Florence Holidays

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), with its dome designed by Brunelleschi, decorates and dominates the skyline. Even from close up, the cathedral is no less impressive. The colourful marble facade is a landmark in the cultural and physical heart of the city, the Piazza del Duomo. The central location is the ideal starting point from which to see the main sights of the city.

Whatever direction you look, everywhere you encounter Florentine gems. To the south lies the Uffizi (Uffizi Gallery), one of the largest and most renowned art galleries in the world. You can easily spend an entire day among the masterpieces of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, such as Botticelli, da Vinci and Raphael.

Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, the famous pedestrian bridge over the Arno River, and visit the art palace, Palazzo Pitti. This grand building was once the residence of the powerful Medici family, and now houses several museums where works can be found by old masters, such as Raphael and Caravaggio. Admire an early example of Italian garden design in the nearby Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli) from where you’ll also have a beautiful view over the city. In the north you will find fine examples of the harmonious, rational design that is so characteristic of Renaissance art. The Basilica of San Lorenzo (Basilica di San Lorenzo) contains works of Brunelleschi and Michelangelo.

The countless cafés between the galleries and shops serve delicious Tuscan specialties such as prosciutto ham, tomato soup and Florentine steak. Fuel up in the morning with the incredible and classic dish of Eggs Florentine.

Florence is characterized by a warm Mediterranean climate. It’s only in the depths of winter that the weather can be anything less than lush. The city attracts around 8 million visitors each year, so even in the quiet season you will not be alone. It is wise to get your tickets for the museums in advance, particularly the Uffizi, to avoid disappointment.

The city’s main attractions are all only about 15 minutes' walk from each other, so most of it can be explored on foot. Public transport around Florence is efficient and the most important museums can be reached by electric buses.