Firenze, a familiar name accustomed to the locals of Italy. A word many travellers will encounter throughout their visit in the City of Lilies.

The urban fabric of this small but, lively city was the birthplace of the Renaissance and has hardly changed since; narrow cobbled streets, exquisite art, and elegant palaces of the past. Florence is home to the quaint river of Arno, an amazing spot to absorb the natural charm of the city. It is also a core feature that flourishes the cities wine rich hills and fresh ingredients, a hallmark trait of their cuisine & culture.

Friendly service, breathtaking views, and the time for 'dolce far niente' (sweet idleness) is what makes up our Florence guide, aspiring travellers to discover something new.

Stays

J.K Palace

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 7
50123 Firenze

Modern in design, this 20 room boutique hotel is one of the most stunning hotels in Florence, situated right in the centre of the city.  If you’re able, don’t miss a few moments on the terrace to soak in a sweeping view of the Santa Maria Novella.

Brunelleschi Hotel

Piazza Sant'Elisabetta, 3
50122 Firenze

An incredibly romantic and charming hotel, housed in the ancient ruins of a church, is a personal favourite of Carey Melnichuk’s.  It’s warm staff and walls decorated by original frescos are the perfect welcome.  The suites are so close to the Duomo, you feel as if you can reach your arm out the window and touch it.  It was also recently included into Forbes 2017 Travel Guide.

Gallery Hotel Art

Vicolo dell'Oro, 5
50123 Firenze

This boutique hotel includes modern day amenities done with a Florentine flair.  It’s hard to miss entrance always includes an installation of sorts, whether it’s a series of bicycles running up the side of the building or an array of giant scattered spoons. The most interesting, it houses a beautiful gallery showcasing contemporary art and world renowned photographers.

Portrait

Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 4
50123 Firenze

Located just around the corner from the Ponte Vecchio, Portrait takes a bespoke experience to a new level.  Perfect for the traveller looking to indulge, or those travelling with little ones. The team at Portrait will do its utmost to customize your entire Florence experience.

Number 9

Via dei Conti, 9
50123 Firenze

A luxurious hotel for those with wellness in mind.  This rather new addition, hidden away from the tourists, houses the best hotel fitness centre in town.  Complete with yoga and pilates classes, this oasis will allow you to keep your workout regime on track while indulging in the Tuscan cuisine. Be sure not to miss their spa, with their interpretation of Ayurvedic rituals. 

Sites

The Uffizi Gallery

Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6
50122 Firenze

Famous for their plethora of ancient sculptures and paintings dating back during the Renaissance period. The Gallery boasts an invaluable collection of ancient statues and busts from the Medici family, which adorns the corridors and consists of ancient Roman copies of lost Greek sculptures.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Via Ricasoli, 58/60
50122 Firenze

We encourage you to hire a guide, if only to by pass the (at some times) lengthy lines.  Known to showcase the immense talent of Michelangelo, this brilliant statue is best seen during day light.  The fluidity and detail in the marble seems impossible.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

Piazza del Duomo
50122 Firenze

One of Italy’s largest churches, completed in 1436, this beautiful structure will have you stand back in awe at the beauty man can create.  It also includes one of the largest brick domes in the world, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

Baptistery

Piazza San Giovanni
50122 Firenze

Also known as the Baptistery of Saint John, this building is one of the oldest remaining in Florence.  One visit you definitely cannot miss, the ceiling houses the most breathtaking mosaic ceiling with a background in gold. 

Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio
50125 Firenze

Spanning over the Arno river, the Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge popularly associated with love or lovers.  Perhaps introduced by the padlock shop owner towards the end of the bridge; lovers are known to attached a lock symbolizing their eternal love for one another, and throwing the key into the river.  The practice is no longer allowed, but you can still see glimpses of locks and scribbles of love decorating the bridge.

Eats

Golden View

Via de' Bardi, 58/r
50125 Firenze

One can admire many features that the Golden View offers including the Ponte Vecchio, the Vasari Corridor, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Arno River all in the background. Diverse menu includes a variety of options ranging from meat to fish and from seasonal vegetables to Mediterranean specialties.

Trattoria Cibreo

Via dei Macci, 122r
50122 Firenze

A restaurant that avoids freezing, vacuuming, and other practices that may degrade the quality of their food. The well-informed servers are a pleasure to speak with and makes your visit more of a delight, even before the traditional Italian dishes arrive.

Ora d'Aria

Via dei Georgofili, 11R
50100 Firenze

The restaurant philosophy comes from the intent that all staff offer their guests a relaxing environment, a moment to detach from their work, and enjoy the essential & elegant surrounding that the Ora d'Aria reflects.

Enoteca Pinchiorri

Via Ghibellina, 87
50122 Firenze

A unique restaurant that balances history and the modern era. This former Renaissance palazzo contains a large wine cellar, housing over 70,000 bottles. Creativity is a key ingredient that the kitchen excels in, continuously searching & redefining their techniques. Try sitting outside the piazza with an aperitivo, you won't regret it.

Caffé Gilli

Via Roma, 1r
50123 Firenze

The oldest café in the city of Florence. Always known for having elegant decor and a lively energy, Caffè Gilli served as a meeting place for famous writers, intellectuals, and artists.

Drinks

Colle Bereto

Piazza degli Strozzi, 5
50123 Firenze

The Colle Bereto creates original recipes made with selected and high-quality ingredients. It is also a reference point in the city for those looking to enjoy the best selection of wines. All this while surrounded by dim-lighting and music for everyone.

Locale

Via delle Seggiole, 12/red
50122 Firenze

The Locale bar comes with a history that shows within it's walls. It was once situated in the courtyard outside but has now been located indoors with dramatic interior decor. Their drinks are one of a kind, presented in unique ways that one didn't know could be done.

Manifattura

Piazza di S. Pancrazio, 1
50123 Firenze

The Manifattura bar is known for their 50's retro style and drinks. A small-sized bar with lacquered tables, suited barmen, and an up-beat scene. If you're looking for authentic Italian drinks, Manifattura's menu nods to the countries older traditions and ensures everything liquid is from Italy.

J.K Palace Lounge

Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 7
50123 Firenze

The J.K Palace is an example of elegance and modern style. The interior carries the signature of Michele Bonan who combines the seductive atmosphere of the 50’s in an overall masculine tone. The lounge is connected to two other sections which include a cozy champagne bar and the terrace overseeing Santa Maria Novella.