- Flight time from London: 2 hour 10 min
- Aeroporto di Firenze: 11km from the city centre; transfer time about 30 min
- Nearest railway station: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
- Currency: Euro
Situated in the northern part of Italy's Tuscany region, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities you could ever choose to visit. With amazing architecture that includes some of the most stunning religious buildings in the world, parks and gardens which show off the natural side of the city, numerous art galleries teeming with iconic renaissance pieces and regional dishes such as the famous Florentine steak, it's hard to find even the smallest reason not to embark on a Florence city break.
As the River Amo gently winds its way through the heart of the city, you'll find gems on every new street that you explore. And due to the fact that there are so many points of historical interest within a confined area, the town centre was named a UNESCO world heritage site in 1982.
Another great advantage of holidaying in this part of Italy is that the rest of the delightful Tuscan region is right on your doorstep. Equally beautiful and popular cities such as Pisa and Siena are just a short drive away and there are also regular trains that run to both.
The area benefits from being right next to the Chianti wine region, which not only means there will be plenty of chances to taste the local tipple in the many restaurants of Florence but also that the vineyards themselves are in close proximity and there are always tours of the various wine cellars on offer.
In 1982, Florence was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and now attracts millions of tourists each year.
The first thing many visitors do is head to the Duomo di Firenze, the city's stunning cathedral which dates back to Renaissance times. Climb up to the dome and enjoy a marvellous view over Florence and the wonderful Tuscan countryside. If you would like to climb even higher and include the Duomo in your view, go up the steps of the great Giotto's Tower - located right next door.
The Baptistery has a stunning interior, with a vault adorned with 13th-century mosaics and famous bronze doors by Andrea Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti, dating back to the 14th and 15th century.
The symbol of the Commune of Florence, the famous replica of Michelangelo's 'David' is situated outside the Palazzo Vecchio- the old city palace. The palace also hosts a renowned collection of Renaissance sculptures and paintings by artists such as Verrocchio, Giorgio Vasari and Leonardo da Vinci.
Sit outside the hilltop café located in the beautiful Boboli Gardens and soak up the lovely atmosphere while enjoying an enchanting view over Florence and inspect the numerous sculptures.
La Galleria dell'Accademia is world famous for its Michelangelo collection, including the famous statue of David.
The main cathedral church of the city.
The Uffizi Gallery is located in the Palazzo degli Uffizi and is one of the oldest and most famous art museums in the world. Buy your ticket online to avoid the queues.
Located in the heart of Florence, the Piazza della Republica offers you cultural cafes and bourgeois palaces.
This place offers a splendid menu and a great variety of mouth-watering desserts. Enjoy a delicious dish while dining in the company of both locals and tourists.
If you want to know what sharing a meal with a stranger is like, definitely visit this superb place. The staff skillfully mix parties together at the communal tables, so that you will get to soak in a really traditional ambience with fresh prosciutto ham hocks hanging from the ceiling and a waiter suggesting dishes instead of handing you the menu. Mouth-watering platters, such as ribollita and pappa al pomodoro, penne strascicate (in a ragù mixed with cream), roast meats and other delicacies entice you to try a range of different dishes.
This restaurant serves traditional Italian food, including dishes such as crostini misti, ravioli di brie con carciofini Morelli (ravioli stuffed with brie and dressed with artichokes), homemade taglierini with white truffles, nodino di vitella ai tartufi bianchi (veal slathered in egg white truffle sauce with fresh truffle grated on top), platters of spiced meats accompanied by great salads and other delicacies.
If you fancy light snacks with a refreshing Chianti wine during the day or early evenings this place is perfect. Alternatively, you can relax in the heart of Florence with a cup of coffee and sweet pastries.
You get really delicious food on a handwritten menu in this cosy Trattoria. The cheerful atmosphere makes it to one of the best places in Florence to go out. Friday is fresh fish day and the restaurant doesn't accept credit cards.
This restaurant is famous for its pizzas. Come in summer and enjoy the atmosphere on the pavement terrace - if you can find a seat.
The exclusive Via de' Tornabuoni boasts various boutiques and shops displaying international luxury brands. Also, the surrounding streets of Via della Vigna Nuova will seduce you with the stylish and modern fashion.
If you are seeking a more colourful and vibrant shopping opportunity, head to one of the local markets, such as the San Lorenzo street market. Here you will find antiques, jewellery, leather goods and other traditional items.
Live music to suit all tastes.
Cabiria is a popular cafe by day and converts into a busy music bar at night.
This is an elegant cafe-bar with an alternative menu of snacks by day and one of the places to be seen at night.
© Fred. Olsen Travel 2024.
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