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| Florence, Italy |
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Fine Food, Art and Architecture are all Available in Florence
When you visit Florence, Italy, you step into a very ancient and beautiful city where the patriarchs of the Renaissance were born centuries ago. Standing in Florence gazing at the beautiful scenery, enjoying fine wine and delicious food, one can imagine the inspiration the patriarchs of the Renaissance experienced.
During your stay in Florence, you will be surrounded by impressive architecture, incredible art and beautiful gardens. There is a great deal to see and do in Florence, but taking the time to enjoy the charming, friendly atmosphere is one of the nicest ways to spend your time.
Hotels in Florence
Florence is a very popular tourist destination, but if you take your time and book well in advance, you can find ideal hotel accommodations that will exceed your best expectations. Whether you prefer a luxurious, lavish hotel or more quaint and cozy accommodations, there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Florence. Four and five-star hotels in Florence are luxurious, yet even one to three-star "budget" hotels are likely to surprise you with their quality, service and amenities.
Sightseers will want to stay close to Florence's historic centre, but it isn't necessary if you'd like to avoid the higher price you'll pay for the convenience. There are many comfortable, well-serviced mid-range and budget priced hotels in the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio neighborhoods. You will still be very close to popular tourist attractions and shopping districts, yet you'll be slightly out of the main tourist zone.
Eating and Drinking in Florence
Unlike other travel destinations where hotel restaurants and lounges are almost a necessary convenience, in Florence you will be close to terrific food and drink almost anywhere you stay. Simply walk out your hotel door, stroll along the narrow streets and you are sure to come upon several options. For a light meal, a snack or a glass of wine or coffee and a gelato, try cafes, wine bars and cake shops. For a more substantial or full meal, try one of the many pizzerie, trattorias, osterias or ristorantes you're sure to encounter.
Tuscan cuisine is often simply prepared, but amazingly rich in flavor. Freshly baked bread, mellow cheeses, local produce, olive oil and grilled meats are staples in Tuscan cooking. Beans are also featured in many dishes, and on your visit to Florence, you may finally come to appreciate how delicious healthy food can taste. Wine is just as important as the food served in Florence, and whether you are a wine aficionado or not, it's almost impossible not to appreciate a fine glass of Chianti with your meal.
Getting around Florence
There are so many splendid historical and artistic attractions in Florence, you will never be far from a wonderful opportunity to explore art, architecture and historic sites. Although it is easy to travel by public bus transportation or taxi throughout Florence, most visitors simply walk the short distances between attractions in Florence's centre. Walking is a wonderful way to experience the city and enjoy the fine weather and charming atmosphere.
Florence Attractions
Just as you will enjoy discovering your own favorite trattoria in Florence, you can pick and choose which attractions seem the most interesting and appealing to you. Florence attractions are so magnificent, it is doubtful you will find anything disappointing. Take you time visiting just one or two attractions a day to enjoy more of what each has to offer.
You have 70 museums to choose among in Florence, and although the Academy Gallery is a popular choice and certainly worth a visit, there are many other fascinating galleries to visit during your stay. There you can see Michelangelo's David, but if you are interested in his art, the Casa Buonarroti museum and monument might be another option. This museum celebrates Michelangelo's life and art, but also pays tribute to the important cultural and artistic heritage of the Buonarroti family.
The Medici Chapels are another Florence museum that features the work of Michelangelo. These chapels are part of a gigantic complex that adjoins the church of St. Lorenzo. Here you can see a fine example of Michelangelo's architectural work. The Medici family mausoleum also features sculptures by Michelangelo.
Florence also features incredible architecture you can enjoy outdoors day or night in the form of Piazzas, or plazas. The Duomo or Cathedral is a gothic wonder you will not want to miss on your trip to Florence.
Nightlife in Florence
Although Florence is a city famed for its artistic and cultural riches rather than its nightlife, there are plenty of places to drink, dance, hear live music or simply relax and unwind. Close to the Cathedral, you will find many pubs and nightclubs where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing. There are several Irish pubs, but also other varieties where you can enjoy a glass of Chianti or a pint of beer. Outdoor musicians perform in plazas throughout the city if you'd rather step outside under the stars or take a stroll before you head to the disco. |
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