Summer in Florence is simply glorious. Long, balmy days, the sun glinting off the tiles of the Duomo – it can be bliss. However, it can also mean the city is busy but with a car at your disposal, you have the freedom to go off the beaten track whenever you want.
The must-sees
The Renaissance took shape on these famous cobbled streets, and there’s barely a corner to turn where you won’t find something astonishing. Start with the iconic Duomo, rising above the centre. Ground was broken on it in 1296 but work didn’t finish until 1436. It’s a Gothic masterpiece, crowned by Filippo Brunelleschi’s beautiful cupola, reminiscent of gingerbread. There are 463 steps to reach the top and, be warned, no lift.
The Accademia Gallery holds many Botticelli paintings – and they are undoubtedly beautiful – but the reason most visitors make a beeline for it is Michelangelo’s David. Hewn from one vast block of marble, it’s delicate, intricate and absolutely breathtaking to see.
Art lovers will also be thrilled by the Uffizi, a gallery revered around the world. With over 100-plus rooms you’ll soak in the history of art, with Caravaggio, Raphael, Rembrandt and countless others to enjoy.
The tombs of the famous – and infamous – can be found in the Basilica of Santa Croce, built in the 13th century. Machiavelli, Galileo and Michelangelo were all laid to rest here, while the Giotto frescoes are also worth a visit.
Off the beaten track
If the bustle of the main attractions gets too much, get behind the wheel and find the real heart of Florence. The Oltrarno district is a fine place to wander and is easily accessible by car. Santo Spirito is just one of the charming neighbourhoods here, with its large Boboli Gardens, commissioned by the House of Medici, and Palazzo Pitti, where the Italian dynasty lived. It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs as many of the shops here support local artisans.
San Frediano is even less visited by tourists, so if you eat at the superb iO Osteria Personale here you’ll be largely in the company of Florentines. Check out the Renaissance frescoes at the Brancacci Chapel, the 13th century Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, and the treasure-filled antique shops.
Florence for foodies
As in many cities, the restaurants parked right next to tourist hotspots are usually to be avoided – especially if they’re overly enthusiastic to get you inside. Instead, wander the side streets for traditional trattoria where you can sample Italian classics from fresh Caprese salad to mouth-watering bruschetta, and much better value for money.
The hottest table in town is Enoteca Pinchiorri, with its three Michelin stars and €250 tasting menu. It’s worth it for a special occasion – dishes like savoy cabbage ravioli with smoked herring milk and caviar are truly something else.
You don’t need to push the boat out to eat superbly in Florence – head to Mercato Centrale and pick up some cheeses and cured meats from the numerous stands there. All you need now is to find somewhere in the sunshine to perch and you have an affordable lunch with a priceless view.
With car hire in Florence you can see all of the city’s cultural highlights and the wider Tuscany region on your next trip.
