Florence
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Latest page update: 5 December 2024
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By Dion Protani
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Remarkable Florence, the capital city of Tuscany is nestled in the heart of the region. With a population of approximately 383,000 residents, it serves as a cultural and artistic hub.
Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence boasts a wealth of renowned art and architecture, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The city's iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery attract millions of visitors each year, making it one of Italy's most famous cultural destinations. |
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Florence: the cradle of the Renaissance
Florence, known as the cradle of the Renaissance, boasts a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history that captivates visitors from around the globe. At the heart of the city lies the iconic Florence Cathedral, or Duomo, with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi.
Nearby, the Uffizi Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Equally impressive is the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David.
Strolling through Florence's cobblestone streets, visitors encounter the elegant Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops overlooking the Arno River. The Piazza della Signoria serves as an open-air museum, featuring sculptures such as Cellini's Perseus and Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women. Nearby, the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, showcases stunning frescoes and ornate chambers.
Beyond the city centre, the Tuscan countryside beckons with its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns. Day trips to the picturesque villages of Chianti, San Gimignano, and Siena offer a glimpse into rural life and the region's renowned wine and culinary traditions. Additionally, the stunning Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace provide a serene escape, boasting lush greenery, grand fountains, and panoramic views of Florence's skyline. With its wealth of cultural treasures and natural beauty, Florence offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking art, history, and authentic Italian charm.
Nearby, the Uffizi Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Equally impressive is the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David.
Strolling through Florence's cobblestone streets, visitors encounter the elegant Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops overlooking the Arno River. The Piazza della Signoria serves as an open-air museum, featuring sculptures such as Cellini's Perseus and Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women. Nearby, the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, showcases stunning frescoes and ornate chambers.
Beyond the city centre, the Tuscan countryside beckons with its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns. Day trips to the picturesque villages of Chianti, San Gimignano, and Siena offer a glimpse into rural life and the region's renowned wine and culinary traditions. Additionally, the stunning Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace provide a serene escape, boasting lush greenery, grand fountains, and panoramic views of Florence's skyline. With its wealth of cultural treasures and natural beauty, Florence offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking art, history, and authentic Italian charm.
What are the main sights in Florence and the local area?
- Florence Cathedral (Duomo): A magnificent Gothic cathedral known for its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi.
- Uffizi Gallery: Home to a vast collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
- Accademia Gallery: Houses Michelangelo's famous sculpture of David, along with other Renaissance artworks.
- Ponte Vecchio: Florence's oldest bridge, lined with charming shops and spanning the Arno River.
- Piazza della Signoria: The city's main square, adorned with sculptures and the impressive Palazzo Vecchio.
- Palazzo Pitti: A grand Renaissance palace housing several museums and the Boboli Gardens.
- Basilica of Santa Croce: A Franciscan church known for its beautiful frescoes and as the burial place of many notable figures.
- Mercato Centrale: A bustling food market where visitors can sample local delicacies.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: Offers panoramic views of Florence's skyline and the surrounding hills.
- Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze: Another museum featuring sculptures and artworks, including Michelangelo's David.
Comune di Firenze
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Province: Metropolitan City of Florence
Region: capital of Tuscany Population: 362,742 (in 2024 - source) Size: 102 km² Elevation: 50 metres Top sights: Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, Giotto's Bell Tower Close by: Fiesole, Mugello, Scarperia, Lake Bilancino, Certaldo Recommended accommodation: Hotel Spadai |
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Public transport: trams, buses, mainline train station
By car: Siena - 1 hr 10, Pisa - 1 hr 24, Lucca - 1 hr 45' By tram: Florence Airport - 23 minutes |
Fly to: Florence Airport (8 km), 23 minutes by tram, 30 mins by car
By train: Rome - 1 hr 25, Milan - 1 hr 48, Venice - 2 hrs 6 mins Main train station: Santa Maria Novella |
What are the most popular tours and activities in Florence?
- Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery Tour: Explore two of Florence's most famous art museums, home to works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and more.
- Florence Walking Tour: Wander through the city's historic streets, visiting landmarks like the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria.
- Florence Food Tour: Sample delicious Tuscan cuisine on a guided food tour, including visits to local markets and traditional eateries.
- Day Trip to Tuscany's Chianti Region: Discover the picturesque countryside and vineyards of Chianti, enjoying wine tastings and scenic views.
- Pisa and Lucca Day Trip: Take a day trip from Florence to visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the charming town of Lucca.
- Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Italian dishes with a cooking class led by a local chef.
- Florence Segway Tour: Glide through the city streets on a Segway, covering more ground while enjoying panoramic views.
- Vespa Tour: Experience Florence like a local on a Vespa tour, cruising through the city and surrounding countryside.
- Florence Bike Tour: Cycle along the Arno River and through Florence's historic neighborhoods, with stops at key attractions along the way.
- Sunset Boat Tour on the Arno: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on the Arno River, admiring Florence's skyline from the water.
Where should I eat in Florence?
- Osteria di Giovanni: This family-run trattoria near the Mercato Centrale specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Dishes like ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and pappa al pomodoro are highlights.
- Il Latini: Situated in the heart of Florence, Il Latini is a beloved institution known for its convivial atmosphere and hearty Tuscan fare. The restaurant offers a fixed menu featuring a variety of antipasti, primi, secondi, and desserts.
- Trattoria Sostanza: Tucked away near Santa Maria Novella, Trattoria Sostanza is renowned for its classic Tuscan dishes, including the famous butter chicken (pollo al burro), bistecca alla fiorentina, and tortellini in brodo.
