dreamy days in florence, italy
How I spent my days in the lovely Tuscan city of Firenze filled with sunset views, slow strolls, and unforgettable memories…
Hello my darlings, and welcome to the first stop on the Euro Summer series. I’m taking you through my summer in Europe last year and all the places I was lucky enough to travel to.
Within this series, you’ll find my personal (and slightly chaotic) guides of where I went and what I recommend, along with tips and tricks for having a fabulous Euro summer—how to plan, how to find the best restaurants, how to get around, and other lovely things along those lines. Stay tuned for all that and more!
But for now, let’s get into the first stop during my travels last summer: the fabulous city of Florence, Italy. In this first part we are going to take a lovely little look at a bit about the city, getting around the city, some lovely little ideas of what to do & my travel itinerary from last summer. Stay tuned for part two which will discuss (arguably) the best part of Florence: the cuisine.
Without further ado, let’s get more into it, shall we?
the city of firenze
one of the many very lovely museums
The city otherwise known as Firenze by the locals is one of my favorite places in the whole wide world (so far). Now yes, I am a bit biased because I had the privilege of studying abroad in this beautiful place for four months.
Which should give you all the more reason to trust me—I know my way around (maybe even almost as much as a local!). Kidding, of course. I’d never claim that title... as much as I wish I could.
The city is known for its fabulous art history thanks to the Medici family who ruled Florence for over three centuries. They were even considered the wealthiest family in Europe for some time. The stunning architecture around the city is like a museum itself. And don’t even get me started on the food, which is in part two of my Firenze guide (which you can find here!).
getting around
still need to fulfill my dream of riding on a vespa
Thankfully, Florence is not a big city, so getting around is easy—as long as you’re okay with walking. If not, a Euro summer might not be entirely your thing!
You can really see the entire city in a day or two, even with activities sprinkled in. But I recommend giving yourself 3–4 days so you can truly enjoy it without rushing. And yes, be prepared to walk everywhere!
There is a bus you can take around town if needed and taxis as well. I would say this could be a very nice option to get up to the wonderful viewpoint Piazzale Michelangelo, which can be quite a walk without a vehicle of sorts. Or, as my family did, take a golf cart tour to guide you around the city and all the way up there!
to do
simply stumble into any church to find the most beautiful places ever
The must-sees in Florence are some of the most beautiful in the world. From iconic museums to breathtaking sunset spots, this is your little “can’t-miss” list:
Climb to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset (bring a bottle of wine and sit on the stairs with everyone else enjoying the view). There’s also a beautiful monestary nearby called San Miniato al Monte that’s worth a visit!
Visit the Uffizi Gallery - you get so much out of this visit because of it’s massive size, but be sure to spare several hours to get a good walkthrough!
See Michelangelo's David if it’s not on your list already! Book your tickets far in advance!
Take a walk through the Boboli Gardens—perfect for a picnic and a lovely stroll around on a sunny summer day.
Take a cooking class—The one linked is one I would have LOVED to go to, but they didn’t have time. I would highly suggest this, even without having gone! It’s a wonderful Italian mother-son duo that offers a four-hour-long, dreamy escape into Italian culture!
Sit by the Arno River and have a picnic lovely picnic with a simple loaf of bread & cheese.
Browse local markets around town such as the Santo Spirito market open from 8-2, Monday-Saturday!
Make bracelets at Giliano Richie Jewelry or Tharoux Bijou, if you found yourself on handcrafted jewelry tiktok as well. But, get ready to wait in line!
my itinerary last year
the cutie little fruit stands in the city
July 21: Travel Day + Florence Night 1
Arrive in Florence
Spritz o’clock
Dinner at Osteria Santo Spirito
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Club Flo
July 22: Cooking, Exploring, Going Out
Cooking class at Nonna’s at 11 (meet for pickup beforehand)
Climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo again because… of course
Appetizer at airbnb during sunset
Dinner at Gusta Pizza, followed by gelato
Night out at YAB
July 23: Last Day in Firenze
Bracelet making at Giliano Richie Jewelry
Lunch at Panini Toscani
Final sunset
Dinner at 4 Leoni at 9:30
Gelato + a teary goodbye on the Santa Trinita Bridge
ciao for now
i wish i could buy all of this lovely art :’)
The magic of Florence is real. Let yourself dive into the romantic streets, drown in wine and spritz, have (at least) one gelato a day, embrace your artsy side with a museum or cathedral or two, and truly—truly—have the time of your life.
Let me know if you try any of my recommendations. I’d absolutely adore hearing what you think so I can live vicariously through you.
Coming next is my blog with my beloved list of food & drinks in Florence that you will not want to miss!
Until next time mis amores.
xoxo,
Avalon