Florence city breaks

You won’t have to go far to find Tuscan treasure – Florence, the capital, is an incredible historic landscape just waiting to be discovered. With a skyline sculpted by grand cathedrals and pristine palaces, this magnificent city is a great place for enjoying art and elegance at its very best.

The cradle of the Renaissance

Florence is credited with being the birthplace of one of the most significant cultural revolutions the world has ever seen. The city is overflowing with Renaissance treasures, from Italy’s most famous art galleries to piazzas, palazzos and the historical bridge: the Ponte Vecchio. It’s just spellbinding.

World-renowned wine region

Tuscany is famous for many things, but its exquisite wines feature pretty highly. When you’re in the city, you’ve simply got to sample some of the many grape-grown tipples that the region has crafted. Look out for the fine Cabernet Sauvignons and the delicious Chianti the area has to offer.

Explore by night

As the sky becomes darker, Florence’s famous attractions start to glow. All lit up, see the Duomo in its full glory. It’s a grand cathedral with the largest brick dome in the world. Bell towers, the baptistery and other ornate buildings are also illuminated in this atmospheric square.

No.12 – TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations

Three cheers for Florence! This majestic Italian gem, with its skyline of domes and spires, is number 12 on TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations in Europe.

MH Florence Hotel & Spa

Florence City, Florence

Our rating

Based on 411 reviews

Roof terrace with stunning views
Light and modern interiors
1.3km from the Accademia Gallery
Stylish rooms
Relaxing spa

Hotel Spadai

Florence City, Florence

Our rating

Based on 2178 reviews

Excellent central location
200m from the Duomo
Luxurious boutique hotel
400m from the Accademia Gallery
Exceptional service

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Accademia Gallery

Florence

The Accademia is much more than its astonishing huge marble sculptures, even if Michelangelo's David and his unfinished Slaves are stand-out. Give yourself time to appreciate the sublime Botticelli paintings...

Basilica di Santa Croce

Florence

Chiefly known as the burial spot of many of Florence's most famous residents including Michelangelo and Machiavelli, this Franciscan church, the largest in the world, is breathtaking. Wander the 16 chapels to...

Boboli Gardens

Florence

One of Florence's most famous gardens, the Boboli is a huge maze of green lawns and pathways that starts from the Piazza de Pitti. You'll find tree-lined walkways, statues, ponds and fountains, a rose garden...

Language

Italian

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£4 / €4.55

Bus day card

£4 / €4.55

Three course meal

£35 / €40

Sightseeing

Climb to the top of the Duomo for unrivalled cinematic city views. Staring out, you’ll catch a glimpse of Florence’s six bridges and some very verdant gardens. Europe’s oldest art gallery puts some incredible Italian masterpieces under the spotlight, while the Basilica of Santa Croce has a whopping 16 chapels.

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Eating and drinking

You’ll get a true taste of Italy in Florence. The birthplace of the Renaissance is also an inspiration for dining out – try Florentine Steak served chargrilled and rubbed with fresh garlic. Italian flavours continue with ribbon-cut pasta with wild boar, perfectly paired with some fine Tuscan wine!

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Shopping

Florence boasts the Gucci Museum in the designer’s native town. The two main thoroughfares are Via Roma for designer labels, and Piazza della Repubblica, where the main department stores sit. For something a little different, the boutiques along Via del Corso are brimming with beautiful pieces.

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Getting around

A direct train service links pretty Pisa with fabulous Florence, so it’s an excellent option for exploring both cities without the hassle. Florence’s medieval streets and squares are usually car-free, making chilled-out city strolls on foot even more enjoyable and the pace of life really relaxing, too.

24 March-01 April – Festival of the Cricket

Bizarrely enough, this festival sees locals buy crickets to give to others as a well-wishing token. It’s been going on for years, so you ought to check it out.

02 July 2020 – Palio Di Siena

“Il Palio” is a quick-as-a-flash horseback dash around the enormous Piazza del Campo – a competition that has happened every year (apart from one during World War II) since the first stallions lined up in 1656. And, it's totally free to watch.

07-08 September 2020 – Festival of the Lanterns

A colourful procession of paper lanterns light up the city to mark the Virgin Mary’s birthday. There’s also a huge market offering an array of delicious fresh produce.

Please note, the event dates above are just a guide and could be subject to change.

Florence

Florence city breaks

The cradle of the Renaissance

World-renowned wine region