Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, is a magical city in which to immerse yourself in the culture, scenery and history of the beautiful Italian region of Tuscany. The importance of Florence in the history of Europe dates back to the first century B.C. Over the years Florence has played a large part in the development of European architecture, language and opera. Florence has been classed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world so staying in a lovely old town apartment really is a first choice for people visiting the city. You might prefer to stay in accommodation along the River Arno which runs through the very heart of the city or escape to a Tuscan villa overlooking the city. If you prefer to stay in an apartment in the city center, there are many things to see and do just on your doorstep. Visit the impressive 'Duomo' Cathedral which dominates the skyline with its Brunelleschi dome or wander the medieval cobbled streets to find the many museums, palaces and churches housing some of the most impressive art work in the world.
Your Own Apartment in Florence
The historic center of Florence, which became an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, attracts millions of tourists a year so renting your own apartment in the old town is a great way to live like a local. Florence is a compact city where most tourist attractions are located in the old town area . Therefore it is certainly better to get accommodation in the center. Whether you prefer a cozy studio next to the Ponte Vecchio, an authentic Florentine flat in Oltr'Arno or a modern luxury apartment in the Santa Croce area, you can find a great selection of accommodation in Florence. Shopping lovers can rent an apartment or bed and breakfast near the superb shopping streets of Via Tornabuoni and Via del Parione where the top designer brands have stores. If you prefer more of a rural experience, renting villas in the Florentine hills is a great way to get the best of both worlds. You can easily get to the main tourists attractions in the city but also escape to the tranquility of the beautiful Italian countryside. A short distance from the city, you can take a walk up to the 11th century church of San Miniato al Monte for a breath-taking panoramic view of Florence then return to your villa to watch the sun set over the city.
Fun Facts
- Julius Caesar founded Florence as a retreat for his troops in 59 BC
- In 1339 Florence became the first European city with paved streets.
- Florence Nightingale, was born here and was therefore named after the city.
- Dante Aligheri, a native Florentine, is credited with creating the standard Italian language that the entire country uses to this day.
Some sights
The most important building in Florence 's Duomo, or cathedral , which rises above the city center, and from which you can explore the Baptistery, the Campanile and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo . The top of the dome of the cathedral is open to visitors and is a great place from which to enjoy the panoramic views of the city. To the east is the Church of Santa Croce , which has frescoes by Giotto. South of the cathedral is the Piazza della Signoria, the political center of the city with the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence, the Uffizi Gallery (one of the most important art galleries in Italy) and the Ponte Vecchio. This square is also a replica of the famous David sculpture by Michelangelo. Another important church is Santa Maria Novella, whose chapels are adorned with beautiful frescoes . It is located west of the Duomo , next to the main train station of the same name .
Food and drink
It is difficult to visit Florence without falling in love with their food , after all Tuscany is famous for its excellent cuisine and the quality of its fresh ingredients. A good restaurant to go is La Cicina of Garga . The menu includes salads, pastas and entrees all at reasonable prices and a nice atmosphere too. Another cosy restaurant is the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Carrozze Trattoria serves traditional local food .Coffee culture is very important in Florence , especially around the main squares and next to the Duomo. And as you are visiting Italy after all, you'll have try their delicious ice cream.