The 2027 Cavalcata dei Magi has already taken place. We will post the next date as soon as it is confirmed. All Upcoming Events in Tuscany
Every year on January 6 Florence is transported back to the Renaissance for an afternoon: At the Cavalcata dei Magi, the Three Kings' Parade, the Three Kings ride on horseback through the Old Town, accompanied by hundreds of participants in magnificent costumes. The parade recalls the splendid processions of the Medici and makes the Feast of the Epiphany in Florence into a living painting. This guide shows you what to expect and how to combine your day with the city's highlights.
Cavalcata dei Magi at a Glance
- What: Historical Three Kings Parade in Renaissance costumes in honor of the Three Kings
- Where: Florence (Tuscany), through the historic center to Piazza del Duomo
- When: on each January 6 (Epiphany), in the afternoon
- Recommended length of stay: 2–3 days in Florence
- Nearest airport: Florence-Peretola (Amerigo Vespucci) ~5 km; Pisa ~85 km
- Your advantage: A free spectacle and a festive way to wrap up the Christmas season
- Insider tip: Stand on Via dei Calzaiuoli or in Piazza della Signoria—that's where the train passes by most impressively
Why is the Cavalcata dei Magi worth seeing?
When, on Epiphany, drums and fanfares echo through the alleys and horsemen clad in velvet and brocade ride across the cobblestones, Florence itself becomes a painting for a few hours. The Cavalcata dei Magi is not a staged tourist spectacle, but a tradition deeply rooted in the city’s history—a dignified yet colorful conclusion to the Christmas season.
What makes it so special: The parade draws inspiration from Benozzo Gozzoli’s famous frescoes in the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, which depict the Procession of the Kings in an idealized Florentine landscape. With the Historical Procession of the Florentine Republic, the flag-wavers and musicians bring this scene to life every year.
For travelers, January 6 is the perfect opportunity to, Florence Experience it away from the summer hustle and bustle—in the tranquility of winter, with crisp, clear air, and without the long lines of the high season. How the parade unfolds and how you can make the most of the day around the Tuscany-The capital is planning to do so, as you're reading now.
How does the Cavalcata dei Magi take place?
The parade follows a festive route through the Old Town. Here are the key points you should know:
The Historical Parade
At its core is the Corteo Storico, the historical parade of the Florentine Republic: horsemen, pages, standard-bearers, musicians, and flag-wavers in meticulously detailed Renaissance costumes march through the city in a long procession—led by the three magnificently dressed kings.
The Route to the Cathedral
Traditionally, the parade sets off in the afternoon, winds its way through the central squares and alleys, and ends at the Piazza del Duomo, where the kings symbolically present their gifts. Spectators line the paths along the route and enjoy the spectacle.
The Legacy of the Medici
The Cavalcata draws on the magnificent processions organized by the Medici family in the 15th century. Then as now, the Three Kings’ Procession was also a display of power, art, and civic pride—and today, it’s a celebration open to everyone.
Insider tip: A visit to the Magi Chapel with Gozzoli’s frescoes in the Palazzo Medici Riccardi (ticket required) rounds out the experience—you’ll see the original painting that the parade recreates year after year.
How do you get to Florence?
Florence has excellent transportation connections. By Train You’ll arrive at the central train station, Santa Maria Novella, from which it’s about a ten-minute walk to Piazza del Duomo; express trains connect Florence directly to Rome, Bologna, Milan, and Venice. What’s the best way to get to the festivities on the big day? On foot, of course—in January, the city is pleasantly quiet.
With the Airplane If you land at the Florence-Peretola (Amerigo Vespucci) City Airport, about 5 km is located some distance away and connected to the city center by the T2 tram; alternatively, Pisa (~85 km). By Car You'll be traveling on the A1 and A11.
Where's the best place to park in Florence?
The Old Town is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL) monitored by cameras—park your car in a parking garage on the outskirts, such as at the Fortezza da Basso, and walk the last few meters. On January 6, there will be additional temporary road closures along the parade route, so be sure to allow some extra time.
Discover Florence – The City Centered Around the Parade
January is a wonderful time to explore Florence at a leisurely pace. A must-see is the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral with Brunelleschi's dome and the Baptistery. Right along the parade route is the Piazza della Signoria featuring the Palazzo Vecchio and the open-air Loggia dei Lanzi.
