Florence & Tuscany
Birthplace of the Renaissance
As the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence was one of the most important cities in Europe for art, politics, culture, economics and science. The history of this great city is all around, and the beautiful medieval architecture makes this a wonderful city to explore at a leisurely pace.
Florence, the home of Michelangelo's David sculpture, is a great city for art lovers, and the main drawcards are undoubtedly the museums. The most famous museums are the Uffizi Gallery and the Academy of Fine Arts (where you'll find Michelangelo's famous sculpture). The other essential attractions of Florence are the Ponte Veccio, an ancient bridge lined with shops, and the Duomo Di Firenze, the city's magnificent domed cathedral.
Florence is a great base to explore the evocative Tuscan countryside. Home of the Chianti wine region, as well as the historic villages of San Gimignano and Siena and the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Tuscany is a region that will leave you breathless with the sheer amount of history, culture and Italian beauty on offer.
- Climb to the Heavens: 464 steps will take you to the top of the Duomo for an amazing view of the city.
- A Finger Pointing to the Stars: Among the Galileo exhibits at the Museo Galileo is a macabre display featuring the astronomer's middle finger.
- Get Out and About: Florence is a great base to explore much of central Italy. Try horse riding in Chianti, visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa or even visit the famous Cinque Terre.
- Visit the Bobili Gardens.
- Sample Chianti Wines.