Often consider’Rome Light’, Florence is the town of the Medici and art galore.  Notwithstanding this, there’s an odd modern influence in this hallowed town. 

Florence

When it came to the Renaissance, Florence was definitely one of the places to be.  The city is totally full of examples of the past whether from great artist, architecture or important sites.  The city center dominates travel guides, but gardens and engaging sites can be seen by just walking thru the town. 

Head to the Santa Maria novella Church and you are in a ritzy section of town.  Top of the range shops abound as do the headquarters of world famous fashion houses such as Versace and Ferragamo.  The Basso Fortress is worth a look, but has been turned into kind of a modern convention center. 

For evenings, you wish to stroll over to the Santo Spirito Oltrarano area where you will find tons of cafes.  The area is especially nice as it contains the Medici’s Boboli Gardens, which are definitely worth exploring with their fountains, walkways and, well, gardens.  Just go. 

When it comes to art, Florence matches up with plenty of the most visited destinations in Europe.  You will find museums with Michelangelo’s David and famous paintings from a variety of artists.  The museums are packed, so be prepared.  Still, it is certainly one of those things you’ve got to do. 

The Florence Twist

I could be burned at the stake for asserting this, but I found Florence to be principally forgettable.  There is no disputing the cities place in history nor the incredible design, art and gardens through it.  Something about the place , however , feels synthetic.  It is as if Florence has turned into a modern town, but parades it’s past only for the all mighty tourist currency.  Then again, I could be wrong. 

regardless of your feelings about Florence, it’s a city you must definitely visit for the art.  I’ve infrequently stayed more than a couple of days, and usually only if I’ve missed a train.

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