The Best of Florence in 5 Steps

It’s not just the city of flowers. It’s not just the cradle of the Renaissance. Florence is a lot more. It’s the best-known city in the Italian Tuscany, and most of all, its works of art tend to be found in the privileged parts of art history books. Florence is much more than a giant museum but its art pieces have earned it international renown. Rome has nothing on Florence. And anyone who disagrees doesn’t really know the city. I propose discovering Florence in just 5 steps.

1.Michelangelo’s David, Up Close

Art history books are full of references about this stylized muscular white marble statue 5.17 meters high. An imposing David depicted at the moment before his famous confrontation with Goliath. And though many think that Michelangelo’s David is kept in a Roman museum, that is not the case. In fact, it’s a very common mistake. Its true home is the Galleria dell’Accademia, where it can be viewed since 1873. Prior to that it was exhibited at the Ponte Vecchio and at the Piazza della Signoria, but the wind and the effects of the weather forced this art piece to be moved to safety.

2.Step into the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Halfway between Gothic and Renaissance art, this impressive temple has become a true symbol of the city itself. Did you know that it was built over the former Cathedral of Santa Reparata? It’s true. It was too small to house all the faithful that came to visit it, and so it was decided that it should be built anew. As it stands now, it is the fourth largest church in the Planet, after Saint Peter’s (The Vatican). And a tip: if you are up for climbing over 430 stairs, I recommend visiting Brunelleschi’s great brick dome. It may seem like a workout but your efforts will be rewarded.

3.A Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)

A leisurely walk along Florence’s most famous bridge is one of the first things you should do when you get there. You should not only know that it crosses over the Arno River, and that it is one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe, but also that it remains a symbol of romanticism to this day. It’s common for Federico Moccia’s fans to take a peek there. Each year thousands of lovers hang their love padlocks in order to perpetuate their love. Such has been the success of the book, that city authorities have been forced to remove the padlocks from time to time due to safety concerns, and also to clean up the area. Nowadays, besides padlocks you’ll also find dozens of jewelry stores: it’s the start point of the street of gold and silver.

4.Taste the Best Pizza in Town

Do you like spongy pizza dough? There are none as spongy as that of Pizzeria Spera. A small establishment that started out as a family business has now become a true culinary reference in Florence. And it’s not me saying it, but a number of rankings place it at number one. Such is its popularity that it has even won a number of international awards. So if you want to try the best Neapolitan-Florentine pizza, here are the coordinates: Via della Cernaia.

5.Get Lost in the Markets

You can’t leave Florence without visiting its markets. Flower, handicrafts, astronomical, and art markets. My suggestion is to at least make a stop at the Central Market (specializing in food), San Lorenzo Market (where you can buy clothing or leather goods) and the Flea Market (to buy antiques, furniture, jewelry, stamps and coins). You’ll have a great time shopping, and most importantly, you’ll get to know Florence through its markets.