Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting Florence? The whole town is a UNESCO-protected world heritage site. I know I can wander around the medieval streets of Firenze for days, contemplating the architectural, sculptural and artistic masterpieces of the past. And I’d even watch the new season of Jersey Shore just to immerse myself in the Florentine charm one more time. Well, maybe I wouldn’t go that far.
The dense concentration of European history and culture in one place is almost overwhelming. Everything, from world-renowned galleries and palaces to cozy little chapels, is impregnated with the breath of the epochs of the past. The birthplace of the Renaissance and playground for guileful intrigues of the almighty Medici family, the Tuscan capital will captivate your imagination and never let go.
I decided not to do a write-up of every monument, park, palace, or square worth visiting in Florence; it would probably result in dozens of posts. The Wiki Travel page on Florence actually does a pretty good job at it. Instead, I’m going to make it a photo essay and share my favorite views of Firenze with you.
A few tips:
1. Allow at least two days to see Florence.
2. The museum lines are ridiculous, so make sure you allot enough time.
3. Access to the old town is very limited, but there’s plenty of parking outside the Wall.
4. Don’t eat at the touristy restaurants.
5. Even though the climb to Piazzale Michelangelo seems like a scene from Mission: Impossible, do so—you won’t regret.
Enjoy!
Piazza della Repubblica
River Arno
Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge
The Compulsive Traveler
Promenade on River Arno
A Medieval Street
Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral
The Duomo
Palazzo Pitti
Exhibition at Palazzo Pitti
Palazzo Vecchio, or Old Palace, on Piazza della Signoria
Restaurants on Piazza della Signoria
Fountain of Neptune on Piazza della Signoria
View of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo
David on Piazzale Michelangelo
Ai Forti Che Cadendo A Mentana Sacrarono Roma Alla Libera Italia
This monument on Piazza Mentana is devoted to 150 fallen Garibaldi’s freedom fighters. It says, ”To the Brave who fell at Mentana, consecrating Rome to Free Italy.”
More posts about the Eternal City are coming soon!