Interesting Facts about Florence

Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is the vibrant capital of Tuscany, celebrated as the birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the world’s most historic and culturally cities.  It’s history dates back to roman times but flourished in the 14th to 16 th centuries as the centre of art and science. It’s rich history and cultural heritage have earned Florence a place on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

The city is best known for its artistic masterpieces. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo), with its iconic red – tiled dome dominates Florence’s skyline. Nearby, art lovers flock to the Uffizi gallery, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael, while the Accademia Gallery displays Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David. Landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with Jewellery shops, and the Palazzo Pitti with its Boboli gardens, showcase Florence’s historical wealth.

Florence is also a culinary gem, offering Tuscan specialities like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, hearty ribollita soup, and world-class Chianti wines. Markets like San Lorenzo and small trattorias provide an authentic taste of Florence.

Every year, millions of visitors from all over the world come to visit this Tuscan pearl. No wonder because Florence is regularly titled as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Compact and walkable, Florence invites visitors to wander its cobblestone streets, uncovering hidden piazzas, vibrant markets, and artisan workshops. Florence is a timeless destination that captivates those who visit.

HOW TO GET TO FLORENCE

By Air

Florence main airport is just outside the city, as most budget airlines from other major European cities fly there. Many travellers these days will use these airlines with the likes of Ryan Air or Easy jet, connecting Florence with cities such as London and Paris at an excellent price. You may find it even cheaper to fly into Pisa, an hour by train to Florence. Compare ‘flights’ from both airports.

By Train

Florence is also well connected to the Italian train system, and you find regular departures to most large cities. Make sure you book your train in advance as they get very busy specially during the summer months. Check for ‘Trains’ here.

Internationally trains also arrive from European capitals, these are no where as frequent  or as cost effective to take as flying.

BEST TIME TO VISIT FLORENCE

Florence is a year-round destination no matter the weather or season! Peak season is usually the warmer months of July and August. The average temperature in July and August is 31oC(88oF). It’s slightly cooler in June and September, but these months are also hectic.

Winters can be chilly with an average high of 11oC(25oF) but there are many great museums offering shelter from the adverse weather.

We much prefer to go in the shoulder seasons which offers the most pleasant weather for experiencing the city. It’s a great time to visit, less crowds and usually lower prices on accommodation.

GETTING AROUND FLORENCE

Florence is a very walkable city. You more than likely won’t need to use any public transportation. Especially if you’re following an itinerary or sticking to the main tourist sites, we have never used any public transportation and walk everywhere without any trouble. Florence is mainly flat and ideal for cycling; we have never tried it, maybe in the future. Rentals start around 10-15 Euros per day and e-bikes cost 30-45 euros per day. ‘Car rental’ you don’t need a car to get around the city. Remembering most of it is pedestrianized. However, if you were thinking about day trips around the region then ‘car rentals’ start from 30 euro per day depending on the season. Peak season prices can be doubled or even tripled. It’s best to ‘Rent a car’ from the airport easier to get in and out of Florence.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN FLORENCE

There is so much to see in Florence. If you enjoy traveling slowly and want to soak up the city, you could stay for weeks. We come here regularly and always seem to find something new to do.

However, if your looking for a weekend break its perfect, but I think to see all the major sites 3 to 4 days should be sufficient.

That being said if you get a chance to visit Florence, take it. No matter how short the trip, it’s a beautiful city.

Best THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE

1. 1. The Piazza Del Duomo is the most beautiful Piazza in Florence and is definitely where you should head first. Wake up early to see the Piazza before it brimmed with tourists. Head for a coffee and pastry before you hit the sites. Here you’ll find several famous sites including the cathedral of Santa Marie del Fiore (the Duomo) and the Baptisry of St John.

