Florence
Introduction
Florence is a classic Italian City Break destination. The city is located in the heart of the Tuscan region and is surrounded by hills and mountains. If you are an art lover then Florence is an unrivalled destination with the city being the centre of the Italian Renaissance. Enjoy the architecture, wander the narrow streets or just sit and have a coffee and watch the world go by!
Getting there
Air: Florence airport (FLR) is close to the city centre and buses leave every half hour or so. Another option
is Pisa airport which is serviced by Ryanair, Easyjet and other budget airlines.
For flights to Florence click Expedia.co.uk for great flight deals.
Rail: The main station is Firenze Santa Maria Novella. Intercity trains are available to other Italian and European destinations.
Accommodation
Expedia.co.uk
is great for the latest hotel deals.
Alternatively look at Hotels.com City Break Hotel Deals.
What to See and Do
Florence's numerous attractions include the following:
Galleria degli Uffizi: This museum is one of the worlds greatest Musuems of Fine Art. There is a large collection of Renassance paintings and sculptures. There can be massive queues. To avoid you can book tickets in advance Admission is only 10 Euros. Bargain!
Duomo di Firenze: The Duomo is the main cathedral and is an iconic symbol of the city. The famous Dome was designed by Brunelleschi and his statue is in the square below. For the best view of the Dome climb Giotto's Tower (414 steps!) for great views across the city.
Palazzo Vecchio: This is the old city hall. A magnificent building, the interior is adorned with art works. A statue of Michelangelo's "David" is outside the main door in the same position as the original work.
Ponte Vecchio: The Arno flows through the city and this bridge is the only one to have survived World War 2. The bridge is now home to numerous jewellers selling their wares.
Getting Around
Walk: Florence is very tourist friendly and its easy to get around the main sights by walking around. The town centre is blocked off to cars making for a pleasant environment in which to wander. You see more too!
Bicycle: Bikes can be hired in numerous places and make for a great way to get around the city.
Taxi: Buy bus tickets in advance from tobacconists or newsagents. Once validated they are valid for an hour.