The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy - A Tourist Study of the Masters

A statue of Leonardo outside the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, based upon contemporary descriptions. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Portrait of Cardinal Leopoldo de' Medici (1617-1675) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Detail of: Portrait of Pope Leo X and his cousins, cardinals Giulio de' Medici and Luigi de' Rossi. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Pietro de' Medici. Uffizi Gallery, Florence. Don Pietro de' Medici (1554–1604) was a son of Cosimo I de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and Eleonora di Toledo. He married Eleonora di Garzia di Toledo, whom he strangled in 1576 for adultery. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Statue of Leonardo da Vinci ...by himself ? In front of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Uffizi Gallery, Florence (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Florence (Photo credit: ChrisYunker)

By []Jeff Titelius

Care to journey back to the 13th century to study the master artists of Florence in one of the most famous art collections in the world? How would you like to get up close and personal with Giotto, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini, Caravaggio and the Medici? What about traveling through time from the Gothic era, to the Renaissance, to the High Renaissance and finally to the Baroque? Well, read on to see how we spent our first day in the Renaissance City of Florence! And if Florence is in your travel plans, be sure to read this article for it not only provides a lesson in art history, it features helpful planning tips to help make the most of every vacation moment.

We started out the first day in Florence at the Uffizi Gallery at 8:30am, the time of our reservation. What do I mean by reservation? After reading this, you will understand fully. When we arrived at the Uffizi courtyard, the center of a giant "U" which is surrounded by the three wings of the museum, we found the entrance line stretching from Entrance #1 on one side of the street, winding down toward the Arno River and then back up the other side of the street to Entrance #3 where you actually enter the museum to begin your tour. If you don't have a reservation in hand or are not part of a group, this line will eat up 2-3 hours of your day. This is precisely why we had ours. And to help you, I will explain how to get your reservations later. Needless to say, we bypassed the line and arrived at Entrance #3 where we picked up our actual tickets and proceeded to the museum entrance. We were inside in less than five minutes.

Before we begin our journey through the museum, let me share a short history lesson on the Uffizi Gallery. Established by the Medici in 1581, this world famous museum was originally commissioned by Cosimo I in 1560, the patriarch of the Medici family, and designed by Georgio Vasari, a very well known artist of the day and one of Cosimo's favorites. The edifice was intended to serve as offices or uffizis for the high-ranking magistrates of Florence. Over time, the Medici amassed a large collection of artwork; either purchased or commissioned, and stored them here, some in especially elaborate rooms such as the Tribuna, the red walled octagonal shaped room that houses some of the Medici's most prized collections. When the Medici fell out of power, Anna Maria Luisa, the last Medici heiress, established the museum through a family pact that stated all of her possessions were never to leave Florence and then opened up the museum to the public in 1765. The rest, as they say, is history.

We began our journey a little winded after ascending three very long staircases to the top landing where you are greeted by the "family", busts of the prominent members of the Medici Family. And there is very good reason because as you tour the museum, you begin to understand just how influential this family was throughout their "reign" of Florence, so to speak, and the legacy they left behind.

After surrendering your ticket, you begin in the 13th century Gothic art rooms. Like the Vatican, the Uffizi too has quite a collection of this fascinating two-dimensional artistic style of painting that features prolific amounts of gold throughout the works. Lacking in most of the art of this time was perspective, an idea born of a Renaissance man some 300 years later -- Brunelleschi in the 15th century and demonstrated later by Masaccio in his Holy Trinity, a fresco on the inside western wall of the Santa Maria Novella.

From here, the rooms travel through the centuries and you will discover Botticelli's "Primavera" and "Birth of Venus." Strikingly beautiful, the "Birth of Venus" is rich in color and tells the story of Venus who arrives on the first day of creation, floating in a shell with the winds, Zephyr and Aura blowing her ashore. To her right, is one of the Three Graces, who is ready to offer her capes to provide her cover in her modest state.

