Florence. The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, and a city so steeped in history you won’t realize how much it has influenced the current world until you are two gelatos in after a day of museum hopping. UNESCO declared the Historic Centre of Florence a World Heritage Site in 1982 and Forbes called Florence the most beautiful city in the world in 2010. Florence is a city that feels frozen in time but the inspiration pulsing through the city’s red-topped buildings will light a fire in you of indefinite inspiration. Whether you are shopping for authentic Italian leather, gazing in awe at Michealangelo’s David, or relaxing at a local vineyard, Florence will bring out the hopeless romantic in you that’s been there all along.
What we would do:
Galleria de Uffizi. The Uffizi Gallery is Europe’s first modern museum, created by the Medici family at the end of the sixteenth century. The museum houses the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art including Boticelli’s Birth of Venus.
Piazzale Michaelangelo. The Piazzale Michaelangelo overlooks the city from the Oltrarno District and boasts one of the best views of Florence. The square is known for its panoramic views and towering replica of Michaelangelo’s David.
Sant’ Ambrogio Market. A ten-minute walk from the Duomo, this market is unfairly often overlooked. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for strolling and trying traditional Italian foods and local wines.
Where we would stay:
Baglioni Relais Santa Croce Florence
An eighteenth-century Palazzo located in the historic centre between the Florence Cathedral and Piazza Santa Croce. This five-star hotel is home to the Guelfi & Ghibellini Restaurant and Enotexa Pinchiorri, a famed restaurant in Italy. Rooms and suites are decorated with Florentine architecture and echo the structures seen outside its windows; a true taste of Florence.
Learn more about the Baglioni Relais Santa Croce Florence.
The St. Regis Florence
Located in an idyllic location in the heart of the city along the Arno River. The hotel features Florentine aesthetics with rich colors and bold chandeliers mixing in modern amenities of a luxury hotel. The hotel offers over eighty spacious guest rooms and nineteen suites, each exemplifying tasteful elegance and luxury throughout.
Learn more about The St. Regis Florence.
Villa La Massa
Villa La Massa sits fifteen minutes from Florence along the Arno River close to the Chianti wine region. The hotel houses fifty-one rooms divided between five charming villas. The spirit of the Renaissance is evident in each room and relaxation is imminent upon entering. This hotel is perfect for those who want to take the city by day and relax at night.
Learn more about Villa La Massa.