“Open my heart and you will see engraved inside of it, Italy.”
– Robert Browning
World-famous for its art, history and culture, Florence is one of the most visited and popular European destinations. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Italy. Located in the picturesque Tuscany region, Florence is home to iconic landmarks and magnificent masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture.
Fun Florence and Tuscany Attractions
Florence
Visit the Accademia Gallery (pictured below) to see the world-famous statue of “David” by Michelangelo. Although there are replica’s of this famous statue, nothing beats seeing the real thing. Visit the Uffizi Gallery, one of Florence’s most popular tourist attractions. Admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Tour the Bargello Museum to see popular works of art, including Michelangelo’s masterpieces – Bacchus, Pitti Tondo (Madonna and Child), Brutus and David-Apollo. See beautiful mosaic artwork inside the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, just a few steps away from the Uffizi. Museo Galileo houses exhibits that include many ingenious scientific gadgets and the most famous bottle in Florence, containing one of Galileo’s fingers. Don’t miss walking across the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge (pictured at top). It’s packed with jewelry shops and vendors selling Italian leather, paintings, and Venetian gifts and souvenirs.
Pisa
If you’re visiting Florence, hop on a train and get off at Pisa; it’s only about an hour away. Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower of Pisa, a freestanding bell tower, located behind Pisa’s Cathedral. The leaning tower got its name soon after its construction in 1173, when the foundation sank, causing the tower to lean. It stands (or rather “leans”) at about 185 feet. During our visit to Pisa years ago, we climbed all of the tower’s 294 steps to the top of the bell tower. It was quite a hike, but the view was worth it 🙂
Siena
Tuscany is considered by many to be the most beautiful region in Italy. And Siena is one of its most popular cities. Famous for its Italian architecture, Siena’s attractions include its famous cathedral Duomo and the The Palazzo Pubblico in the Piazza del Campo town square. Tuscany’s scenic rolling hills, enchanting landscapes, vineyards, medieval castles, Italian cuisine, and warm hospitality makes it a perfect Tuscan vacation.
Umbria
Umbria, the “green heart of Italy” and home to the famed medieval city of Assisi (St. Francis of Assisi), is renowned for its beautiful countryside and fine wines. The picturesque region is a fun place to go wine-tasting.
Book Florence and Tuscany Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Take a Renaissance Walking Tour through the streets and piazzas of Florence. Visit famous museums, churches and historical landmarks, such as the Duomo Museum, Giotto’s Tower, Medici Chapels and the Museum of San Marco. Explore Florence attractions on an open-air Double-Decker Bus and hop-on-and-off at your leisure. It’s a wonderful way to see Florence. Take a Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscan Farmhouse and enjoy a 3-course meal with wine or beer. Tour includes a recipe booklet for you to take home and practice your culinary skills. Book a fun Tuscany in One-Day Sightseeing Tour from Florence. Your guided tour takes you through Siena, with a visit to the gothic Cathedral. Travel to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Take a Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with optional hiking. Explore the five scenic fishing villages of Italy on this fun guided tour. Take a Cooking Class & Market Tour in Florence. Tour includes a visit to Central Market to select local ingredients for your lunch. Learn how to make Tuscan favorites such as bruschetta, homemade pasta, and tiramisu from expert chefs. Buon appetito!
Find Florence Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Find Pisa, Siena and Tuscany Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Book Your Florence and Tuscany Vacation
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The Best Time To Visit Florence and the Tuscany Region
The best time to visit Florence and the Tuscany region is during late Spring (April-early June) and Fall (September-October) when temperatures are relatively mild and crowds are at a minimum (except during Easter). Summer months (June, July and August) are peak travel times. Be prepared for hot weather and crowds. Winter months can also be good times to visit Florence. There are less crowds (except during Christmas and New Year’s Eve), but the weather can be a little unpredictable.