits are open to the public.
Fortissimissimo Firenze Festival
Fortissimissimo Firenze Festival is one of the quieter but most rewarding festivals in Florence. It offers a more intimate side of the city's musical scene.
Held in elegant venues like historic churches and small museums, this classical music series showcases the talents of young Italian and international performers. The focus is on chamber music, solo recitals, and fresh interpretations of classical works, all set within beautiful, often lesser-known spaces.
If you're interested in musical concerts in Florence that feel personal and immersive, this festival is a standout. It's a great choice for those who prefer refined performances over large crowds and want to experience Florence’s cultural life in a setting that feels both local and inspiring.
Note: Tickets are usually affordable and tend to sell out quietly. So it’s worth booking in advance if you're in town during the performance dates.
Nextech Festival
If you’re looking for live concerts in Florence that include thumping basslines and immersive visuals, the Nextech Festival might surprise you. This electronic music festival is hosted in industrial-chic venues like Stazione Leopolda. It features international DJs, cutting-edge light shows, and a crowd that comes for deep house, techno, and underground sounds.
Events usually span multiple nights. While some sets are late, others start earlier and blend well into fun night tours in Florence.
Best Things To Do in Florence in September
September is one of the most enjoyable months for sightseeing and outdoor experiences in Florence. The heat has eased, daylight hours are still generous, and the atmosphere feels relaxed but lively.
Many of the top things to do in Florence, like visiting world-class museums, strolling through gardens, or dining by the Arno River, are especially rewarding in the early autumn light.
Explore Florence’s Top Museums and Galleries in September
Florence’s museums are impressive year-round, but September offers ideal conditions to enjoy them. Expect fewer lines than summer, cooler interiors, and longer hours. If you're planning to join one of the many art tours in Florence, this is one of the best times to do it.
Here are the top museums and art galleries to visit in Florence in September:
Uffizi Gallery – Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo, this is Florence’s most visited museum.
Accademia Gallery – Famous for Michelangelo’s David, plus lesser-known Renaissance works and musical instruments.
Palazzo Vecchio – A striking city hall with lavish frescoed chambers and political history dating back to the Medici.
Medici Chapels – Burial place of the Medici family, showcasing ornate tombs and Michelangelo’s sculptural work.
Museo del Bargello – Houses an impressive collection of Renaissance sculpture, including works by Donatello and Verrocchio.
Since September is still part of the late high season, it's best to book museum tickets in Florence well in advance. Entries to the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries often sell out days in advance, especially on weekends. Join a small-group tour in Florence with Uffizi and Accademia stops to secure your slot and enjoy a guided experience.
Note: Early morning or late afternoon slots are usually the most relaxed times to visit.
Climb the Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome in September
There’s no better time than September to climb Florence’s most iconic landmark. The weather is cooler than peak summer, and the city views from the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome are nothing short of breathtaking. The ascent is steep (over 450 steps), but the reward is a panoramic view of rooftops, bell towers, and rolling Tuscan hills bathed in early autumn light.
Many city sightseeing tours in Florence include an exterior stop at the Duomo (Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore). But if you want to climb the dome itself, it's worth securing your spot ahead of time.
The best way to do this is with a skip-the-line ticket to the Florence Duomo with Brunelleschi's Dome climb. It also includes access to the cathedral, the museum, and the Florence Baptistery.
To enrich your experience, consider booking the Renaissance and Medici tales tour in Florence. This tour provides fascinating insights into the figures who shaped the cathedral’s history. For a more relaxed alternative, the Florence city guided tour by rickshaw gives you a comfortable overview of the Duomo and other highlights without the legwork.
Watch the Sunset from Florence’s Lookout Spots in September
With warm evenings and soft golden light, sunset in Florence, Italy, in September is nothing short of magical. Fewer crowds, cooler air, and longer shadows over the rooftops create the perfect setting for a relaxing end to your day.
These scenic spots are worth seeking out on your own or as part of nature walks in Florence:
Piazzale Michelangelo – The most iconic viewpoint in Florence, offering sweeping views of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Arno River. Best reached by a scenic uphill walk or short drive.
San Miniato al Monte – Just above Piazzale Michelangelo, this quiet hilltop church offers an even higher and more peaceful view, especially stunning as the sun dips low.
Forte di Belvedere – A less crowded panoramic spot with occasional exhibitions and a more contemporary vibe.
For a more immersive sunset experience, consider booking the electric cart tour of Florence. This tour lets you glide through the city effortlessly and catch golden-hour views without breaking a sweat.