As you continue your journey, you will come upon Michelangelo's "Doni Tondo", a painting of the Holy Family completed in the early 16th century and during the transitional phase from the "Renaissance" period to that of "Mannerism", around 1520. Giotto, Lippi, Carravagio, Raphael (Self Portrait), Leonardo (the unfinished Adoration of the Magi, Annunciation), Titian (Venus d'Urbino) Piero Della Francesca (Duke of Urbino), Parmigianino (The Madonna of the Long Neck) and countless others are all here and you'll discover them too throughout your tour. There are also rooms of Italian sculptures where you'll find Bernini's statue of The Martyred St. Lawrence. And you'll happen upon the Tribuna Room that I mentioned before, an octagonal shaped room with vivid red walls that houses the Medici's most treasured and valuable pieces. With so much to explore, the museum offers hours of contemplation for those who appreciate the fine artistry on display here.  

As you weave in and out of all of the connecting rooms, be sure to notice the ceilings in the outer hallways. What are known in the artistic world as "grotesques", not because of the subject matter but of the origin of the art form itself, are frescos painted in the 16th and 17th centuries. This style of painting derives its name from where they were first discovered, on the ceilings of grottos, hence "grotesques".

At last, we have almost completed our tour and here we are in the 18th Century. But, before we leave the centuries behind, there is one fascinating element of this museum that I want to share with you, a spectacular walkway known as the Vasari Corridor, which was designed by the artist in 1565 as a wedding present to Francesco I de Medici and Joan of Austria. This "secret passageway" stretches from the Uffizi Gallery, down along the Arno River, across via the Ponte Vecchio, and finally adjoins the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens in Oltrarno (other side of Arno). It was reserved exclusively for the Medici who traveled this kilometer long passageway by pulling themselves by hand along its entire length. Dismaying as it may be, this clandestine corridor is not open to general public. However, if your one of the lucky ones who may traverse its path as part of a special group or school tour, you're in for a real treat.

Now that we are at the end of our first tour in Florence, allow me to impart a few essential planning tips. Before you leave, investigate the places you plan to visit via online and printed resources. Also, check out the many tour websites that feature group and private tours of the city, the churches, the museums and other popular sights. Although a few hours in length, these tours are a great introduction for the first time visitor.

We booked our tour, almost a full day, through   rel=nofollow [http://www.tours-italy.com/florence-city_tours-day_tour_florence.htm#/]Avventure Bellissime. One of their most popular, this tour features a guided city walk in the morning to learn about the architecture, the historical sights, the Medici, Dante and the role that Florence played in one of the most influential and reawakening periods in history, the Renaissance! Following the morning walk, there is a guided tour of the Accademia Museum to see Michelangelo's David. And, later in the afternoon, a tour of the Uffizi Gallery. I strongly recommend this tour and it's well worth the price because not only do you get a great introduction to the city and learn the significance of the architecture, the popular sights, etc, you don't have to worry about the price of museums nor the strongly recommended advanced reservations. If a whole day tour doesn't appeal to you, then book a scaled down tour of just one museum. The site offers a variety so explore!

If touring doesn't appeal to you, I strongly urge you to make reservations for the museums at the very least. You can do this online or by calling the museums and although a nominal fee is charged, it's well worth it! And be sure to rent an audio guide so you don't miss a thing. I do have one last tip to share but be sure you don't tell anyone! Ask your hotel to make the reservations for you. Since you are a paying customer, you will find they are most amenable. Our friend at the hotel we stayed in Florence was only too happy to oblige when we asked her to book the Uffizi and Academia. Finally, leave your cameras in your rooms because no pictures allowed. However, if you want to see photos of the museum and of the famous paintings mentioned, visit my travel blog at the address below.  Arrivederci!

For more exciting stories, pictures and planning advice for touring the sites, sounds and tastes in Italy and France, be sure to visit [http://theeurotraveler.com] often!

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• How to Do Florence in 48 Hours
• Florence - The Gem Of The Italian Renaissance - Michelangelo
• Things to do While in Florence, Italy

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A Perfect Family Day Under the Tuscan Sun in Florence

Statue of Neptune in Piazza della Signoria (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Although it is understandably difficult to prise yourself away from the idyllic surrounds offered to your family at your rental villas in Tuscany, there is more to Italy than lolling around poolside under the warm Tuscan sun.

