Firenze

Florence (Firenze) is not just "a beautiful Italian city": it is one of the most significant centres of the Renaissance, where art, architecture, and everyday urban life intertwine. The historic centre is compact, walkable, and almost every street corner offers something: a palace façade, a small square, a church, a craftsman’s workshop, or a view over the Arno that makes you naturally slow down. The city’s iconic focal point is the area around Piazza del Duomo: the dome of the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and its associated complex are both grand and intricate, so it’s worth not just "snapping a photo" but also taking time to soak in the atmosphere of the square. From here, it’s a natural progression to explore the inner city: Piazza della Signoria, with its outdoor sculptures and palaces, and then heading towards the Arno to the Ponte Vecchio – one of Florence’s most famous and distinctive bridges. Florence offers its fullest experience when you complement the classic sights with a "city-paced" half-day: for example, in the Oltrarno district, where the city feels less like a stage set and more lived-in and artisanal, or with a leisurely coffee–gelato–aperitivo trio that needs no justification. For art lovers, the museum offerings are world-class; the best strategy is often to choose 1–2 "major" museums in advance and pair them with churches, smaller exhibitions, and city strolls, so the day doesn’t feel too packed. When is the best time to visit? Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit Florence: better for walking, less heat, and the city feels more liveable. In summer, early mornings and late evenings are the best times, while in winter, it’s an excellent choice for a culturally focused, more relaxed city break. Sustainable tourism and Florence Florence’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes the city particularly sensitive to overuse, while also providing a strong framework for heritage protection. As a visitor, the most impactful decisions are simple: explore the city centre on foot and avoid car travel in the historic core (the ZTL/traffic restriction aims to ease the burden on the centre). Opt for timed entry tickets and less peak times, stay for 2–3 nights instead of just passing through, and include less crowded neighbourhoods alongside the classic spots. In recent years, Florence has introduced several measures to curb mass tourism (such as regulations to reduce the use of public key safes), signalling that the city prioritises liveability and heritage preservation. By choosing local artisans, small eateries, and responsible service providers, more of your spending stays within the community – a key element for the long-term sustainability of the cultural landscape and urban community. - editorial content -