Florence, The Cradle of the Renaissance

Currency: Euro

Language: Italian

Tax Refund: Can be done together on your final departure from European Union

From Train Station to the City

Most will arrive via train to Florence main station called Firenze Santa Maria Novella, it is just located on the edge of the historic old town. Other small stations are Firenze Campo Marte, near Florence Stadium and Firenze Rifredi. If you take an Intercity train to Florence, you may need to change at Rifredi for another train to Firenze S.M.N.

The transfer between stations via train is usually already covered by your train ticket (to check for this, your train ticket should not differentiate between the Florence train stations and will simply say “Firenze”

Once in the city, you should be able to get around anywhere on foot or even on the bus.

Attractions

Ponte Vecchio

One of the most common views you would get in Florence. That iconic bridge over the Arno River with medieval houses on the sides of the bank. It is a lovely sight to behold. Even after the establishment of over 700 years, the bridge still remains the stalls selling goods and products. It is a must visit and photographed. You can even find a café on the banks and admire this lovely sight with a cup of coffee or some cakes.

Piazza della Signoria

Known as the city heart, it is a bustling square with many statues of well-known people, the fountain of Neptune, the statue of Cosimo, they can all be found here. The city centre, many famous attractions are within walking distance, such as the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Museum.

Palazzo Vecchio

Once a fortified 13th century palace, it is lavished with ornaments and nicely decorated chambers. It is the town hall of Florence and you could also find the gallery of statue here. A copy of Michelangelo’s famous David Statue can also be found here.

Boboli Gardens

Located south of the city you can find this famous Florence public garden. It is located behind the Pitti Palace and elaborately landscaped also consists of many interesting sculptures. It is a short walk from the Arno River. It is open daily from 8.15am to 4.30pm from Nov to Feb and timings are longer during the summer months. Tickets cost 3.50 Euros for reduced.

Piazzale Michelangelo

This 19th century piazza with a bronze replica of Michelangelo it is a walk from the Arno River. The place boosts impressive view of the city of Florence. The views are impeccable, especially during sunsets. It could be reached by foot or even bus 12 or 13 from the centre. That post card view is worthy of any journey.

Duomo

Also known as Santa Maria del Fiore, the cathedral of Florence, it needs no further introduction. The exterior is extremely beautiful. It is the iconic representation of the city. It is also possible to climb to the top of the duomo. At the top you can admire the architecture and style of the building in close. The view is also amazing. The marbled duomo have been in existence since 1296.

Gucci Museum

When you think of Italians, you will naturally like up their fine taste of living and design, and also the well-known brands that come along. Gucci has its own museum dedicated to their design and textile. Located right in the heart of the city, the museum is open daily from 10 am from Mon to Thurs and till 11pm on Fri. Tickets cost 7Euros with reduced to 5 Euros on Fri after 8pm.

Truffle Tours

Joint one of the food tour based in the city to experience and visit some of the most amazing experience ever. Find out how these precious fungi are being found and the steps to prepare it.

Shopping

Mercato Centrale

Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze, Italy

Also known as the central market, this 19th century glass and iron market is amazing. You should definitely visit here for an authentic Italian experience. Even the area surrounding the central markets are stores selling leather, clothing and souvenirs. Come here hungry and you will get your tummy filled at the indoor market. It is open daily from 8am to midnight. A fantastic place. The place consists of two parts the central market as well as the San Lorenzo Market.

The Mall Florence

Via Europa 8, 50066 Leccio Reggello (FI) – Toscana – Italia

Known as the best outlet shopping in the Florence region. Many tourists and locals flock here just to grab things since often, prices are more than half the prices in town. Furthermore there is a 12% tax refund after 155 Euro spent in a store. Many brands are here including Gucci, Prada. It is open from 10am till 7pm from Mon to Sun. You can take the direct bus from the station near the Central Railway to The Mall direct for 7 or 13 euro return. Train is an option.

Restaurants

La cucina del Garga

Via S. Zanobi, 33, 50129 Firenze, Italy

An Italian restaurant that serve up authentic Italian food with a modern innovative twist right in the heart of the city. It is open from Mon to Sat from 7.30pm to 10.30pm. Prices are fair. Reservation are recommended.

Gusta Pizza

Via Maggio, 46/red, 50125 Firenze, Italy

Located on the other side of the Arno River it is a quaint place and they serves up authentic delicious pizza. The walk there is definitely worthy. Their pizza is being cooked in a wood fired oven that gives it a different flavour. It is open from 11.30am to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm.

Salumeria Verdi

Via Giuseppe Verdi, 36//R, 50122 Firenze, Italy

This is the place to come for the most amazing Panini in Florence. Also known as Pino’s by the locals it is always filled with locals as well as students trying to grab a bite. The “Springtime” sandwich is especially popular. It is open from Mon to Sat from 8am to 8pm.

Trattoria Mario

Via Rosina, 2r, 50123 Firenze, Italy

Experience down to earth no fills Tuscan home cooking with the usage of fresh ingredients. The menu changes daily depending on seasonal products. It is only open for lunch on Mon to Sat from 12pm to 3pm.

Golden View Open Bar

Via de’ Bardi, 58/r, 50125 Firenze, Italy

Located on the banks of the Arno River, this bar is great for its great for the food and also the view you can get out of the window. The view of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River is truly amazing. It is open daily from 12pm to 12am. The café located next to is great too.

Slowly Bar

Via Porta Rossa, 63, 50123 Firenze, Italy

One of the best bars in town. It is always crowded and famous for it before dinner drinks with snacks buffet. The good stuffs start from 6.30pm. Expect to drink, mingle and have fun.

Caffe Gilli

Via Roma, 1/red, 50123 Firenze, Italy

Right smack in the centre of the Florence town, this place is well known among the locals and tourists. It can be said as the birthplace of cappuccino. Nothing is better than standing at the bar and having a freshly made cup of cappuccino. Never before 10 though. It is open daily from 7.30am to 12am.