All Travel Florence

Leon Kammer asked:


On a recent business/ pleasure trip to Florence, my wife and I chose,or at least she persuaded me to choose accommodation in a self catered Florence apartment, rather than a hotel. The location was very central allowing us to walk from the train station, just 300 meters away.We had caught the train from Rome where we live, as it takes only one hour and forty five minutes and saves the stress of driving.

We walked to the apartment in Via Rondinelli, just around the corner from Via Tornabuoni, the most elegant street of Florence, famous for its luxury brand shops.

When we met the owner Gianluca at the apartment, the first thing we noticed were the breathtaking original rich Fresco’s covering the high ceilings, in the masterbedroom and the living room, which looked like they were new - freshly painted.However we were very suprised when he informed us that he had taken down the false ceilings during the refurbishment,uncovering, purely by chance these magnificent works hidden since the 1940’s.Apparently that’s when apartment owners were moving away from the ornate typical Florentine influences towards modern simple lines; we were amazed.

Today of course, it’s exactly the opposite, all that has changed back,thank god and the small exclusive city of Florence is again concentrating on retaining and enhancing the wonderful history of Florence, making the city what it was and what it is today - like no other city on earth.

This was also evident as Gianluca was showing us around this wonderful fully refurbished apartment; all the modern amenities were there including WI FI and satellite TV, yet the furnishings, the floors, the bathrooms and the all over look of the apartment although all newly restored and refurnished, seemed to retain it’s typical Florentine flavour and ancient warmth.

The craftsmen of Florence still exist today and have fortunately inherited their skills over generations, which is why new apartment refurbishments do not spoil the charm of the ancient buildings. The antique wooden tables and chairs have been expertly restored.

We unpacked and relaxed, checked our e-mail, then went to explore the surrounding area.

All the famous lanmarks were close by like, The Cathedral, Battistero, The Giotto Bell-tower, Santa Maria Novella Church, Signoria Palace, The Old Bridge, Uffizi and Pitti Palace were all within walking distance, from our Florence apartment ,though on this trip we only had time to visit Uffizzi; the famous Medici’s family landmark,a breathtaking building dedicated to the history of the Medicics private art collection,dating back as far as the 1200’s.

The Uffizzi is always a must see; paintings and sculptures by many great masters, Leonardo Da Vinci and Botticelli to name just two.

We chose a homely restaurant called Spada just a few minutes from our apartment for lunch, which was delicious; some proscuitto and buffalo mozzarella cheese followed by riboletta an old Tuscan dish; soup made with vegetables and bread, finished off in the oven. The small jug of house wine was a must to accompany the meal.

We decided that lunch and the Uffizzi was a big enough day and we didn’t want to go out to another restaurant that evening.

There was a fully equipped kitchen in the apartment, but no one felt like cooking, so we picked up a few delicious bits and pieces at one of the original Italian delis on the way back to the apartment; some salami, fresh bread and some excellent cheeses.Local Tuscan food is hard to beat.

We also bought a DVD (there was a player in the apartment ) and decided to relax,with the delicious local tuscan food and a bottle of wine which Gianluca had welcomed us with on check in.

As soon as we entered the apartment with our supplies,ready to settle in,although we had only spent an hour or so there previously,we were “home”, this was it, the We had  left the heating  on,at a perfect 22 degrees, very cosy coming in from the Florence December.

We didn’t walk past a reception desk,we had our own keys, took our own lift to our own apartment on the first floor; no tip.

No one was going to knock on the door to ask if we wanted the bed “turned down” - once inside we could do as we pleased and as I walked into the apartment for the second time that day, I was actually thinking to myself that there is something about this style of apartment accommodation that agrees with me, it’s more welcoming, it’s larger, it’s easier, it’s certainly less expensive and it’s peaceful.

We were actually in control;our own home,even if it’s temporary,being in this apartment in Florence feels good, like it’s our own, something that not even a five star hotel could ever offer.

Jill my wife was checking her e-mail, I threw off my shoes, opened the wine and flopped on the couch, very relaxed.

In the morning we slept late, because we could, there was no hotel dining area dowstairs that was serving breakfast until ten o’clock only and then you starve.

I brought my wife the mandatory cup of tea in bed and we took our time getting ready, looking forward to a real cappuccinno and a hot wedge of superior “frittata” made with eggs, cheese and vebetables at Procacci, the famous cafe, a landmark in Florence, located in the elegant Via Tornabuonia, unchanged since 1885, the cafes  fascade and interior are exactly as they were, still serving the best food and wine. The cafe was bought by the Italian winery Antinori seven years ago, not only to sell it’s wine, but also to protect and retain this establishments history, like many do in Via Tornabuoni.

Locals and tourists alike come here for their breakfast, lunch snacks and a glass of wine in the evening, accompanied by small tartuffo rolls,simply delicious and something that only Procacci can do and are know for.

It was time to take the train back to Rome and as we were packing, my wife said to me”well we made the right decisison yet again choosing an apartment”. I tended to agree with her as I was quietly thinking to myself, I am going to miss this place.

For independant travelers that enjoy apartment accommodation for the same reasons we did, you’ll find a selection of all price ranges in Florence at www.florence-accom.com

 

Clint Jhonson asked:


For anyone who is traveling to Italy, a visit to the enchanting city of Florence is a must. Situated in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Florence is the place to enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Italy. The city has a rich cultural heritage and a wide variety of museums and art galleries. Florence is also famous for its high end couture boutiques and world class cuisine. Rentals in Florence are available all year round and cover a wide range of budgets and style expectations. From traditional Tuscan furnishings to ultra modern decorations, the apartments and villas in Florence are bound to meet your every need. At firenzelodging.it you can find information on the best vacation rentals Florence.  

