We are arriving in Florence by train via Venice on November 23rd. We love to wander around and find small interesting things. 3 adults in our party. We are trying to plan some sort of itinerary for our stay as a guideline but don't plan on scheduling everything to the minute. Also, we are on somewhat of a budget as traveling to Rome for 5 nights after Florence. Any suggestions on things to do, places to see and restaurants from those of you who have enjoyed this city would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!! (Also, we know it might be rainy)

How long is your stay in Florence? What are your interests?

I assume you have a guide book and have done research on the major sites to see like the Duomo, the baptistery, the open leather market..etc? Also check out destinations above for good basic info on building itineraries.

3 nights and yes I have bought a guide book for the major sites. Any restaurant suggestions or ideas on what to see first?

Also, any suggestions for day trips? Never been to Italy so I would need details on how to go about it.

Thanks!!

In Rome, I would buy the Roma Pass for 20€ if you have 3 consecutive days that doesn't include a Monday (many museums in Rome are closed Monday although there a few you could use the pass for). The Roma Pass gets you free admission to two museums/attractions and 3 days of transportation (bus/metro/tram/local trains). After you've used your 2 free admissions you get discounts at others (some are 50% off with the pass).
http://www.romapass.it/p.aspx?t=index&l=en

Also, if you are in Rome the last Sunday of the month the Vatican Museum will be open and free. The line will be long so get there early.

Opps! I just reread your post and see you want info for Florence, not Rome. You must see David at the Academia of course! With 3 days in Florence, you might want to use one of them for a daytrip to San Gimignano or some other nearby city. Laartista (a Fodorite currently spending the year in Florence) posted a report about a Chianti tour she took wih Machiavelli that was 15€ for a full day. I think it only runs on Thursday. Here's her blog/thread. You might find some of her Florence restaurant and sightseeing posts helpful.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35150683

Thanks for the info. Actually my son in in Rome and has been since September 4th for a semester abroad with his college. He is going to give us a tour of Rome as he is having class on-site almost everyday. Thanks for all of the posts!!