Florence, Italy is a beautiful city in Europe with The Renaissance period art, quaint Italian cafes and the wonderful local markets to shop for leather items such as handmade bags, leather journals and coats in. Even though American currency is not too good in Europe currently, the travel deals and bargains for flying there and staying there will more than make up for the weak dollar. If you have never visited Italy, make sure Florence is one of the cities you go to as many tourists only consider visiting Rome and Venice. If you are flexible and can travel any season, the Fall is the best time as the weather is comfortably warm and the crowds are all gone from the hectic summer travel time.
Even if you do not appreciate art, the different museums to see some famous works of art and architecture are defintiely recommended. Two of the best museums of art to see in Florence are the Uffizi gallery and the Accademia gallery. The Uffizi has much of the most famous Renaissance period art in the world with many pieces by Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli and Michelangelo. The Accademia gallery has the most famous sculpture worldwide and that is Michelangelo’s statue of David. The lines to see David are lengthy so be certain to head there right when it opens. There are aditional art museums but if you are limited on time, make sure to go to both of these two museums.
There are other terrific sights to see to take in the gorgeous art and architecture that Florence is so famous for is the Duomo and the Pitti palace. The Duomo is a famous cathedral in Florence that is the most recognized structure in the city. Be certain to head inside to see the beautiful structure. The Pitti palace has a great collection of art in various mediums from paintings, period costumes and sculptures and is a magnificent structure. Directly behind the palace are the Boboli gardens which is a great place to rest and have a snack.
Besides, the grand art in Florence, the food and wine here are a few of the most delicious things you will ever taste. You may wish to see a few of the recommendations from travel books for the best restaurants but some of the best places are the more casual trattorias that you can simply stroll by serving up scrumptious pastas and pizzas. Also, be certain to stop at least one gelateria which will serve you a refreshing and delicious Italian gelato, similar to ice cream, but better.
Before you leave Florence, take the time to shop at their large market in the city’s main area. The local shops offer some of the specialties that this area is known for like Italian leather goods. The quality of the leather here is so much better than in the US and shoes and coats are big sellers in addition to the regional chianti wine.