Florence overview

The jewel of the Italian Renaissance, Florence has changed little since the times of the Medici. The City of Stone has a languid pace and warmth of character which welcomes visitors unlike any other Italian city. Get beneath the plastic souvenir surface and Florence offers an ancient charm in its cobblestone streets, windows, bridges and towers. An eternally impressive town built on medieval walls which now house boutique fashions, the locals are engaging, flirtatious and full of life, particularly around aperitivo time. Navigating the old city centre of the former Italian capital can be tricky but wonderfully rewarding, as there are numerous soul-inspiring sights. The approach from the south, with its views of Giotto’s campanile, the Basilica di Santa Croce and Brunelleschi’s dome are heart-stopping. Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, Botticelli and more are all in evidence. Florentines are historically canny at relieving invaders of their currency and the city today is no exception.