About Florence
Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region. It is one of the most important and historic cities in the country. This city is full of stunning Renaissance-style buildings, including stunning churches and impressive palaces. This city is rich in cultural atmosphere and not much has changed since the 16th century. Standing along the banks of the Arno River, it is among extensive Italian olive groves and vineyards. This amazing place continues to overwhelm tourists with its sheer beauty. The mail attraction here is the Basilica of Santa Croce and the famous Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore. Tourist information center is available everywhere in Florence with official tourism outlets in Borgo Santa Croce and Piazza.
Some facts
As a general rule, visitors to the city will find that Florence hotels are expensive. However, there are often great deals on hotels. Florence hotels are like star rating system, with the top rated hotels offering the ultimate in luxury. At the cheaper end of the accommodations in Florence has the basic hostel and pension (guest house) rooms as well. Finding accommodation is bit difficult during the high season (July to August). It is advisable to book your hotel in advance and particularly in the high season.
As in countless large cities, Florence locates around a great river the Arno River. There are many cross-over bridges in many places. But undoubtedly the largest of all bridges is the Ponte Vecchio. This three-arched bridge is the oldest bridge in Florence and is full of shops mainly jewelers and goldsmiths.
The powerful Medici family, who came to power in the 1530s and became governor of Florence for more than hundred years. They commissioned some particularly grand buildings, squares and gardens that still stand, exuding opulence and character. Many of Italy’s most famous artists have also been involved in the design and creation of art and interiors found in Florence, including Michelangelo, Donatello, and Leonardo Da Vinci.
Attractions of Florence city
Among the many tourists attractions of Florence Duomo is the main attraction point of tourists. The Bargello (Italian national museums), the Uffizi (Oldest gallery in the world), Palazzo Vecchio, santa Maria Novella (probably the most important Gothic church in Tuscany) and the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence (if only to see Michelangelo’s “David”). State museums offer a discount to EU citizens under the age 25 and over 65, while anyone under the age of 20 automatically receives a discount at city-run museums.
The center of this city is quite compact and many of its main attractions are accessible on foot. Visitors who choose to use Italian public transport here will find the orange buses of the ATAF service are reliable and reasonably. Alternatively, one can take white taxis at official taxi stands are expensive. The city has two large airports, Pisa International Airport and Florence Airport, both within easy reach of the city center.