• • The Duomo is one of Florence most popular sites and an absolute must-visit in the city. Easily the most recongnizable feature of Florence is the Duomo, or the dome of the cathedral Santa Maria del fiore the Renaissance dome that looms over the Piazza was started in 1296, and took 150 years to build. Along with 2 other structures in the complex, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campile the Duomo is a UNESCO world heritage site and is the largest brick dome ever built. The real highlight is the view from the top where you can get a panoramic view of Florence. Take a wander around the whole building to truly take in its size. Allow yourself one of those moments when I’m in Florence before heading inside. Entry to the cathedral is free to visit but if you want to visit anything in the complex. (Such as the dome bell tower or museum) you’ll need to purchase one of three passes, prices range from 15 – 30 euro. The passes are good for 3 days. You can also purchase **skip the line ticket with exclusive access **link. Top tips for visiting the Duomo arrive early to avoid queues. This is a place of worship do dress appropriately. Knees and shoulders to be covered.

Links for tours

• • UFFIZI GALLERY

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the oldest galleries in the world. Home to some of the most important collections of Italian Renaissance artwork. This Galleria gave name to all the art galleries in the world, this amazing art museum is the most visited in Italy.                                                          

You will find some of the most important Renaissance masterpieces in the world here these includes works by Botticelli, Michaelangelo, Raffealo, and Leonardo da Vinci.  This means that it pays to either get there before it opens or book a skip-the-line ticket. You could easily spend an enticing day admiring the thousands of unique exhibits. As a minimum allow yourself 2 hours to see the very best pieces. However the challenge is to know when to go and what to see, so I highly recommend visiting the Uffizi Gallery with a guide. *                                                                                                                                                              

TIP **There are so many tours that visit Uffizi that it can be confusing. We opted for this ** small group tour** link it was excellent.                                                                                         ***If you do decide to go on your own, be sure to get ** timed entrance tickets** link We have done this before, and it worked well for us with limited time.                                          **If you can, try to visit very early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Also, please note that Uttizi Gallery is closed on Mondays.

*Visit Uffizi Gallery café on the top floor.  It has a beautiful outdoor terrace with a view of Palazzo Vecchio it’s a nice place to take a break.

• • Ponte Vecchio

While Venice has the Rialto Bridge, Florence has the Ponte Vecchio. It is one of the must-sees in Florence, on the bridge itself you will find a row of lovely shops, once upon a time their shops were home to old tannery stores and butchers.

Until 1218, this was the only bridge crossing the River Arno, and later it remained the only bridge the Germans did not destroy in World War II.  Today is a slightly more recent version rebuilt in 1345 after a flood.

The bridge today is now lined with gold and jewellery shops and makes a lovely spot for a romantic stroll. But I think the best time to see it is early morning when there is no one around. This is the only time the bridge is empty.

• • ACCADEMIA GALLERY (SEE DAVID)

Galleria dell ‘Accademia is another must-see in Florence attracting huge crowds. However, it remains a must-visit as the house of Michael Angelo’s David, the most famous statue in the world. David is displayed in a specially designed room, built to frame the piece perfectly.

Carved by Michael Anglo from 1501 to 1504 from a huge block of marble. You can’t leave Florence without seeing this beautiful piece of history.

Good tips link ****Purchase tickets in advance***

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds around David. **Please note the Accademia gallery is closed on Mondays.

TIP  ** If you want to visit both the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Museum with a guide you will find plenty of tours. *** that include the 2 museums link ****

• •  PIAZZA DELLA SIGNORIA

Located in the heart of the old town, the Piazza Della Signoria is one of Florence’s most beautiful town squares. You don’t even have to step inside a museum to see some stunning works of art, filled with incredible sculptures and statues.  Here you can find a copy of the statue of David as well as Neptune Fountain.

Piazza Della Signoria is a great place to learn more about the city’s history, or simply hang out and people watch.  There are lots of cafes and restaurants nearby or just take a break on a bench and enjoy a Gelato.

TIPS FOR THE BEST GELATO

• • Look for metal containers with lids this shows that the gelato is being kept at the right temperature.

• • It shouldn’t look shinny this means the the sugar content is too high or that it’s old.