The Villa

A perfect day begins with a delicious and nutritious breakfast. The region is conducive to rising early, the sounds of birds and a balmy breeze beg you to leap out of bed and take an early morning constitutional to one of the nearby farmer's markets. Here you can buy any manner of fresh produce, still throbbing with life force. The markets here are famous for the availability of organic produce that has arrived directly from the farm.

Finding Your Way in Fabulous Florence

Florence Roofs (Photo credit: plemeljr)

By []Giovanni Balboni

In Tuscany, villas are famous as a desirable and typically Italian place to stay when visiting this eminent region. This large area in central Italy is best known for its turbulent history, its artistic attributes and its rich and fertile soils. People travel from all over the world to appreciate the architectural elegance of its cities, to explore its breath taking landscape, and to indulge in some of the most celebrated gastronomy Europe has to offer. There is no doubt that through the ages, nowhere in Italy has attracted more artists, poets and influential people than Tuscany. Villas dot the landscape, many of them elegantly adorned with grand facades and long winding driveways. Originally built for the elite and aristocracy many have now been turned into hotels or are privately owned.

Tuscany's Wine Country: The Wine-Lover's Dream

Landscape in the Italian wine region of Greve in the Chianti area in Tuscany, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

If you want to spend time in a place where there's fabulous wine, food and the kind of natural beauty that inspires great art, how about spending a week or two in one of those amazing villas in Tuscany's prime wine region- Chianti!

In Chianti, you'll certainly find your fill of everything that makes for a great holiday. Here are a few of the things that may convince you to choose Chianti when choosing which of the numerous villas in Tuscany to make as your home away from home for the holidays.

How to Do Florence in 48 Hours

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By Katy Hyslop


You have just arrived in the Renaissance capital of the art world with a couple of days to spare, so where do you go and what highlights can you see in such a short time? This is the guide for you to get the maximum out of a short stay in Florence.
14:00
Now is probably a good time to familiarise yourself with the central city, if it's late summer it will be beginning to cool down and hopefully the crush of the tourist crowds will be starting to diminish. The centre of Florence is easy to walk around as the streets are narrow and most are closed to traffic.
Starting off around the main station there is the Piazza Santa Maria Novella with the church that gives the train station its name. Opposite the church there is the Piazza Nazionale and a road which leads down to the Piazza del Mercato Centrale. Here there are a few market stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs and other items. The 2 famous buildings to see here are the Cappelle Medici and the San Lorenzo e Biblioteca Laurenziana.
15:00
You will see the Duomo before you reach the piazza it resides in as you walk down Via Borgo San Lorenzo. The squat building in front of the cathedral is the Baptistery, built on the foundations of a Roman temple. The golden doors facing the cathedral are replicas of an original set made by Lorenzo Ghiberti and regarded by Michelangelo as the "doors to paradise". But the sight most visitors are bowled over by is Brunelleschi's dome, the cap on the already impressive Chiesa Santa Maria del Fiori. Standing guard beside it is the campanile, or bell tower built by Giotto.

Caravaggio And His Followers In Florence

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"The dark voice of reality"... is not the title of an unedited album by the Doors, but one of the most appropriate definitions ever given to the work of Michelangelo Merisi, also called Caravaggio. Indeed, Merisi's approach to life was that of a contemporary rock star. His short life, turbulent and dissipated, characterized by violence, riots and general excess (he was also condemned to death for murder, even if he was not executed) make him a perfect example of a "cursed artist", compared to which Mick Jagger and Ozzy Osbourne come across as little more than beginners.

