The birthplace of the Renaissance, Tuscan cuisine, and leather craftsmanship
Florence is where the Renaissance happened, and you can still feel its creative energy in every piazza and gallery. The Uffizi holds Botticelli's Birth of Venus and works by Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael. The Duomo's terracotta dome dominates the skyline and climbing to the top is a rite of passage. But Florence isn't just a museum — it's a living food city. The Mercato Centrale is a temple to Tuscan ingredients, the bistecca alla fiorentina is a steak experience unlike any other, and the gelato here sets the standard for the world. Ponte Vecchio at golden hour, a glass of Chianti, and the Tuscan hills visible from every elevated viewpoint — it's hard to beat.
The historic center (Centro Storico) is compact and walkable — everything is within 15 minutes on foot. Hotels around the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria run $100-180/night. Santa Croce neighborhood is slightly cheaper with a more local feel. Oltrarno (across the Arno) is the artisan quarter with great trattorias and boutique hotels at $70-120/night. San Lorenzo near the Mercato Centrale is the budget-friendlier zone.
Fly into Florence Airport (FLR) for convenience, or Pisa Airport (PSA) which is larger, has more routes, and is 1 hour by train to Florence. No direct US flights — connect through Rome, Munich, or Paris. Consider flying into Rome (FCO) and taking the 1.5-hour high-speed train. Book 5-7 weeks ahead. April-June and September-October are ideal. July-August is scorching and packed.
Plans change — and that's okay. SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance covers trip interruptions, medical emergencies, and lost luggage with flexible monthly billing. No lock-in, cancel anytime.
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