Florence:
the cradle of the Renaissance

Just forty minutes from the Chianti hills lies one of the world's most extraordinary cityscapes. Florence is an idea of beauty brought to life in stone, frescoes and domes. Every corner tells a story of centuries of history and human creativity. Visiting even once is a privilege; returning whenever you can feels like a calling.

The Duomo and Piazza della Signoria

Start at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose dome by Brunelleschi dominates the city. The climb to the lantern, 463 steps, rewards every effort with sweeping views. Nearby, Piazza della Signoria is Florence's civic heart: Palazzo Vecchio, the open-air sculptures of the Loggia dei Lanzi and the replica of Michelangelo's David. An outdoor museum.

The Uffizi

The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the world's most important art collections. Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio and Titian: extraordinary masterpieces brought together in a single visit. Book ahead to avoid queues that can exceed two hours, especially in summer. The corridor overlooking the Arno, with its view of Ponte Vecchio, is one of the city's most romantic spots.

Ponte Vecchio and the Oltrarno

Ponte Vecchio is the only bridge in Florence to have survived the destruction of the Second World War; it is said to have been spared on Hitler's orders. Today, its goldsmiths' shops are among Italy's most famous. Across the bridge lies the Oltrarno, a neighbourhood full of local character, with artisan workshops, traditional trattorias, Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens.

What to eat

Florence is also a destination for food lovers. Try bistecca alla fiorentina, traditionally served rare, in one of the historic trattorias around the Mercato Centrale. Lampredotto, ribollita and olive oil schiacciata are humble dishes that have become part of the city's identity.

• Mercato Centrale — Street food and artisan shops across two floors, ideal for lunch
• Trattoria Mario — Shared tables and home cooking; expect a queue, but it is worth the wait
• Gelateria dei Neri — Unpretentious artisan gelato, among the best in the city
• Buca Mario — Florence's oldest trattoria, founded in 1886

"Florence rewards those who take the time to explore it slowly, on foot."

How to plan your visit

Allow at least a full day to do Florence justice. Ideally, arrive by 9:00 for the Uffizi, spend the afternoon in the Oltrarno and Boboli Gardens, and finish with an aperitivo on a panoramic terrace. From The Colours of Chianti, Florence is an easy drive away.