It seems rather unfair that one corner of Italy should be blessed with so much. The magnificent city of Florence owes much of its history to the Medici family, who ruled the area for several centuries.  Members of the family took a hand in the design of many of the city's buildings, and sponsored many artists such as Donatello, Boticelli, Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. 

Hardly surprising then that Florence was not only the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, but is also still crammed with the works of many artists who prospered under the Medici's patronage.

Best time to go

The city can become unbearably hot and overcrowded during the summer months.  Spring and autumn are much more pleasant temperature-wise, although the crowds still jostle for space.  By far the quietest time to visit is during the winter months, when the streets are emptier and there's more space to appreciate the surroundings and enjoy a luxury weekend break.

Getting there

There are direct flights to Florence's Vespucci airport with no-frills airline Meridiana from London Gatwick.   Most airlines, including British Airways (which flies from Gatwick and Manchester) fly to nearby Pisa airport, from where there are direct trains to Florence.

Trains run roughly hourly from Pisa to Florence's main Santa Maria Novella train station, and first class is available.  For more details or to pre-book tickets which can be collected from a self-service machine, visit TrenItalia.

Where to stay

We've highlighted the very central Hotel Savoy - one of Rocco Forte's designer hotels, but if you'd prefer to find an alternative hotel, our booking partner has plenty of top quality hotels in Florence.

Out and about

A good way to save time is to pre-book excursions and museum visits.  Our booking partner can help arrange visits, guided tours, bus excursions and more, helping you beat the queues.