Florence is definitely worth a visit if you go to Italy and there are some gems worth visiting, even if it means that you have to battle the crowds during the high tourist season in the summer time. If you are only taking a Tuscany vacation, the city of Florence is your ideal starting point.
There is plenty of gorgeous architecture to witness in Florence. Florence is the classical city which flourished in the Renaissance. There is Brunelleschi’s Cathedral, the gothic ‘Duomo,’ and the Ponte Vecchio bridge is a definite must-see, constructed in 1345, making it the first bridge in Florence. There are beautiful churches and cathedrals, town squares, the mosst famous is the Piazza della Signoria, in the center of the city with a sculpture exhibit. The medieval Palazzo Vecchio is situated on the square. Lineups may be long, but it is worth the wait to visit these buildings and wonders of the architecture world that is Florence.
Visiting the Uffizi Gallery is the one gallery you must also see. The Uffizi Gallery hosts the most important collections of Renaissance art in the world and medieval to modern art. These art works include paintings by Titian, Michelangelo and Raphael. Bring your camera, like everyone else, to take a photo of Michelangelo’s famous marble statue of ‘David’.
If you are looking for the panoramic views of Florence with the famous Dome and the Arno Valley, get yourself to the hilltops at Piazzale Michelangelo.
For experiencing the nightlife in Florence, don’t miss the Fabio Picchi Teatro del Sale, an eclectic combination of trattoria, member’s clubs and theatre. There is enough to entertain and excite you for the entire night. You can treat yourself to music, piano sets or poetry readings. A delightful way to spend an evening in Florence on your vacation.
Shopping in Florence is also a splendid thing. Head to the Via Turnabuoni for high fashion classical Italian labels such as Gucci, Prado and Pucci. At the Mercato Centrale on the Via del Ariento, gourmands will encounter a food paradise. Fresh and delicious local produce piled high at each stall at the Mercato Centrale including such things as olive oil, cheese, balsamic vinegars, herbs, vegetables and fruits. Local wines from Tuscany are also sold where you can create yourself a veritable feast.