Florence is a place where you can indulge your senses, a land of complete relaxation and romantic escapades. The beautiful region of Tuscany will bedazzle you and the city of Florence will capture your heart once and for all. Florence is renowned for its exceptional cultural heritage, having some of the most valuable works of art in the entire world. The city is a constant reminder of the renaissance, with its beautiful palaces, cathedrals and bridges. The Uffizi museum, the Palazzo della Signiora and the Palazzo Pitti are just some of the must see objectives. Your vacation in Florence will be all the more enchanting if you choose to stay in a stylish apartment or villa. Firenzelodging.it offers information on vacation rentals Florence.

Staying in a hotel on your vacation in Italy can be rather expensive, especially if you’re planning on an extended trip. Furthermore, if you love cooking and want some space to entertain friends, a hotel room won’t be appropriate at all. Renting an apartment or villa in Italy is the newest vacation trend and will guarantee a comfortable and stylish escapade. Most apartments and villas have large kitchens and living room areas that are very useful if you’re traveling with your family. Large families or group of friends should choose to rent a villa as it will be the only selection with a sufficient number of bedrooms. Rentals in Florence are suitable for all budgets and make for a wonderful vacation.

Vacation rentals Florence are very popular nowadays. From chic apartments to lavish villas and beachfront properties, there’s no limit to what kind of accommodations you can rent. If you’re planning on a short Tuscan vacation with a limited budget, renting a cozy apartment in the heart of Florence will be a delight. A small or medium sized apartment is perfect for short term rentals and come with enough space for you to cook simple meals. If you’re planning on a more lavish vacation or with a larger crowd, you should consider renting a villa. Villas in Florence are absolutely breathtaking - located at approximately 20 km outside the city limits, villas provide a calm and comfortable environment. Firenzelodging.it has an extensive listing of rentals in Florence.

If you have never been to Tuscany before you will be instantly charmed by everything it has to offer. The fascinating city of Florence is the perfect vacation destination whether you’re traveling by yourself or with friends or family. Vacation rentals Florence are extremely popular these days as they offer comfort and convenience at reasonable prices. At firenzelodging.com you can browse through a list of rentals in Florence, including gorgeous villas and apartments.

Sylvia Florence asked:


Italy is not only famous for its historic monuments, its cities full of beautiful art and architecture and its long history, but also for its excellent wines and other drinks famous worldwide. Take a trip with us down through this country to discover the “spirit” of each town.

Vermouth is the typical aromatic wine from Turin. It was invented around 1700.  The main ingredients are Muscat wines, to which are added alcohol, cane sugar and extract of crushed herbs, among them absinthe. In fact, “vermut” means “absinthe” in German. There are different types of vermouth: white, red and dry. They are often used in making cocktails.

Milano is the home of Campari, Amaro Ramazzotti and Branca drinks. Fernet Branca is a digestive liqueur unique in the world. It is made from herbs gathered in four continents and matured in oak barrels, and Brancamenta, a refreshing and thirst quenching mint flavoured drink, ideal on hot summer days!”. Campari is an alcoholic aperitif, made from an infusion of sixty ingredients, steeped in alcohol, but the recipe itself remains a secret. In recent years several versions have been produced, ready mixed with vodka and very popular with young people (Campari Soda, Campari MIXX). Ramazzotti, on the other hand, is a good digestive liqueur and can be drunk neat or with ice. The trendiest place to enjoy your aperitifs? The Happy Hour at UNA Hotel Tocq in corso Como from 18.00 to 21.00.

Bellini and Spritz come from the romantic city of Venice. UNA Café , suggests a time-honoured long drink cocktail made with sparkling white wine (Prosecco or Champagne) and the juice of white peaches.  Bellini is one of the best known Italian cocktails all over the world. Its counterpart is Spritz, a red cocktail made with dry white wine, sparkling mineral water or tonic water and a variety of alcoholic drinks.

In Bologna it is wine that has pride of place. The most famous being Sangiovese, whose name means “Jupiter’s blood”, and Lambrusco  a sparkling red wine which is a the ideal companion for the typical cuisine of the Romagna region. While staying in UNA Hotel Bologna ,  just opposite the central station, you can enjoy  the evening touring the typical inns of the historic city centre, where you can easily find yourself in the company of  famous songwriters or other well-known personalities, having their glass of wine.

The Tyrrhenian coast of Tuscany , famous for its fashionable venues and exclusive wine bars, is the perfect place to taste the best of Tuscan wines. Among them Brunello di Montalcino, at the top of the league of Italian wines and a DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (Contolled and guaranteed origin). It is hard to imagine anything more romantic than sipping these wines on the terrace of UNA Hotel Versilia looking out to sea at sunset.

The birthplace of Renaissance, Florence, is also the home of Chianti wine, one of the best red Italian wines known and appreciated all over the world. It gets its name from the surrounding hills where it is produced. This wine is associated with the typical raffia covered rounded flask with a narrow neck, invented to protect the precious contents from the light which might alter its quality. It was in Florence that the count Camillo Negroni created the cocktail which bears his name: Negroni, made with gin, red vermouth, bitter Campari and half a slice of orange. After a romantic walk in the historic centre and along the river Arno, the river which crosses this magnificent city, try the contrast of the daring design in the UNA Hotel Vittoria , where doors with reproductions of Renaissance paintings lead into ultramodern rooms lined with mirrors, plate glass and a starlit sky.

Sambuca was born in Civitavecchia, a town near the capital, Rome. This is a sweet liqueur with a strong aniseed flavour and which can be served neat, after coffee or with an ice cube or coffee grain which has to be chewed while drinking this liqueur to enhance its taste.

