Florence Travel Guide
Florence very quickly became one of my favorite Italian cities with the quaint, old town feel and rich culture... and the food, of course, the food.
STAY
Grand Amore : gorgeous boutique hotel with specific attention to details... think macarons on your pillow!
Palazzo Guadagni : such a steal for this location. also, love love love the balcony area...perfect for an evening of socializing with friends and sipping wine! (see below!)
Soprarno Suites : again, a steal for this unique hotel, offering super chic rooms.
DO
Uffizi museumThe David - usually there is a long line, so you might want to hit this first!The Duomo - the HUGE, beautiful green church in the center of the city (climb the dome on a clear day - cost is 8 euro, but it is TOTALLY worth it) Ponte Vecchio - the old bridge covered in jewelry shops, it's the iconic bridge of Firenze!Bobelli Gardens and Bardini gardens at Pitti Palace - perfect picnic spot, sans wine!San Lorenze market - leather goods and souvenirs, open everyday right in the center of the cityPiazza MIchelangelo - the best sunset spot! bring a bottle of wine and some friends!Bargello Sculpture museumSaint Maria Novella ChurchSaint Croce ChurchSan Lorenzo ChurchPalazzo vecchioBotanical Gardens
EAT
Affordable: Panini Toscani (delicious sandwiches right beside the Duomo!), All'Antico Vinaio (your day 2 sandwich spot!), Gusta Pizza (tasty pizza, ask for it heart-shaped!), Il gatto e Il volpe, Edi House
Splurgy: Golden View Open Bar (best ambience!), Il Latini (Florentine steak!), Acqua Al 2, Locale
Best gelato: Perche no, Gelateria neri, Grom
DAY TRIPS
Tuscany : just on the outskirts of Florence is the gorgeous rolling hills of wine country! We stayed at this gorgeous Airbnb, less than a half hour away from Florence! Also, this classic winery was the perfect tasting spot...and the best meal!
Cinque Terre : hike the five cliffside villages--there are amazing views and bonus, a great way to burn off all that pasta! I would set aside at least 2 days from Florence to travel and explore this, although if you have more you can really immerse yourself in these small villages! We stayed in Monterosso at this Airbnb.
Pisa : If you're driving to Tuscany or CT from Florence, this is a easy stop off to see the iconic Leaning Tower!
Read all about fashion in Florence here!