Florence - The Gem Of The Italian Renaissance - Michelangelo

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By Orson Johnson


Florence was the city that witnessed the great revival of learning and culture in 14th to 16th centuries. The city was epicenter of the great surge in artistic, literary, and scientific explorations.
The precious Gem of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is often considered as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. The city was ruled by Medici family during Renaissance age, which brought up the great artists and intellectuals like Boccaccio, Botticelli, Dante, Donatello, Filippo Brunelleschi, Galileo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Niccolò Machiavelli etc. flourished in the city.
It's a saying that "of the 1,000 most important European artists of the second millennium, 350 lived or worked in Florence." Modern city of Florence is highly esteemed due to the great works of its great men.
Florence is among the greatest cities of Europe famous for art, learning, and culture. It's a great cultural hub of Italy. Famous for its art and architecture, the city of Florence is a perfect pleasing place for aesthetic cognoscenti. Florence is home to the finest Museums and Galleries that exhibit the great works of great artists. The great Museums and Galleries of the cities are listed below.

Florence And The Birth Of The Modern Gelato

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By Stefano Becheroni


The good season is getting closer. Time for sun, cold drinks, light clothes and, of course, gelati! Any tourist wondering through the Florentine beauties will soon discover that the Tuscan summer can be hot, really hot. This is how he will probably start looking -pretty desperately- for something refreshing, and this is how he'll reach the closest gelateria. If he is staying in an apartment, he will buy the biggest gelato cup available and will run to chuck it straight into the freezer. You wouldn't want to run out of gelato on a hot, Florentine summer night, would you?

Caravaggio And His Followers In Florence

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"The dark voice of reality"... is not the title of an unedited album by the Doors, but one of the most appropriate definitions ever given to the work of Michelangelo Merisi, also called Caravaggio. Indeed, Merisi's approach to life was that of a contemporary rock star. His short life, turbulent and dissipated, characterized by violence, riots and general excess (he was also condemned to death for murder, even if he was not executed) make him a perfect example of a "cursed artist", compared to which Mick Jagger and Ozzy Osbourne come across as little more than beginners.




Caravaggio, though, was much more than that. One of the major representatives of the Baroque, he was probably one of the greatest painters of all time. His ability to represent reality in all its rawness, along with the characters of his works, their faces distorted by emotions, deformities, seduction and fury, make him a real "man of our times". The strong contrast between light and shade and the gloomy and nocturnal atmosphere of his works still upset and attract real art lovers as well as amateurs from all over the world.



However, not everyone, at that time, understood the greatness of Caravaggio. Florentines in the first place (painters and non) remained indifferent to his work, regardless of the fact that the Grand Duke Cosimo II de Medici, a member of the most famous Florentine family, demonstrated his appreciation for his work on more than one occasion. After all, Florence has always been a conservative city and its citizens have certainly never been willing to be taught by a "foreigner". Therefore, even if the most important families of the city did appreciate his works, the Florentine artistic community remained anchored to the "academic" painting tradition in fashion at that time.



As far as we know, Caravaggio never went to Florence. He wanted to, but did not make it on time. Regardless of this Florence is, after Rome, the city where most of his and his followers' works are found. This is why the exhibition "Caravaggio and his followers", organised to remember the 400th anniversary of his death, is an unmissable and unique event. From the 22nd of May to the 17th of October 2010 Florence will host nine of the most important masterpieces of the Milanese painter and tens of his followers' works, which will be spread among Palazzo Pitti, Uffizi and Villa Bardini.



The exhibition will include paintings such as "Bacco", "Amorino Dormiente", 'Medusa', "Sacrificio di Isacco", "Cavaliere di Malta" and the "Cavadenti", displayed at the Galleria Palatina and the Uffizi gallery, and the "Ragazzo morso dal ramarro", displayed at the Villa Bardini. These are incredible paintings that revolutionised painting in the 1600's and still impress the viewers 400 years later with their modernity and emotional impact. Along with them, the exhibition will display "Ritratto di Maffeo Barberini" and the "Ritratto di Cardinale", both of which are paintings that have only recently been attributed to Caravaggio.



