Introduction to Florence – A Must Visit City in Italy

Every nook every brick every cobblestone in Florence seems to have a story to tell about its golden past.

It was established as a settlement for soldiers by Julius Caesar in 59 BC but its true transformation came at the hands of King Margrave Hugo in 1000 CEC when he chose it as his dwelling place instead of Lucca. Later 12th century took it to the apex of quality art and architecture with maximum throughput accredited to the maestros like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. It got its city walls in late 14th century.

Hence, where ever you step in Florence you will find the well trodden streets and paths dominated by rare statues and sites which have witnessed all from the fall of Kingdoms to the fickle ways of men. Moreover, its immense role in the development of art and its involvement in banking and trade paved a way to its powerful and wealthy status.

The fact that Florence is stunningly quaint and still dons the medieval aura gives it a prominent magnetism which is impossible to resist. This is the reason that it remains the talk of the ton among Italy lovers who always make it a point to keep a few days reserved to spend in Florence. Florence like her sibling sisters- Rome and Venice is high on offerings yet is easier to travel and move about for it is infinitesimally small as compared to Rome and Venice. Hence no matter if you are on a family trip or alone, its size and easy navigability comes across as refreshing and reassuring with the added boon of numerous food venues and stay options.

How to commute in Florence?

Historic center of Florence is the place which is not only the focal point of activity but also is the place where most of the marvels from the past are scattered within the medieval walls. So put on your walking shoes for in absence of buses, small by streets and limited traffic access it is best covered on foot. Nevertheless for parts that are located outside the walls of the Historic center bus services are available for 1.20 Euros whereas for cab or taxis you might have to pay about 20 Euros for a 10 minute ride.

Accommodation and food in Florence

Hostels can be availed at price range 10 -40 Euros per night. In case of private rooms expect to pay 50 Euros for double and 40 for single bed per night and prices tend to rise in summers. Budget hotels charge up to 75 Euros for single bed stay per person.

In case of food one should avoid touristy places for money valued food can be easily sought away from the main abuzz areas. Florence is full of fast food and sandwich shops tucked away in the less crowded by-streets that charge maximum 6 Euros for a meal and provide Gelato for 4 Euros.

Things to do in Florence:

For a journey in past Florence is one the most looked upon spot which in itself is a repository of heritage sites that belong to different eras. Its splendor and heritage is preserved in its horde of historical buildings, statues, museums and landmarks that are the best existing examples of Renaissance art and architecture. You can spend days in Florence and still you will fail to cover everything so here is a list of masterpieces that are a must see.

Pay David a visit:

Unmatched in glory and detail David stands at Accademia Gallery as the most famous statue in the world. In addition to David-Michelangelo’s most renowned work the gallery also holds a unique collection of musical instruments.

Experience Duomo:

Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore aka Duomo is a 12th century cathedral that is of great prominence. It holds the highly detailed artwork on the walls of the Dome –the frescos which were finished by Federico Zuccari and his team of painters.

Uffizi Gallery

It contains the biggest collection of Renaissance art in the world and exhibits the precious collections of Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, da Vinci, and Raphael.

Piazza Della Signoria:

It sits next to Uffizi gallery where the bonfire of the vanities was originally held and holds the statue of Neptune and a replica of David.

Relax in Liberia Café la Cité:

This is a cultural center with a café and a bookstore. Break ice and indulge in conversation with locals and participate in weekly events organized here.

Have a stroll in Giardino di Boboli:

This garden is influenced by Tuscan style of architecture that has its own collection of marble statues with ponds that add a surreal feel to it.

Witness the revival of history at Palio di Siena

It revives the 14th century tradition of Public races held at the Town’s center which was also the place for brawls, jostling and bullfights. With riders on bareback horses and flag bearers in medieval clothing it is a walk in the past and is organized twice a year on 2nd July and 16th August. It is one of the festivals which give you a enriched and vivid picture of Italy’s past through eyes of Florence.

Firenze Card for 50 Euros per person or Amici degli Uffizi Card for 60 Euros per family including 2 children provides access to major museums from art centered ones like Uffizi and Accademia to non art museums like Perfume museum and weird museum of La Specola.