Florence Editor Picks

Editor Picks

The leading light of the Italian Renaissance needs no introduction. Indeed, a great many of Florence’s “musts” are so iconic that we would recognize them in our sleep. You don’t need us to tell you to see Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery (even though more we do – how could we leave out such a tour de force). Here, in addition to guiding you to the obvious masterpieces, we have also hand-selected some of Florence’s lesser known wonders. Fill up on a hearty Tuscan meal at Cantina Barbagianni, book a room at the charming Porta Rossa hotel, and sample real Italian gelato at Carabe, in between visits to the Duomo, Pitti Palace, and the Museo Nazionale.

1  2  »  
Smart Splurge    Great Value
Dating from 1903, this traditional Tuscan hotel was once home to Carrega Bertolini princes. Corridors lined with historic Florentine photos from the Alinari museum's collection provide a taste of Old World Florence.
Piazza Unità Italiana 6; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-23-580; www.hotelbaglioni.it
Tags: luxury | hotel | smart splurge | expensive
It occupies a medieval palazzo near the Ponte Vecchio and is loaded with ornate frescoes, parquet floors, chandeliers, gold mirrors, beamed ceilings, and giant, freestanding wardrobes.
Via Porta Rossa 19; Florence, Tuscany; www.hotelportarossa.com
Tags: international travel | hotel | moderate | great value
Accademia Gallery
While this a must-stop for Michelangelo's iconic David and his powerful unfinished Slaves meant for the tomb of Pope Julius II, most visitors fail to appreciate the museum's Gothic and Renaissance paintings and its remarkable collection of musical instruments. Late openings are usually scheduled on one or two nights weekly throughout the summer months.
Via Ricasoli 60 (entrance 58); Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-238-8609; 011-39-055-238-8609
Tags: family | things to do | history | art
Museo Nazionale del Bargello great value
Originally the headquarters of the town's top magistrate and prison, the Bargello became a museum in 1865 and now houses the most comprehensive collection of Donatello’s sculptural works, plus pieces by other Renaissance greats like Cellini, Verrocchio, Giambologna, Ghiberti, Brunelleschi, and Michelangelo. The ticket is a bargain and queues are nonexistent. Closed 2nd and 4th Mondays.
Via del Proconsolo 4; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-238-8609; www.polomuseale.firenze.it/english/bargello
Tags: family | culture | museum | things to do | history | art | great value
The Duomo
Santa Maria del Fiore was built to Arnolfo di Cambio's project starting September 8th, 1296. Added in 1436, Brunelleschi's iconic dome is well worth both the €9.50 ticket and the 463-step climb. The remains of the former Santa Reparata cathedral can be seen at a lower level, while the façade dates from the 19th century.
Piazza del Duomo; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-230-2885; www.operaduomo.firenze.it
Tags: family | culture | things to do | history | religion
Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
Built by Luca Pitti and later bought by the Medici, the palace contains five museums: the Palatine Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Costume Gallery, the Museo degli Argenti, and the Porcelain Museum. The 79-acre Boboli Gardens rank among the world's finest landscaped gardens. Buy the three-day joint ticket if you plan on visiting the whole complex.
Piazza Pitti 1; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-238-8786; www.polomuseale.firenze.it
Tags: family | things to do | outdoors | history | art
An intimate cellar with innovative Tuscan cuisine and a rotating menu featuring dishes like...more
Via Sant'Egedio 13r; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-248-0508; www.cantinabarbagianni.it
Tags: international travel | moderate | restaurant | italian
For some truly original ice-cream flavors – like fennel, raisin, artichoke, or tomato...more
Via Ricasoli 60r; Florence, Tuscany
Tags: family | budget | restaurant | ice cream
This is one widely regarded as one of Italy's epicurean temples, and the prices are in the same...more
Via Ghibellina 87; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-242-757; www.enotecapinchiorri.com
Tags: international travel | smart splurge | restaurant | expensive | italian
Noir
Between 1996 and 2006 this popular bistro and nightspot was called Capocaccia. In its most recent, all-black redesign it has been aptly named “Noir,” but it remains one of Florence's favorite establishments for aperitifs and an American-style Sunday brunch.
Lungarno Corsini 12r; Florence, Tuscany; 011-39-055-210-751; www.noirfirenze.com
Tags: international travel | trendy | nightlife | dj | bistro
1  2  »  
Compare Rates
  • Flights
  • Hotels
  • Packages
  • Cruises
  • Cars
Enter your trip details
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
   
 
Compare Rates
  • Flights
  • Hotels
  • Packages
  • Cruises
  • Cars
Travelers:
Travelers:
 

Deals