• • The brighter flavours might look nice and exciting but usually means their laiden with artificial colours. So go for the less colorful, artisanal gelato

OUR FAVOURITES WE RECOMMEND

• • Perch No

• • Gelateria La Carraia

• • Vivoli

• • My Sugar

• • PITTI PALACE

Palazzo Pitti is another incredibly beautiful place to see in Florence, located on the other side of the river in the Oltanno district. Once the river in the Octanno district. Once the private residence of the Medici family. One of the largest residences in Florence it is still one of the most impressive It is believed that the palace was designed by Brunelkeschi, the same architect who engineered the city Duomo.

There are 3 galleries in the Pitti Palace.

**Palatine Gallery (Link) ** Filled with Italian works of art, Is its most famous, Gallery of Modern Art, pieces from 17^th and 20^th centuries.

Fashion Gallery

Dresses worn by royals from designers such as Valentino, Versace, Giorgio Armani.

The beautiful Boboli Gardens are located behind the palace, so try and see both in the same day.

GET your Guide. Links

BOBOLI GARDENS

The Boboli gardens are absolutely stunning with ancient marble statues and large fountains everywhere. They extend out of Pitti Palace and were designed by the Medici Family the layout was used as a model for many other European courts, Versailles in particular. Strolling around the grounds is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in the city.

It costs about 10 euros to visit there is also a combined ticket for the gardens and Pitti Palace 22 euros.

TIP **There is a lot to see at both Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens so if you’re short on time, I would take a tour that includes both. Tours run all year round and, take around 3 hours.

LINK***(this is one of the best tours)** that covers all the highlights.

• •  SANTA CROCE CHURCH

Santa Croce is in one of our favourite areas in Florence.  It has a great atmosphere with lots of locals and the best restaurants and bars.

The focal point is Santa Croce church, which can be found in the square. Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan Church in Italy and Holds the Tombs of Michelangelo Angelo, Galilei, Rossini, and Machiavelli, to mention a few.

While you’re in the area grab a drink and something to eat from one of the local restaurants and check out the shopping in this unique area.

Photo- Shutterstock

• • PIAZZALE MICHELANGLO

Located on a hill on the Arno’s South Bank, Piazza Michelangelo is Florences most famous sunspot. Piazza Michelangelo is a beautiful square on the South Bank with magical views of the city. It can get crowded in the evenings, but the views across the city skyline and Tuscan Hills are spectacular whatever time of day you visit. There is restaurants and coffee bars, lots of street vendors a very vibrant atmosphere. You can drive to the square (there is a car park) or take the city bus No 12 or 13.

There is a **Highly rated e-bike city tour**(link) This is very popular, try and book early specially if you want a late afternoon tour.

MORE THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE

COOKING CLASSES

If you are looking for something special and more local to do in Florence, Check out the big selections of **cooking classes** LINK

Mercate Coutrale

The central market of Florence could very well be the first stop on your Florence food tour or part of your Tuscan cooking class

      Fontanna del Porcellino

Don’t forget to visit Fontana del Porcellino this is a Bronze Boar Statue you can find near the local markets.  If you place a coin in his mouth and it falls into the fountain below, it’s said to bring you good luck, and rubbing his nose is believed to ensure you return to Florence one day in the future.

FLORENCE ROOF TOP Bar

This is not a must in anyway, but is a nice thing to do at the end of a busy day. It will make your visit to this beautiful city so much more memorable. The stunning views from the rooftop bars and restaurants over Florence. **

There are so many beautiful rooftop bars in Florence it’s best to go an hour before sunset. Try and reserve a table in advance.

               Stop by a Wine Window (Buchette del Vino)

Visit a wine window (or Buchette del Vino) and have a drink in the street.

In the early 1630 when the bubonic plague swept through Florence locals served wine through these tiny windows to avoid contact. And in 2020 the trend resurged. Florence is home to countless wine windows, but just a couple of blocks away from Piazza del Duomo you’ll find one of the best: Cantina De Dusi walk up to the window, ring the bell, order your favourite drink, and enjoy the novelty of it.

