Florence is oftenpraised as being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Being home toMichelangelo, Donatello and dozens more respected European artists, the capitalof Tuscany has come to be known as “The Cradle of the Renaissance”. Stroll thecobblestone streets through the maze of alleys and boutiques, historical cafésand renowned museums and galleries.
The Cathedralof 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 marblefacade is a landmark in the cultural and physical heart of the city, the Piazzadel Duomo. The central location is the ideal starting point from which to seethe main sights of the city.
Whatever direction you look, everywhere youencounter Florentine gems. To the south lies the Uffizi (Uffizi Gallery), oneof the largest and most renowned art galleries in the world. You can easilyspend an entire day among the masterpieces of the greatest artists of theRenaissance, such as Botticelli, da Vinci and Raphael.
Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, the famouspedestrian bridge over the Arno River, and visit the art palace, Palazzo Pitti.This grand building was once the residence of the powerful Medici family, andnow houses several museums where works can be found by old masters, such asRaphael and Caravaggio. Admire an early example of Italian garden design in thenearby Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli) from where you’ll also have abeautiful view over the city. In the north you will find fine examples of theharmonious, rational design that is so characteristic of Renaissance art. TheBasilica of San Lorenzo (Basilica di San Lorenzo) contains works ofBrunelleschi and Michelangelo.
The countless cafés between the galleries and shopsserve delicious Tuscan specialties such as prosciutto ham, tomato soup andFlorentine steak. Fuel up in the morning with the incredible and classic dishof Eggs Florentine.
Florence ischaracterized by a warm Mediterranean climate. It’s only in the depths ofwinter that the weather can be anything less than lush. The city attractsaround 8 million visitors each year, so even in the quiet season you will notbe 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 15minutes' walk from each other, so most of it can be explored on foot. Publictransport around Florence is efficient and the most important museums can bereached by electric buses.