These last two paintings will be the greatest surprise for the public as these works have only recently been attributed to the Milanese master and are therefore previously unseen by viewers. Along with the works by Merisi, viewers will enjoy a wide range of works by the so called "Caravaggeschi authors" (including Spadarino, Gerrit Van Honthorst, Artemisia Gentileschi) who were inspired by the same intuitions as their master. These are painters who found in Florence the passionate support of local families, such as the Medici, who adopted the style and atmosphere of Caravaggio and who sometimes met him in person, but who cannot be called real disciples because Caravaggio was always too involved in his chaotic life to find the will or the time to transfer his knowledge to others. It actually seems that Caravaggio never liked the idea of having followers and imitators. Apparently, he was not the easiest of men to get along with....



However, the real reason why Caravaggio is still so successful in 2010 is his ability to mix the sacred and profane, beauty and curse, splendor and squalor, paintbrush and sword. The reason why he is still so beloved by contemporaries lies in his ability to avoid academic or symbolically rich language and to talk to everyone through the most powerful emotions common to all mankind: rage, hate, love, light and shade. This is why we feel so close to him. The shady artist from many centuries ago and us, always in search for real, concrete and authentic emotions out of the glittering fictions of our time.
 

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We rent two apartments in the very center of Florence, (by two-minutes walk you are in the Duomo square) equipped with all the comforts : air conditionning, tv-sat and everything you need to cook your own meals. A nice cheap way to visit Florence!
Florence Holiday Apartments




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Travel Guide to Florence

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By Ramon Van Meer
Once the main capital of Italy in the year 1865, Florence reinvented itself yet is always a sight to view inside Europe. Filled by art work, fantastic architectural structures at every corner, a busy business center, populated by men and women pleased with their own heritage, it still is a treasure.

Let the artwork in Florence take your breath away in areas like the Basilica di Santa Maria del Carmine, Casa di Dante, Galleria d'Arte Moderna, Galleria degli Uffizi, Macchine di Leonardo or one of the Museos. At the Basilica, you get to look at art by Masolino da Panicale, Masaccio and Filippino Lippi. The frescoes by Masaccio right here are considered his best works and it presents the transition from gothic to the fresh appearance of the Renaissance in its early stages. A museum focused upon Dante's works, life and times is at Casa di Dante. This is not exactly where Dante was born but is the place where he lived. At the Galleria d'Artte Moderna, art work from the 18th and 19th century are presented. They were created by artists of the Florentine Macchiaioli school like Telemaco Signorini and Giovanni Fattori. However, the Galleria degli Uffizi is home to the Medici family's exclusive collection. The Macchine di Leonardo showcases the grand scale models of some of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions like flying machines, a bicycle, a glider, and also a tank.

Admire architectural mastery from times past in Florence by viewing the Basilica di Santa Croce. This had been accomplished in 1385 and commemorates some of the excellent Florentine artists. Michelangelo's' grave here is designed by Vasari. Monuments in memory of Dante and Galileo Galilei can even be found here.

Marvel at the holy center of Florence at the Duomo. This has been once the site of the town's Roman temple. Near the Duomo, the 84.7 meter high Campanile is located. Enjoy its beauty from the outside and then climb the 414 step inside to be treated to a spectacular view of Duomo and central Florence. Check out the Casa Guidi exactly where Robert and Elizabeth Barrett rented rooms and wrote 1847. The house has been refurbished in the 19th century style and has a few of the items owned by the Brownings on display. The Palace of the Guelph Faction's Captains is another well conserved piece of medieval Florence. It is a prepared building that stands on land that has been taken from the Ghibellines that was later created by Brunelleschi and Vasari.

Climate: The summer seasons in Florence are extremely humid and hot. Temperature typical around thirty-one degrees Celsius in July and August. The ideal time to visit Florence is in spring or autumn where temperature tend to be more comfortable and enjoyable.

Transportation: Local transport in Florence consists of taxis, buses and trams. The taxis is located outside the Stazione di Santa Maria Novella and at other taxi stops around town. A lady travelling alone may also ask for a discount in between the time of 9p.m. to 2a.m. Buses go around the town center and also to areas outside the city. Additionally, there are night buses which operate between 9p.m. to 1a.m. You can also rent a car or a bike if you want to discover Florence on your own.

