Travel and Leisure

Florence – The Marvellous Cradle of the Renaissance

One of the most significant historical cities in Italy, Florence is the capitol of the Tuscany region. Florence is situated on the banks of the Arno River and is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards that make it one of the most beautiful and scenic spots in all of Italy. There are many overwhelming sites, such as the Basilica di Santa Croce, Santa Maria de Fiore, and the Piazza della Stazione, just to name a few. You can tour these when you are finished at all the different restaurants and endless shopping areas! You can find plenty to do both in the day and at night. Another benefit visiting Florence is that you can attend the many upcoming events in Florence.

Two of the biggest attractions that are a must see while in Florence, are the Piazza della Signoria, and Palazzo Vecchio. The Piazza della Signoria is the biggest and most famous square of the two and is at the middle of the historical district. Be sure to attend the open air sculpture exhibit which is completely free to view. The Loggia della Signoria, also here, house some of the most important sculptures, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Since the middle ages, Florence has been the political center of Italy. The Piazza, Florence’s town hall is here and among the sites that are open to the public are the elaborately decorated rooms and private apartments of the Palazzo Vecchio.

You might have a difficult time deciding where to start with all these options available to you! An enduring tourist favorite is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Construction on this stunning Gothic cathedral, known among Italians as a duomo, started in 1296, and was finished 200 years later. The cathedral can hold over 20,000 people under the master piece of the elaborate Brunelleschi’s Dome! The views of the city from atop the 463 steps is breath taking! With its exterior walls of white, green and pink marble, the cathedral also boasts a number of magnificently decorated doors and a wide variety of statues that are on public display.

On your list of sites to visit, be sure to add the Galleria degli Uffizi, the Bapistery of John the Baptist and Caminile or you will be sorry you missed them. In order to get the most out of your stay in Florence, and be able to see as much as possible, then you should really buy a Florence City pass. The city pass not only provides admission, but also allows you to move ahead of the long lines of tourists that inevitably form outside all the amazing sites and attractions in Florence. Booking tours for The Accademia Galleri, and Uffizi galleries is easy online, and are not that expensive, just under one hundred dollars for a complete, and uninterrupted tour. There are many more to choose from.

While you are visiting Florence, why not do it in the comfort of a vacation rental property. There are many lovely areas and most properties have their own kitchen where you can cook your own meals. Because of this, you have a golden opportunity to mingle with the natives while you are shopping local stores and markets.