TAKE A VINEYARD TOUR

Florence is surrounded by vineyards, many of which can be accessed via day tours. Most tours visit a couple of vineyards and include tasting. Expect to pay at least 50 euro per person for a halfday trip. If you have your own you can arrange your own tour. (but you won’t be able to drink) Many vineyards also operate B&B or Air BnB, which makes for a nice getaway if you want to splash out for a night.

     Under tour Viarator or Get your guide

WHERE TO STAY in Florence

Florence city centre is quite compact and very easy to get around. So you can stay much anywhere within 10-15 minutes walking distance from the Duomo it will be OK.

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS

** Hotel Bodoni

** Plus Florence

(one of the most popular low-budget options)

** B&B Le Stanza del Duomo (we always seem to stay here the location is great and the staff are always fantastic)

****Hotel Machiavelis Palace

****Hotel Crole di Malta

****Hotel Calimala

WHAT TO EAT IN FLORENCE (TRADITIONAL DISHES)

Florentine food like most Italian food through every region offers it’s own distinct flavor.

Tomatoes, pasta, olives and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat, fish, and various cheeses rounding out the menu.

Of course you can find plenty of pizza and other Italian staples across the city, but you’ll also want to indulge in a few traditional specialties. Popular dishes include Bistecca all Fiorentina (Florentine steak), Lampred otto(tripe sandwich) Tangiatelle funghi Porcini tartufo(Pasta with Mushrooms and truffles). And of course gelato which you can find almost anywhere.

DAY TRIPS FROM FLORENCE

***LUCCA LINK***

Walls OF LUCCA

My top pick for a day trip for a day trip from Florence is the beautiful medieval walled city of Lucca. It’s a charming street and beautiful churches. We love Lucca so much we bought an apartment to base ourselves here, when were not travelling. It’s peaceful, quite and so underrated. Visit Toree Guingi the beautiful Amphitheater or take a bike ride around the amazing tree-lined Renaissance Walls.  

  PISA  LINK    

If you’re flying in and out of Pisa, it might make sense to work a quick tour of the city into your trip to Florence. There are plenty of places near the central station where you can store your luggage for a few hours. It is known for one of the most iconic landmarks in the world the leaning Tower of Pisa. However, the city has much more to offer.

• • Visit the beautiful riverside church, Santa Maria della spina

• • See the beautiful dei Cavalies at the knights square.

• • Take a stroll along the main pier. 

SIENA  is a link

Siena is another underrated city close to Florence. Much like Florence, the city’s gem is the Duomo. Unlike its better known counter part, the interiors of the Duomo here are incredibly decorated in our opinion much more impressive.

CINQUE TERRE

Its easy to * take a day trip to the Italian coastline * link to escape the city when you are staying in Florence and one of the most iconic locations to visit is Cinque Terre.

This is the heart of the Italian Riveria and this collection of Five Ram Sharkle Villages are well known for their colorful houses and dramatic sea views, you can hike along the rugged coastal pathways from village to village as you take in the beautiful views of Cinque Terre.

CHIANTI WINE REGIONS 

Being situated in the heart of Tuscany, it would be a crime not to venture out into the beautiful Tuscan countryside to explore the rural scenery and enjoy a spot of wine tasting. The chanti region is one of the best wine producing areas in Italy and you’ll find local wineries offering tours of their vineyards, complete with plenty of tastings accompanied by platters of cheese, olives and cured meats too.

You can venture out by yourself or join a tour, we recently went on **CHIANTI WINE & CHEESE SAFARI**(link) it exceeding our expectations on **this amazing Florence day trip**(link) it exceeding our expectation on **this amazing Florence day trip**(link)** you’ll go, off roading in a  4 x 4 through Chianti rolling hills – past olive groves, rustic farms and ancient monasteries. Throughout the day we tried so many incredible wines, from Chianti Classico to super Tuscanto, Sparkling Rose and not have to worry too much about getting back to Florence.

Wine tours from Florence GYG