The stunning architecture of Florence make it one of Europe's most beautiful cities
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Unique churches and cathedrals, galleries showing world-renowned art works, busy squares and extraordinary bridges make Florence the jewel of Tuscany
Visit one of world’s leading art capitals, and enjoy small winding streets and open squares buzzing with tourists and locals. Roam the art galleries, churches and palaces or simply relax in one of the little cafés or enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal in a Ristorante.
Florence today
Tourism is the city’s most important economy and each summer the number of tourists exceeds that of the inhabitants. Long queues for galleries, churches and museums, crowded streets and restaurants are the result.
Florence houses the headquarter of the haute-couture brand Gucci, Prada and Roberto Cavalli also have important branch offices in Florence.
Thanks its location in Tuscany, Florence is able to offer a large selection of popular wines such as Chianti. You will also know Cantuccini – a hard almond biscuit, which is a traditional speciality from Florence.
The Tuscan city has very hot summers and cold winters with temperatures ranging from 33 degrees in July to 1 degree in January.
Special Tip
If you hate queuing for sights in the burning heat and despise packed galleries and restaurants, you should visit Florence in spring or autumn. The temperatures will be warm and comfortable then and you will avoid the hustle and bustle of the busy summer months.
What to see?
In the centre of the old city is the Plaza della Signora – the square where Michelangelo’s original ‘David’ once stood; today you can see a replica in its place.
The only bridge that survived World War II is world-famous Ponte Vecchio –bridge of the goldsmiths. Situated on this remarkable bridge are a number of small jewellery stores, which attract many visitors.
Certainly the most stunning of Florence’s sights is the cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore with its remarkable cupola built by architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Basilica di San Lorenzo is another beautiful chapel, which is also worth seeing.
Palazzo Pitti, situated on the opposite side of the Arno, houses the private art collection of the Medici’s, which includes a painting by Raffael. Surrounded by a large park, the Boboli-Garden offers a great view of Florence’s Old Town.
If you fancy galleries, the Galleria degli Uffizi is a must-see. Having once been an office for the Medici’s administration of Tuscany it is today one of the most important galleries worldwide for classical art, especially Italian painting.
Easter Spectacle
The best time for a visit in Florence is Easter – especially if you are interested in local traditions. On the morning on Easter Sunday two flower-adorned oxen pull a cart leaden with firecrackers and fireworks to Piazza del Duomo followed by a large procession of musicians, soldiers and flag bearers alongside most of the Florentines. In Piazza del Duomo a rocket sets fire to the cart and the sound of the crackers spreads a symbolic holy fire around the city. This ceremony roots in the liberation of Jerusalem on Holy Saturday when the fire was distributed as a sign of purification.
Where to stay?
If you are looking for a luxury treatment after spending a day in the glowing summer heat try the Golden Tower Hotel. This five star Hotel is situated next to Palazzo Strozzi in one of Florence’s most exclusive districts. Here you are offered modern refurbished rooms with free Wi-Fi access, a LCD satellite television and a spa, which will revitalise you for another day of sightseeing.
If you prefer a Florentine-style Villa, then the four-star Park Palace Hotel next to Park Boboli on the opposite side of the river Arno might just be what you are looking for. Alongside a roof terrace this Hotel offers an outdoor pool where you can cool down after a stroll through Florence’s buzzing Old Town.
A truly special stay promises the three-star Vivahotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio. This 13th century Hotel offers a great view of the old city and the Ponte Vechio from a panoramic roof terrace where you can revise the impressions you gathered exploring Florence’s Old Town.
Where to eat?
Traditional atmosphere and entertainment offers the Le Giubbe Rosse, which is situated at the lively Piazza della Repubblica. The name translates ‘Red Jacket’ and derives from the swift red-jacketed waiters who used to serve numerous scholars and artists in the old times. Today lectures and theatre plays are still being held in between the tables. During lunchtime you can feast on ‘antipasti’ and ‘primi paitti’ from the buffet without breaking the bank.
For atypical Italian culinary experience, try out the Alla Veccia Bettola which is situated on the opposite site of the Arno and you will be delighted by the cosy atmosphere created by tweedy chairs and tables, painted tiles and copper tableware on the walls. This restaurant offers classic ‘Bistecca alla fiorentina’, ‘Penne alla Bettola’ with tomato sauce and cream alongside various mouth-watering desserts. The wine menu will provide you with a great selection of Tuscan wines.
Loud, vivacious and delicious – that is how you would best describe Il Latini. This traditional Tuscan Restaurant is always busy and attracts the locals. Here you will be served giant portions of delicious Tuscan plain fare. With it you can chose from a large selection of Tuscan and French wines.
COMMENTS
mediumsNice article Hmmm!! Florence city breaks are ideal for visitors who actually wish to explore the treasure trove of artistic gems which Europe has to offer…
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