Six things to do in Florence, Italy!

As we have just arrived back from there, we can confirm that Florence, the cradle of art par excellence is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Not only because it is full of history – it is the city of Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael -but also because it’s at the same time such a modern and dynamic town. There is definitely a mystical and magical atmosphere there.

So if you plan on a great holiday, why not visit Florence- armed with our guide of top six things to do:

IL Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

It is Florence’s most popular monument and the symbol of the city. It was designed by Andrea Brunelleschi. The facade, built at the end of the 19th century by architect Emilio De Fabris, is made of three types of marble, the Carrara white, Prato green and Maremma red. We can honestly say that is one of the most beautiful Cathedrals that we have ever seen in our life!

Giotto’s Bell Tower

The construction of the 85 meter tall tower was started by Giotto in 1334 and finished by Andrea Pisano and Francesco Talenti in 1359. You really should climb the approximately 400 steps (we didn’t get the exact number because at some point we gave up counting). From the top you can see the whole city and it is well worth the effort.

Get serious about pasta

Please try every sort of pasta over there! It’s the most delicious pasta that we have ever tried! The most simple types are the best. We fell in love with the pasta al pomodoro (tomato) accompanied simply with a divine olive oil and some parmesan. After a big dish, take a walk to digest, but don’t forget to stop at one of the numerous home-made ice-cream makers.

Visit the Galleria degli Uffizi

It is one of the most famous museums in the world where you can discover portraits of the Medicis family and will see the most important paintings of Renaissance art. The museum not only holds antique sculptures, but also thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times. You can admire, among others, the wonderful Allegory of Spring by Botticelli, the Annunciation of Leonardo Da Vinci and our favorite, The Birth of Venus by Botticelli which is the perfect representation of feminine beauty.

Shop till you drop

Florence is one of the fashion capitals of the world,  so it’s also time to get your fill of fashion in the numerous fine shops. We were there during the sale, so you can imagine that we have some new Lui Jo clothes in our wardrobe.

Take a walk on the oldest bridge of the city, Ponte Vecchio (built in 1345)

You could just have a look at the jewellery shops, see watercolor artists painting the Arno River and its beautiful background, then sip a great cappuccino at one of the numerous cafes. If you are lucky (or not, depending on your taste) you could be disturbed by a Hindu music group parading in the street that might invite you to dance with them! ( True story)

Lindsay POUI-DI