The Renaissance began in Florence and iconic treasures from this period of rebirth can still be found in the city’s many art galleries and museums. Surrounded by the fertile hills of Tuscany, fresh local produce also makes this a foodie destination worth sinking your teeth into. Sustenance for the soul and the stomach awaits.
The treasures of history
The Uffizi Gallery is considered the first modern museum and houses the world’s largest collection of Renaissance art. Marvel at its most famous resident: Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Elsewhere in the city, visit the world-renowned Galleria dell’Accademia and admire the perfection of Michelangelo’s statue of David up close. The halls and endless rooms of these major museums are filled with treasures and it could take days to explore every inch – but what’s the rush? Save precious time by booking tickets online in advance so you can avoid some of the lines.
Not all of Florence’s history is confined to display cases and museum halls. The Centro Storico is a warren of winding old streets. Wander over the Ponte Vecchio, an everlasting symbol of Florence. The covered bridge over the river Arno is now a cobbled walkway lined with traditional restaurants and intricate, inviting shops. The orange dome of the Duomo dominates Florence’s skyline. Step inside to admire the colourful frescos that adorn the ceiling and venture into the atmospheric underground crypt, which contains 7th century remains.
Eat like the locals
Strolling through galleries and navigating the narrow streets of the Centro Storico can be hungry work. Fresh fruit and vegetables from ancient Tuscan farms can be bought at Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo. Meandering through this market gives you a snapshot of the life of local Florentines. Sate your appetite by sampling some of the fine cheeses, cured meats and fat, juicy olives. A gourmet food hall on the upper level is the ideal spot for lunch, looking down on life.
Florence’s foodie scene caters to all tastes. Enoteca Pinchiorri is one of only a few restaurants in Italy with three Michelin stars. Splash out on fine Italian dining with a side order of sophisticated atmosphere in this grand restaurant. Pigeon cooked under a cocoa bean crust, roasted ravioli with cabbage, caviar and smoked tea – it’s a sensory experience.
A Tuscan road trip
Head down the autostrada to Siena and watch the stunning scenery of Chianti roll by. Verdant hills topped with terracotta towns are the Tuscany of your imagination. Siena itself is a city where the ancient architecture towers above winding streets. Visit the main cathedral where detailed frescoes cover the walls and you’ll see works from Michelangelo and Donatello. Stop for rich Italian coffee in timeless Piazza Campo and feel as though you’ve just stepped back into the 17th century.
On the way to or from Siena, pause in the perfectly preserved medieval town of San Gimignano, another UNESCO-protected site. It is known as the “town of one hundred towers” where incredible tower-houses reach up to the sky.
Heading back into Florence, you might try a rooftop restaurant for a view over the impressive skyline with dinner. Whether you come for the food, the art or the history, the city will leave an impression you will never forget and car rental in Florence is your way into this majestic place.
