Florence *****

CITY TRIP

Florence, the capital city of Italy's Tuscany region, is an ideal destination for a city trip, especially for those interested in art, history, architecture, and cuisine. Here are some suggestions for your trip.

Heritage:

Florence was founded as a Roman military colony about the 1st century BC. It was the seat of the duchy of Tuscany and a capital of Italy from 1865 to 1870. The city is often referred to as the cradle of the Renaissance and is home to some of the world's most famous art and architecture. The Uffizi Gallery houses a collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. The Accademia Gallery is home to Michelangelo’s David.

Architecture

The city's skyline is dominated by the majestic Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), known for its iconic red dome engineered by Brunelleschi. The adjacent Campanile (bell tower) and the Baptistery, with its famous bronze doors, are also architectural marvels.

Historic City Center

The historic center of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and an abundance of historic buildings. A walk through the center is like stepping back into the Renaissance era.

The Arno River and Ponte Vecchio: The Arno River runs through the city, with the famous Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge known for its jewelry shops, crossing it. The bridge offers picturesque views and is a popular spot for photographs.

Gastronomy:

Tuscan cuisine is a highlight in Florence. Traditional dishes often include local ingredients like olive oil, truffles, and Chianina beef. Don’t miss trying Florentine steak, ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), and panzanella. The city is also known for its gelato.

Shopping and Markets

Florence is a great place for shopping, especially for leather goods, jewelry, and artisan crafts. The San Lorenzo market and the Mercato Centrale are must-visit spots for local foods and souvenirs.

Piazzas and Public Spaces

The Piazza della Signoria is an open-air sculpture exhibit and a social hub, featuring a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the Fountain of Neptune. Nearby, Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Santa Croce are also vibrant and significant squares.

Gardens and Outdoor Spaces: For a break from the city, the Boboli Gardens offer a beautiful and historic green space. The Bardini Gardens are less crowded but equally enchanting with stunning views of the city.

Florence’s location in the heart of Tuscany makes it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside, famous for its vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque towns like Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano.

Where to stay?

We stayed in a beautifull 5-star boutique hotel, the Ville sull'Arno, right on the river banks and walking distance from the city center.

FLORENCE, TUSCANY, ITALY