Ramon van Meer is a travel expert and owner of Lets Fly Cheaper, an Online Travel Consolidator.
Lets Fly Cheaper offers Cheap Flights to Florence with the best personal service. For more information about how to get the cheapest airline tickets like Cheap International Flights go to the website.

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The Top 5 Must See Sites in Florence

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As one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, Florence is filled with an array of fantastic tourist attractions. Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is home to some of Italy's best museums, cathedrals and churches; as well as many character-filled streets and squares which are home to exquisite buildings and both modern and traditional shops and cafes.

There is so much to see and experience in Florence that you can't fit it all in during one trip. If you are planning a vacation in Tuscany here are our suggestions for 5 'must see' site while you are in Florence.



Piazza Della Signoria is the most famous square in Florence, situated in the heart of the city. Here, tourists will find themselves standing in a place of history as the piazza has been the political centre of Florence since the middles ages. The Palazzo Vecchin town hall is situated within the middle of the piazza and is one of the many medieval buildings you can find within Florence. The Palazzo boasts many decorated public rooms and private apartments and there is an array of cafes and eateries which are dotted around this area.

When visiting Florence, it is doubtful you will not hear about Il Duomo, which is one of Florence's most popular sites. The cathedral is a great chance to experience some of the many pieces of gothic architecture which are found within Florence and is a true piece of beauty on both its interior and exterior. Consecrated in 1436 and with the ability to hold up to 20,000 people, the cathedral's exterior is made up of green, pink and white marble and includes many elaborate doors and statues. The dome of the cathedral is a piece of art in itself of which tourists can purchase a ticket to climb the 436 steps which lead to its top.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist is one of the oldest buildings in Florence having been originally built during the 11th century. Its exterior constitutes of green and white marble and also boasts three sets of astounding bronze doors. Inside the Baptistery, visitors will view many mosaics and marbles pavements which illustrate the zodiac- a truly stunning sight.

Art lovers will flock to visit the Galleria degli Uffizi which holds the world's most important collection of Renaissance art. As Italy's most popular art museum, this can often be extremely crowded, but tickets can be purchased in order to avoid queuing up for entry. The gallery holds many historical paintings from medieval artworks to modern art and an array of antique sculptures and tapestries. Some of the art works visitors can hope to see include Botticelli, Leonardo di Vinci and Raphael.

One of the largest Franciscan churches within Italy is the Santa Croce. This church is home to the tombs of many important Florentines such as Michelangelo and Dante and its stunning interiors include beautiful pieces of stained glass windows and frescoes. Those who love historical artworks will also enjoy the Cappella dei Pazzi by Brunelleschi which can also be found within the Santa Croce.

When it comes to visiting Florence in Tuscany, there is plenty to be seen and inspired by, no matter what types of historical sites you normally enjoy. Whether you love viewing historical art, architecture or places of worship; Florence is sure to provide all this and more and is sure to see you return again in the future in order to take all of its brilliance in once again.

Mark Scriven is an online marketing expert and has written many articles on business, travel and the internet. For a wide selection of luxury villas in Tuscany visit Cottages to Castles, specialists in luxury holiday accommodation in Tuscany.

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Style City: Florence

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Style City: Florence

Florence is one of the most beautiful and inspirational cities in the world. Florence is where the Italian vernacular language was founded; it is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and of course is home to the famous and oldest bridge in Italy the "Ponte Vecchio", which is flanked on either side by magnificent, ornate jewellery shops that ...
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Things to do While in Florence, Italy

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Florence is one of the highlights of a trip to Italy. Whether you enjoy museums, art galleries, eating and drinking Italian food and wine, or simply wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere, you will find that Florence Italy Tourism has something for you.

Easily the most visited square in Florence is the Piazza della Signoria which is an open-air sculpture exhibit. The Loggia della Signoria is home to famous statues such as a copy of Michelangelo's David and the Fountain of Neptune. This square is in the historic center of Florence and is one of the highlights of the city.

Next on the list is the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence's most popular cathedral. The outside of the cathedral is made of green, pink, and white marble. Inside you can marvel at Brunelleschi's Dome masterpiece. Also, by purchasing a ticket you can climb the 463 steps to get to the top of the bell tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the city, which is simply breath-taking. Do note, however, that there is no air-conditioning, so bring water!

