Piazza del Campo is the main square and the proud heart of Siena. Its Gothic architecture and Medieval soul has changed little over the centuries. “Il Campo”, which means “the field” is the ideal spot to observe passing Sienese life, and take in its beautifully preserved Medieval atmosphere. Along with the Cathedral, Piazza del Campo is… Read more »
Read MorePiazza della Signoria
One of the most elegant squares in the whole of Italy, Piazza della Signoria is as grand and fascinating as its tumultuous history. This square is the perfect place to soak up the city’s atmosphere, even if you’ll be doing it with hundreds of other tourists. For a quieter experience, take a stroll there in the evening, and… Read more »
Read MoreSan Miniato al Monte Church
The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte is famous for its elegant Romanesque architecture and splendid interior. And the views aren’t bad either. San Miniato al Monte guards the city from up a hill, a few steps up from Piazzale Michelangelo, the terrace with the best view over Florence. There’s a steep flight of stairs to… Read more »
Read MorePitti Palace Museums – Explore the galleries of Palazzo Pitti
The grand Pitti Palace museums are filled with paintings from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. Highlights are the Palatine Gallery with a superb collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings, and the Macchiaioli Room in the Modern Art Gallery. The Pitti Palace is just one of the Medici family’s residences that can be visited in… Read more »
Read MoreBest aperitivo in Florence
It’s easy to find a spot for an evening aperitivo in Florence. But if you’re looking for something special, here are a few pointers. And a list of places you just can’t go wrong. The aperitivo is an institution in Florence, as it is in many parts of Italy. But this city has a special… Read more »
Read MoreThe best coffee in Florence
Enjoy the finest coffee in Florence, and some beautiful views along with it. Coffee culture is very much a part of Tuscan daily life. Sipping a cappuccino in one of the Florentine squares or looking for that perfect caffellatte can be a holiday highlight in itself. You just need to know where to look. Bear in mind that in… Read more »
Read MoreShopping in Florence with your nose in the air
In Florence, even buying scents can be an art. Let’s start our shopping tour at the stunning Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a real feast for the eyes and the nose. They have been producing and selling remedies and fragrances for 400 years, so you can expect great taste and experience. Best selling products… Read more »
Read MoreSan Domenico Church – See the relic of Saint Catherine
San Domenico Church in Siena is an obligatory stop for devotees of Saint Catherine. It is in fact the resting place of the saint’s head. A macabre testimonial to medieval religious zeal, and a chance to get to know more about the patron saint of Italy. This massive red brick Gothic building on the top… Read more »
Read MoreBrancacci Chapel – Church of Santa Maria del Carmine
Feast your eyes on some revolutionary frescoes by Masaccio in the Brancacci Chapel. One of the artistic highlights of Oltrarno that can be found in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine. The unassuming facade of this church can’t prepare its visitors for the rich baroque interior. The church was redecorated after a fire in 1771,… Read more »
Read MoreSanta Trinita Church
Step inside Santa Trinita Church located in Piazza Santa Trinita and enjoy some superb frescoes by Ghirlandaio, the Renaissance painter of the VIPs. One reason to visit this church could simply be its position. It lies nearby the lovely Santa Trinita Bridge. And it’s the beginning of the super chic Via Tornabuoni. But inside you’ll… Read more »
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