The jewel of Italy’s Tuscan region is Florence, the capital city that lines the banks of the Arno River. Travelers love Florence for its museums of religious art, beautiful architecture, ornate cathedrals, little markets, artisan crafts, beautiful countryside and food. Amongst its most famous landmarks and treasures are the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens, Brunelleschi’s Dome, and paintings and statues by Giotto, Michelangelo and da Vinci.

The official history of Florence begins in Roman times, though there is evidence indicating it was populated in the prehistoric era. Founders erected the city between two rivers as a defensive measure and enclosed it in walls. Archaeologists have used relics to make conclusions about early Florentine development, such as the building of the Capitoline Baths, the aqueduct system, the Temple of Isis and the public squares.

Florence can be unbearably busy in the high season, when travelers must book in advance for just about every major site. Museum lines, traffic fines and hikes in restaurant prices can make every stop on the itinerary a challenge. Aim to visit in the shoulder months that frame the peak seasons of summer months and winter holidays. If the crowds descend upon you, limit your big attractions to one or two per day, and spend the rest of the time as many Italians do, walking the neighborhoods, popping into small shops and stopping for a stretch at a café.

One of the most attractive features of Florence and the surrounding region is the food. Tuscan cuisine centers upon local produce, grilled meats, white beans, top tier olive oil, mellow cheeses and hardy soups. Simple fare such as fresh vegetables drizzled with olive oil or tuna and bean salad become delicacies in the hands of Florentine chefs. No visit to the area would be complete without sampling Chianti, as many surrounding villages have vineyards. Desserts are important, too, especially the variety of gelatos (see Resources below).

After you’ve seen “David” and the other all-stars of Florentine art, delve into some of the city’s less-visited treasures. Check out modern and contemporary art at the Tornabuoni Art Gallery, Il Bisonte Gallery and Tossiarte. Wander the Otrarno neighborhood, where the wealthy and the bohemians coexist amid cobblestone streets and window boxes spilling over with flowers. Author Eve Borsook calls it “Florence at its best.” Other out-of-the-options are the taking the bus ride up to Fiesole and hearing the monks chant in San Miniato.

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