Florence

Indulge yourself in Renaissance art admiring the works of many historic and present Italian artists, view the sunset over the Arno, and sip on the finest Chiantis in the beautiful city of Florence!

Florence, or Firenze in the native language, is an international centre of Renaissance art and culture. Donatello, Boticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo are just a few of the great names who lived and worked in Florence. No wonder there are many fascinating museums to explore in this city!

For the history fanatics; the legacy of Florence as a city of art can be attributed partly to the Medici family, who had their residence in Florence in the Middle Ages. Under the reign of Lorenzo de Medici the city's golden age took place. He acted as a sponsor for the poets, philosophers, artists, sculptors, architects and musicians of the city. A dominican friar by the name of Girolamo Savonarola later condemned this to be paganism and encouraged the residents of the city to burn their books and paintings and other luxuries including jewellery. Hence the name 'bonfire of the vanities'. 

Besides the overwhelming historic arts, Florence's outstanding architecture, fashion and sublime food and wines add to its ravishing charm.

Highlights:

Churches and cathedrals from the middle ages like:
Santa Croce Church and square
Piazza San Giovanni & the Cathedral
San Lorenzo Chapel and Santa Maria Novella

Museums:

Academy of Fine Arts Museum, via Ricasoli, n.60, Firenze
Medici Chapels,
Ponte Vecchio and its tiny shops
Via Maggio for antique shopping

Useful links:
Time Out Florence
AboutFlorence.com
Florence Bike Pages
All about biking in Florence area, with maps, rides, events, and more
Art Courses in Florence