Make sure you visit the Galleria dell' Academia on your visit to Florence. This museum gallery holds some of the most important sculptures and paintings from the 13th to the 16th centuries. Here you will find many of Michelangelo's original works including the famous David. You can also see many musical instruments from the Medici family.

While in Florence you will also want to visit Italy's most crowded museum, the Galleria degli Uffizi. The gallery has one of the most prominent collections of Renaissance art in the world. You can enjoy the thousands of paintings from medieval and modern times, as well as antique sculptures and tapestries. Long lines can be a problem, so if possible buy your tickets ahead and avoid them all together.

Finally, what would a trip to Florence be without shopping? Many consider the Florence shopping to be the finest in Europe. From leather goods to paper goods, jewelry to art productions, Florence has it all. There are also plenty outdoor markets where you can find lots of bargains while enjoyingthe surrounding architecture.

There is no doubt that Florence has a rich history and many places that you must visit. From the Galleria dell' Academia to the open air markets, Florence Italy tourism offers something for everyone!


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For more tips and advice on Florence visit Suzanne's Florence, Italy website - http://www.PlacesToVisitInFlorenceItaly.com - here you will find everything you need to know about travel in Florence and Tuscany.


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Vino Con Vista Florence and Tuscany: Wine With a View of Italy (Volume 1)

The Uffizi at your fingertips

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If you have an iPhone the Uffizi Gallery can be literally at your fingertips from today.

Read the original article here

Vino Con Vista, italy travel Guide, travel Italy, Vino Con Vista Florence

I Love Touring Florence Italy - Cathedral District Hotels

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The Florence Cathedral is also called the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or simply the Duomo. This majestic late Thirteenth Century to Fifteenth Century building defines Florence's center. Don't you dare miss this spectacular site. If you are in good enough physical shape you might try to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for a majestic view of Florence and its surroundings. Here are some hotels that you might consider which are located close to the Duomo. For your convenience we have listed these hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified that all hotels listed have an English-language website where you can obtain more information.

The Albergo Firenze is located only a block from the Duomo. It is located in the heart of Florence, between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, one of the most beautiful squares in all Florence. It offers 57 rooms, many of which are suitable for three or four people. So if you book far enough ahead, especially in the off-season this hotel may be a relatively inexpensive option. The hotel address is Piazza Donati 4, Duomo. It has a breakfast room.

The Hermitage Hotel is situated quite near the famous Ponte Vecchio, one of the world's most famous bridges with goldsmiths and jewelry shops. It has only 27 rooms and a lone suite so you may want to reserve early. You'll love the rooftop terrace and its garden. This is a three-star hotel and is priced accordingly. The hotel address is Vicolo Marzio 1, Piazza della Signoria.

The In Piazza della Signoria has ten antique-furnished bed and breakfast rooms and three apartments that contain a small kitchen. This is part of a Fifteenth Century Palace. The hotel address is Via dei Magazzini 2.

The Hotel Helvetia and Bristol has 54 rooms Search Amazon.com for Vino Con Vistaand 13 suites. Its guest list includes Igor Stravinsky, Bertrand Russell, and Enrico Fermi as well as many Italian artists, but hardly starving artists. There is a restaurant-bar. This hotel's address is Via dei Pescioni 2, Piazza della Repubblica.

The Hotel Savoy is quite near the Uffizi Gallery, a fantastic art museum open to the public for over four centuries, and the Ponte Vecchio. It belongs to the Rocco Forte Hotel chain of 13 European hotels with more coming in the Middle East. This hotel has 102 rooms and suites and offers a children's program and a restaurant. The hotel address is Piazza della Republica 7.


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Levi Reiss wrote or co-authored ten computer and Internet books, but to tell the truth, he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. Check out his wine website http://www.theworldwidewine.com with a weekly column reviewing $10 wines and new sections writing about (theory) and tasting (practice) organic and kosher wines.