Welcome to Florence!
Benvenuti a Firenze
City of medieval wonderment and historical roots of the Renaissance period. It began as a Roman city, but after proving itself as one of the most important areas in banking and trade – it was reborn and is now referred to by many as the “Cradle of the Renaissance”. There are plenty of things to digest about the city, such as the history of the noble powerhouse famiglia Medici, works of artists like Brunelleschi and Michelangelo, as well as the impressive architectural heritage placed throughout the metropolitan area of about 1.5 million inhabitants. However, what you learn may inform you and make want to immerse yourself amongst the charismatic locals, but until you actually experience it for yourself…you can’t truly understand Florence in all its glory.
One of the best way to have the introduction into the Florentine atmosphere is a walking tour or, for who love wheels and adventurers, a city bike tour.
There is a passion that reigns in Firenze. Where the middle of the streets are strolled by all and sidewalks often seem extraneous. With each corner that is turned, there is a new Osteria to discover, a quiet but unmatched bakery to enjoy, and a lifelong friend to be made. The city prides itself on its welcoming arms and boasts one of the top visited locales the world over. Tourism is a leading industry here, and Florentines do an impeccable job of sharing the richness of their culture and educating you on what makes them tick.
As the capital of the Italian region of Toscana, much importance is placed not only on the city center and happenings in each piazza, but in it’s surrounding areas too. Smaller towns like Fiesole, houses one of the most amazing views of city and it’s major attraction, the Duomo. It is the perfect place to sit outside and take in the city with fewer tourists around yet still an amazing glass of vino and clean country air. Additionally, the region of Chianti is just a quick ride away but gives you the feeling of total escapism. Their bragging rights include authentic Chianti wines (a true blend of at least 80% Sangiovese grapes and a combination of others) and Extra Virgin Olive Oils that are often imitated, but can never be duplicated. It’s just as easy to hop a train to famed surrounding cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice – making Florence the hub of accessibility in the great country of Italia.
Florence is truly the mecca of all things Italian. Fresh food, fine fashion, the best gelato, and guided tours of everything there is to see…it’s the place where people unexpectedly and wholeheartedly fall in love. With the culture, with the people, with the history, and of course with the wine and food. The authenticity of this city will leave you awe struck and hungry for knowledge and experience, unlike anywhere else in the world.
Welcome to Florence. Where people come to understand the true meaning of la dolce vita. Where the allure of the language will make you want to learn it, although the authentic Florentine tongue is of no use outside the country. The cultural vacuum will suck you in and stay with you always.
You may have to leave it one day…but trust me when I say, it’ll never leave you.
