As you would expect of the city that served as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is awash with iconic architecture, art and fascinating historical artefacts from this astonishing period in European history. Surrounded by the fertile hills of Tuscany, fresh local produce also means this is a foodie destination you’ll relish sinking your teeth into.
The great rebirth
The Uffizi Gallery is considered the first modern museum and houses the world’s largest collection of Renaissance art. Its most famous work is undoubtedly Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Take a moment to ponder the artistry on show in the depiction of the goddess arriving at the shore following her birth.
The world-renowned Galleria dell’Accademia provides another treasure trove of Renaissance art. It’s here that you can witness the perfection of Michelangelo’s Statue of David up close. Standing at over 4m tall, this masterpiece in gleaming white marble is more like a Goliath than a David.
Rustic food
Strolling through galleries and navigating the narrow streets of the Centro Storico can be hungry work. Luckily, Florence is packed with delicious fare to excite your taste buds.
Fresh fruit and vegetables grown in the bountiful terra of Tuscany can be bought at Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo. Wandering through this bustling market gives you a snapshot into the life of Florentines. Sample fine local cheeses, cured meats and juicy olives. The gourmet food hall on the upper level is the ideal spot for lunch.
Take a step even closer to the source by driving out of the city and foraging for your own food. The area around Florence is teeming with truffles and you can try your hand at hunting for this culinary gold yourself.
Tour the beautiful woodland near San Miniato (a 45-minute drive from Florence) with a professional truffle hunter and unearth some of these rich, succulent goodies.
Tuscan road trip
To experience a different pace of life away from the city, strike out for the Tuscan countryside.
Head down the autostrada to Siena and watch the stunning countryside of Chianti roll by. Verdant hills topped with terracotta towns bring to life the idyllic Tuscany you’ve glimpsed in guide books.
Siena’s main cathedral is worth a visit for the Biblioteco Piccolomini alone. This small library on the side of the main building has colourful frescoes adorning its walls, while glimmering illuminated manuscripts line the cabinets. Stop for a rich Italian coffee in the timeless Piazza Campo and watch the world go by.
On the way to or from Siena pause in the perfectly preserved medieval town of San Gimignano, another UNESCO protected site. Known as the “town of one hundred towers”. It’s not hard to spot why – the town’s ancient preserved tower houses stretch their way towards the sky.
If you’re feeling energetic, clamber up the 200 steps to the top of the City Hall tower. The climb is worth it – you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the rustic townscape and the lush greenery beyond.
Whether you come for the food, the art or the history, Florence will leave an impression you will never forget. With a Hertz hire car, Florence doesn’t have to be your only adventure – venture further afield and see more of the bountiful treasures Tuscany has to offer.
