No city can boast of such artistic richness as can the romantic, Renaissance city of Florence. Food, art, culture, and beautiful scenic views make this outstanding Italian mecca a work of art. Here are ten worthwhile stops to delight the cultural palate of even the most inveterate traveler.
1. The Pitti Palace: The Pitti Palace provides an array of art-viewing opportunities. The Palatine Gallery, the Silver Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Galleria del Costume are housed in this palatial complex. You may want to devote a full day to this attraction. While here, be sure to also visit the beautiful Boboli gardens.
2. Michelangelo's David: No trip to Florence would be complete without a view of the world's most famous David! Here you can see the statue in the Museum Galleria dell'Academia.
3. The Cathedral of Florence: Every Renaissance city has a magnificent cathedral, and Florence is no different! The Cathedral of Florence is the epitome of Florentine architecture. Completed in 1434 by Fillippo Brunelleschi, this cathedral, also called 'the Duomo of Florence' is the fourth largest in the world. Towering windows and doors, and famous frescos awe visitors upon arrival. A climb to the top of the dome provides a refreshing panoramic view of the city. Before leaving the cathedral, make a final stop at the Baptistry. It features lavish mosaics from the 13th century. While there, also check out the Bell Tower. Designed by Giotto, it showcases a creative design of marble construction.
4. The San Lorenzo Street Market and Mercato Centrale: The San Lorenzo street market and Mercato Centrale in Florence will delight shoppers. The market features street vendors who set up shop selling almost everything under the Tuscan sun! The central market, a 19th century two-story building, offers more opportunities to go on a shopping spree!
5. Ponte Vecchio: Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, is a great place to watch the sun set. Dating as far back as Roman times, this bridge crosses the River Arno. In addition to taking a nature break here, you can also take a leisurely stroll, enjoy street performances, or watch portrait painters work. Jewelry shops selling designer and antique jewelry can also be found along this unique bridge.
6. The Uffize Gallery: The Uffize Gallery is another "must-see" artistic point. In this museum, Botticelli's Birth of Venus and the Primavera can be viewed, as well as Leonardo DaVinci's Annunciation, works by Michelangelo, Titian, and Rubens.
7. The Medici Chapels: The Medici Chapels are grandiose structures built at the request of Cardinal Giulio de'Medici as a mausoleum for his family. While here, be sure to take note of the many sculptures by Michelangelo and the exquisitely detailed marble and semi-precious stone decorations resting on the tombs.
8. The Ferragamo Museum: Shoe lovers will enjoy this museum. Located in Palazzo Spini Feroni, the museum contains over 10,000 pairs of shoes worn by such star divas as Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth.
9. Dante Alighieri's House: A visit to this famous poet's home will appeal to all literary buffs. Located in the historic center of Florence, you can view the original manuscripts of Dante's works.
10. Vivoli Ice Cream: Finally, don't leave Florence without savoring a delectable creation for your taste buds. Be sure to stop by Vivoli to enjoy the most famous Florentine ice cream, made by the Vivoli family since 1930.
