Florence, a Renaissance city which was once the capital of Italy, is one of the most beautiful European cities to visit.
As you hop on board your transatlantic flight, they’ll be thinking about what to do in the capital of the Tuscany region. For an authentic sensory adventure in Florence, visitors must hear the hustle and bustle of its many piazze, see the stunning panoramic views, and taste local cuisine such as Pecorino.
This article will explore the plethora of piazze (plural of piazza), the opportunity to see panoramic views, and the best places to try pecorino cheese.
Visit a Piazza In The City
Florence boasts a plethora of bustling piazze, some hosting events and rallies and others sitting in front of museums and famous landmarks.
You can opt to do a Florence free walking tour to explore many of the piazze in the city or choose a couple that you’d like to visit yourself. Here are some ideas:
- Piazza della Signoria. The largest square in Florence is home to Palazzo Vecchio, an imposing medieval fortress and town hall; Loggia dei Lanzi, a 14th-century gallery and open-air sculpture museum; fountains such as the Fountain of Neptune; and sculptures such as Perseus with the head of Medusa.
- Piazza del Duomo. One of the world’s most beautiful squares is home to Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral), Campanile di Giotto (Giotto’s 84-metre-high bell tower), and one of the oldest buildings in the city, The Baptistery of St John.
- Piazza di Santo Spirito. The most sociable square in Florence is home to many cafes and bars, a picturesque daily market, and the Brunelleschi-designed Basilica di Santo Spirito (Santo Spirito Church).
- Piazza di Santa Croce. This must-visit square is home to Basilica di Santa Croce (Santa Croce Church), which is known for its Gothic architecture. In addition, Calcio Storico – a 16th-century ball game played in historical costume – takes place in the piazza each June.
Enjoy a Panoramic View
We all know Florence is a stunning Renaissance city, but it is even prettier from the sky, especially when the sun is setting. Here, we’ve explored some of the best panoramic views of the Tuscan capital:
- San Minato Church. Starting with the highest vantage point in Florence, the top of San Minato Church offers visitors a view of the Tuscan countryside as well as famous landmarks, including Duomo di Firenze, Campanile di Giotto, Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce.
- Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral). At the top of one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks, you get a stunning view of the city – if you are willing to climb 463 steep steps and go through narrow hallways. You must book a ticket in advance.
- Campanile di Giotto (Giotto’s Bell Tower). This climb is an excellent alternative for those who may find the Duomo steps too challenging or for those who want the Duomo to be in their pictures.
- Piazzale Michelangelo. One of the best places to watch a panoramic sunset over the Arno River (pictured below).
- Fiesole. If you have enough time, take a 30-minute bus ride to the non-touristy town of Fiesole. From here, you get a 180-degree view of Florence as it fades into the green hills of the Arno Valley.
(Image Source: Florence Tips)
Indulge In Some Pecorino
Pecorino, which is made from sheep’s milk, is by far Tuscany’s most popular cheese. It can be found in various styles, from mild to rich.
In Florentine restaurants, Pecorino will often be served with walnuts, honey, raw ham, fruit, and of course, wine. It also works well in simple pasta dishes, such as carbonara and cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper), where the salty flavour can power through.
When visiting Tuscany, you have the chance to indulge in some pecorino whilst on a tour of a local dairy farm. You can also explore a cheese factory and see how Pecorino is produced.
Ready To Embark On a Sensory Adventure In Florence?
Nothing beats arriving in a European city and visiting its bustling squares, taking pictures of panoramic views, and indulging in local cuisine. Luckily, you can do all this and more in Florence.
The Tuscan capital is also home to many tourist attractions, museums and galleries, fashionable shops, and fine dining restaurants.