Deep in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is among Italy’s most popular city with tourists. In the summer months you’ll find thousands of tourists crowded along the city’s streets, and even in the spring and fall, when weather conditions are milder, there are many tourists along the cobbled streets taking in the wonders of the ancient city.
But visiting Florence any time of the year is a dazzling experience. There are so many sights to see and things to experience. The food is fresh and delicious and some of the most intriguing antiquities of Italy are found within this city. Among the most popular sites in Florence you’ll find:
Florence’s Archaeological Museum – Here you’ll find a palace full of treasures from Italy’s past. Discover terrific Egyptian and Etruscan collections.
Baptistry of John the Baptist – Dating back to the 11th century, the baptistry showcases three distinctive sets of bronze doors.
Il Duomo (Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore) – The great Gothic Florentine duomo was first conceived in 1296, but was not consecrated until 1436. Brunelleschi’s Dome is easily the most distinctive portion of the building. You can expect long lines here in the summer and for extra fees you can visit the excavation and cupola.
Uffizi Gallery – Inside a Medici palazzo from 1560, you can walk through galleries hosting any number of fine exhibits. The location has been recently renovated and includes expanded galleries. Be sure to visit the top floors to see the full sweep of Florence from above.
The Ponte Vecchio – Once crowded with blacksmith shops and other forms of trade, the Old Bridge is now the home of glittering gold shops and tourist attractions. The bridge was once made of wood, but was rebuilt in the 1300’s, and is now almost entirely stone. The bridge survived the bombings of WWII and is a very popular destination today.
The Church of San Lorenzo – Likely the oldest religious structure in Florence, the Church of San Lorenzo isn’t dazzling from the outside, but the inside is most impressive. Dating back to the 4th century, the church contains works by Donatello and Bronzino.
The Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens – Within the palace you’ll find several museums containing masterpieces by many of Italy’s finest artists. After touring the art inside, you’ll be drawn to the art that is the Renaissance gardens outside.
