Known as “the Beating Heart of Tuscany”, Florence is a small and charming city that is packed with world-class history and art in its many museums and galleries. Visit the Academia Gallery before the crowds or take in the Uffizi to discover the many artistic delights.
Holidays in Florence, Italy allow you to experience one of Europe’s most culturally and historically significant cities. Florence is a vibrant city nestled among the idyllic green hills of Tuscany. It retains a sense of intimacy and romance thanks to its relatively small size, while also offering a remarkable selection of museums, galleries, and restaurants, which continue to impress even the most regular visitor. Every stroll has the potential for something remarkable, whether it’s peering out of the Vasari Corridor or wandering across the Giardino di Boboli. Alternatively, for those looking to relax, there are beautiful vistas to be seen while enjoying a rooftop aperitivo in the evening.
Perhaps most known for its remarkable historical architecture, you will easily find renowned pieces of art by famous artists such as Filippo Brunelleschi, Leon Battista Alberti, and Michelangelo throughout the city. Florence continues to celebrate this tradition with impressive modern buildings, notably The New Florence Opera House, maintaining the city’s reputation as a marvel from every angle. Any visiting foodies will undoubtedly revel in Florence’s food culture, from its various Michelin starred restaurants to the brilliant bustle of the Mercato Centrale. For peaceful and romantic Florence holidays, there are numerous opportunities for short trips to the surrounding landscapes and towns, allowing for blissful escapes into Italy’s rural life.
As the leading specialist in Italian holidays, Citalia will help make your trip to Florence, Italy a unique and unforgettable experience.
Across the cobbles of Florence’s streets, beneath the shuttered windows and quaint balconies, there are hidden treasures, many close to the Arno River. Wander through the Piazza della Passera, which holds a wonderful respite from the energy of the centre. Here you can sample delicious gelato in the afternoon sunshine or enjoy wine from the surrounding vineyards, notably a Chianti, in one of the intimate bars. One evening, you may even stumble upon a gathering of locals and visitors alike, mesmerised by an impromptu musical performance.
One of the finest panoramas of the city is to be found south of the river and at the top of the Bellosguardo Hill. Stroll along the secluded roads, away from not only the crowds but also modernity, where you will feel as if you’re visiting an Italy of the past. Catch glimpses of Florence through the trees, taking in the gorgeous terracotta roofs, making for a perfect picnic spot.
10 day suggested trip
8 day suggested trip
Discover the real Florence while staying in one of our carefully selected hotels.
The majority of international flights arrive into Pisa airport (PSA), which is approximately 60 minutes from the centre of Florence. Direct flights to Pisa are available from Belfast, Bristol, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, Manchester and Newcastle and take approximately 2 hours. Flights into Florence airport are also available to book through our Travel Centre.
Florence weather makes it a year-round destination, with the busiest tourist crowds arriving in spring and summer. Autumn is a perfect time for visiting – the city is less crowded and the temperatures are still pretty good. Winter in Florence can be chilly and there are chances of snow, but generally, the streets are emptier and the Christmas markets are well worth a visit on a city break.
At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.
Whilst tipping isn’t embedded into Italian culture, it is always appreciated as an acknowledgement of good service. Nowadays, people generally round up a bill in a bar or cafe and leave 5-10% extra on a restaurant bill. Taxi bills are usually also rounded up.
On guided tours/excursions, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide.
On small group escorted tours, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation to the driver and guide at the end of the tour.
The official language of Italy is Italian. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.
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