Another wine worth mentioning is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo,  a red wine whose grapes come originally from Greece, like the majority of wines made from red grapes in the southern regions. Its excellent basic quality has made it famous abroad too. Enjoy sipping this wine after a long journey, stopping on the A1 motorway at the UNAWAY Hotel Monepulciano Est for those travelling south or UNAWAY Hotel Montepulciano Ovest for those on their way north.

A little further south we find the area where Limoncello  or Limoncino  is produced. This is distilled from lemon peel and often home made. It is excellent as a digestive liqueur after typical Neapolitan fish dishes, or as served at the American Bar on the panoramic terrace of UNA Hotel Napoli, added to lemon ice cream for a refreshing sherbet. Continuing inland along the motorway, between Naples and Avellino you’ll find the restaurant of UNAWAY Mirabella Sud where you can sip the delicate Fiano di Avellino, which goes perfectly with fish starters, fresh cheeses and white meat (it is a good idea to book in advance).

And if all this were not enough, you can make a last stop in Sardinia to taste Cannonau, a red wine which is probably the oldest wine in the Mediterranean, and Mirto, a popular liqueur, often home made from steeping myrtle berries in alcohol.

…..To your health!

Brian Garvin asked:


Florence, Italy is one of the finest places to visit in the entire world. Many consider it a dream vacation and for others, it’s become a yearly adventure to see everything they can. If you’ve never been to this area before, you will want to know everywhere to go and enjoy during your stay. According to Suzanne Morrison and the Travel Guide To Florence they have all the answer for you in this eBook.

As an avid traveler, Suzanne takes a trip to the Florence area every year according to her sales page. So it’s safe to say she is well informed about the surrounding area there for those of you who are skeptics. So what you will find below is information we found on her site, along with a few testimonials along the way that will hint towards other things involved in the eBook she is presenting to you.

Free Tips By Mail

Once you reach about half way down the page you will see a little paragraph or two talking about additional photos and tips. These are in addition to what you will find on her sales page. It’s just something optional, but if you want to see more then it’s definitely worth taking the time to do so. You might end up finding something that interests you even more then what Suzanne has already shown you.

Some of the Learning Involved

When it comes down to it, this is about education. Your goal with the information provided in the Travel Guide To Florence eBook is to learn as much as you can before you actually get there. Things like all the towns and villages you can visit. Then of course, the essentials like how to get a train, bus, or car. Most important, how you can keep from spending all your money while you’re there and come home stress free.

The Time and Research

We’re talking about hundreds upon hundreds of hours Suzanne has admitted to put into this project. Not to mention all the money that has been spent over this time traveling, eating, purchasing enlightenments and many other experiences over that time. Now, obviously you won’t see everything there is to offer, but once you reach the last third of the page you will get an in depth look at some sample parts to the eBook.

Our Overall Analysis

Even though the book is based off the ins and outs of Florence, Italy, there is much in store. We saw a few bonuses at the end that will intrigue you that much more. The first is getting an eBook on how to learn Italian, which will be essential during your stay. Also, each time Suzanne makes her way to Florence then you will get updated photos and information along the way.

This could be what you’ve been looking for in a travel guide to this area. You will just have to see it for yourself. However, we will warn you, the price that comes along with this is so mind boggling you probably will be ready to take that trip by year’s end. Then again, it’s just our opinion, it could be sooner.

Andrew Satkowiak asked:


Welcome to Florence, Italy, rated the number one city destination by tourists from around the world. Whether you have just a few days, a week or even more, there is plenty to keep you busy in Florence and the surrounding countryside.

Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is located in the heart of Italy’s Tuscany Region in western Italy, along the Arno River. It is 277 km north of Rome and 298 km south of Milan. It is the capital of the Tuscany Region and has a population of around 400,000 people, with approximately 200,000 more in the surrounding suburban areas.

Florence is an unrivaled repository of art and architectural treasures with masterpieces by geniuses such as Botticelli, Brunelleshi, Cellini, Donatello, Fra Angelico, Ghiberti, Giotto, Raphael and of course, Leonardo and Michelangelo.

The best time to visit Florence is in the Spring (April and May) and in the fall (September and October). June, July and August are not only the hottest months, but also the busiest months of the year. During this time, the streets of Florence are overrun, as the streets were not designed for mass tourism. Fighting the crowds tends to take away some of the joy of wandering through the streets and it can also make it difficult to get tickets to the most popular attractions.

Getting to Florence

Most major airlines can get you there with just one stop. For more options, you can also fly into Pisa, 93km west of Florence and take the express train for the hour-long trip to Florence. For the most flight options, you can fly into Rome. The train trip from Rome is 2-3 hours depending upon your connections.

City Layout

Florence is a city designed for walking with all the major sites in a compact area. The only problem, as I mentioned earlier, is that the sidewalks are unbearably crowded in the summer.

Florence is not divided into neighborhoods the way many cities are. Most locals refer to either the left bank or the right bank of the Arno River, and that is about it. The following neighborhoods really are just areas centering on a palace, church or square; they are rather arbitrary, but will give you some idea of where the major attractions are.

Centro could include all the historic heart of Florence, but mostly the term is used to describe the area southwest of the Duomo. Centro’s Via dei Tournabuoni is the city’s most elegant shopping street.

Piazza del Duomo and its surrounding areas are dominated by the tricolor Duomo, one of the largest buildings in the Christian world.

Piazza della Signoria is home to Florence’s most photographed statute, Loggia dei Lanzi, with Cellini’s Perseus holding up a beheaded Medusa.

Galleria degla Uffizi and the Palazzo Vecchio to the south is the city’s civic heart, best known for their museums.

Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) area, located southwest of Piazza della Signoria is Florence’s oldest bridge. Built in the Middle Ages, it was the center for leather craftsmen, fishmongers and butchers.

