Florence Hotel Directory and Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Florence, you’ll find a delightful combination of touristy locations as well as local venues which are sure to please every person in your group! Whether you’re fascinated by art, history, museums or outdoor activities, Florence is guaranteed to offer something for everyone.  Beware of Stendhal syndrome, namely, dizziness caused by being overwhelmed by Florence's fantastic art. Yes, it's a real syndrome, named after 19th-century French author Stendhal, who suffered from it during his stay in Florence.

For a wide collection of art, you’ll want to visit the Museo Stibbert with more than 36,000 items including pictures, porcelain, Japanese art, Islamic Art as well as a wealth of costumes that tell their own stories.  The Galleria degli Uffizi, one of the greatest museums in the world originated in 1560 - collections date back as far as the 14^th century and include Medici collections as well as the famous Birth of Venus done by Botticelli.  There are many wonderful art museums in Florence; you’ll find every type of art from historic to modern.  Science lovers will be delighted with the Institute and Museum of the History of Science where you can see a variety of presentations, participate in interactive displays and find out anything you ever wanted to know about any type of science!

Palazzo Vecchio is adorned with fine art. The replica of Michelangelo's "David" is placed outside the main door in the original location of the statue; and a trip to the jewelry making home in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio Gioilli will surely not disappoint anyone!

For outdoor lovers, you will want to visit the Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace where you’ll find a garden that extends over a significant area and forms a museum of its own.  Basilica of San Miniato al Monte offers a look at the first Christian martyr in Florence - where you’ll enjoy breathtaking hillsides and scenic views. 

If you want to see some breathtaking sights at night, take a trip up Rampe di San Niccolo and check out the lights of Florence from the top!  The Pizalle Michelangelo also offers a wonderful view.  No matte where you head in Florence, you’ll be able to see art, drink, hear music, ship or take daytrips.  You will be planning your next visit before you even finish your vacation!

Shoppers will delight at the variety of papers, leathers, watches, Italian leather gloves and other treasures that can be found in the many shopping centers in Florence.  Beware: If the police catch you buying a knock-off version of something with a brand from a street vendor, you can be fined up to €10,000. You'll see plenty of people on the street selling imitation Gucci sunglasses, Rolex watches, and Prada purses for dirt cheap. It's okay if the item doesn't have a real brand on it, but buying a knock-off is illegal.

Food abounds everywhere you turn in Florence - just use some caution - many restaurants charge different prices for take out/eat in/stand up/sit down services - don’t ‘cross’ that line or you may be confronted! Whether you’re searching for a wonderful meal, a great pizza, or a decadent dessert you will find it all in Florence!