You know those places you go and just instantly fall in love? That is how I feel about Florence with a permanent spot on my "will definitely go back to many times list." Let's jump straight into it with the best of Florence!
What to Do
The things you'll see on every guide but I have to mention...
Museums: Florence itself almost feels like a museum with so much beauty. Of course the Accademia Gallery to see the David is a must and for those who want more the Uffizi and Palazzo Vecchio which has beautiful statues outside of the museum too.
The beautiful duomo you can't miss it in the center of the city center the most beautiful church! If you don't mind stairs and tight spaces climb up the bell tower for a view of the city and trust me just seeing it from the outside is SO beautiful too!
More unique finds...
Truffle Hunting: This was such an amazing experience with the most hospitable hosts that took us through their forest to find truffles then have an amazing lunch of course topped with the truffles we found! In addition to the experience, they make and sell wine and truffle oil you can only get at their farmhouse. It was such a treat to experience. It is quite a bit of walking and in a brushy forest so come prepared! We learned each season produces different truffles and quantities (summer can sometime be more sparse)
Pasta Making Class: Another super fun find by this amazing son and mom duo who have opened up their home and beautiful backyard for us to experience an authentic pasta making class. We had so much fun drinking wine and learning about cooking techniques in such an authentic setting!
Explore Oltrarno/Santo Spirito: This neighborhood is my personal favorite in Florence! You'll cross Ponte Vecchio and voila you are in Oltrarno! I highly recommend coming here to wander around and definitely for drinks and dinner!
Find the Wine Windows: This became my obsession to find as many of these little windows that serve wine via a tiny window in the side of their building! This map shows where you can find them and highly recommend Babae's wine window!
Day Trip to Bologna: If you have extended time in Florence, take the train to Bologna known as the food capital of Italy and of course a food tour is a must! We loved this medieval town and thought a day trip was the perfect amount of time to see the sights and of course all the food!
Shopping: There are so many great places to shop in Florence I couldn't possible name them all but wanted to highlight my personal two favorites!
Massimo Leather: This is the real deal to finding Florentine leather goods. There are so many places to find great leather products but for guarantee authenticity and quality Maximo is where its at.
Il Papiro: Stationary lovers beware! This place maintains the tradition of paper marbling and has the most beautiful hand made stationary. Also if you email in advance you can take a paper marbling class! Yes please!
MG Design: We loved getting hand painted wine stoppers here for beautiful gifts to bring home.
Where to Stay
Hotel Spadai:right in the city center with huge rooms, breakfast included and such a great location.
Villa Cora: A bit outside of the city center but for a more quiet or romantic stay this place is not to be missed.
Where to Eat
Loggio Bar: Do not miss this beautiful rooftop bar on top of Hotel Palazzo Guaagini in Santo Spirito
Da' Vinattieri: Tucked away in an alley this is a must for paninis and doesn't have long lines like many of the other more famous spots in Florence.
Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina
Spirituum Spirits Club: Whatever you do - do not miss this place for a cocktail! You tell them what you like and they'll create. There is a small sign out front but you can look for their restaurant right next door called Hostaria da Fulvio
Divin Boccone: Amazing wine shop with an incredibly friendly owner and one of the most beautiful wine cellars you can sit and enjoy a drink in!
Bacco Mato: Small bistro in a great location with boutique shopping close by!
Have the absolute best time in this gem of a place and let me know your hidden Florence secrets too!