Piazza Santa Maria Novella and the Train Station are located on the northwestern edge of central Florence. Thousands flock to this area to see Michelangelo’s tomb whose symbolic figures of Day and Night are among the most famous sculptures of all time.

Piazza Ognissanti is located southwest of Piazza Santa Maria Novella. It is a fashionable Renaissance square opening onto the Arno River. This is where you will find two of the city’s most legendary hotels: the Grand and the Excelsior.

Getting Around

Florence is perfect for walking. It is small and compact enough that walking is really the ideal way to get around. It also gives you the chance to soak in all that Florence has to offer. As you plan your ventures and outings keep in mind that Florence has two numbering systems, one in red numbers and one in black numbers. The red numbers identify commercial enterprises such as shops and restaurants. Black numbers identify office buildings, private homes, apartment houses and hotels. Because street numbers are chaotic, it is best to get cross streets and some landmarks to make finding an address easier.

Top Things to See and Do

Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio - Florence’s most famous square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic center and a free open-air sculpture exhibit. The Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues including a copy of Michelangelo’s David. Plazzo Vecchio is the town hall of Florence. This massive, Tuscan Gothic fortress-palace is among the most impressive town halls in Tuscany. It is one of the most significant public places in Italy. The palazzo contains elaborately decorated public rooms and private apartments. Around the piazza are cafes and restaurants.

Il Duomo and Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore - Florence’s most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. The huge Gothic duomo was begun in 1296, consecrated in 1436, and holds 20,000 people. The exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi’s Dome is a masterpiece of construction.

The Baptistry - The Baptistry of John the Baptist, from the 11th century, is one of Florence’s oldest buildings. Its exterior is made of green and white marble and has three sets of amazing bronze doors (reproductions - the originals are in the Duomo Museum and are also worth a visit).

Campinile - Bell Tower - The Campinile, bell tower, is in Piazza del Duomo. The first story was designed by Giotto and it is commonly called Giotto’s Campinile.

Ponte Vecchio - The Ponte Vecchio (old bridge), built in 1345, was Florence’s first bridge across the Arrno River and is the only surviving bridge from Florence’s medieval days (others were destroyed in World War II). The Ponte Vecchio is still lined with shops selling gold and silver jewelry. From the bridge, you will have a great view along the Arno River and beyond.

Galleria degli Uffizi - The Galleria degli Uffizi holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art but it is also Italy’s most crowded museum. The Uffizi holds thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times and many antique sculptures, illuminations, and tapestries. Artists whose works you will see include Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Perugino, and Raphael.

Galleria dell’ Academia - Florence’s Galleria dell’ Academia holds important paintings and sculptures from the 13th-16th centuries. Michelangelo’s David, probably the most famous sculpture in the world, is in the Galleria dell’ Academia as well as other sculptures by Michelangelo. You will also find an interesting collection of musical instruments, begun by the Medici family.

Boboli Garden and Pitti Palace - Cross the Ponte Vecchio to the Giardino di Boboli, a huge park on a hillside in the middle of Florence behind the Pitti Palace. Here you will find beautiful gardens and fountains and a great view of Florence from the Forte Belvedere.

The Pitti Palace, Florence’s largest palazzo, was once the seat of the Medici family. You can visit eight different galleries, including art, costumes, jewelry, and apartments.

Santa Croce - Santa Croce, in Piazza Santa Croce, is the largest Franciscan church in Italy and holds the tombs of several important Florentines including Michelangelo and Dante. The vast interior contains some exceptional stained glass windows and frescoes. One of Brunelleschi’s most important works, the Cappella dei Pazzi, is in Santa Croce.

Shopping - Florence has some of the finest shopping in Europe. In Florence, you will find leather goods, paper goods, and jewelry as well as nice souvenirs and art productions. Florence has a number of open-air markets selling food, clothing, and antiques. The most famous is around Piazza San Lorenzo where you will find leather goods, too. Another good place is Mercato Nuovo (Porcellino) on Via Porta Rossa. Mercato Centrale is a great place for food shopping or just looking.

Cafés, Coffee Shops, Restaurants, Wandering and People Watching – My favorite thing to do in Florence is simply to wake up early, get to a small coffee shop and start my day with a hot cup of coffee, a good pastry and watch the town come alive. I check out my map, pick the area I want to discover and can spend the whole day wandering the streets, taking in all that Florence has to offer. I stop from time to time at one of the never-ending number of café’s, coffee shops or restaurants to recharge. I marvel at the number and variety of people around me and reminisce about the memories I have already made that day. Before I know it, it is time to hit the street again and I am off to make more memories.

Day Trips from Florence

Tuscany Region – Spend a day touring one of the most bombastic areas of Tuscany, known all over the world for its countryside of unrivalled charm, where woods alternate with vineyards and olive groves, in a landscape dotted with Romanesque churches, farmhouses, villas and castles of rare beauty.

Pisa – Take a drive through the fertile and picturesque Tuscan countryside to the historic university city of Pisa, famous for its architectural beauty. Take a panoramic drive along the banks of the Arno, and then tour Piazza dei Miracoli, with the celebrated Leaning Tower, the Baptistery and other important monuments. Be sure to visit the interior of the Cathedral, it is an unrivalled masterpiece of Romanesque art constructed between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Siena and San Gimignano – Take a beautiful excursion through the delightful hills of the Chianti countryside, and see an ever-changing scenery of vineyards and olive trees.

In Siena, visit the old city centre: walk along the small medieval streets, admire the splendid palaces and end up at the Cathedral where you can visit the splendid interior including the Libreria Piccolomini (library) which was founded in 1495 by Pope Pius III and the adjacent Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana (museum).

Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval squares in the world, where you will find the Palazzo del Comune, a palace started in 1297 and finished in the early 1300’s.

From Siena, head to San Gimignano, a tiny city that has remained intact through the centuries; situated on a hilltop, it is famous for its numerous towers, frescoes and other art treasures. On your way back to Florence stop and visit the old mediaeval village of Monteriggioni enclosed by its famous walls, still intact.

Favorite Places to Eat

San Michele - Located in an 11th century monastery Villa San Michele, a small luxury hotel, is home to San Michele Restaurant. Perched on the hills about 20 minutes from Florence, San Michele offers you one of the most spectacular views of Florence and one of the most memorable dining experiences as well. The view is only rivaled by the Florentine and Tuscan cuisine and stellar service. For a real treat try the ribollita, a traditional Tuscan vegetable and bread soup, it is the best I had in Florence.

Reservations are necessary. When you make your reservations be sure to request a table with a good view as some are blocked by trees. Plan to be there just before sunset so you can experience both the stunning view during the day and the romantic city lights at night.

Trattoria Za Za also known as Za Za’s - Casual, crowded, lively with great food at a reasonable price. Just minutes from Piazza Republica and the Duomo, Za Za’s is touristic favorite.

This is the perfect place to go with friends, to meet new friends or just to sit back and people watch. They have seating both in-doors and out. I recommend sitting outside, especially if you like to people watch, there is a lot see!

Za Za’s menu is wide and varied with great classics and a few unexpected dishes. Try the three soups special. It is delicious and a great way to experience pappa al pomodoro and ribollita, two traditional soups from the region.

Cantinetta Dei Verrazzano – In the mood for a sandwich, coffee, or a pastry? Then try Cantinetta Dei Verrazzano; never in my wildest dreams did I expect such a charming place existed in Florence.

Do you call it a restaurant, a café, or a coffee shop? To my delight, it was all of the above. Cantinetta dei Verrazzano, is simply a small and charming place housed in a former bakery that caters to eat-on-the-run crowds, small sandwiches, coffee, plates of fresh cheeses, salamis, and “to die for desserts”.

Whether you are in need of a quick bite and a coffee or want to unwind at the end of a long day, this is the place. Be prepared to wait for a table or be willing to stand at one of the small bars/counters along the walls. If you love to people watch, this is the place to be. The tables turn over fast so there is always a lot to see.

Paoli - Located just blocks from Piazza Repubblica, between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, Paoli offers you true Tuscan dining in a lively and at times crowded atmosphere.

Housed in part of a 13th century palace with domed ceilings and Fresco painted walls Paoli is casual and offers large servings of fresh salads prepared at your table and true Tuscan pastas and meat entrées.

Try their “pappa al pomodoro”, a traditional Tuscan soup made with a mixture of stale/left-over (day old) bread and farm fresh tomatoes. In the past, poorer Tuscans used pappa al pomodoro to make the food they had last longer. To my delight, Paoli serves it now, not as a way to make their food last longer but as a way for you to experience true Tuscan cuisine. I tried pappa al pomodoro at a few different places but by far Paoli’s was the best.

Presentation and service is more like you’d expect at home (well, maybe a crowded Italian home) than at a 5 star restaurant, but that just adds to the charm of the experience.

As you can see, bombastic Florence has something for everyone; art lovers, museum buffs, shoppers, diners, people watchers and even those that just want to slip away to a beautiful Italian city to unwind and relax.

denniscallan asked:

Florence

Elisabetta asked:


TUSCAN WANDERWAYS

FIESOLE - MONTECECERI – SETTIGNANO



Before setting out, the best way to interpret your wanderway from Fiesole up to Montececeri and over to Settignano, is to observe it from afar. Take a bus up to Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the most frequented landmarks of the city. From the front balustrade of the Piazzale, look down over the river Arno to the cupola of the Cathedral, and then directly up to the horizon. Fiesole crowns the hilltop in the distance, and beside it, to your right, is Montececeri. It was from this platform that the “first human flight” was attempted following the drawings of Leonardo da Vinci.

Facing the river, walk to the left and round the balustrade until you come to a flight of steps leading down to a small piazza. At the end of this area is a board-map showing the most celebrated buildings of the city.

BUS TO FIESOLE

ATAF bus 7, Florence to Fiesole (20 minutes)

STOPPING AT

Central Station - Piazza Indipendenza - Piazza San Marco - Piazza della Libertà – Piazza delle Cure - Piazza Edison - Camerata - San Domenico – Regresso – Piazza Mino da Fiesole.

WALK TIME

3 hours. Grade: Leisurely.

FIESOLE

A century ago, the walk uphill from Florence to Fiesole was only for the energetic; the electric tram was tedious and long-winded, and downright punishing for the horses dragging their carriages of goods and passengers.

Every Latin historian had something to say about Fiesole. Rambling and strange at times as their stories might seem, they do contain a grain or two of truth. Some asserted that it was built by the Tirreni, others by the Pelasgians, or even by the Phoenicians. It was certainly one of the richest and most powerful of the Etruscan cities. Inevitably, the proud Roman clarion echoed one day along the Arno valley up the hillside and the inhabitants of Fiesole were either slaughtered or ordered to genuflect before the invincible Legions. After the fall of Rome, it was subsequently plundered several times and lost its peculiar qualities. On the old Etruscan and Roman ruins and monuments the new town was slowly built.

In the immediate post-war years the young flower-girl sat at the corner, aggressive street hawkers strolled the streets with cardboard boxes tied round their waists containing their wares, and pitiful beggars, little more than road-rats, sold holy pictures with potent prayers for a safe wayfaring. Poverty was a role to be performed, not social offence, so a Tuscan rispetto sings -

I cast a palm-leaf into the sea:

The waters devour it.

