europe travel

An Insiders Guide To Florence

8/17/2016Jake Ryan


Perfect for:  ☑ Sensational Architecture ☑ Historical Beauty ☑ Cultural Attractions
Florence is one of my favourite cities in the world. Ever since I can remember it has had an intoxicating pull on me. Everywhere you turn, whether it be a piazza or a tiny street corner, you are met with some of the most magical and beautiful sights you will ever see. Emme 


|| WHAT TO KNOW ||

✈ Location || Central Italy and the Capital City of Tuscany.
☎ Language || Italian, English.
$ Currency || Euro (€)
☻ Population || 400,000 
☀ Weather || Spring: Mild with occasional showers. Summer: Sunny, Hot & Humid. Autumn: Mild with showers. Winter: Cool with frequent showers.


|| WHAT NOT TO MISS ||
1. Piazza del Duomo || Often referred to as the heart of Florence, Duomo Square is the city’s most popular Piazza and home to possibly the greatest architectural structures in the whole of Florence, including the Duomo, Bell Tower and the Baptistry. Invest in the great value combination ticket for €10 to experience  everything. 

2. Ponte Vecchio || Spanning the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest and most beautiful bridge. Wait until sunset to take a stroll across it where you will be rewarded with sensational views of the illuminated Arno River.

3. Uffizi Gallery || The Uffizi Gallery is Florence’s most celebrated art gallery, arguably holding the most important and comprehensive collection of Renaissance art in the whole world, including those by masters such as Michelango, Leonardo di Vinci and Botticelli. Make sure you pre-book your tickets though to avoid disappointment.

4. Boboli Gardens || The Giardino di Boboli are a collection of beautiful Italian gardens set on a hillside in the middle of Florence. Resembling a hybrid of Versailles and Central Park, these 11 acres are home to a range of themed gardens, sculptures, fountains, centuries-old oak trees and sweeping views. The best part is that as the are relatively unheard of by most visitors who visit the city, you don’t have to worry about the normal tourist hordes.

5. Piazza della Signoria || A world-renowned, open-air sculpture exhibit, the Piazza is also surrounded by some of the best attractions in all of Florence. The best part about it all? It’s completely free to enjoy! 



|| WHERE TO STAY ||

JK PLACE FIRENZE || Central Florence
For unrivalled luxury in a great location; the JR Place Firenze is the place for you. 
A jewel in the crown of the Florence, this beautiful boutique hotel will offer all who stay here true 5* luxury. With it’s high, painted ceilings, panelled walls and it’s attentive concierge who will literally do anything you ask; you won’t find a more authentic Florentine experience. For a great view over the square, ask for the Master Room 1 where you will see the church lighting up the square.



|| WHERE TO EAT ||

Trattoria Sostanza || Via della Porcellana
BEST FOR: Traditional and authentic Florentine food.
Famed all throughout the city, Trattoria Sostanza is hailed as one of the best restaurants in all of Florence. In business since 1869, it serves some of the most mouthwatering, traditional, Italian dishes I have ever eaten and you can see why it is a firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.I recommend the bistecca fiorentina (Florentine steak) that is cooked over an ancient wood-burning stove in the back or the equally delicious petti pollo al burro (Butter chicken). Pure perfection!


Gelateria Carabe || Via Ricasoli
BEST FOR: True Italian gelato you’ll dream about.
Gelateria Carabe is a great hidden gem of Florence’s and one of the only gelaterias in  the whole of the city to actually sell authentic gelato. Made to a traditional Sicilian recipe and using fresh Sicilian ingredients, the ice cream here is simply divine. There are tons of unique flavours and combinations to choose from but if you haven't tried almond ice cream before, this is definitely the place to try it. If gelato isn’t your thing, they also serve fresh cannoli and homemade granita. Delicious!


Oil Shoppe || Via S.Egidio
BEST FOR: Sumptuous sandwiches in the centre of Florence. 
Located just around the corner from the Academia, this cute and colourful hole-in-the-wall is the perfect stop for a light bite during the day. Serving a variety of customisable sandwiches that are made up from fresh ingredients and only €4 a pop, you will be hard-pressed to find better value for money. Whenever I go I always opt for the meatballs. Trust me, the marina sauce is to die for!  



|| FOR GREAT IDEAS ||

-Florence Tourism Board || www.firenzeturismo.it/en/
BEST FOR: Attraction ideas, maps and tourist information

-Viator  || www.viator.com/Florence
BEST FOR: Booking tours, visits and attraction tickets before you travel

-Trip Advisor  || www.tripadvisor.com
BEST FOR: Un-biased real life traveller reviews

-Travarella  || www.travarella.com
Check out my Florence blog posts 
What are top tips for trips to Florence? Drop me a comment below.

You Might Also Like

0 comments

Contact Form