Travelers seeking adventurous tours can opt for a countryside escape, such as the Florence Vespa tour of the Tuscan Hills with Italian cuisine tastings. Or cruise through the rolling landscapes in style on a self-drive vintage Fiat 500 tour from Florence.
Take a Tuscan Cooking Class in September
September is a fantastic time to dive into local flavors, as markets brim with late-summer produce and the weather is perfect for hands-on experiences. Cooking classes in Florence offer a deeper connection to Tuscan culture, whether you're learning to roll pasta, bake pizza, or blend creamy gelato.
One of the most popular options is the pizza and gelato cooking class at a Tuscan farmhouse near Florence. In this class, you'll head just outside the city to learn traditional techniques in a stunning countryside setting. Likewise, the pasta and tiramisu cooking class with unlimited wine in Florence combines delicious, hands-on instruction with a fun and social atmosphere.
Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just curious about Italian cuisine, a class like this is one of the most memorable ways to spend an afternoon in Florence in September.
Dine and Sip Aperitivo by the Arno River in September
September evenings in Florence are made for outdoor dining, and the banks of the Arno River offer some of the most scenic spots in the city. The weather is warm but pleasant, and many locals return from holiday, filling riverside bars and restaurants with a relaxed buzz.
This is also one of the best times to explore the many food and drink experiences in Florence, from wine pairings and curated tastings to simple aperitivo spreads with a view. Popular spots along the Oltrarno and near Ponte Vecchio offer everything from casual drinks to multi-course dinners, often with terrace seating overlooking the water.
Plan for golden-hour views, especially if you’re timing dinner after a full day of sightseeing. No reservations? Arrive early or opt for a stroll while scouting open tables. You'll find plenty of inviting options tucked just steps from the river.
Relax in Boboli Gardens or Parco delle Cascine in September
As the summer heat fades, September is an ideal time to slow down and enjoy Florence’s green spaces. The city’s two largest parks, Boboli Gardens and Parco delle Cascine, offer fresh air, open space, and a quiet contrast to the bustle of museums and piazzas.
Boboli Gardens boast manicured hedges, Renaissance statues, fountains, and sweeping views of the city. To explore it more deeply, consider booking the Boboli Gardens, Pitti Palace, and Palatine Gallery tour in Florence. You can also secure a reserved entry ticket to Boboli Gardens in Florence to skip the line and wander at your own pace.
Parco delle Cascine, Florence’s largest public park, is perfect for jogging, picnicking, or simply stretching your legs. It’s also a great place to join bike tours or enjoy one of the more relaxed walking tours in Florence, especially if you’re looking to explore outside the city center.
Shop at Mercato Centrale and the Leather Markets in September
September is a great time to explore Florence’s markets, when cooler weather makes it easier to browse, sample, and shop without the intensity of midsummer heat.
Mercato Centrale, located in the San Lorenzo district, is a paradise for food lovers. It offers everything from fresh pasta and aged cheese to truffle spreads, baked goods, and regional wines. Upstairs, you’ll find a bustling food hall where locals and visitors gather for quick bites and relaxed lunches.
If you're interested in discovering the best flavors of the city, join one of the many culinary tours in Florence.
One of which is the cooking class and market tour in Florence, which includes shopping for ingredients before heading into the kitchen. The guided street food tour with wine in Florence is also a fun way to explore the city through its snacks, vendors, and local flavors.
Just steps away from Mercato Centrale, the leather stalls of San Lorenzo and the Santa Croce area come alive in early autumn. These are great spots to explore on your own or as part of shopping tours in Florence, especially if you’re hunting for handcrafted goods like belts, jackets, and bags.
Take a Day Trip to the Tuscan Vineyards in September
With harvest season in full swing, September is the perfect time to escape Florence for a day and explore the rolling vineyards of Tuscany. The landscape is golden, the air is crisp, and the wineries are buzzing with activity. Whether you’re after a classic tasting, a scenic drive, or just a slower pace for a day, this is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region.
Many visitors join guided day trips from Florence that include stops in picturesque towns like San Gimignano, Siena, or Montepulciano. A great all-in-one option is the Tuscany day trip from Florence, which blends sightseeing, food, and wine across multiple destinations.
For something more intimate, the small-group wine-tasting tour to Tuscany from Florence offers a slower-paced look at regional wineries. If your focus is firmly on wine, try the Chianti wineries tour with wine tasting from Florence. It’s tailored to oenophiles (wine connoisseurs) who want to sample local varieties and enjoy food pairings in a beautiful countryside setting.