I see others cast lead, and – Lo! For them it sails.

On the way up today we leave behind the old wayside churches, shrines, crosses, great villas once frequented by the Medici, illustrious artists and writers, now oppressed by modern hi-tech buildings in what seems intentional defacement.

To the footsore pilgrim with sturdy pastoral staff and dusty burlap outfit it was a day’s walk to the top, up those exceptionally steep stony paths, still in place, which remind one of far-off effort and accomplishment. The wayfarer has given place to turbo buses pouring out streams of camera-burdened tourists.

At present, an open square, some narrow streets, pleasing to the attentive eye, and a number of aesthetically attractive buildings form its personal façade. Indeed, one can find some cloistered nooks with a water-colour artist at work and a gathering of shadows with a writer. A few steps out of town one can come across the typical Tuscan farmhouse with a vine loosely drooping over the doorway.

SANTA MARIA PRIMERANA

The church of Santa Maria Primerana, built on an Etruscan fundament, was already known in the year 966. Enlarged during the Middle Ages, a new façade was built at the end of the sixteenth century. The high alter has a small painting on wood with a Madonna and Child by Maestro di Rovezzano. The transept has two bas-reliefs by Francesco da Sangallo. The glazed terracotta from the workshop of Andrea della Robbia is admirable.

On the second Sunday of May, the Podestà, or Administrator of Justice, and the leaders of the population, or Gonfalonieri, came here to take the oath of office. The Badia Fiesolana and the Amphitheatre should be visited. On the west hilltop is the Francescan Church and Monastery, where ladies were not allowed to enter.

CHURCH of SAN LORENZO at VINCIGLIATA

In the 15th century the Alessandri family, who owned the nearby castle, built a bell tower on which is placed their stone coat-of-arms. The family enlarged the church at the end of the 18th century and its orientation was changed when the façade was built in place of the apse. Over the window is a two-headed lamb and on the tower a curious demon-like blowing two fanfare trumpets. There is a terracotta bust representing San Lorenzo and of a Madonna and Child, attributed to Rossellino, 12th cent.

CASTLE of VINCIGLIATA

On the outer wall are a number of commemorative plaques to eminent sojourners, including such names as Queen Elizabeth and Beatrice, Battenberg, Hohenlohe, Hohenzollern and the Duchess of Russia.

The castle was little more than a ruin when in 1855 John Temple Leader bought it, and much of the land and a large number of crumbling farmsteads and churches in the neighbourhood, and set himself the gruelling task about restoring all of his property.

BEGINNING YOUR WALK

When you get off the bus in Piazza Mino da Fiesole look up towards the Town Hall, the Municipio, at the east end above the town car park. Before setting out, stop to observe the remarkable display of heraldry on the façade remembering the Podestà, and visit the church of Santa Maria Primerana.

Facing the church, take the narrow lane at the extreme right. This is Via Giuseppe Verdi. Look for the sign on the wall to the right

PASSEGGIATA PANORAMICA

while on the left is a red and white mark indicating

CAI-ITIN-1

SETTIGNANO 1 h

COMPIOBBI 2.30 h

Our walk now begins. The roads and paths ahead are copiously way-marked with these red and white CAI blazes.

The tight little lane climbs fairly steeply for a few minutes between villas and houses of refined composition and artistry until it levels out at the top. Don’t be too ambitious. Enjoy a relaxing leisurely pace. On the right is dramatic view over Florence and the background towards the Chianti hills - a sight to slake the thirst of any romantic soul. From this point the city is best seen at dawn or in the evening when the sun is low and the background hills present a sharp edge against the western sky.

Walk forward keeping to the left. Do not take Via Doccia which dips down to the right. You are now in Via Montececeri. Up on the right-hand wall of the corner house is a sign

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT lived here 1910

After 150m the road levels out again for a second view across the valley as far as the eye can see. Via Montececeri ends after a minute and at the branch take the road downhill to the right, Via degli Scalpellini. Look for the red and white CAI mark. A few paces forward will take you to Via del Pelagaccio which veers sharply uphill to the left. Do not take this road. Walk forward along the straight gravel footpath leading towards the wood. After 200m you come to a board on the right showing a map of the park. The path now takes you through the wood. Swing uphill to the left at the first Y-junction, always bearing in mind to follow the red and white CAI blazes on the trees or rocks, disregarding the blue-red marks. Turn right after 5om. It takes about 10 minutes to reach a handrail on the right and wooden bench on the left. An excellent view over the Arno valley. The Florence soccer stadium is straight down in front in the foreground and the Cathedral and Palazzo Vecchio are just over to the right.

Downhill again, you come to the first stone quarry on the left. A dark sinister hole in the hillside, worthy of a short visit. These quarries were still used until the 50’s. At the nearby 3-pronged junction, take the middle path on the same level that swings to the left.

Do not walk uphill to the left or take the right downhill path. Keep following the red and white blazes. The path dips down, the ground it rough, but you soon come to clearing in the wood where you take left turning uphill; again we can see the frequent on the trees. Look up to the left, up to the cypress trees on the hilltop to get your bearings. Ten minutes uphill, keeping the hilltop to your left, you come to the red-and-white marks on the rock in front of you.

MONTECECERI ————-BORGUNTO

MAIANO

This time take lefthand path to Montececeri another quarry on the right and at the first Y-junction take a few steps forward, then to the left along a short path for a striking view from the top of the quarry face over to the distant hills and down to the valleys.

Retrace your steps and follow this path with the red-and-white marks and after 10 minutes there is an uphill stretch along a wooden handrail and stone steps. The path spirals round to the left until you reach Piazzale Leonardo. A few benches and tables are available for rest and picnics.

The board shows its story.

This place is dedicated to the memory of Leonardo da Vinci’s

first human flight experiment.

