Florence

Quick facts:

Location: Florence is the capital of Tuscany in Italy
Language: Italian
Population of city: 367,000
Nearest airport: Florence Amerigo Vespucci International Airport is only 15minutes from the city centre which good connections via the ‘Fly by bus’. Also, it’s worth noting that most of the budget airlines fly into Pisa Airport which is only 1 hour or so by train from Florence.
Main train/bus station(s): The main train station is called Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
Best time to visit? Year round – bucket list city!
Budget level? £££
Best for: Art & Culture – History – Landmarks – Old Town – Romantic

How long should I go for?

Art, architecture and Italian cuisine at its very best, Florence is one of the most magnificent cities in the world. You’ll need at least two nights here as there’s heaps to keep you busy with ?

Getting there:

Florence is easily accessible from all over Europe and it’s no wonder, given that it was voted as Europe’s favourite city in 2016. Modern, fast trains connect you with many Italian cities including Milan, Rome and Pisa and there are also day trains to neighbouring countries. If you are flying in/out of Florence then there are many options and airlines who fly to Tuscany.

Main districts:

Sant’Ambrogio

This is one of Florence’s coolest neighbourhoods. The neighbourhood is home to the central market & several trendy bars and restaurants.

San Frediano

San Frediano is just across the river from all the tourist hotspots

Santa Croce

This neighbourhood is at the heart of the historical city centre and is a short walk away from all the main attractions and there are LOADS!

San Niccolo

Welcome to Florence’s arty district. San Niccolo is full of funky art galleries and street art. You’ll find plenty of low key bars and restaurants here so sit back, grab a drink and relax!

Top attractions:

Cultural hotspots

Campanile di Gotto (Bell Tower of the Cathedral)
Palazzo Strozzi – 15th Century Palace in the heart of Florence.
Uffizi & Accademia Galleries – two of the world’s most stunning galleries, home to Michaelangelo’s David among other priceless masterpieces.
Vasari Corridor (hidden corridor!) – this secret passageway connects Palazzo Strozzi with Palazzo Pitti.

Viewpoints and Sights

The Duomo – Florence’s famous red dome. Climb the nearby bell tower for a stunning view of the landmark.
Boboli Garden and Bardini Gardens
Ponte Vecchio – Oldest bridge in town
Piazzale Michaelangelo – the best view point in town is found on this stunning square. Perfect for sunsets.

Best places to go out:

Welcome to the home of pizza, pasta and gelato – ohh and fine wines and beers too ? Stroll around the side streets and pick one of the relaxed bars to sample Tuscan delights. Most of the nightlife is centred in the Old Town or in Sant’Ambrogio.

Free walking tour:

Free walking tour – when and where?

There are many FREE walking tours in Florence so have a search for something which takes your fancy. Here are a few links. Make sure you double check starting locations and times, so you don’t miss out!

http://www.florence-freewalkingtour.com/

http://www.florencefreetour.com/

https://strawberrytours.com/florence

https://www.florencefreetours.com/