Florence Guide to Romance, Culture, and History

Florence, which was built on both sides of the Arno River in central Italy, is the capital of Tuscany. Surrounded by the Chianti Mountains it is 1 ½ hours north of Rome by train. It was already a major city by the 12th century, which accounts for its rich history, amazing architecture, and romantic and sophisticated culture. This remarkable city was home to some of the world's finest representatives of the arts and sciences. Machiavelli, Galileo, da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Dante are prime examples.

The museums, palaces, and parks all helped to make tourism the main factor in the economy, although high fashion clothing is becoming a major contributor, thanks to names like Gucci and Ferragamo.

Traffic is horrendous and parking can be challenging at best. The wide avenues that circle Florence are chaotic, with mopeds squeezing in and out of lanes filled with larger vehicles. The noise from squealing breaks, shouting drivers, and honking horns, is enough to discourage any tourist from hiring a car for their holiday, unless it will be used to visit the beautiful countryside.

Within the city, it is wiser to take taxis, buses, or trams. The more adventurous might prefer to rent scooters or bicycles. Taxis can be found outside stazione di Santa Maria Novella, and at other areas around town. Bus tickets must be purchased at a bus station, bars, tobacco shops, or newsstands. However, between 9pm and 6am, they can be bought from the bus driver.

There are three airports in the Florence area. Most people will fly into Pisa's Galileo Galilei airport, which is eighty minutes from Florence by train. Most intercontinental flights will have a plane change in Rome, Milan, or another hub. If you are coming in from the UK, it is wise to check the low budget airlines. If you book early you pay less, and it works on a first come first serve basis. Most people traveling within Italy do so by train, because air travel is a bit pricey within the country. The easiest way to book flights is to do so online.

In addition to hotels, you may choose to rent a loft, one loft two bedroom, or three bedroom Florence apartment. Self-catering your holiday allows you to choose the times and places you will dine, and are more convenient when traveling with a large group or your family. Additional choices would be a bed and breakfast, a youth hostel, or even a villa with a swimming pool. Check out the holiday rental companies online.

So now that you know the boring details, let's go over some of what you can expect to see and do in this romantic, historical, and cultural city. Both the Florentines and the city itself will impress you. At the outdoor cafes, you will see them sipping their aperitivos, laughing, and flirting. After the boutiques and stores close, they will meet friends for a wonderful meal and a glass of Chianti.

If you are looking for a casual meal at a good price, try one of the many delicious pizzerias. For an elegant Renaissance style meal, go to one of the authentic gourmet dining rooms.
This restaurant is considered by many to be one of the best in Italy. Here you will dine in magnificent Renaissance style. For this, you will need reservations, and the men will have to wear a jacket and tie. Do you want traditional, authentic Tuscan food in an eclectic smart casual setting? Then try one of the many local trattorias.

Perhaps you would like to sample the local wines while you dine; visit one of the local wineries. While you are there, you can tour the winery and have a cooking lesson as well! There are any number of trendy cafes, pubs, and bars you can visit for simple dining, for sharing conversation and a few drinks with old friends or new.

The medieval architecture in the historical city center is intermingled with museum, art galleries, theaters, and the cathedral. Galleria degli Uffizi is a must see while you are in Florence. This amazing building contains some of the finest art, sculptures, and furniture in the world, as well as a breathtaking view of the Arno River. To see Michelangelo's David visit Galleria dell'Accademia.

So there it is. Just by searching the web you can find good deals on flights; accommodations that range from luxury hotels, to rental apartments and villas, to youth hostels; a vast array of architectural sights; and entertainment that encompasses fine and casual dining, winery tours, theater, and museums. When you tack on the haute couture shopping, and the beautiful and romantic ambiance of Florence, how can you resist?

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