| Florence, home of the Italian Renaissance, is | | | | |
| one of the most historic cities in Europe. It | | | | Anyone who is truly a lover of art will want |
| is the capital of the region of Tuscany and | | | | to visit this city. Florence is considered to |
| has a population of about four hundred | | | | be the birthplace of the Renaissance, and |
| thousand people. Florence lies on the Arno | | | | many of the greatest Italian masters worked |
| River and during medieval times were | | | | there. Of the one thousand most important |
| considered to be the premier financial center | | | | European artists in the last 900 years, over |
| of Europe. | | | | 300 of them either lived or worked in |
| | | | Florence at some point in their lives. |
| Florence is a very ancient city, which was | | | | |
| first established in 59 BC. It was at first a | | | | If you want to see beautiful Italian |
| settlement for Roman soldiers, and Julius | | | | architecture, you will want to see the |
| Caesar allowed the valley near the Arno to be | | | | Basilica di San Lorenzo. As can be expected, |
| settled by veterans close to him. The city | | | | Florence houses many art galleries and |
| was conquered by Charlemagne in the year 774, | | | | museums, which showcase Renaissance style |
| and was later ruled by the Medici family. | | | | artwork. While the city doesn't have much of |
| | | | a nightlife, there are a few cocktail bars |
| Florence is arguably one of the most | | | | where you can relax and unwind. |
| important cities in Italy next to Rome and | | | | |
| Milan. Despite its cultural impact on | | | | If you enjoy walking, you will want to take a |
| history, it is a modest and pleasant place to | | | | stroll along the Giardino di Boboli. It has |
| visit. Even today, the city continues to | | | | excellent views, which will amaze you. For |
| maintain the medieval feel, which it has had | | | | those that enjoy riding bikes, mountain bike |
| for centuries. | | | | tours are available so that you can get some |
| | | | fresh air and enjoy the landscape. |
| The best times to visit Florence are from | | | | |
| April to June. The weather is very opulent | | | | When you dine in Florence, you will taste a |
| during this time, and prices are lower with | | | | cuisine, which has a strong peasant |
| fewer tourists. If you come during the | | | | influence. Fresh fillings are mixed together |
| summer, expect to sweat a lot though you will | | | | to provide great tasting dishes. Florence is |
| witness many Renaissance festivals. The early | | | | a fairly expensive city, but backpackers and |
| part of December may also be a great time to | | | | budget travlers can get by if they cut a few |
| visit. | | | | corners. |