Italy Vacation Destinations
Florence hot spots include museums, public gardens and churches
Nov 9, 2007
The city of Florence contributed largely to the cultural and political development of Europe. Even today Florence retains a strong resemblance to the late-medieval town it once was, even though it is Italy’s biggest tourist attraction. Visiting Florence is like stepping back into time.
Florence has almost half a million residents within its limits. With such a high population it is still possible to walk from one end of the city to the other in thirty minutes. Although Flroence is a small town it boasts two airports and hundreds of hotels. With so many hotels in one city it would seem there would be empty rooms, but the truth is, if you want to guarantee a room, book a room well in advance of your trip.
The best time to visit Italy is from April to June or in early December. This is the low tourist season. The weather is usually good and the prices are somewhat lower than during the peak seaons. July and August, the hottest months of the year there, are also the busiest tourist months.
The Best Tourist Attractions
The fourth largest cathedral in the world, the Piazza del Duomo is a must see. This building took almost two centuries to build and dominates the city’s skyline. The view from this building is fantastic not to mention the beautiful stained glass windows and the dome. Behind the cathedral is the Duomo Museum. This museum has an impressive sculpture collection that includes pieces by Michelangelo.
The Piazza della Signoria is next on the list of must-see attractions. This building has been used as the hub of Florence’s political life for centuries. It is also surrounded by some of the city’s most notable buildings, including the Palazzo Vecchio where a copy of Michelangelo’s David stands guarding the entrance.
Along the banks of the Arno is the Ponte Vecchio, the famous 14th century bridge. The bridge is lined with shops selling everything from jewelry to meat.
The Santa Croce is a must see musuem. This museum features a crucifix by Cimabue. It was damaged by floods in 1966.
The Bargello Museum has the most comprehensive range of medieval and Renaissance sculpture in Italy. Sculptures such as Bacchus by Michelangelo, David by Donatello and Mercury by Giambologna can be seen here along with numerous others.
Finally, don’t miss the Pitti Palace on the southern bank of the Arno. Originally designed by Brunelleschi for the Pitti family it is a huge and imposing building with an interesting history.
Florence has a lot to take in from museums, to churches and even public gardens, not to mention the various shops. It is a beautiful, magical place to visit, but do plan on doing a bit of walking due to the congestion.
