Inspired by Italy: Guide to Florence & Assisi

The historic centre of Florence contains so many masterpieces that it is difficult to separate the city from its art works. In 1982 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the motivation being that it encapsulates the whole history of the city. With its extraordinarily beautiful churches, its museums and art collections, gardens, piazzas, quaint streets and ancient palaces, Florence can justifiably be defined as an “open-air museum” – a work of art in its own right and a must visit when heading to Italy. After spending some time here, I have narrowed down my top 10 recommendations in this quick guide to Florence, with a lovely afternoon spent in Assisi.

1. Discover the Piazza della Signoria

The Piazza della Signoria has been the centre of political life in Florence since the 14^th century with the prominent Palazzo Vecchio overlooking the square. Incredible statues dominate the area, especially in the open air Loggia dei Lanzi, though most are drawn to the reproduction of Michelangelo’s David. I highly recommend spending some time here in the evening when the historic buildings are beautifully lit and the locals are gathering to start their fun (this square is often a meeting point before going out for dinner or the discos).

2. Have a cappuccino in the Piazza della Repubblica

Splurge a little and relax in one of Florence’s grand historic cafés in this beautiful square. And remember, if you want to save a bit, stand at the bar and enjoy your coffee, rather than sitting. It’s substantially cheaper. Do as the locals do and DON’T order a cappuccino after 10 a.m. In Italy, the cappuccino is a drink that’s only enjoyed in the morning because milk is thought to inhibit digestion.

3. Visit the Mercato Nuovo & Rub Il Porcellino

Right next to the Piazza della Repubblica you’ll find this adorable, sheltered market that is strictly leather goods – purses, wallets, bags, change purses, and other souvenirs. It is a bit more of a touristy spot but well worth a wander. And on the south side you can pay a visit to Florence’s most famous boar Il Porcellino. Put a coin in his mouth for good luck and then rub his nose to ensure you return to Florence again!

4. While away the hours in the Accademia & Uffizi galleries

Yes lines are typically long but these galleries are so worth it whether you are an art enthusiast or not…so get your tickets ahead of time!

DON’T MISS IN THE UFFIZI: Botticelli’s Primavera and Birth of Venus

DON’T MISS IN THE ACCADEMIA: Michelangelo’s David and Prisoners and Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines

5. Marvel at the Duomo from the inside and out

The 4th largest cathedral in the world stands tall over the city with its magnificent Renaissance dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral is a vast Gothic structure that wasn’t completed until the 19th century, with a beautiful marble exterior. Yes you can climb the 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s cupola for a fee but I recommend going up Giotto’s bell tower instead and seeing the dome itself, as well as, sweeping views of the city. Gorgeous!

6. Wander the Arno River and view the beauty of the old bridge – the Ponte Vecchio

This is a must see while visiting Florence. Initially occupied by Butchers, this bridge saw a revitalization thanks to the Medici family. They replaced the butchers with jewellers and today the shops still dominate the bridge. You can get some beautiful views of the bridge from the Arno and on the bridge itself. Also take note of Vasari’s Corridor and the private passageways on top of the bridge – this was to let the Medici family travel to and fro without having to walk among commoners!

7. Visit the Basilica of San Lorenzo and shop the Mercato nearby

Centered in the city’s market district is one of Florence’s largest churches. Most people are drawn here to see the Medici chapels in the apse, which are incredible, or to simply visit the crypt. A quick stop here can then lead you to some lovely shopping nearby at the Mercato di San Lorenzo. Here you’ll find a wealth of leather goods…and if there is one thing you leave Florence with, it’s leather. We even took a tour of one of the older leather manufacturers in the city and learned about the process before shopping in the delicious smelling store.

8. Take an Italian cooking class

This was one of my favourite things to do!! We were welcomed by Le Cordon Bleu for a delectable class where we made traditional bruschetta, pasta, and Tiramisu for dessert. I learned so much and then ate so much!

9. Eat as much Gelato as possible!

This goes without saying but, while on the subject of eating, gelato was a daily must. I could not get enough of it because only in Italy will it taste just this good.

10. Discover Florence’s Door Knockers

It seems a bit silly but I was captivated by all the ancient doors and the massive door knockers. They were pieces of art in their own right and I loved discovering them down quaint Italian streets. Try to stop and notice these delights on your visit 🙂

Option: Head to Assisi

A great option en route to Rome or even as a day trip is to head out to Assisi in the province of Perugia. Now the site of many a pilgrimage, Assisi is linked in legend with its native son, St. Francis. The gentle saint founded the Franciscan order and shares honours as the patron saint of Italy. He is remembered by many, even non-Christians, as a lover of nature (his preaching to an audience of birds is one of the legends of his life). But aside from the religious reasons, Assisi is a great place to visit because of its medieval masterpieces, picturesque location and small town charm.

Of obvious importance is the Basilica di San Francesco, the crowning glory of Assisi’s Unesco World Heritage ensemble. It’s divided into an upper church, the Basilica Superiore, and beneath, the older Basilica Inferiore. In the crypt, you can find the tomb of St. Francis himself. This place is well worth checking out; anyone can see its beauty and serenity. I absolutely adored walking the quaint side streets, finding charming shops and having a delicious lunch with sweeping views of the plains below. It was the perfect way to break up the journey to Rome and I would highly recommend a stop here.

xo K