Florence is the birthplace to many notable historical figures including Mussolini, Galileo, Florence Nightingale, Dante, Michelangelo, Catherine de Medici - Queen of France and home to Gucci to name a few.

When visiting Florence, the absolute essential places to visit are the Galleria dell’Accademia , home to Michelangelo’s sculpture David. Uffizi Gallery which holds the largest collection of Renaissance Art, a highlight is to ensure a visit to the rooftop restaurant for a refreshing break. The Ponte Vecchio bridge and Arno river is also nearby and is full of jewellery shops selling bespoke designs to designer watches.

Walking further along you will reach the Piazza della Signoria, which is the perfect place to stop for a Gelato, a myriad of flavours awaits like, biscotti, pistachio, melon, dark chocolate orange. As you continue along you will reach the magnificent Piazza del Duomo - a perfect place to take pictures, which features Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, ensure you have booked a skip the line ticket so that you don’t waste valuable holiday time queuing to enter.  

In the evening book a rooftop restaurant and savour some of the city’s finest pizza, Tuscan pasta with a glass of Aperol or Chianti and to finish a handmade tiramisu. If rooftops aren't your thing, you can dine at the Hard Rock Cafe where you can indulge in various burgers, sandwiches and salads. Not to mention the mouth watering desserts and live performances while you enjoy your meal. 

If you haven’t had enough of museums then a visit to the Galileo museum will take you on a tour of his famous inventions, gadgets, telescopes and see if you can find one of Galileo’s preserved fingers in the exhibits.  

If you fancy a walk away from the city you can walk 20mins to Piazzale Michelangelo, a fairly steep ascend to a panoramic view of the city, enroute you will pass the rose gardens, which are very picturesque.

On your return you can go west of the river Arno and visit the Pitti Palace and the Boboli gardens. Top tip is to visit the city on the first Sunday of the month – many of the museums are free, however be prepared to queue as everybody has come to the city for this very reason. Or visit late in the day for the least ques and get one free museum in.

The best time to visit Florence is from late April when the temperature is mid 20Cs, from May onwards the warm temperatures increase as do the hotel prices so be prepared to pay more in the summer months.  Enjoy your Dolce Vita in Florence this Summer.