The atmosphere is as lovely as the history of the place. The bridge was the only lucky one out of the six, which escaped the fury of the Germans after the War in 1944. Today it proudly takes a place among the treasures of Florence. Be careful not to go by the usual practise of lovers to padlock a lock to the gate of the statue of Benvenuto Cellini and who later toss the key into the river. If the idea sounds interesting, be warned of a fine of EUR 50. You can shop for any type of jewellery you have a fascination for, from mundane ones to truly unique ones. Jewellers of gold are a beautiful sight by themselves even if you have no idea of shopping. You can spot two other serene attractions, just above the bridge, the Boboli gardens and the Pitti Palace.
One of the best places to enjoy a gelato listening to great music or spend some time with your honey, by dusk or after dinner would be the Ponte Vecchio.
Highlight:: Historical bridge with beautiful views and lovely atmosphere
The famed dome of the cathedral is said to be the trademark and skyline symbol of Florence. The structure dates back to the 13the century. In spite of the elaborate décor, you get to see on its exterior, the interior is comparatively disappointing. However the dome is worth the climb. A renaissance masterpiece of Filippo Brunelleschi's made of over 4,000,000 bricks. You can enjoy its beautiful paintings depicting heaven and hell on the Dome's ceiling . Observe its walls closely, take a look at the graffiti and you will get a fair idea of the generations this cathedral has witnessed.
A wonderful view of the entire city of Florence awaits you here, especially of the Santa Croce. And a beautiful way to get back your breath whilst the climb all the way up the dome (463 steps), is to stop at the balcony or peep out of the tiny windows.
Open Hours: 10am-5.30pm Mon-Sat (10am-3.30pm 1st Sat each month); 1-5pm Sun
Highlight:: Trademark and skyline symbol of Florence
Though doubts still linger about the baptistery's origins, its foundations have their roots in the Roman times. The central doors are popularly known as the Gates of Paradise and portray scenes from the Bible-a beautiful work of art. The ornate doors were designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti way back in 1424.
The dome is worth a look and so is the interior gold mosaic over all the cupola.
The Giotto’s Bell Tower is one where you can enjoy great views of the Firenze, the Duomo’s red dome as well as one of the perfect vantage points to take a look at the adjacent Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore once you get to the heights of this free-standing bell tower. Giotto’s Bell Tower is a standing example of the Florentine Gothic structure. Well-laid out sculptural embellishments as well as marble encrustations further add beauty to the tower.
You are saved the long lines and never-ending wait to climb the top of Duomo but will be gifted an equally impressing view. The best thing is that you can halt and take photos as and when you fancy. Escape from the crowds at museums and free yourself from the noise at other major attractions.
Swarming with pedestrians, the Via dei Calzaiuoli is really quite an interesting street where you can set out on a shopping spree. Shops, cafes as well as numerous historical attractions greet you all along the way. The street is a good place to be in, if you are along with your family. Something your kids’ will love too as they can wander around without much trouble from the motorized traffic.
St Johns Baptistery is a classic and one of the best examples of the Florentine works of the X-X1 centuries. Undoubtedly it is one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Its 3 set of bronze doors are facsimiles of their original in the Duomo Museum and so if you have already been to Duomo, your visit here will get more meaningful.An assortment of bible scenes are depicted on its glinting doors. Right from its symbolic octagonal structure , the green and white marble exterior and the zodiac marble pavement, the Baptistery finds a place in the top sights and attractions in Florence.
open 12:00-7:00 daily except holidays and 8:30-2:00 Sundays (ticket).
Medici Chapels was the personal chapel of the most prestigious political lineage in Florence. It is sited at a stone’s throw away from San Lorenzo. Sumptuously embellished with gold and marble jewels, Michelangelo’s masterpieces here are loved by many. Even the tombs here are striking examples of artwork. Medici Chapels is a beautiful contrast to San Lorenzo. There are even trip advisor guests who have described the Medici Chapels as “the single most beautiful room in the world”. Entry cost is 2.5 euros
This huge brick palace, redolent of the antagonism between the rich merchants and the nobles, way back in the 15th century, is a very significant attraction you can get to see in Florence. The building is a paradigm of Renaissance architecture and is well-known as one of the most fine-looking Florentine Palaces.
Palazzo Medici Riccardi is something you and your kids will like equally. Check out the fresco of this chapel first. The interactive features here are simply great and your kids will be awed. Keep your eyes open for the Baroque frescos on the ceilings of the upper rooms here. Another masterpiece is the upper room chapel painted and titled “The Procession of the Magi” by Benozzo Gozzoli. You can also get an insight into the 15th century Renaissance architecture, once you get to see this Palazzo Medici Riccardi. Finish it off by seeing “Madonna and Child”