Wondering if it’s worth visiting Florence, Italy while pregnant? Let me show you all my top Italy travel tips for pregnant mamas!
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When we agreed to a family summer vacation in Florence, Italy I had no idea that I’d be 13 weeks pregnant.
I was worried that I’d have severe morning sickness and not be able to endure the 14 hour flight from Seattle.
Thankfully, I was worried for no reason and it ended up being a fantastically relaxing trip!
Since my husband has limited vacation days, I headed over to Italy a week before him with my in-laws.
We stayed in Florence for the first few days and developed the perfect pace of travel for older folks and pregnant ladies.
Arrival in the City of Florence
Since we had all experienced so many fun things to do in Florence on previous trips, there wasn’t so much pressure to be on the go.
In the morning, we’d pop in to visit a museum (and soak up the A/C) for about an hour and then head to the cafe for a cold beverage. Freshly squeezed orange juice was available at most cafes.
Then, we’d walk a tiny bit though the streets of Florence before stopping at another cafe for more cold beverages and to sit down.
Eventually we’d stop for lunch and gelato before heading back to the hotel for a long siesta.
After an extensive nap in our air conditioned room, we’d go have dinner and enjoy the beautiful Florence evening before calling it a night.
By slowing down the pace, we got to absorb the ambiance.
Exploring Cinque Terre
After we got over our jet lag in Florence, we took the train to the famous Cinque Terre. It was nice to just sit on the train and stare out the window at the rolling countryside.
We stayed in Monterosso overlooking the water and I felt like I was in a movie!
There were several options for food within walking distance and there were plenty of gelato stands. We were even able to walk to the next town for dinner and it was a pleasant walk in the evening.
The only tricky part was when we took the ferry around to see the other towns. I felt pretty queasy partway through and had to get fresh air.
I also ate my weight in freshly steamed mussels (they were so yummy) before realizing that pregnant women are supposed to avoid mussels.
And I ate a lot of prosciutto and melon (also incredible) but again found out I was supposed to avoid.
Returning to Florence
We headed back on the train to Florence to meet up with my husband and the rest of his family after our jaunt in Cinque Terre.
We stayed at a castle outside of Florence and our room was on the top floor.
That was a lot of stairs for this pregnant lady to hike so I basically became a pack mule and grabbed everything I could think of from our room and headed down for the day.
The lower level of the castle was the coolest, so I parked it there for most of our time.
We did a few half-day trips from the castle.
We hit up the outlets, which offered very little shade. The stores had the A/C cranked, so we absorbed as much as we could and then quickly waddled to the next store.
Their bathrooms had long lines and were so hot. I ended up grabbing papers and fanning myself so I wouldn’t faint. We also found several restaurants with outdoor dining in the shade that were lovely.
And we headed into Florence for a family dinner and to see a few of the sights.
Pregnant-Friendly Must-See/Must-Go Places in Florence
Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo is highly recommended for pregnant women visiting Florence. This central square offers a serene and historic atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed visit.
Home to the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery of St. John, it’s a pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy the stunning architecture. Shaded spots and nearby cafes make it easy to stay cool and hydrated.
However, it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If possible, visit during less busy times. Also, the square is mostly open, so sun protection is essential during warmer months.
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
Another excellent choice for pregnant visitors is the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. This museum houses many original works of art and artifacts from the cathedral complex, providing a rich cultural experience.
The air-conditioned interior ensures a comfortable environment, and numerous benches throughout the museum allow for frequent breaks. While the museum is accessible, some exhibits may be in upper floors without elevator access.
Check accessibility information in advance if this is a concern.
Piazzale Michelangelo
For breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, the Piazzale Michelangelo is a must-visit. This open space is perfect for a leisurely visit, with plenty of seating areas to relax and take in the scenery.
The piazza is easily accessible by car or public transport, minimizing the need for extensive walking. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon, with the beautiful backdrop of the city and the Arno River.
However, the piazza is uphill from the city center, so getting there involves a bit of walking or taking public transportation. If walking is a challenge, consider taking a taxi or bus.
7 Tips for Traveling to Florence Italy While Pregnant
Air conditioning is your new best friend. Soak up as much A/C as you can while in your hotel room, on trains, and in museums.
Sit down. Thankfully most museums have benches so you can sit and contemplate the art. Take advantage of these and rest while looking around the room and then head to the next room, find a bench and do the same.
Stop at cafes. Their fresh orange juice is mighty tasty and you can usually get water or Sprite. The important thing is to drink often.
Limit your itinerary. While it helped that I was revisiting a place, it was nice to not feel like I had to see all the sights. That would have been exhausting and I would have been a grumpy traveler.
Try to pick just a few things to do each day and promise yourself you will return.
Take naps. Even though I had heard to take naps while pregnant, I rarely had the opportunity. However on this trip, I was so tired from walking and the heat that napping helped me have the energy to keep exploring.
Bring Ginger Chews. These helped my nausea a lot on the plane ride and on the ferry around Cinque Terre.
Take lots of photos. Your child might want to know where they were before they were born.
You could even pull out an ultrasound photo for a few shots in front of landmarks or do an impromptu maternity shoot.
Additional Tips for Pregnant Visitors in Florence
- Footwear: Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Hydration: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather.
- Rest: Don’t hesitate to take breaks throughout the day. Many cafes and restaurants offer outdoor seating.
- Transportation: Consider using taxis or public transportation if walking long distances is tiring.
Exploring Florence, Italy While Pregnant Wrap-Up
Visiting Florence while pregnant can be a delightful and memorable experience. With its rich history dating back to the Roman era and its well-preserved historic centre, the city offers a variety of attractions suitable for expectant mothers.
From the serene Piazza del Duomo to the culturally enriching Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, and the stunning views at Piazzale Michelangelo, there are plenty of places to explore at a comfortable pace.
Remember to prioritize comfort by wearing comfortable shoes, staying hydrated, and taking frequent breaks in the many charming cafes. Utilizing public transportation or taxis can also make your visit more enjoyable.
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, the city of Florence promises a captivating blend of relaxation and exploration for pregnant travelers.
Ginger Chews helped a lot when I was pregnant!
Hi! Stopping by from Mom Bloggers Club. Great blog!
Have a nice day!
Yes, they are such a lifesaver, Veronica! Thanks!
Wow Florence is so beutiful! and these are great tips for any future mamas out there
Yes, Florence is one of our favorite cities! It’s so laid back yet there are many thing to see/do!