Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, tops the list of best places in Italy to visit. Even though the population is over 383,000 residents, Florence has a small town feel, with its meandering cobblestone streets, tiny boutiques and eateries, and shop vendors that make eye contact and say ciao. Of course, there are some well-visited must-see places that you shouldn’t miss on a tour of Florence, however, I’ve included inimitable less-touristy sojourns as well
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Known for its rolling hills, Renaissance art, and countless vineyards, Tuscany is an essential place to visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. We’ve rounded up the must-see masterpieces, unbelievable scenery, and need-to-try wines to guarantee a well-rounded visit to the region and its capital city of Florence.
Sandro Botticelli’s Venus floats on a scallop shell on the sea in Florence’s Galleria degli Uffizi. The famous 1400s painting shows the golden-haired goddess of love blown to shore by the wind god. You may have seen it countless times on postcards, but you’ll be in awe as you stand before the original.
After David and Il Duomo, Ponte Vecchio may be the most well-known attraction in Florence. Rather than walking across the “Old Bridge” (literally the oldest of Florence’s six Arno-spanning bridges, dating from the 1300s), which is overcrowded and lined with jewelry shops, gaze at the bridge from a distance. It’s best to stand on Ponte Santa Trinita, or anywhere on the walkway along the Arno as the sun is setting, to see the sky changing hues, and lights from the bridge reflecting off the placid river.
