Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is the beautiful city of Florence. Known for its breathtaking architecture, rich artistic heritage, and contributions to the intellectual and cultural history of Europe, Florence captivates you from the moment you arrive.
The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence. The bridge dates back to Roman times, but the current structure was built in 1345. It was the only bridge in Florence to survive World War II, after Hitler ordered to spare it.
The Ponte Vecchio is famous for its distinctive design, with shops built directly on the bridge. Originally, these shops were occupied by butchers, but today they are mainly jewellers, goldsmiths, and souvenir shops.
The bridge has a special connection to the Medici family. In the 16th century, the Medici family had a private corridor built above the bridge, known as the Vasari Corridor, to allow them to move between their palace and the Uffizi Gallery without having to mix with the common folk.
In just one hour and a half, we traveled comfortably from Rome to Florence and arrived at the Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. Traveling by train is not only inexpensive, but convenient and enjoyable. One thing we learned about traveling by rail in Italy is that there is no need to arrive hours in advance. There is no seating in the terminal, and train numbers and information on the platform the train departs from are posted about a half hour before the train leaves. Trains are typically on time, and you should arrive about 20- 30 minutes before your departure. Beware of scammers who prey on tourists! There were several in the station trying to help tourists at the ticket stations, only to pressure them to give a tip for their service.
We arrived in Florence early in the morning, eager to explore the city. Although we couldn’t check into our Airbnb until the afternoon, we didn’t let that stop us from diving into our Florence adventure. For those looking for a convenient place to store their luggage, we found the centrally located Luggage Storage Florence on Via Guelfa, 15 to be an excellent option. The facility is highly recommended, and you might even have the pleasure of meeting the friendly and helpful attendant, Antonietta. For just a few euros, you can drop off your bags and be free to wander.
PRO TIP:
Pack light and choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Aim for a polished look, as locals tend to favor classic, elegant attire. Comfortable footwear is essential—while maintaining style, opt for sneakers or supportive shoes since you’ll be walking frequently, often on uneven, cobblestone streets.
As first-time visitors to Italy, Florence surpassed all our expectations with its profound historical significance and captivating romantic allure. For someone who cherishes history and art, this city is nothing short of a living masterpiece. Our trip was a deeply enriching experience, blending cultural discovery with serene escapes into the Tuscan countryside. From the moment you set foot in Florence, the city’s rich history surrounds you. The Florence Cathedral, with its intricate facade and Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring dome, immediately impresses as a marvel of architectural genius. To be honest, I must have looked dumbfounded as I wandered through the ancient streets, imagining the countless individuals who had walked these paths thousands of years before.
One of the highlights of our visit was the tour of Michelangelo’s David. Standing before this iconic sculpture was an emotional moment. The sheer scale and detail of David brought Michelangelo’s mastery to life, and I was struck by the statue’s powerful expression and the craftsmanship that has captivated viewers for centuries. The Accademia Gallery, where David resides, is a must see if you visit Florence, and the best way to visit is with a guided tour. A tour that allows you to skip the line will make the difference between hours of waiting, often in the hot sun, to effortlessly walking past the crowds and on to your destination. Who wants to wait in line when there’s so much to see! It’s well worth the extra money to skip the line. Most of our tours were booked through Get Your Guide or Viator. You can download the Apps for easy access, and there are tours at different price ranges for all budgets.
The leather markets of Florence are vibrant hubs that showcase the city’s long-standing tradition of leather craftsmanship. The most famous of these is the San Lorenzo Market, located near the historic church of the same name. Here, stalls are filled with an array of handcrafted leather goods, from jackets and bags to belts and wallets, all at bargain prices. If you enjoy haggling, this is your opportunity. Anything your heart desires can be optained for a lower cost. Another well-known spot is the Mercato del Porcellino, where visitors can browse through finely crafted items in a picturesque setting. These markets offer not only a chance to shop but also an opportunity to witness Florentine artisans at work.
Let’s talk about food! I don’t think we had one bad meal in Italy. Of course, we did our research, watched endless amounts of YouTube videos, and we felt ready by the time we arrived in Florence to make the right food choices. Staying away from the central touristy spots, we explored neighborhoods where locals savor Italian delicacies that make my mouth water as I write. Florence is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that reflect its rustic and hearty Tuscan roots. One of the city’s most famous dishes is the bistecca alla Fiorentina, a succulent, thick-cut T-bone steak typically sourced from local Chianina cattle and grilled to perfection. Another beloved classic is ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread stew that showcases the Tuscan knack for transforming simple ingredients into comforting dishes. Florence is also known for pici cacio e pepe, a traditional pasta dish featuring thick, hand-rolled noodles tossed with a savory picorino cheese and black pepper. Cacio e Pepe was my favorite, and a new staple in our home. For dessert, the city’s cantucci—crunchy almond biscotti often enjoyed with a glass of Vin Santo—offers a sweet finish to any meal. Not to mention the endless flavors of gelato, a perfect sweet treat at any time of the day!
