Florence Holiday Information
Florence is the capital city of Tuscany, a region in the west of Italy renowned for its stunning beaches and countryside. Also known as Firenze, Florentin or Florentine, Florence is situated in the heart of Tuscan countryside on the River Arno.
UNESCO declared the “Historic Centre of Florence” to be a World Heritage Site, and once you arrive in Florence either via the local airport or upriver from Pisa, it won’t take you long to realise why.
Originally built under the command of Julius Caesar, Florence is a city rich in art and culture. The birth place of the Renaissance period, so many amazing architects, artists and sculptors have lived or worked in Florence leaving behind a little of their craftsmanship. Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Brunelleschi, Donatello and of course, Michelangelo have all left their marks on Pisa.
A living museum, Florence is steeped in history reflected in its many wonderful museums, art galleries, churches and palaces. On a first visit to Florence do consider a tour of the city by an authorised guide; on the second visit take more time to stand back and gaze at the wonders of this stunning location.
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Beaches in Florence
The nearest beach to Florence is Viareggio which is about 80 km from Pisa. This popular resort is enjoyed by families and couples alike, and is easily accessed by motorway or train.
Explore Florence
First stop, the Cathedral or Duomo on piazza del Duomo. This magnificent structure stands out amongst the surrounding buildings, with its dome and cupola designed by Brunelleschi built of bricks instead of stone as was the normal practice in the 1400s. Inside Florence’s Cathedral take the time to slowly stroll under the dome, through the aisles and arches, and to take in the wonderful architecture and artistry. Outside of Florence Duomo, head to the bell tower for magnificent city views and to the Baptistery to the west and marvel at the frescoes in the Museo di Bigallo (museum).
Next on your agenda should be the Piazza della Signoria in Florence which was the original location of Michelangelo’s David, now replaced with a copy, and as you head to the River Arno, stop at the Uffizi Gallery home to the most magnificent pieces of Renaissance art work. Michelangelo’s original statue of David is now in the Accademia dell’Arte del Disegno with the unfinished “Slaves”.
Of course when on holiday in Florence you will also need to visit the Ponte Vecchio held up by stilts and lined with shops, the enormous Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, Santa Croce basiclica and the churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santo Spiriot, as well as one of the two open air cinemas.