Tuscany's capital is widely renowned across the world for its beauty, history, and cultural magnificence. There are few places anywhere else on earth that boast such a meeting place of enticing offerings, and millions of visitors flock to Florence each year to enjoy the attractions. Staying in hotels, hostels, and holiday villas across the city, these patrons make their way through all of Florence's restaurants, museums, and churches.
Florence is referred to as "the cradle of the Renaissance", and the "Athens of the Middle Ages", and you'll know why the moment you step off the plane. The entire city is jam-packed with monuments, art and architecture that symbolize the best of that important period in European history.
The list of sights to see during your visit is long. The centerpiece of the city shouldn't be missed, however, so make sure to plan ample time for touring the Duomo, built by Filippo Brunelleschi. After that necessary stop, take the time to check out the various museums, including the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Palazzo Pitti. All are world-class exhibitions of Renaissance Art that display priceless pieces from the period.
The summer months are a wonderful time to visit Florence, but be prepared for temperatures to soar. You'll also have to deal with sky-high humidity. The best way to combat these conditions is with the rental of a vacation villa with a pool in Florence. After a long morning of touring through museums (which thankfully have air-conditioning), you can retire to your villa to relax away the rest of the day by the pool, letting the cold water soak the pain in your feet away.
As an alternative, you could also consider renting a place outside of the city. It's much cooler once you leave the city limits, so a holiday villa in the Florence hills could be the perfect answer to your problems. If you do go this route, you'll want to rent a car for private transportation, as buses are somewhat limited to the area. Of course, this is an attractive option anyway, because the wine of Chianti beckons tourists to leave the city for wonderful tours through the countryside.
Often, renting a villa can prove to be more economical than staying in a hotel, especially when traveling with a larger group such as your entire family. You'll have more space, comfort, and will likely enjoy a more authentic experience (with real Italian neighbors) than you would if you had stayed in a charmless international chain hotel. Renting a villa is easy and painless, and can often be done online without a problem.
Florence is one of the most beloved cities in all of Europe (and indeed the world), and for good reason. With all of the art, culture, food and wine you can handle, you're guaranteed a fabulous trip. After all that enjoyment, head back to your private Florence villa to spend the rest of the day and evening with the people you love the most.
Truly the best way to spend a vacation.
