A symbol of the Renaissance and the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is home to many iconic pieces of art and architecture, especially in Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sitting amid the second-largest wine-producing region in Italy, Florence offers no shortage of wine-tasting opportunities within the city and in the surrounding countryside where the wine is produced. Among the beauty, culture, gastronomy and history, the city delights travelers at every turn.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Many airlines fly into Florence Airport, also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, located about 2.5 miles from city center. With few direct flights from U.S. cities, travelers may find it easiest to fly out of Chicago; New York; or Washington, D.C. From the airport travelers can reach the city via taxi (about 15 minutes) or by Vola in Bus shuttle to the central railway station of Santa Maria Novella (about 20 minutes). In Florence the narrow pedestrian streets limit car access, so many visitors get around the pedestrian-friendly city on foot or by bike or e-bike.
LODGING
Housed in a 13th-century mansion just minutes from city center, Grand Hotel Cavour Firenze offers a mix of history, luxury, and excellent amenities and services. From here guests can easily access all the monuments that make the city unique.
Via del Proconsolo 3, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 266271 hotelcavour.com
Located in the oldest tower in Florence, this boutique hotel allows guests to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere while enjoying convenient access to the city’s shopping streets and main attractions.
Piazza Sant’Elisabetta 3, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 27370 brunelleschihotelflorence.com
Among medieval alleys and Renaissance squares, Hotel Monna Lisa offers a lively atmosphere with unique charm and Florentine hospitality. Step back in time and explore the wonders of the city.
Borgo Pinti 27, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 247 9751 monnalisa.it
DINING
Caffè Italiano
Caffè Italiano is where the locals go for pizza. The restaurant features pure Tuscan flavors and only a few basic pizzas but is well worth the stop. Guests can also order other dishes.
Via Isola delle Stinche 11/13R, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 289080
Loud music and bright lights offer a unique dining experience. Frequently changing menus feature seasonal and local ingredients paired with an unusual global influence to create dishes unlike anything else.
Piazza di Cestello 3R, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 2476956 essenziale.me
Trattoria Da Burde Firenze
Located right outside the historic center, Trattoria Da Burde Firenze is one of Florence’s finest family-run restaurants with traditional food. Family recipes passed down from generation to generation are prepared from scratch.
Via Pistoiese 154, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 317206
ATTRACTIONS
Opened to the public in 1766, The Boboli Gardens were designed for the Medici family and now represent one of the first and most important examples of the Italian garden. With the Palazzo Pitti sitting before the gardens, check two things off your list and explore the palace beforehand.
Piazza de’ Pitti 1, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 23885 uffizi.it
Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore
Originally built in the 15th century, Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower is one of the largest churches in the world and a must-see while in Florence. Its stunning architecture attracts visitors from all over the world.
Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 230 2885 duomo.firenze.it
Allow plenty of time to explore the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to the iconic David and other sculptures by Michelangelo; paintings by great Italian artists; and old, one-of-a-kind musical instruments by Stradivari and Cristofori, inventor of the piano.
Via Ricasoli 58/60, Florence, Italy, tel 39 055 098 7100 galleriaaccademiafirenze.it
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: U.S. Virgin Islands
GCGB 2023
Aug 5, 2023All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 30, 2025Grupo Brisas Opens New Las Brisas Mérida Boutique Hotel
Grupo Brisas opened its newest property in Mexico. Las Brisas Mérida, an exclusive boutique hotel strategically located in the heart of the interesting Mexican town of Mérida within the Yucatan Peninsula, marks the brand’s 13th property in Mexico. Grupo Brisas reaffirms its leadership as one of the fastest-growing Mexican hotel chains in the country.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
May 2025
May 30, 2025By-the-cabin Yachting Redefines the Cruise Experience
I wish this day could last forever!” my windswept 9-year-old exclaimed, his voice soaring over the Mediterranean. He gripped the helm of a Bali 4.6 sailing catamaran off the coast of Marseille, his sun- bleached hair whipping in the salty breeze. The scent of the sea mingled with the aroma of warm baguettes drifting from the Côte d’Azur shoreline. Our captain, a seasoned sailor, subtly adjusted course, letting my son feel the exhilarating pull of the wind against the sails. As the waves lapped against the hull, I realized this was no ordinary vacation — this was freedom, unfiltered.
Daily
May 30, 20254 U.S. Hotels to Stay at This Pride Month
Pride Month kicks off June 1, and hotels around the country celebrate with special events and offerings.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
Daily
May 30, 2025Summer Gin Cocktail Recipes Inspired by Destinations Around the World
Sometimes our memories of trips to certain destinations and cities around the world become synonymous with a specific dish or drink we had there — whether it was sipping an Aperol Spritz on the Italian coast or cooling off with a gin and tonic in London, a good cocktail in particular elevates a destination.
These 5 Hotels Offer Beekeeping Experiences
Daily
May 29, 2025Tea Time is Tree Time at This Banyan Tree Resort
Daily
May 28, 2025May 2025
May 28, 2025Discover the Dazzling Beauty of Amalfi’s Legendary Cave
PHOTO: © GUILLOHMZ | DREAMSTIME .COM
Sponsored Content
Lech Walesa on Tour: A Conversation with a Man Who Changed the World
Some events change a nation. Some change the world.
Daily
May 28, 2025Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Announces First-Ever Extended Weddell Sea Expedition
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises recently announced its 2025/2026 Antarctic season will include a 22-day expedition into the rarely visited Weddell Sea for the first time in the company’s history. The extended route will sail on HANSEATIC spirit.
ShareThis