Florence

Florence, Italy, is one of the most romantic cities on earth. Visitors can walk along the Arno river, or explore exquisite gardens while enjoying the company of that special someone.

Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens are an extension of the Pitti Palace. Water trickles from fountains, music to the ears. Be sure to look closely at the magnificent statues and visit the amphitheater. If you make it to the top, you will gaze in wonder at the spectacular view of Florence. The gardens rise toward the top where you will pass an 18th century coffeehouse. There are several paths to choose from. Some pass the spectacular Neptune Fountain.

Four Must-See Places in Florence

For tourists, the best months to visit the breathtaking city of Florence are May, June, September and October. That is because the days are warm and long. Other months are very humid and Italians tend to leave, making restaurants close. It is the largest city in Tuscany and is famous for its art and history. Many of the finest museums in the world (Uffizi, Galleria dell'Accademia) are home here. But the art, the food, even the rich tapestry of history doesn't hold a candle to Florence's most awe inspiring touch. That touch grabs you around sundown when the entire city has a glow of rich amber. It is worth the trip alone. So if you are planning on heading to Italy, here are four great little vacation stops to make Florence a find.

Sights of Florence, Tuscany


Church of Santa Maria Novella

Begun in 1246 for Dominican friars, the church was completed in 1360. The white and green marble Gothic-Romanesque fasade was completed by Leon Battista Alberti who designed the upper part. Inside the church there are splendid masterpieces including "The Trinity" by Masaccio, frescoes by Filippino Lippi and Ghirlandaio in the Tornabuoni chapel, a Crucifix by Giotto and a wooden Crucifix by Brunelleschi. Next to the church is the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, where perfumes, soaps and fragrances are made and sold, while Palazzo Strozzi is one of the finest expressions of Renaissance architecture.

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