Florence, the capital of the Tuscany and capital of the major artistic works of history, where once artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello and Michelangelo lived. They have had a hand in designing and creating some of the majestic artwork and interiors still to be found in Florence. In fact the city is so rich in art that some visitors experience the Stendhal syndrome, nowadays also called Florence syndrome. The city is made up by beautiful Renaissance-style buildings. Here you will find the unique Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, build in gothic-style during the 13th century. Through Florence the river Arno flows, with precious building and nature alongside.
We recommend you to cross it at the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), which was built in 1345 and still has little houses along it. Nowadays they are used by jewelers, art dealers and souvenir sellers. Once you have crossed Ponte Vecchio, you will find a quiet and romantic area with small art galleries. The museum degli Argenty is placed there. This museum is a must-see; there is also a huge garden with important monuments behind it. If you need a break or want to have a little picnic, go to the Viale del Cipressi. This is a wonderful garden where the Liceo Artistico Statale is placed. This place gives you the impression of having been transferred into the Middle Ages. Don´t miss it, it is an insider tip.
Climate
The Climate in Florence is Mediterranean, so sunny days prevail, with an high average temperature of 30°C during the summer months. Autumn and spring offer pleasant temperatures for travelers. The winter weather can be cooler and damper and sometimes the weather is unpredictable; there can be heavy rain and occasional icy winds, so be sure to bring a warm overcoat, scarf and gloves.
holidays
January 1 and 6, Easter Sunday, April 25, May 1, June 2 and 24, August 15, November 1, December 8, 25, and 26.
5 things to see
Piazza della Signoria
Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Gardino Di Palazzo Guicciardini
the Duomo (the fourth largest cathedral in the world)
the Accademia di Belle Arti Firenze, where you can see Michelangelo´s “David”
5 things to do
Climb the Duomo
The Giotto Tower
Stroll through the leather markets
Trip to Pisa
Wine tour to the Chianti wine region
Public Transport
Much of Florence is now traffic-free and if you are in the centre, the quickest way to get around the city is by foot. The Santa Maria Novella train station is situated in the centre of Florencia.
Bus
The ATAF Company runs its orange Buses until at least 21:30, with the most popular running until at least 01:00. Buses depart from Santa Maria Novella train station and run regularly to areas throughout the city and to nearby towns. Tickets must be purchased before boarding.
Train
It’s a good way to travel in Tuscany and to see the precious landscape and it´s nearby towns and villages. Trains are run by the FS Company and depart from the Santa Maria Novella train station.
