Florence Hotels

Florence, Italy

The historic, miraculously attractive Italian city of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any lover of culture and beauty. It has Ancient Roman heritage, is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is one of the world’s fashion capitals.

Fashion and Shopping

It’s not hard to see why Florence is such a renowned destination for fashion fans; despite its small size, this city’s streets are lined with fashion boutiques and the locals have fantastic style. Major Italian fashion companies like Gucci, Roberto Cavalli and Emilio Pucci are headquartered in Florence, and the main shopping avenue for upscale spending is the Via de’Tornabuoni. Other popular shopping streets include Via del Parione and Via Roma.

One of the best-known little boutiques in town is Pitti Vintage, a shop that seeks out rare originals and authentic retro designer pieces for the discerning buyer. Run by Graciela Avendano, in this store vintage treasure hunters will find rhinestone jewelry, bathing suits, lingerie, handbags, gloves and even magazines from the 1950s and 60s.

For budget-friendly shopping, the area of Duomo is home to international designers and chain brands alike, as well as some other quirky additions, like the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo leather and souvenir market.

Sightseeing

Near Pitti Vintage is one of Florence’s most interesting sights: the Ponte Vecchio, or ‘Old Bridge’. It’s a medieval stone arch bridge over the Arno River, and remarkably, shops still occupy it. Jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers all have shops here, giving this stunning bridge the feel of a medieval Italian village.

The beautiful Romanesque palace known as Palazzo Vecchio is located near Ponte Vecchio. It’s one of the most impressive fortresses in Tuscany, and its Piazza della Signoria is one of the busiest public spaces in Florence. A replica of Michelangelo’s David can also be found here.

Another impressive piece of architecture is the Santa Maria Novella, a church filled with frescoes from the masters of the Gothic and early Renaissance eras. Impressive funerary monuments surround the whole structure. Florence Cathedral is also near Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Museum.

Tuscan Dining

Italy is well known for its incredible cuisine, and Florence is a prime example of why! The city has everything from trattorias to market stalls, and Tuscan food is the specialty. Affordable eats can be found at Trattoria Mario, a family restaurant that features classics like vegetable soup alongside boiled beef and tongue with parsley sauce. Another option is Il Vinaino; a tavern where cheap, delicious wine and tagliatelle covered in wild boar sauce is a favorite.

For more upscale dining, spectacular fare can be savored at restaurants such as Enoteca Pinchiorri, which is the only three-starred Michelin restaurant in Florence.

Planning a visit to beautiful Florence? Check out our wide range of affordable accommodation in this city.

Points of interest - Florence

Florence City Map