Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Florence
Overview:
For those travelers who have a deep appreciation for Italian art, culture, architecture, and
cuisine, a trip to this impressive Renaissance city should be at the top of your Italian get-
away itinerary. Not only was Florence the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, but it's been
a leader politically, economically, and culturally in today's modern Europe. Florence of the
past was home to so many elite scientists, thinkers, artists, and revolutionists who changed
the face of Italy from the Dark Ages into the time of re-birth (renaissance). Huge cathed-
rals and palaces dominate the city skyline and the city has over eighty different museums.
Hugely influential artist called Florence home like Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael.
Not only is Florence rich in culture, but it's rich in aesthetic beauty as well. And there are so
many choices travelers can pick to enjoy stunning city views. Seeing all of Florence could
literally take months, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and be sure to list the key places
you're interested in seeing before you arrive. But once you're there, you're sure to immedi-
ately be immersed in the vast beauty, history, and culture that is Florence, Italy.
When to Visit:
Florence always seems to be buzzing with ample amounts of tourists, especially when it
comes to the more popular attractions like the Duomo di Firenze. If you want to travel to
Florence when it's warm, the best time to go is in early April before the hot and humid sum-
mer hits. If you'd like to escape the crowds all together, travel there in the winter months
of January and February. In the colder months, tourists tend to stay away. It's also not a
good idea to go in August, because not only is it extremely hot, but most Italians take their
holidays then so certain places that may otherwise be open year round, could be closed in
August.
What to See:
One of the many great things about Florence is that's a very accessible city. Most of the
major tourist attractions tend to be within close walking distance of each other. In fact, it's
even possible to walk from one end of the historic center of Florence to the other. Walking
is also a great means of transportation since most of the streets in central Florence are very
narrow. Busses and car tours cannot travel on them, and so by walking, you'll be able to take
in much more of the beautiful city sights anyway.
