Ah, Florence! They say it's heaven on earth.
A home of the most famous family in the world, a city soaked in art, history and awe.
We rented a little apartment in the little streets behind the duomo and started exploring right away. The views can take your breath away and the red roofs make you feel like you just got on a time machine.
The little streets carry stories from different times and the pavements are the same on which great artists used to roam.
There are so many things to do in Florence, but I put my ultimate favourite for you:
1. Get lost in the little streets and have aperitivo in a small bar.
In Italy the afternoon drink is a sacred tradition. You sit in a centuries old bar and order peritivo, while the waiter brings free nibbles on your table. If this is not the perfect intro to dinner, then what is it?
2. Taste a bit of Italy at the Mercato Centrale.
An incredible selection of Street Food stalls that let you try various italian dishes. The funky design of the place makes the experience even more special. Read more on where to eat here.
3. Take a photo from the Giotto Bell Tower with the duomo behind you.
Climbing that tower is claustrophobic, damp and dark, but every next terrace with a view gives you strength to keep climbing. Once you reach the top you know it was all worth it.
4. Learn about Bruneleschi from the Sculpture museum.
Get a tour guide (or audio guide) and learn all about the life and art of this genius man that created the Duomo.
5. Eat ice-cream from Venchi.
Hazelnut is my favourite. With chocolate cone of course! And what about the chocolate waterfall running down the wall. Can I have that too?
6. Find the century and a half old tag on one of the fracas at San Miniato Al Monte.
Away from the tourist hoards and selfies sticks, this place is a little peaceful spot. It has one of the best views in Florence and you would want to stay there the whole day.
Hint: the sign of a young soldier is on one of the frescoes on the right side of the wall.
7. Buy food and wine made by the priests.
The church has a little shop with goods made by the priests. It has odd hours so make sure to visit while its open!
8. Eat butter chicken and wild strawberries cake at the Trattoria Sostanza.
Out of this world! You think its impossible that a piece of chicken changes your life. Go there and you will know.
9. Go on a hunt to find the speakeasy bar Rasputin.
Looking for some adventure? You can find the approximate location of the bar, but no one will tell you where it is. You will have loads of fun searching for it and once you find it, you will feel silly that you haven't noticed the entrance earlier, while you were strolling 5 times along the same street. Click here for a hint.
10. Expore the oldest part of Florence on the other side of the river.
Feel the real spirit of Florence as it once was. Breathe in the air and notice all the small details that you pass.
