Florence is one of the cities that have most profoundly influenced the history of art and culture not only of Italy but of the entire Occident. Located in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world every year. For them, the city offers an incredible variety of experiences, from world-class museums to enchanting medieval streets, from breathtaking landscapes to the joys of the table.
Here, then, is a small guide to the city’s must-see attractions for those wishing to visit on their next vacation.
The Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Bell Tower
A visit to the city cannot begin except with its three best-known buildings: the Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Bell Tower. These three alone narrate much of Italian architecture. Florence Cathedral, with its majestic dome designed by Brunelleschi, is undoubtedly one of the must-see sights in the Tuscan capital. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its green, pink, and white marble facade, is an extraordinary example of the Florentine Gothic style. If you don’t suffer from vertigo or claustrophobia, climbing to the top of the dome will be an unmissable experience to admire the city and surrounding hills from a unique position.
Next to the Duomo is the Baptistery of San Giovanni, famous for its bronze doors decorated with biblical scenes and octagonal shapes, enhanced by geometric motifs made of colored marble. Finally, Giotto’s Bell Tower, with its enchanting marble details, is wonderful to admire both from below and from above, if you are trained and ready for a challenging climb.
Anyone who is looking for an exclusive stay that allows them to admire these historic buildings even from their window cannot fail to choose one of the many facilities that offer beautiful duomo suites in Florence.
The Uffizi Gallery
A short distance away is the Uffizi Gallery, Italy’s second most visited museum and the custodian of an extraordinary collection of Renaissance artworks. Inside you can admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raffaello.
Visiting the Uffizi allows a total immersion in the history of Florence especially in the history of Italian art. This opportunity represents a unique chance, but one that requires a reservation to avoid the risk of long lines outside.
Ponte Vecchio
Once out of the Uffizi, walk a short distance to the Lungarno, where, on the right, you will see the Ponte Vecchio in all its splendor. It is the oldest bridge in Florence, and it is famous for the dozens of goldsmith stores that overlook the Arno and attract the curious glances of tourists. This picturesque pedestrian bridge is one of the most iconic symbols of the city. It offers a lovely vantage point over the river and the historic buildings that line the riverfront.
The Medici residence
The Medici family has marked the history of Florence for generations, and Palazzo Vecchio, their former residence in Piazza della Signoria, is one of the legacies the dynasty left to the city. This imposing architectural jewel represents all the grandeur of Renaissance Florence and is still at the center of its history today, as it houses the city’s town hall. Inside the Palazzo Vecchio, you can explore the splendid frescoed rooms and the Arnolfo Tower, which also affords stunning views of the city.
More than just art
While it is true that Florence was, among other things, the cradle of the Renaissance, it is also true that today it is an important ambassador of Italian culture with its sober but lively worldliness and food and wine ferment. The latter range from the mainstays of tradition, such as the famous “fiorentina” (steak obtained by cutting the loin of veal), to modern experimentation of the highest level, all accompanied by first-rate wine production.
After a hearty meal, it will be nice to relax in the greenery among the avenues of the Boboli Gardens, a green lung in the heart of the city. These Italian-style gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, consist of terraces, tree-lined avenues, grottos, fountains, and statues. From the highest points of the gardens, then, there are spectacular views of Florence and the surrounding hills.
Florence to be discovered
Florence is one of the most popular tourist destinations for travelers from all over the world. Small and convenient to visit even on foot, it offers an immense cultural offering. The city is also pleasant to explore in almost any month of the year thanks to the mild Italian climate. If you are planning a trip to Italy, a visit to Florence cannot be overlooked.
