Florence is a quintessential Italian city. Culture, history, cuisine, and architecture all combine to create this exceptional small town. Florence has often been at the center of Italy's history.
As the capital of Tuscany, the city represents a considerable portion of the country. This charming city is entirely walkable and offers visitors a wide variety of experiences. It has also been my home for 21 years! To help you plan your next trip to Florence, I've selected the top five experiences for you to have in Florence.
Explore the Art and Architecture
Florence has cultivated the talents of artists throughout its history. Every inch of the city has been perfectly designed to showcase Italian architecture. From grand piazzas like the Piazza della Signoria to magnificent churches like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence surrounds you with incredible architecture right on the street. If you choose to venture into a museum, you'll find famous works of art, such as Michelangelo's sculpture of David. Visit Historical homes like the Medici Riccardi & Palazzo Davanzati. Check out Contemporary Art Installations at Palazzo Strozzi.
Visit the largest collection of Italian Gothic and Renaisscance sculpture at the Bargello. Cross over the Famous Ponte Vecchio bridge to arrive in the Oltra -arno. Arrive at the Brancacci Chapel to witness masterpiece renaiisance painting by Massaccio and Masolini.
Visit the Boboli Gardens
Directly behind Pitti Palace are the impressive Boboli Gardens. Designed for the Medici family. The gardens represent one of the first and most impressive Italian style gardens. Spend an afternoon strolling through the gardens. With one of our expert guides or after a guided tour of the Palatine you can visit the gardens on your own. Enjoy a good book in a quiet corner of the tranquil gardens.
At the top of the hill that over looks the gardens you can visit the Porcelain Museam. Located in the 'Casino del Cavaliere' built in the 17th century for the Grand Duke. See several outstanding examples of Italian Porcelain objects. Along with table sets from Vienna and France. See collections bought from the Royal Palace of Parma. See gifts from Napolean to his sister Elisa Baciocchi. Who was the Grand Duchess of Tuscany from 1809-14.
Discover the Magic of Tuscany
The beauty of Florence is that it's a short drive to some of the best hill towns and wineries in Tuscany.
From Siena to Pisa and San Gimignano, the villages around Florence make for the perfect day trip. Sample Chianti from the local boutique vineyards as you spend an afternoon under the Tuscan sun.
Culinary Delight
It wouldn't be a trip to Italy without indulging in some authentic Italian cuisine. And Florence is no exception. The city is the perfect place to sample Regional and Seasonal favorites like in Siena you can taste hand made Pici Spaghetti with Tomato & Dragoncello or Wild Boar. In Florence be sure to taste hand made ravioli called 'gnudi' or the Florentine Beef Steak. If you want to take your culinary experience to the next level, consider taking a cooking class and learn from the masters!
Florence is a small but mighty Italiancity. Regardless of what you're interested in, there is something for everyone in Florence!