Art lovers head to the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Medici Riccardi with the Magicians' Chapel—with significantly shorter wait times in winter. Via the Ponte Vecchio you'll reach the neighborhood Oltrarno featuring the Palazzo Pitti and a more laid-back, very authentic side of the city.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle entirely, head up to Piazzale Michelangelo: the sweeping view over the rooftops and the Arno is especially beautiful in the clear winter light. This turns the Feast of the Epiphany into a full-fledged trip to Florence.
Where's the best place to stay in Florence?
In early January, Florence is quieter and more affordable than in the summer—ideal for a relaxing city getaway. If you stay in a central location, you’ll be close to the market and the museums. These six accommodations cater to a variety of needs:
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- Portrait Firenze – on the Arno near Ponte Vecchio, 5 stars · €€€€ · elegant hotel on the Lungarno with a view of the river
- Hotel Calimala – near Mercato Nuovo, 4 stars · €€€ · modern rooms and rooftop terrace
- NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa – in the historic center, 4 stars · €€€ · one of the oldest hotels in Italy
- Hotel Pendini – on Piazza della Repubblica · €€ · a traditional restaurant in a prime location
- Hotel Cardinal of Florence – near Santa Maria Novella · €€ · solid mid-range hotel with a rooftop terrace
- Locanda Orchidea – near the Bargello · € · a simple, charming guesthouse in the city center
Want to compare the location of the hotels directly or see more options? Here is an interactive map with live availability and price comparison:
Top Accommodations in and Around Florence
Where's the best place to eat in Florence?
Hearty Tuscan cuisine tastes best in the winter. Try the ribollitawhich pappa al pomodoro and, of course, the bistecca alla fiorentina. These three addresses represent three price ranges:
- Trattoria Sostanza – Via del Porcellana · €€€ · A legendary restaurant dating back to 1869, famous for its butter-roasted chicken and bistecca
- Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori – near Piazza della Signoria · €€ · a tiny, cozy osteria serving classic dishes
- All’Antico Vinaio – Via dei Neri · € · legendary schiacciata-Sandwiches for a quick snack
Restaurant and hotel recommendations are based on current reviews and market research (as of June 2026). Prices, hours, and availability are subject to change—please check the current situation before your visit.
When is the best time to visit Florence?
The Cavalcata dei Magi takes place on the January 6 – right in the middle of the quiet off-season. That’s a big advantage: fewer crowds, shorter lines at the Uffizi and the Duomo, and lower hotel rates. It can be cool and damp, though, so warm clothing is recommended.
If you're visiting Florence at a different time, it's best to choose Spring (April through June) or Autumn (September, October) with mild weather and manageable crowds. Midsummer is hot and crowded. For a winter city experience with a festive atmosphere, however, the days around New Year’s and Epiphany are an insider’s tip.
What You Should Know About the Cavalcata dei Magi
To make sure your visit goes smoothly, here are some honest tips:
- Dress for winter. In early January, Florence is cold and sometimes wet—warm clothing and sturdy shoes for the cobblestone streets are a must.
- Get a seat early. It gets crowded in the narrow sections along Via dei Calzaiuoli and in Piazza del Duomo; the best viewing spots fill up quickly.
- Please note the holiday. January 6 is a public holiday in Italy—some stores and restaurants are closed or have different hours.
- Book museum tickets in advance. Even in winter, it's a good idea to reserve tickets for the Uffizi and the Magierkapelle online to avoid waiting in line.
- Important: The exact program and start time may vary slightly from year to year—check the City of Florence’s website shortly before the event.
Kings, Costumes, and Medici Splendor: Is the Cavalcata dei Magi Worth It?
Yes—especially if you love history and want to experience Florence away from the summer crowds. The Epiphany Parade combines a colorful spectacle with one of the quietest and most atmospheric times of the year. Who might not enjoy it as much? Anyone looking for sun and beach weather—January is chilly. But for those who appreciate art, culture, and a wintry atmosphere, this offers a rare experience: a living Renaissance procession and a city you can enjoy in peace. Combined with a visit to the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, January 6th is the perfect way to kick off your travel year.
Map: Florence, Tuscany
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Cavalcata dei Magi
The Florence Cathedral: Santa Maria del Fiore and Brunelleschi's Masterpiece
The Florence Cathedral is home to the most famous dome in the world—and tells the story of a city that set out to build the impossible. Come join us beneath Brunelleschi’s dome.
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