7 days in Florence – A Week in Series
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Discover the heart and capital of Tuscany, Florence. A mix of history, architecture, sumptuous food and incredible scenery that will melt your heart and have you falling in love with this romantic city. While on your Tuscany family holidays, consider some of these fantastic attractions and visual delights during your seven days in Florence.
Day 1: Pitti Palace
Pitti Palace is one of the largest architectural buildings in Florence. The grand house was built in 1457 by the Pitti family, but now, it is open to the public and filled with a vast range of historical treasures, all under one roof. Boasting one of the largest museums and art collections in the area, the abundance of history you will discover and learn about Tuscany and Italy will leave you in awe. There is something for all interests to be found in the varied collections. There is the Gallery of Modern Art, the Royal Apartments, a Costume exhibit which takes your through 300 years of fashion, a collection of Renaissance paintings in the Palatine Gallery and much more!
Behind the Pitti Palace is the 16th-18th century Boboli Gardens, which provides incredible views of the city, gorgeous plant life in formal layouts, famous fountains and an amphitheatre, it is a great spot for a rest after your exploration of the palace.
Day 2: Uffizi Museum
The building’s original use was as an administration centre, in the heart of the city. It was also home to the Medici family, who throughout several generations, shared a love for collecting of art and artefacts from the Renaissance period. It wasn’t until 1769 that the gallery opened to the public, after the last remaining ancestor of the Medici family donated the building and its contents to the state, allowing the public and tourists to enjoy the incredible artwork housed there. Pieces from Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli, to name a few, can all be viewed in the incredible Uffizi Museum.
Day 3: Wander the markets
You will come across markets in Florence on many of the piazzas throughout the city. Wander through the stalls, which sell a varied mix of goods, many of them unique and handmade. From fruit and vegetables, olives and wine, silk and leather, fishmongers and butchers. The abundance and variety of the items will keep you intrigued. Many of the food stalls will allow you to try before you buy, so you are sure to have sampled many delicious cheeses, breads and more as you go around.
Day 4: Climb the Duomo and Bell Tower
One of the city’s most recognisable landmarks is the Duomo. Spend the day admiring the incredible interior and exterior of the building, the displays of architectural feat and stunning artwork. Round your experience up by climbing to the top, getting as close as you can to the dome and the detailed painted scenes of heaven and hell. After reaching to the top of the 463 steps, you can absorb the fantastic panoramic view of the city skyline.
From the top of the dome, you will also be able to see the neighbouring Giotto’s bell tower, standing tall at just under 85 metres, the extremely decorative 14th-century gothic build is a pleasure to be seen. The construction of the tower began in 1334, although it wasn’t finished until 1359. There is also a viewing platform at the top, so if you want to see the city from a bird’s eye view once more, climb the 400 more steps to enjoy it.
Day 5: Rent a bike and cycle the streets to find the street art
Whether you are in favour of street art or not, there are some stunning pieces to be seen in and around Florence. More and more street art is appearing in the city, in a range of imaginative places. From street signs, to billboards. There are more recognised artists such as ‘Clet’ – who has been altering ‘no entrance’ signs amongst other traffic signs, to ‘Blub’ who creates pieces with historical, famous Italian figures as his subject, including the Medici family and Bottecelli.
Day 6: Arno River
The Arno River separates and flows through the centre of Florence. Take a relaxing stroll along the water, watch the sunset or sunrise reflecting on the water and illuminating the historical surroundings. You may want to take a boat ride and view the incredible city from a different angle, keep an eye out for one of the oldest bridges in Florence, Ponte Vecchio.
Day 7: Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy
One of the oldest pharmacies and perfumeries in the world that has been in business for over 400 years. Many of the recipes that are still used today are centuries old, combining raw ingredients to make incredible natural scents and herbal remedies. Take yourself back in time and imagine the wealthy families of Italy flocking to this store for their fragrances.
