The historical part of Florence is not big, there is no point renting scooter or hailing a taxi. The quickest and most convenient way to get through all paths is on foot. Apart from that – isn’t it what it is all about in lovely cities like Florence, to cherish every moment? Leave a map at home and walk through narrow streets, admiring beautiful architecture and looking at citizens of Florence at their daily tasks. The old town is so small that quickly you will start to recognize streets and feel like at home.
The art wouldn’t have existed without Florence, but the city without the art – as well. It is where Botticelli, Donatello, Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo were creating. If you have a bit of patience to wait in queue, it is worth to visit Galleria Uffizi or Galleria dell’Accademia, where for your own eyes you will see the most beautiful masterpieces of painters and sculptors of the Renaissance.
If you are looking for a place, from which there is the most beautiful view for the city, go to the Micheangelo’s hill. It is the most breath-taking on sunsets, when the red sky is gently mirroring in the town houses’ roofs.
On the southern bank of the river Arno, at side streets from main road Via Maggio, there is real life going on and tourists hardly ever wander around there. In local cobbler workshops you can order custom-made shoes, buy hand-made tie, unique tableware, or even a whole set of furniture. Be aware though that a walk through this district is highly engaging! If you don’t want to spend fortune on small souvenirs from the trip, visit Mercato Central, where among many gadgets you will also find those hand-made. All you need to do is search a bit.
Avoid buying leather products from street vendors. Florence is famous for belts, bags or other leather accessories, but real, designer or hand-made accessories made by local craftsman you can only get in prestigious shops or workshops. Don’t let yourself be ripped off on the bridge Ponte Vecchio.
