Florence

Florence is one of the "must see" destinations of Italy. As the center of the Renaissance, Florence produced a staggering amount of the world's greatest works of art and architecture. From Michelangelo's Statue of David at the Accademia, to Leonardo Da Vinci's works at the Uffizi museum, to the elegant Ponte Vecchio bridge, and the awe-inspiring Duomo cathedral, Florence is a living museum of Western culture. Visitors should take a walking tour of central Florence, then venture across the river for the less touristed Oltrarno district, filled with artisan shops, quiet churches and the bizarre Museo Specola. But don't think Florence's ...

Florence is one of the "must see" destinations of Italy. As the center of the Renaissance, Florence produced a staggering amount of the world's greatest works of art and architecture. From Michelangelo's Statue of David at the Accademia, to Leonardo Da Vinci's works at the Uffizi museum, to the elegant Ponte Vecchio bridge, and the awe-inspiring Duomo cathedral, Florence is a living museum of Western culture. Visitors should take a walking tour of central Florence, then venture across the river for the less touristed Oltrarno district, filled with artisan shops, quiet churches and the bizarre Museo Specola. But don't think Florence's sights end with the 16th century. Ferragamo's fashion empire headquartered here is as timely as this spring's fashions. Leather, shoes, art, and jewelry all make Florence a shopping destination. Florence is also justly famous for its cuisine — be sure to try some Bistecca Fiorentina steak, to be washed down with local Chianti wine and homemade Gelato. A large international student community makes for lively nightlife, and a good selection of language and arts classes for visitors.

About the Expert

Bill Fink is coauthor of Pauline Frommer's Italy, contributing the introduction, sections on Tuscany and Umbria, and chapters on Italian food, arts, and history.