Florence is the beating heart of the Italian Renaissance, and its legacy is impossible to miss – you'll spot the influence of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci from the moment you arrive. As the capital of Tuscany, it draws travellers from all over the world in search of world-class art, architecture and history, and it's easy to see why. Whether you're planning a weekend city break or a longer family holiday, Florence has something for everyone.
The Duomo is impossible to miss, its vast terracotta dome dominating the skyline and visible from almost anywhere in the city – we'd always recommend climbing to the top if you can, since the views back over the rooftops are unbeatable. The Uffizi Gallery is home to one of the world's greatest art collections, including works by Botticelli and da Vinci, while the Accademia Gallery houses Michelangelo's David, one of the most recognisable sculptures ever created. Just across the Arno, the Piazzale Michelangelo offers one of the best sunset views in the city, looking back over Florence's terracotta rooftops as the sky turns gold.
Beyond the galleries, Florence has a wonderfully relaxed side too. Wander through the Oltrarno district for artisan workshops and quiet backstreets away from the crowds, or cross the Ponte Vecchio, the city's famous medieval bridge lined with jewellers' shops. And of course, no visit is complete without the food – think hearty bistecca alla Fiorentina, plates of pici pasta, and a glass of Chianti from the surrounding hills. Whether you're gallery-hopping, wandering cobbled streets, or watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence has a way of staying with you long after you leave.

