Weather | 15–23°C (59–73°F), warm and easy to walk | 20–28°C (68–82°F), sunnier and hotter by late month | 24–34°C (75–93°F), heat builds fast |
Crowds | High, but still manageable early and late in the day | High, with event-week spikes | Very high at major museums |
Atmosphere | Garden season, spring food, softer pace | Long evenings, full terraces, big-city energy | Hot, crowded, more survival-planning required |
Key events | Maggio Musicale, Iris Garden peak, Mugello weekend | Firenze Rocks, Pitti Uomo, Calcio Storico, San Giovanni | Outdoor cinema, Estate Fiorentina peak |
Public holidays | May 1 | June 2, June 24 | None major citywide |
Budget | Rising, especially around Mugello weekend | Expensive on event weeks | Expensive, especially for central stays |
Best for | Balanced first trips, gardens, walking | Events, long daylight, classic Florence with summer buzz | Early risers and museum-heavy trips |
Book early? | Yes for headline concerts and weekends | Yes for hotels, galleries, dome climb, event dates | Yes for 8am museum slots and central hotels |
Transport tips | Easy to move around on foot | Allow time around event venues and June 24 closures | Sightsee early, then use indoor stops midday |