Florence
Florence (Firenze) is a compact city, but densely packed with spectacular art and architecture everywhere you look. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Birthplace of the Renaissance as well as Italy’s fashion industry, Florence is imbued with an air of history and sophistication. Visitors are sure to be enchanted with the Florentine way of life, from the sensational Tuscan cuisine to the Michelangelo masterpieces. Art and food lovers will find much to embrace here.
Looming over Florence is the Duomo, a red terracotta dome that is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Bellissima!
Learn more about Florence
GETTING AROUND
The best way to navigate Florence is on foot! One can walk the city end-to-end, passing many of the most popular sites, in about a half hour. However, ATAF buses are also available.
CATHEDRAL OF SANTA MARIA DEL FIORE
Often referred to as Florence Cathedral, this 15th-century basilica's red dome is immediately recognizable and visible throughout the city.
PONTE VECCHIO
Shop for art, souvenirs and jewelry on this arched stone bridge over the Arno River.
UFFIZI GALLERY
Major art museum housing Renaissance masterpieces, and one of Florence's most visited attractions.
GALLERIA DELL'ACCADEMIA
Something of a boutique art museum in comparison to the sprawling Uffizi, this is the home of Michelangelo's David sculpture.
EPIPHANY
A legal holiday on January 6 marking the arrival of the Three Kings in Bethlehem. The "Cavalcade of the Three Kings" parade happens downtown, with many participants wearing Renaissance costumes.
SCOPPIO DEL CARRO
On Easter Sunday, the "explosion of the cart" takes place. A tradition dating back four centuries, this event features an ornate wagon towed through Florence and parked in front of the Florence Cathedral, where the fireworks attached to wagon are set off.
FESTIVAL OF THE PAPER LANTERNS (LA FESTA DELLE RIFICOLONE)
On September 7 each year as part of the celebration of mother Maria's birthday, Florentines move in a procession through the city carrying candle-illuminated paper lanterns.