Florence Itinerary

Often referred to as the origin of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is a city brimming with artistic, cultural, and historical wealth. For a part of the nineteenth century, it was a capital of Italy, but historically the city is most noted for its important role as Italy’s business center in the Middle Ages. Due to its Mediterranean climate, the summers in Florence are hot and humid, with temperatures in the 90s, and winters are cool and rainy. Because the city is situated in an area away from the sea, the heat of the summer has no relief from coastal winds and can be oppressive. During the spring and autumn months, however, Florence’s warm weather makes it an enjoyable spot for vacationers.

Unsurprisingly, Florence is one of the world’s most popular tourist stops. Visitors from around the world flock to view its art, among the finest in history. The Uffizi, a giant gallery dating from the sixteenth century, houses a plethora of Renaissance works by Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and many others, as well as antiquated Greek and Roman sculptures. Florence likewise has some of the most famous architecture in the world. The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in the city, dating from the Middle Ages. Built over the Arno River, the bridge is as notable for its dangling shops as for withstanding the trials of time. The Palazzo Pitti, a palace once owned by the Medici family, houses over seven museums today, which exhibit paintings and other artwork. Even more remarkable are the sixteenth century gardens behind the palace, known as the Boboli Gardens, which are filled with grottos containing sculptures of ancient Roman gods and goddesses.

Florence’s religious monuments cannot be overlooked either. The Piazza del Duomo, or Cathedral Square, is home to an imposing dome-shaped cathedral from the fifteenth century located in the center of the city, as well as the Baptistry, among the oldest of Florence’s buildings.

Since January 2002, the euro has been the form of currency used in Italy. One euro equals 100 cents, and bills appear in units of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5 euros. Coins appear in 2 and 1 euros, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 cent. Most large establishments accept credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa, though local shops and cafes generally accept only cash as payment. However, tourists can pay with travelers’ checks in most places.