Florence Short Breaks Guide

Florence, the capital of Tuscany is a city of 350,000 people and lies on the River Arno. It is regarded very much as the birthplace of the Renaissance influenced by the wealthy patronage of the Medici family who ruled over the city. The Medici family were wealthy bankers who had prospered during the trade boom in the region during the 15^th century. Their bank was the largest in Europe at the time which therefore led to them getting huge political influence. The Medici family produced four popes, two Queens of France, but having been ordinary citizens they were elevated to be the Dukes of Florence in 1531. This then became the Grand Duchy of Tuscany which they ruled over until 1737 the Duchy died out.

Florence was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe at the height of its powers supported mostly by textiles. Many people were drawn to the city for its wealth but also for its patronage of the arts. Lorenzo de Medici was the one who supported the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli and Michaelangelo.

The River Arno provides a focal point of the city with its Michaelangelo-influenced Pente Vecchio and Santa Trinita Bridges. The photographic opportunities are superb at all times of the year. It has been described as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with the historical centre a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. The city also contains numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace.

Getting to Florence

The only direct flight to Florence from the UK is with Meridiana, but you reach it by KLM from regional Airports of the UK via Amsterdam. Visit our cheap flights to Italy page for a full list of low-cost and scheduled airlines to help you get to Florence.

It is also possible to reach florence by overnight train from Paris. You simply take the Eurostar train from London, change in Paris to the gare de Bercy, from where you can catch the Artesia sleeper train which gets you in to Florence by early morning. For times and more details visit our Artesia Page.