Florence

Embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the Renaissance splendour Florence has to offer.

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An Introduction

Explore. Discover. Dream.

The capital of the Tuscany region and known for its rich history, art, and culture. It is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance art movement and is home to iconic figures like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. Florence has played a pivotal role in the development of art, science, and politics in not just Italy but globally and to this day is a major cultural and artistic destination, attracting millions of visitors annually.

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GETTING THERE

Fly from London and Edinburgh to Florence Airport (FLR). Flight time is typically around 2 hrs 30 mins to 3 hours. Transfer to Florence takes around 30 minutes or take the Tram (every 10 minutes and takes 20 minutes).

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WHEN TO GO

The best time to visit Florence is during spring and autumn as during these months, the weather is mild, crowds are smaller compared to summer, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. Spring offers blooming gardens and festivals, while autumn is harvesting season and is a time when cultural events take place. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while winter is quieter but colder, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

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GETTING AROUND

Getting around Florence is very easy as it's a compact and walkable city. Most attractions are close together, so walking is the best option. For longer trips, you can use the city's public buses and trams. Taxis are also available like most other cities and avoid driving in the city centre due to restricted traffic zones.

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Typical WEATHER

Florence has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures up to 35 degrees, while winters are mild and cool, with temperatures around 10 degrees. Spring and Autumn are pleasant, with moderate temperatures and occasional rain, making them ideal for visiting.

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OUR HOLIDAYS

All our holidays to Italy can be tailored to suit your every need. You can choose your preferred duration, board, hotel etc. Below you'll find a popular itinerary that incorporate Florence. If you can't find the right holiday, feel free to contact us and one of our travel consultants will be in touch.

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Florence

what to do

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Florence

Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Duomo, is a stunning gothic cathedral famous for its massive dome. Its intricate exterior is made of white, green, and pink marble, and the cathedral complex includes Giotto's bell tower and the Baptistery. It's one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks and at the top of the dome you can get a 360 degree panoramic view of the city.

Ponte Vecchio bridge florence

Walk across the Ponte Vecchio bridge: An historic stone bridge in Florence, famous for its medieval architecture and charming shops that line both sides. Originally built in the 14th century, it’s the oldest bridge in Florence and now is the home to goldsmiths and jewellers, making it a vibrant hub for shopping and sightseeing. The colourful bridge offers stunning views of the Arno River below and is a very popular spot for photos.

Tuscan cuisine

Indulge in Tuscan cuisine: Florence is a fantastic place to try some traditional Tuscan cuisine like dishes such as Lampredotto, Panzanella and of course authentic Italian gelato. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and markets throughout the city, where the emphasis is on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.

Uffizi Gallery Florence

Visit the Uffizi Gallery: This is one of the most well thought of art museums in the world. Housed in a historic and grand building it features a vast collection of artworks including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The gallery itself is known for its stunning architecture and beautifully arranged exhibits, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

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Day trip ideas

Pisa day trip from Florence

Pisa: Famous for its iconic leaning tower, Pisa is a city that boasts a rich history and stunning architecture, including the Cathedral and Baptistery in the Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Beyond its world famous landmark, Pisa offers charming streets, lively markets, and a vibrant student atmosphere, thanks to its prestigious university. It's a popular day trip destination from Florence with direct trains taking around 1 hour.

Arezzo day trip from Florence

Arezzo: An historic city known for its artistic heritage and medieval architecture, Arezzo's highlights include the stunning Piazza Grande, the Basilica of San Francesco with its wall paintings and the impressive Cathedral of Arezzo. Arezzo also hosts a famous antique fair and the Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting event. With its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, Arezzo is a great destination for those looking to explore Tuscany away from the more crowded tourist spots. Direct trains from Florence take around an hour.

Volterra day trip from Florence

Volterra: A hidden gem of the Tuscany region, Volterra is a picturesque hilltop town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and Etruscan heritage. Key attractions include the ancient Etruscan walls, the Roman Theatre, and the stunning Palazzo Dei Priori in the town square. Volterra is also famous for its craftsmanship. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it offers a tranquil atmosphere and breath-taking views, making it a charming destination for visitors seeking history and culture away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can get to Volterra by bus but we’d suggest hiring a car for the day.

lucca day trip from Florence

Lucca: A charming walled city in known for its well-preserved walls and cobblestone streets. The city features beautiful historic architecture, including the stunning Lucca Cathedral and the Basilica of San Frediano. Visitors can stroll or bike along the ancient walls, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Lucca is also famous for its local cuisine, vibrant squares, and cultural events, making it a delightful destination for exploring Tuscan history and charm. Direct trains from Florence take around 1h 30 mins.