An area of strategic position during WORLD WAR II

The translation of stone column reads:

The great bird will rise to its first flight over the summit of Ceceri, filling the universe will awe and filling with its fame all writings and with eternal glory the nest where it was born.

In Leonardo’s own words we read.

“The aforesaid bird, aided by the wind, shall rise to a great height; and in this will be its safety. Should any act of overturning intervene, it will thus have time to regain its equilibrium, when its limbs are of great resistance so that it may withstand the fury and impetus of a descent with the aforesaid precautions and its strongly mounted joints and its nerves of strong raw silk; and with no interference of iron parts, as soon these will break under pressure, or will be subject to wear, and therefore we should not employ them.

Be reminded that the bird shall not imitate any other than the bat, as the membrane affords a structure, that is a connection for the structure, the mainstays of the wings.

Should you imitate the wings of feathered birds, they are of stronger bone and nerve to be perforated; that is the feathers are disunited and so let air pass through.

But the bat is helped by the membrane, which ties all together and is not perforated.

Leaving the Piazzale, take the wide path along the garden wall on the left which leads downhill for a few minutes to a mapboard, where you turn left. Pass the road barrier and soon a small open area of hard ground comes into view on your right with a quaint little church on the corner. This is Piazza dei Pini and the parish church of Borgunto, seated like a seer in the midst of heathendom, which like so many woodland churches, may have been built on the very spot set apart for sacred and solemn rites in honour of some ancient pagan god of the soil.

Facing the church, look to the wall on your left which is marked

CAI-FIRENZE-ITIN-1

Settignano

Compiobbi

SENTIERO DEGLI DEI

This is Via Peramonda, perhaps anciently a military road or a trade route. After a few strides along this road you will see the entrance to a Fiesole Camping Site on your left. Proceed downhill now. A keen eye can enjoy the views over the hills with their large farmsteads and elegant villas which beckon us to discover them.

Turn right when you come to the main road about 20 minutes later. Walk on for 200m to the bus area on the right, which is little more than a clearing at the roadside. Turn down into the wood from the top side of this area and follow the path running parallel to the main road to the left above it. This path through the wood will soon meet a narrow road at a T-junction where you must turn right. Now walk straight on. Do not turn right after a few paces towards a barrier across the track.

Look carefully for the CAI signs on the tree as you enter this rough stony way, suitable for cart-wheels and the cloven hoof. Walk on, there are tall rushes on the right, until you come to a once admirable, yet still dominating, wayside shrine up on the wall to your left. One of the thousand tumbling wayside shrines in Tuscany, worthy of a scholar’s quotation or an artist’s affection. The face of a young cherubim looks down with mock humility as if offering a prayer for burdened wayfarers with a long road behind, and nowhere to go.

In those days gone by a place of worship, rest and refreshment; a meeting point for trivia where you can still meet a farmer with a loaf of bread under his arm, an onion in his hand, and the neck of a small wine bottle peeping out of his pocket.

Walk past a forlorn-looking farmstead further along the road, down along the cart-track through an olive grove. These tracks can become muddy after some rain and are better suited for cartwheels and the cloven hoof. Until a few years ago one could meet beasts of burden tramping along here, and those great white oxen, slow, swaying bodies, already worshipped two thousand years ago as the incarnation of the earth-gods:

And to those also, O Lord, the humble beasts, who with us bear the burden and heat of the day, and offer their guileless lives for the well-being of their countries, we supplicate Thy great tenderness of heart.

When you get to the end of this first stretch, head towards the wood. Don’t take the right-hand turn downhill.

The walk through the wood is brief. In the morning a dew-laden spider’s web lays itself across your face and a keen eye can find regurgitated owl pellets of slimy fur and half-digested bone. at the end the path comes to another old, crestfallen farmhouse with a yard and out-buildings. Walk round it, down between rugged dry walls and along a track covered with Summer dust waiting for September winds to make a sally and bare its humps again. After 10 minutes it leads uphill and on to a narrow asphalt road.

Turn right, downhill to the roadside church of San Lorenzo. Across the valley are the quarries of Maiano where Walkway One passes.

A few minutes down the road is the eye-catching Castle of Vincigliata. On the high outer walls are stone tablets commemorating the sojourn of names such as Queen Elizabeth and Beatrice, Battenberg, Hohenlohe and Hohenzollern and the Duchess of Russia.

At the first sweeping bend after the castle, take the track on the left through the olive groves. There is comfort and security in long, straight paths. Life flows smoothly on. But the Genius Loci appears from behind sudden dips and bends and lives under the uncontaminated blank spaces on the wayfarers map.

Walk slightly uphill to the large renovated building on the right with its chapel standing on the ground opposite. The view from here over the olive groves and cypress trees towards Florence in the background must surely be one of the deepest emotional admiration.

Not far along the track we come to a house on the corner of a junction. This is Casa al Vento. Look for the large cypress tree on the right. Walk round the house and take the rough stony road to the left. Do not be tempted to take the path to the left before the house (Trail 2) or the track from the house leading straight on past the small ruin in the field on the left. Walk slowly downhill. This path is rough and dusty in dry weather, and slippery after rain. There are olive trees on the right, cypresses up to the left, and further up heather taller than a man and plants showing a struggle to survive. After 20 minutes you come to Via del Fossataccio. On the left is a house with a shrine up on the wall. The inscription reads

MONSTRA TE ESSE MATREM.

Note the marks on the wall to the right. Walk straight forward along Via Desiderio da Settignano, past the cemetery on the right, uphill a little between the first houses of the town to the junction with Via S. Romano. Turn right and proceed down to the Piazza. Look at the curious façade of the Società Corale, a building on the right just after the very narrow part of the street.

