Best of Florence: the historic cradle of Italy

Passionate about art and culture, the magic of Florence awaits you! A veritable cradle of the Renaissance in Italy, the "Bella" has a great cultural and artistic richness, classifying it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the middle of a green countryside, surrounded by hills and the Apennines, this city-museum is full of magnificent cathedrals, churches and monuments to admire in the footsteps of the Medici family.

Take the time to ride a bike in the heart of this jewel of art, history and elegance of Tuscany by walking the narrow streets towards the most picturesque neighbourhoods. In Piazza del Duomo, on the top floor of Giotto's Campanile, enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. On the outside, noble materials such as polychrome Florentine marble decorate the site of this religious building. And, next door, with a green, pink and white marble interior, the Duomo Cathedral, also Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, is a majestic monument with its renowned Brunelleschi dome.

During your Italian getaway, do not miss Piazza della Signoria, the historic heart with the must-see sculptures and the most famous square in the city. A real outdoor museum! In addition to the Fountain of Neptune and Michelangelo's marble replica of David, it is especially the mythical place where the Palazzo Vecchio designed by the architect Arnolfo di Cambio, author of the Cathedral, stands. Former residence of the Medici, this palace-fortress, the greater part of which is used as a museum, also includes the political heart of the city with the office of the mayor of Florence and the municipal council.

Before continuing your enchanting journey in this Italian city, treat yourself to a gourmet break. Indeed, in this cradle of ice, the family-run institutions offer you exquisite and typical flavours such as Tuscan rose, salted caramel or lavender. A culinary journey for your taste buds is guaranteed!

From paintings of the Middle Ages to the modern era, the Galleria degli Uffizi has, as for it, the most important collection of Renaissance art in the world with works by Michelangelo, Giotto or Leonardo da Vinci. One of the oldest and most famous artistic heritage in the world is thus exposed in the heart of this splendid monument. This Florence classic includes Botticelli's amazing Birth of Venus and will take you to another architectural gem. In Piazza Santa Croce, you will face the largest Franciscan church in Italy with exceptional stained glass and frescoes. In his heart, the tombs of Michelangelo, Dante Alighieri or even those of the famous Galilee face the spectacular frescoes of Giotto in the Gothic and sober style that the Basilica adorns.

But, do not go too far! The city still reserves you beautiful discoveries on the river Arno. Former butchers and fishmongers displayed their products in the old Ponte Vecchio from 1345 to the medieval arches. First to be born on the river, it now contains luxury shops selling gold and silver jewellery, while offering a magnificent view of the river and beyond. And on the roof, the Vasari Corridor is a passage that allowed the Medici to cross the river without being attacked by opponents. Stroll on this legendary footbridge!

At the end of the day, before the streets come to life with the passing of the night, go to the Mercato San Lorenzo to find some local products and local specialties to bring back as a souvenir. And, look out over the city, Southeast of Florence, in Piazza Michelangelo, which offers a view of the whole citadel from the Oltrarno district, on the edge of two beautiful gardens with seductive flowers.