May 5th - 6th + 8th, 2019
We arrived in Florence by train from Innsbruck, which was lovely. Italian trains are wonderful and the trip through the Austrian Alps and the Dolomites (Italian Alps) is magical. You’ll pass somewhere around 13 castles on the way, changing in cultural architecture as you go. Through vineyards, past waterfalls, over lakes, alongside rivers, and all incased among miles and miles of mountains, it truly is a glorious experience.
Florence is marvelous. The people, the buildings, the history, and the food. You’ll love it. Sitting in the center of the city is the crown jewel of Florence, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo di Firenze). Sitting atop the cathedral is the famous dome masterpiece, which builders at the time didn’t know who to actually construct, but did so against all odds and feats anyway. The history behind it is truly amazing and filled with hundreds of years of scandal, bankrolling from the Pope, and integrating the renowned Medici Family of Florence.
There are days and days worth of sites to see in Florence, so plan accordingly. My recommendations? Spend plenty of time seeing the Duomo. There are 5 different attractions involved: the Cathedral, the Dome, the Baptistery, the Bell Tower, the Crypt, and the Museum. If you’re short on time, definitely make the Dome and Bell Tower the priority. You’ll enter the Bell Tower from the Bell Tower itself and climb hundreds of steps to the top. This is by far the best view, because you get 360 degree views of the city unobstructed and you get a grew view of the dome itself. You don’t need a reservation to do so and line typically isn’t that long. The Dome itself requires you to make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance, but I would schedule a few days out to get the time you want. The climb up is quite strenuous and in cramped quarters, but amazing from the top. You can also see 360 degree views of the city and the Bell Tower. I would actually preference going up in the Bell Tower because the Dome is cooler to look at, plus you don’t need a reservation and the line isn’t long. To see all 5 attractions of the Duomo, it’s best to buy the Il Grande Museo Del Duomo pass. It gets you into all 5 attractions for 18 Euros. You can buy it online, or at the Museum across the street from the Duomo.
Make sure to make your way across town to the Piazzale Michelangelo for amazing views of the city at sunset. See the photo at the top of this page? Yeah, that’s the view you’ll get and it’s amazing. To see the famous Statue of David, get in line at the Gallery of Academia (Galleria dell’ Accademia). I’ve always wanted to see it, but was blown away when I walked into that room. I had no idea how massive it is and the overwhelming skill it took to create such a masterpiece. You’ll see other beautiful works of art on the walk through the Gallery, but the Statue of David will stop you in your tracks.
We ran out of time to see the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi), but it’s one of the most famous museums/art galleries in the world and I’ll make it my first stop when I’m back in Florence. Definitely see the Palazzo Vecchio and the countless statues in the plaza around it.
You HAVE TO get a local sandwich at All'Antico Vinaio in the center of the city. It’s remarkably only 5 Euros and one of the best meals you’ll have, even among pricier options. Don’t go to Florence looking for pizza or pasta, because it’s known for it’s Florentine beef (and other meats). At All'Antico Vinaio, the sandwiches are made on local bread called “schiacciata,” smeared with cream cheese, olives, pestos, thinly shaved meats, and more. Friends, my Mom and I went there 3 times because we just couldn’t get over it. It’s a must!
Florence is glorious, plain and simple. Make sure to spend at least 3-4 days there!
