A Weekend in Florence, Italy
Florence is the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and home to many museums and art galleries. Fiorenza is the birthplace of the Renaissance, the piano, and the famous frozen Italian dessert, the gelato. The famous red tin roofs and large Duomo have been photographed for years and have become a large tourist attraction with over 16 million visitors each year. This is one charming city that you will fall in love with!
1. Santa Maria del Fiore (The Duomo)
The Santa Maria del Fiore is the most famous attraction in Florence, Italy. The locals call this stunning building “The Duomo”. The entire building is made out of marble and sandstone. I love the different shades of red, green, and white marble. The Duomo is FREE to enter and is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This is an active cathedral so visitation on Sundays are limited. Do be aware there is usually a long queue to visit the inside of the cathedral.
2. Officina Profumo – Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
This stunning building caught our eye when strolling through the streets of Florence, and it turns out it is the oldest pharmacy in the world! The Officina Profumo – Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella has a lovely flower-filled entrance fit for anyone that loves flowers like me. After snapping a few photos, walk inside and explore the many royal rooms with grand chandeliers and ornate detail. This building is FREE to enter, you can still purchase perfume and pharmacy items here.
3. Stay at the Luxury Five-Star Hotel Dimora Palanca
Dimora Palanca is a five-star hotel with a depth of history, architecture, and beauty. This is a boutique hotel that offers the utmost welcoming service that goes the extra mile. In each and every room your eyes will dance from one intricate detail to another. During your stay, dine at their on-site restaurant, Mimesi. Mimesi is a fine dining restaurant led by well-versed head chef Giovanni Cerroni. Dimora Palanca is the perfect place to relax and unwind during your visit to the historic and charming city of Florence.
4. Piazza Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Square is where people love to hang out and enjoy the sunshine. The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella lies at the North end of the park with the same unique red, green, and white marble tile as The Duomo. You do need tickets to enter the museum inside which can be purchased on the day of visitation at the Basilicas Ticket Office or online. Whether you are visiting the inside or just exploring the square this is a great spot to enjoy live street entertainment or a cup of gelato.
5. Enjoy a Florentine Steak Dinner
The Florentine Steak dates back to as old as the city of Florence, Italy. This famous dish is a must-try when visiting the historic city. A large piece of beef comes out with a beautiful sear on either side and is served with your favorite accompaniments. One of the best restaurants in the city to order this fine dish is at Trattoria Dall’Oste. This well-known restaurant specializes in meat and has some of the best reviews on Google.
6. Gelato
Florence is known for its luxurious smooth gelato and what better way to cool down in the summer than a cup of your favorite flavor? While walking down the famous pedestrian-only shopping street, Via Dei Calzaiuoli, stop in Perché no! This is my favorite gelato shop in the city because it is convenient, reasonable, and offers some amazing gelato with a variety of flavors! My go-to gelato flavors are salted caramel and chocolate hazelnut!
7. Piazza della Signoria
The Piazza della Signoria hosts many different statues, museums, and restaurants, with the most important being the center of Florence’s politics. This is a large square with a lot to see, start by downloading the Rick Steves Florence Walking Tour to get the inside scoop of each landmark. The large David statue stands tall by the famous Michelangelo. Be sure to enter the Palazzo Vecchio, a 13-century restored palace. Loggia dei Lanzi is a FREE outdoor museum with many famous statues.
Tip: Walk through the Uffizi Gallery on your way to the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
8. Ponte Vecchio Bridge
The colorful Ponte Vecchio Bridge is a large tourist attraction. The locals call it the “Old Bridge” because it dates back to 1345. This is the only bridge that the Germans did not destroy during World War II. Today the bridge is painted with warm colors of yellow and orange and is home to many jewelry shops. Take a stroll across and enjoy the hustle and bustle of tourists and jewelry buyers.
9. Views of the City
I am sure you have daydreamed of seeing the stunning red roof cityscape of Florence. The best viewpoint of the city is at the top of the Piazzale Michelangelo. During your trek to the top, you will find stunning gardens and maybe even some live music on the terrace below. The views are amazing at sunset with the sun reflecting off the Arno River and colorful buildings below. I was hoping for a bit more of a red roof experience like in the photos, but unfortunately, those are photoshopped.
Tip: Wear your best walking shoes because the hike to the Piazzale Michelangelo viewpoint is quite the climb.
10. All’antico Vinaio
What was once a small wine bar serving sandwiches on the side, is now a famous staple in the center of Florence. All’antico Vinaio originated in 1989 and serves up classic Italian sandwiches. The line is almost always up the street because each sandwich is made one by one with fresh Italian bread, shaved meats, homemade sauces, and local cheese. I ordered the La Dente with local capocollo, thinly shaved stracchino, truffle cream, and fresh rocket. This sandwich was everything I had imagined; soft, salty, and indulgent. One sandwich costs €6.00 and is very filling!
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