- Ora d'Aria: With a Michelin star to its name, Ora d'Aria offers a contemporary twist on Tuscan cuisine. Chef Marco Stabile's innovative dishes highlight local ingredients and flavors, creating a memorable dining experience.
- La Giostra: Owned by the noble Corsini family, La Giostra is known for its romantic ambiance and refined Tuscan cuisine. Signature dishes include the pear ravioli in a pecorino cheese sauce and the grilled Chianina beef steak.
- Il Santo Bevitore: Located in the Oltrarno district, Il Santo Bevitore is a stylish trattoria offering creative interpretations of Tuscan classics. The menu changes seasonally, but guests can expect dishes like homemade pasta, grilled meats, and inventive appetizers.
- Enzo e Piero: A charming trattoria near the Sant'Ambrogio market, Enzo e Piero is a favorite among locals for its authentic Tuscan dishes and warm hospitality. Highlights include the ribollita, wild boar stew, and Florentine-style steak.
- Cibrèo: Helmed by acclaimed chef Fabio Picchi, Cibrèo is a culinary institution in Florence. The restaurant offers a sophisticated menu featuring inventive takes on Tuscan cuisine, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
- Buca Lapi: Housed in a historic cellar dating back to 1880, Buca Lapi is one of Florence's oldest restaurants. Specializing in Tuscan cuisine, the restaurant is famous for its bistecca alla fiorentina and rustic yet refined dishes.
- Il Cernacchino: Situated in the Oltrarno district, Il Cernacchino is a cozy trattoria known for its authentic Tuscan dishes and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features classic favorites like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and fettuccine with wild boar ragù.
What should I eat in Florence?
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A classic Florentine dish, this is a thick-cut T-bone steak, typically sourced from Chianina cattle, grilled over an open flame and seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, cannellini beans, kale or cabbage, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes. It's simmered until thick and flavorful, often topped with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Lampredotto: A traditional Florentine street food, lampredotto is a type of tripe stewed in a tomato-based sauce and typically served in a crusty roll.
- Pappa al Pomodoro: Another classic Tuscan soup, pappa al pomodoro is made with stale bread, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. It's a comforting dish, especially popular during the summer months.
- Tagliere Toscano: A Tuscan antipasto platter featuring a selection of cured meats, such as prosciutto, finocchiona (fennel salami), and soppressata, along with cheeses, olives, and bruschetta.
Florence Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Florence?
- Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: A luxurious hotel set in a restored 15th-century palace with beautiful gardens and top-notch amenities.
- Hotel Savoy: Located in the heart of Florence, this elegant hotel offers stylish rooms and exceptional service.
- Portrait Firenze: A boutique hotel overlooking the Arno River, known for its chic design and personalized service.
- Hotel Brunelleschi: Housed in a restored Byzantine tower, this hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
- JK Place Firenze: A boutique hotel with stylish decor and a prime location near the Ponte Vecchio.
- Hotel Lungarno: Situated along the Arno River, this luxury hotel features stunning views of Florence and elegant rooms.
- Relais Santa Croce: A luxury hotel set in a historic palazzo, offering opulent rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Villa Cora: A grand 19th-century villa set in lush gardens, offering luxurious accommodations and panoramic views of the city.
- Hotel Continentale: A modern boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Duomo and stylish rooms.
- Hotel Bernini Palace: Located in a historic building near Piazza della Signoria, this hotel offers elegant rooms and a rooftop restaurant.
What's the closest airport to Florence?
- The nearest airport to Florence is the Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, located about 5 kilometers northwest of the city center. It serves both domestic and international flights.
- Another option is Pisa International Airport (PSA), located about 80 kilometers west of Florence. It offers a wider range of international flights and is connected to Florence by train, bus, and taxi services.
What's the main train station in Florence?
- Florence's main train station is Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN), situated in the city center. It is well-connected to major cities across Italy, including Rome, Milan, Venice, and Naples, as well as international destinations like Paris and Munich.
- The station is served by high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca) as well as regional and intercity trains.
What bus connections are there for Florence?
- The bus station in Florence is located near Santa Maria Novella train station. It serves regional and intercity buses, including routes to nearby towns and cities within Tuscany.
- Bus connections also link Florence to other major cities in Italy and Europe, with routes operated by various companies like FlixBus, Baltour, and Eurolines.
What private transfer options are there for Florence?
A private transfer from Bologna to Florence takes around 1 hour 30 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Florence?
Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR):
City Centre Locations:
Online Booking:
When renting a car, make sure to check the rental terms and conditions, including insurance coverage, fuel policy, and any additional fees. Additionally, consider factors like parking availability and ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) regulations if you plan to drive within Florence's historic center.
- Many international and local car rental companies have offices at Florence Airport, making it convenient for travelers arriving by air. You can find rental counters in the Arrivals area of the airport terminal.
City Centre Locations:
- Various car rental agencies have branches in the city center of Florence. These locations are often near major transportation hubs like Santa Maria Novella train station or in central areas like Piazza della Stazione.
Online Booking:
- Alternatively, you can book a rental car online in advance through the websites of major car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, and Sixt. Online booking allows you to compare prices, choose your preferred vehicle, and make reservations in advance.
When renting a car, make sure to check the rental terms and conditions, including insurance coverage, fuel policy, and any additional fees. Additionally, consider factors like parking availability and ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) regulations if you plan to drive within Florence's historic center.
