Florence, cradle of the Renaissance
Florence's museums, palaces, and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world. The most popular and important sites in Florence include the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Accademia. The churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce are veritable art galleries, and the library of San Lorenzo is a magnificent exhibition of Michelangelo's architectural genius. Wander some of the oldest streets in the city until you reach the Arno River, cross the Ponte Vecchio, and experience the "newest" area of Florence, the Oltrarno. Be sure to set aside time to see the vast and varied art collection housed in the Pitti Palace. When you grow weary of museums and monuments, head outdoors. Spend a day at the Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience an enchanting view of Florence.
Definite must-sees in Florence
Don't try to do Florence in one day - allow at least several days, especially if you're interested in visiting the major churches and touring the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries. Below a few more places you must definitely see/visit while you are in Florence.
Galleria degli Uffizi
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world's top art museums - it houses some of the most important works of the Renaissance, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, Botticelli and Michelangelo. Lots of sculptures too.
Galleria dell'Accademia
The Accademia houses Michelangelo's David, easily the most famous sculpture in the world. Once inside, you'll also see Michelangelo's unfinished and powerful Prisoners, along with a few works by Perugino, Giambologna, and Botticelli.
Palazzo Pitti
The Pitti Palace houses several important collections of paintings and sculpture, works of art, porcelain, silver and period costumes. The rooms contain works by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Andrea del Sarto, and countless others. Behind the Pitti Palace, you'll find the baroque Boboli Gardens which are also a must see anytime of the year.
Duomo
This famous cathedral dome dominates the skyline of Florence, with its eight white ribs against a background of terracotta tiles. Close up it is so huge as to be quite overwhelming.
Ponte Vecchio
No visit to Florence is complete without at least some time spent dawdling on the Ponte Vecchio, looking at the glittering jeweler’s shops along the bridge or admiring the view.
Piazza della Signoria
Standing in the Piazza della Signoria with the shadow of the forbidding Palazzo Vecchio, it is impossible to escape the sense of Florence’s past political might.