See Florence in Style

2015/10/17

Florence Italy – by Ghost of Kuji on Flickr CC

See Florence in Style

Florence is one of Italy’s most popular cities to visit, and there are plenty of great reasons for this. From the delicious regional food of Tuscany and the fine Chianti wines, to the famed cathedrals and Renaissance artwork found throughout its atmospheric streets, Florence is full of romance and beauty. If you’re looking to plan your trip to this capital of culture, then here are a few things to be sure to see and do during your city breaks to Florence.

1. The Duomo

At the heart of the city of Florence stands the world renowned Florence Cathedral, whose full name is the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower). Construction of the cathedral began in 1296, and the Gothic style design was that of Arnolfo di Cambio. The iconic dome was engineered by Brunelleschi, modelled on the Pantheon in Rome. Be sure to climb to the top of the Cupola and Bell Tower for some of the best views in Florence. Visit the Baptistery to see the Gates of Paradise and a number of stunning works of art.

2. Piazzale Michelangelo

Overlooking the River Arno and the city itself, the Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to head at sunset for great pictures of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and more. At the centre of the park is a bronze cast statue of David facing Florence, the original of which can be seen in the Accademia Gallery.

statue in Florence – by ^Joe on Flickr CC

3. The Accademia and Uffizi Galleries

The gems of the Renaissance art world are located in the galleries of Florence – and no gallery is home to more masterpieces than the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries. From the Prisoners or Slaves of Michelangelo and his breath-taking David, to the Birth of Venus by Botticelli and Madonna of The Goldfinch by Raphael, the hallways and rooms of these galleries are an art enthusiast’s dream.

4. Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge spanning the River Arno, originally opened in the year 1345. It is famously known for still having shops occupying each of its sides. In Medieval time these shops were occupied by butchers, but today the majority of shops are owned by jewellers.

5. Palazzo Pitti

Once the palace of the Medici and later the household of Napoleon, today the Pitti Palace is a museum featuring an array of important pieces of art, traditional Italian costume, and the stunning Boboli Gardens. Some things not to miss include the Fountain of Neptune, and multiple paintings by Raphael, Caravaggio, Verrocchio, Titian, Pieter Paul Rubens and more.

For those looking to experience some of the best cultural gifts our world has to offer, there are few places you can travel to match the treasures of Florence.

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