I must mention that one of the most delectible things we discovered in Florence is the Affogato. Coffee and ice cream lovers beware, you will never be the same. What happens when you generously line a coffee cup with vanilla gelato and pour espresso in the middle topped with pistachio crumbs? Heaven.
Affogato, what a treat!
To balance the city’s historical and vibrant energy, we ventured into the serene Tuscan countryside for a wine-tasting tour. This was one of our top experiences in the Tuscan region and we were fortunate to find the perfect tour and tour guides. Winding through picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and small country towns, we were immersed in the tranquil beauty of the Tuscan landscape. The enchanting countryside of Tuscany was truly magnificent, and I fell into a daydream wondering what it would be like to live in this picturesque place. And like a planned prop to enhance our perfect Tuscan outing, our bus trailed what seemed to be a vintage Fiat club!
The wine tour was a delightful exploration of local winemaking traditions. At each winery, we learned about the unique processes behind Tuscan wines, savoring rich Chianti and other regional varieties. The first we visited was Fattoria Poggio Capponi. This farm and winery has cultivated olives trees, wheat, and vines for over five hundred years. Its idylic location also hosts vacationers in fourteen renovated farmhouse apartments. Tasting these wines in the rustic winery, while surrounded by the lush countryside, was an experience that perfectly encapsulated the region’s charm and dedication to its winemaking heritage. The second winery was Fattoria San Michele A Torri. With products produced such as organic olive oil, cold cuts, eggs, bread, honey and more, Fattoria San Michele offers a unique winery experience.
Tuscany wine tour made magical by our guide Jason.
The aroma of a good wine, the taste of extra virgin olive oil on freshly baked crusty bread, and the magical experience of stepping back in time in a centuries old winery are always made better by the people you meet along the way. We met some wonderful people that day. The empty nest retired couple who dreamed of a vacation in Italy after the children left for college. The young newlyweds from Boston who wisely managed their financial choices to afford over a month traveling for their honeymoon. The couple from California who decided on getting matching tatoos as a symbol of their love on their anniversary. Our amazing tour guides from Prestige Rent, Jason and Patrick. Jason led our impromptu karaoke session on the bus and guided us through the most beautiful countryside in Italy, while Patrick expertly drove through winding roads and narrow village streets. They made this experience magical.
For accommodations in Florence, we opted for a cozy Airbnb nestled in the heart of the city. This charming apartment provided a warm and inviting retreat after days filled with exploration. The rustic space featured a fireplace, exposed brick, massive ceiling beams, and charming small patio area shared with neighbors. The Airbnb was conveniently located on Via di San Niccolo, a quaint and narrow street lined with ancient buildings, restaurants, art galleries, and shops. We were just down the hill to the popular Piazzale Michelangelo.
The Piazzale Michelangelo is a piazza (public square) built by Giuseppe Poggi in the 19th century. This beautiful and expansive square offers the most breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. You’ll find several replicas of Michelangelo’s sculptures here, as well as merchants selling souvenirs, and a cafe to enjoy the view with some popular drinks and dishes. The piazza is a favorite at sunset, where you’ll experience the ancient city below bathed in the golden light. An entrancing sight. The climb to the piazza is steep, but worth the climb.
One of our favorite discoveries in Florence were the wine windows! The wine windows of Florence, known as buchette del vino, are small, arched openings found on the façades of historic buildings. Dating back to the 16th century, they were used by Florentine wine merchants to sell wine directly to customers, avoiding taxes and middlemen. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these ancient windows saw a resurgence in use, with local businesses once again serving wine and other refreshments through them, reviving a charming tradition that connects Florence’s past with its present. We found a few working windows, and some that were closed. If you’re not looking you can miss them, so make sure you make the time to experience a nice cocktail or wine from one of these charming windows.
No matter where you visit in Florence, history abounds. Imagine a perfumery over 800 years old, still producing perfume once created for the queen. The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is the oldest perfumery in Florence and one of the oldest in the world, with origins dating back to 1221. Founded by Dominican friars, who initially grew medicinal herbs in the church gardens to create balms and remedies, the apothecary gained fame for its exquisite products. In the 16th century, it crafted the renowned “Acqua della Regina” perfume for Catherine de’ Medici, which made the establishment famous. Today, the perfumery still operates in its original location, offering a luxurious range of perfumes, soaps, and herbal elixirs in an atmosphere rich with history and tradition.
Florence, with its rich tapestry of history, art, and romance, left a profound impact on us. The city’s timeless beauty and cultural depth made every moment feel like a journey through a living history book. The beauty of the city, with its enchanting streets, awe inspiring works of art and architecture, and culinary delights leave you yearning for more. Florence is unforgettable. We long to return.
Road Drifters 