48 hours in Florence

48 HOURS IN

ITALY

FLORENCE Florence

The birthplace of the Italian language and the home of the Renaissance, Florence is where history blends effortlessly with modern Italian design The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence’s beauty has long been romanticised in literature, but its picture-perfect vistas and stunning palazzos ensure an enchanting visit. Founded by Julius Caesarin 59 BC, the city became a medieval hive of trade, governed by the powerful Medici family and founded the Renaissance in the 15th century.

Home to Michelangelo’s David (at the Galleria dell’Accademia) and the famous Ponte Vecchio, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to spending time amidst art and culture.

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43.7696° N, 11.2558° E

Opposite: David of Michelangelo From top: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore; one of many Florence Christmas market selling ornaments and gifts; a Florence chioschi serving the local delicacy, a sandwich filled with trippa

WHAT TO SEE AND DO Climb the 414 steps of Giotto’s Campanile, a free-standing bell tower in Piazza del Duomo, for the best view across the city roofs and a close-up of the famous Duomo – the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – which dominates the centro storico. Or head straight for the cathedral itself, with its beautifully ornate marble exterior, and another 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s cupola. The cupola features an exquisitely detailed painting of The Last Judgement.

These two buildings together with the octagonal Baptistery are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Don’t Miss The Gallerie degli Uffizi in the old offices of the

WHERE TO SHOP Florence is known for its gold jewellery with many visiting the shops around the famous Ponte Vecchio. The Gold Market has surprisingly good prices. The Mercato Centrale is a historic market where you can bargain for some of the city’s renowned leather work. There are many Christmas markets in Florence, but the biggest is located in Piazza Santa Croce and features traditional wooden huts selling yuletide treats, ornaments and gifts.

Medici, houses an incredible collection of Renaissance art with works by Botticelli, Titian, Michelangelo and Da Vinci. The Palazzo Vecchio (town hall) is worth a visit to witness impressive artworks and frescoes.

The Church of Santa Croce is the final resting place of many notable Florentines, housing amongst others the tombs of Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo. The 15th-century Basilica is the largest Franciscan church in the world.

The interior features frescoes by Giotto, and artwork by Giorgio Vasari, Donatello, Luca della Robbia and Giovanni da Milano.

WHERE TO DINE Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s political centre and a spot to stop for coffee and marvel at the architecture. Upstairs from the Mercato Centrale market is a food hall selling Italian produce.

And whilst wandering the city, be sure to stop by one of the famous chioschi (street food stands) serving the local delicacy, a sandwich filled with trippa (tripe) or lampredotto (offal, slow-cooked with onions until tender).