…even I feel in me to have suckled in with milk the love for sculpture in Settignano where I was raised, and where part of the inhabitants are sculptors… Michelangelo.

Bus number 10 from the piazza takes thirty minutes back down to Florence.

Elisabetta

http://www.newitineraries.it

Soobash asked:


Florence is an ancient city in Italy, the capital of Tuscany province of Italy. It was the capital of Italy during 1865-1870. Florence is as beautiful and charming as Venice. As you might be aware, this city was the centre of renaissance in Italy. Those interested in the architectural grandeur are likely to find Florence quite attractive.

Florence is historically and culturally important for several reasons. Historically, this city has been the centre of intellectuals and innovative ideas. As for instance, Niccolo Machiavelli was associated with this city. You will remember your visit to Florence if you like aesthetics, beauty, intellect, and architectural wonder. No wonder Florence has been known as Athens of Italy for its cultural and aesthetic contribution to the world.

When you are in Florence don’t forget to visit the Historic Centre of Florence, a major tourist destination in Italy. In 1982, the UNESCO declared it the World Heritage Site. Florence has too many churches and the other buildings that are architectural wonder even today. These buildings and churches have their origin in the Renaissance phase of history.

Florence has so many attractions and beautiful sites to offer that you cannot see everything in a short visit. You can go for Florence Accademia and Uffizi Gallery tour, or you can take half a day tour that combines wine tasting and country drive in the Chintai region. You can even choose conducted and guided tours organized by various tour operators that could be either of half a day or full day duration. You may even choose to travel the double decker bus that will take you around the Cathedral, Santa Croce, San Marco, and Piazzale Michelangelo among several other sites.

Florence has a lot of hotels but most of them are in the higher to mid price band. There are not many cheap hotels in Florence but it may not be difficult to find reasonably cheap hotel. One can choose hotels from two to five stars at Florence. Tourist might do well to choose hotels that are away from the station square so that they may appreciate the charm of the city. However, the hotels near the station square may suit the visitors who are on a quick and swift visit. The cheap hotels could cost as low as Euro 38 to 40 for a night while the luxury hotels could be as expensive as Euro 170 an up. The mid-range hotels can cost between Euro 60 and 100.

Michelle Elkins asked:


No place on earth is quite like Tuscany. Every sense is not only evoked but relentlessly stimulated by the myriad sights, sounds and scents that can be savoured on a journey through this stunning landscape. From enchanting cobble streets and squares, to breath taking mountain vistas and handsome Renaissance architecture, this varied and fascinating region offers the very best of culinary delights to the finest in culture and art, which is unsurprising considering it is the birthplace of one of the most celebrated artists ever: Michelangelo.  

 

One of the many points of entry into Tuscany is Florence Firenze Airport, also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport. Located just 3 miles north-west of the city centre, it underwent renovation, not so long ago, to the tune of €11 million and greatly increased its capacity to 2.2 million people each year. Although there are a host of European cities that fly to and from Florence Airport, there is only one direct route from the UK and that is through Gatwick Airport.

 

On arriving in Italy, the primary concern for most people is working out how to reach their final destination. For those wishing to really explore the region and make the most of their time in this beautiful region, a Florence Airport car hire is the best solution. There are several on offer in arrivals including Autoeuropa, Avis, Budget, Elite, Europcar, Hertz, Maggiore, Sixt and Thrifty. If you´re one of the many people that intend to do a complete driving tour of Italy, then several of these Firenze Airport car rental firms, such as Sixt and Avis, allow for the pick up and drop off locations to be different.

 

Alternatively if only transportation to the accommodation is needed, then choosing Florence Airport transfers is ideal. A driver meet and greets in arrival and escorts holiday-makers straight to a waiting car, so no queueing and no fuss. A slightly less expensive option is to book a seat on a private shuttle bus at Florence Airport, which allows passengers to share the cost between them.

 

Of course by far the most affordable way of getting about is by using the Florence Airport buses. These leave roughly every half hour with a journey time of 20 minutes into the city centre. While there are no trains at Florence Airport, a shuttle bus goes from the airport to the nearest station, Santa Maria Novella, for a tariff of €3-4 and has connections to all over Europe from here. Last but not least there is the option to use the Florence Airport taxis. These are situated just outside arrivals and the fare into the city cost between €20 and €24, with an extra €1 added on for each item of baggage.

 

There is no rush to change money up before leaving home as a currency exchange bureau and bank are located conveniently in the Florence Airport Arrivals hall. In fact many of the non essential items travellers need are catered for here too, with a few shops on hand to pick up items like sunglasses, tobacco or books. Advice on tourist activities can be extracted at the information desk, while those unfortunate enough to have misplaced luggage (or had it misplaced for them), there is a Lost and Found also located in arrivals.

 

On the return leg of the trip, the Florence Airport departures hall has much to recommend it and is great for distraction purposes while waiting for a flight. There are shops galore from a jewellery store to leather retailer and lingerie boutique, plus the usual duty free outlet. Places to get refreshment are a little thinner on the ground but there are places both side of security to grab some pizza and a drink. There is also a place called the Masaccio Lounge where business travellers can relax or catch up on some work with access to computers, printers and Internet connection, as well as a satellite TV and multifunction telephone. A self-service open bar and selection of newspapers and magazines completes the luxury.

 

Florence Airport has come to the fore when it comes to providing facilities for disabled passengers. Wheel chairs, free medical and paramedical assistance, adapted toilets, telephone booths and reserved parking spaces, in addition to an embarking/disembarking elevator vehicle, are all catered for here. There is also an assistance request facility located outside of the departure terminal.

NMETV asked:

Florence talks to NME about her favourite music of 2008. For lots more videos check out: http://www.nme.com/video