Florence is the capital city of the region of Tuscany as well as being the capital of the province named after it. It is located by the River Arno and is seen as the centre of Renaissance Italy, famous for its rich history, culture and architecture. It is the birthplace of several influential artists, philosophers and writers. Florence is also known as a city of flowers, which only adds to the aesthetic quality of this city. The economy also thrived in this area and it has become the centre of trade and finance in Tuscany. 

Florence is a town full of religious and historical sites. The historical centre of Florence is a World Heritage Site and attracts a large number of tourists. The architecture here represents the vast wealth of the city, with great gothic and Romanesque buildings, churches and cathedrals. They displayed the wealth of those who once owned the buildings, as well as adding to the artistic nature of the city. Along the south bank of the River Arno, you immediately see the bell tower Giotto’s Campanile, Brunelleschi’s dome and the Basilica of Santa Croce. The Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral was built six hundred years ago and is a magnificent piece of religious architecture. The Fountain of Neptune is another interesting feature in the Signoria Square of Florence, as is the town hall building Palazzo Vecchio.

The House of Medici was a powerful dynasty in the commercial, banking and political world in the 14th Century, and their legacy lives on. The family crest can be seen on many buildings. Several artists were supported by the Medici, including Michelangelo, Donatello and Botticelli.

Like much of Italy, Florence has an array of high-fashion boutiques which complements its image as a fashion capital. Florentine business men and fashion designers Guccio Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo have built great fashion empires which all originated from Florence, and so the link to fashion is undeniable.

Florentine cuisine is an example of simple Tuscan gastronomy, and typically on the menu is a starter of tomato soup followed by a main dish of steak. There are several eateries and gourmet restaurants for you to choose from that are both style and substance, and the tipple of choice here is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, although the traditional red Chianti wine is also available.

Florence is a great place to be located to explore other areas in Tuscany. Nearby towns that are worth exploring are: Siena, Lucca, Pisa and San Gimignano.

Back to Tuscany Holiday & Travel Guide