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Set on the River Arno, surrounded by the wine growing hills of Chianti, Florence is a compact city with so much to offer and it is all easily reached from your Florence accommodation either on foot or by bus. Just taking a stroll from your accommodation in Florence will find you admiring the sculptures of Michelangelo, the architecture of Brunelleschi or the paintings of Botticelli.

Although Florence is primarily a tourist destination, the Italian city is a popular destination for business travellers too. As a major fashion city, Florence is home to some of the most famous names in the trade including Salvatore Ferragamo, along with a number of designers who have large offices and boutiques in the city – Gucci, Prada and Roberto Cavalli. When visiting on business comfortable, stylish accommodation in Florence offers you a welcome home away from home in the heart of the city.

When you have seen the sights, wandered the museums and admired the architecture of the historic centre why not venture a little further afield from your Florence accommodation and see some of what the rest of Tuscany has to offer. Key transport links close to your accommodation in Florence are waiting to whisk you away to the Torre Pedente (Leaning Tower) of Pisa, the Gothic delights of Siena or the wine lands of Chianti.



Did You Know?

Brunelleschi’s dome on the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore was the first dome in history to be built without a supporting frame. Containing over 4 million bricks it was the largest dome at the time and remains today the largest masonry dome in the world.


Climate/Weather

Florence benefits from a Mediterranean climate of hot, humid simmers and cool, damp winters. Summer temperatures range between 17°c (63°f) and 31°c (88°f) where as winter temperatures fluctuate on average between 1°c (34°f) and 10°c (50°f).


Sightseeing

There is so much to be seen and done in Florence that you will be truly spoilt for choice. Here are some of the highlights:

•    Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square) – here you will find the famous Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, the Campanile (bell tower), the Baptistery and the charming statue of Brunelleschi looking up at his beautiful dome.
•    Ponte Vecchio – the oldest and most famous bridge over the River Arno.
•    Santa Croce – this church houses the tombs of many greats including Galileo, Michelangelo and Machiavelli.
•    Palazzo Vecchio – the old city palace has the replica of Michelangelo’s David outside the main door, in the same location as the original statue.
•    Santa Maria Novella – this impressive church is a definite must-see.
•    Boboli Gardens – beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains and stunning city views.
•    Pizzale Michelangelo (Michelangelo Square) – this plaza on top of a hill offers impressive views of the city below.


Getting Around

Florence has quite a compact city centre which is easy to navigate on foot. There are, however, a number of transport options for when your feet get tired.
•    Bus – a comprehensive network covers the city. Tickets are valid for 70 minutes allowing you to hop on and off as often as you like within the time. Passes are available including a 24 hour and three day pass.
•    Taxi – can be hailed from the street but are best caught from taxi ranks outside the main tourist destinations.


Eat/Drink

Everything from fine dining to take-away food is available in Florence. However, there are some local specialities that are well worth a try:
•    Bistecca alla Fiorentina – a sizeable t-bone Chianina steak cut to size, between 500 and 1000 grams, then cooked over charcoal.
•    Crostini Toscani – sliced bread with Tuscan liver pâté.
•    Tagliata – slices of rare beef served on rocket with slices of parmesan cheese on top.
•    Ribollita – famous Tuscan soup consisting of bread, cannellini beans and vegetables.
•    Lampredotto – famous Florentine fast food. A kind of tripe boiled in a tomato and herb sauce, served in a Tuscan roll then dipped in broth. Often served with a mild green parsley or basil based sauce.
•    Gelato (Italian ice cream) – Florentine gelato is said to be some of the best in Italy. Try a unique flavour such as watermelon, sparkling wine or garlic.