Teeming with legendary works of art and architecture, walking through the city of Florence is like walking through a vast, outdoor museum. The cathedral church, Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site; the famous Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci; and the Accademia Gallery is home to Michelangelo’s David. The region’s powerful Medici family, who ruled the banking industry and became a political dynasty between the 1400s and the 1800s, was also responsible for the Italian Renaissance. Against this rich cultural backdrop, it is no wonder that Florence has continued to make significant contributions to the world of fashion and style.
Shopping
Upon entering the city, you will immediately notice the outdoor markets seemingly located at every street corner, all of which are filled with leather goods, classic Florentine stationery (for those who still use pen and paper) and wooden Pinocchio puppets (Florence is the hometown of the fictitious character). For a singular shopping experience, though, a visit to the century-old Madova Gloves shop is a must. At the Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a pharmacy whose origins date back to the 1200s, you will marvel at how well-preserved the ornate building is, not to mention the one-of-a-kind luxe soaps and other potions. And over the years, Florence has produced high-end designers such as Gucci, Roberto Cavalli and Salvatore Ferragamo, so you will be inspired to visit their flagship boutiques (even if only to window shop).
Accommodations & Dining
Speaking of Ferragamo, you can learn the history of the celebrated shoe designer at the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum located at the Palazzo Spini Feroni, where a collection comprised of ten thousand shoes, dating back to the 1920s, are kept. The Ferragamo brand is extended with the luxurious Hotel Lungarno, one a few stylish boutique hotels owned by the designer’s family. Located on the south bank of the River Arno, the hotel’s suites offer a picturesque view of the Ponte Vecchio. The Lungarno also offers a complimentary full buffet breakfast, as well as fine dining at the delectable Borgo San Jacopo Ristorante, where you can feast on local fare with a twist, including starters such as ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers, a succulent seafood platter and a chocolate cannoli garnished with creamy gelato to finish (guests can choose between tasting or a-la-carte menus; wine pairings are available).
Under the Tuscan Sun
If non-stop days spent in the city lead to a case of over-stimulation, some fresh country air courtesy of the Tuscan countryside will clear your head. Luckily, excursions are within an hour of the city centre and are easily arranged by the hotel. You can choose among a variety of half- or full-day trips ranging from a designer outlet mall (which feature designers such as Prada, Fendi and Alexander McQueen), to a local winery where you can sample some delicious Chianti along with Tuscan cuisine.
travel was subsidized by Hotel Lungarno
Images provided by Lungarno Collection