What To Wear in Florence in September
Choosing what to wear in Florence in September means preparing for warm afternoons, cooler mornings, and the occasional light shower. The weather is generally comfortable, making it easy to enjoy a full day of activities in Florence, from sightseeing and museum visits to al fresco dinners and day trips into the countryside.
When packing for Florence in September, consider bringing:
Light, breathable clothing – Cotton or linen tops, dresses, or trousers for daytime comfort
Light jacket, sweater, or cardigan – Ideal for cooler mornings and evenings
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals – Essential for navigating cobblestone streets
Scarf or shawl – Useful for layering or covering shoulders in churches
Sunglasses and a sunhat – Helpful for sunny afternoons, especially during walking tours
Small umbrella or packable rain jacket – Just in case of a passing September shower
One dressier outfit – For dinners out or more polished evening plans
Florentines tend to dress neatly but casually, so you don’t need to pack anything overly formal. Just aim for a classic, comfortable style that’s practical for walking and stylish enough for a riverside aperitivo.
Ready To Travel To Florence in September?
With golden afternoons, clear skies, and a full calendar of seasonal experiences, September is one of the most rewarding times to visit Florence. It’s also a perfect entry point for exploring Italy at its best. The city feels refreshed after the summer slowdown, with locals returning, events filling the calendar, and museums and galleries fully reopened.
Streets are lively but not overwhelming, and the early autumn light brings a special glow to every dome, piazza, and vineyard view.
As you start planning your trip, explore the best itineraries in Florence to map out your days. Also, check out the best places to stay in Florence to find the right fit for your travel style. Whether you're coming for art, food, or the early autumn atmosphere, September is a brilliant time to enjoy the city at its best.
FAQs About Visiting Florence in September
Is September a good time to visit Florence?
Yes, September is one of the best months to visit Florence. The weather is warm but pleasant, attractions are fully open, and the city feels active without the peak summer crowds. It’s a great time to enjoy museums, gardens, and outdoor dining.
Plus, it pairs well with many of the top things to do in Italy, like visiting Tuscan vineyards or exploring nearby cities. Just be sure to book accommodations and key attractions in advance, as it’s still late high season.
Why is Florence so expensive in September?
Florence is more expensive in September because it’s still late peak season. The weather conditions are ideal, cultural events are in full swing, and both international travelers and locals are actively enjoying the city.
Hotels, tours, and flights tend to be in high demand, which drives prices up. To manage costs, consider booking sightseeing passes in Florence ahead of time. Also, look into hostels in Florence or budget-friendly guesthouses, especially if you're visiting during the first half of the month.
What’s happening in Florence in September?
September brings a full lineup of cultural events to Florence, from traditional festivals like the Festa della Rificolona and the Carro Matto parade to concerts, fragrance fairs, and art shows. The city comes alive after the slower summer weeks, making it a great time to experience local life, seasonal food, and open-air performances.
It’s also a popular time for weekend getaways in Florence, with many locals and visitors planning short stays around these events, so booking ahead is essential.
What’s the weather like in Florence in September?
The weather in Florence during September is warm and pleasant, with average highs around 80 F (27 C) and lows near 59 F (15 C). Early September can still feel like summer, while late September brings cooler mornings and evenings. You can expect around 11 to 13 hours of daylight, moderate humidity, and the occasional light shower.
Is Florence crowded in September?
Yes, Florence is still quite busy in September, especially in the first half of the month. It's late high season, so you'll see steady crowds at major attractions, restaurants, and museums. To avoid long waits, it's best to book entry tickets and passes in Florence in advance.
While the city is very walkable, renting a small car in Florence can add convenience and flexibility. Especially if you're planning day trips to the Tuscan countryside or less accessible areas beyond the city center.
When is sunset in Florence in September?
Sunset in Florence in September shifts gradually throughout the month. Expect it around 19:45 in early September and closer to 19:00 by the end of the month. The changing light makes this a great month for evening strolls, scenic views, and golden-hour photos across the city.
Are there mosquitoes in Florence in September?
Yes, mosquitoes can still be present in Florence in September, especially during the early part of the month and near green spaces or the Arno River. They’re usually more active in the evenings, so packing a small bottle of repellent or wearing light, long sleeves after sunset can help keep them at bay.
Most hotels and restaurants manage them well, so they’re rarely more than a minor nuisance.
