Off the Beaten Path Florence

Description:

Mercato Centrale built in 1874 and is one of the largest indoor markets in Italy. Located in the zone of San Lorenzo, tourist center of Florence, people seem to just pass through the San Lorenzo market instead of stepping inside the Mercato Centrale. With 2 floors of fresh meat, cheese and restaurants of the delicious kind, you must stop by and see what catches your eye. Mercato Centrale is open from 7am-2pm everyday except Sunday. A busy market inside in the morning after 2pm the San Lorenzo market outside takes over and is thriving with tourists and local vendors.

Our Local Expert Says:

This beautiful piazza is within a few minutes walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station and is a great place to get away from the crowds while resting on one of the many benches.

Description:

The organization of this piazza originated in the 1800s and gives its name to the ousting of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, which took place in 1859. The two bronze statues on either end of the piazza are of Bettino Ricasoli by Augusto Rivalta in 1897 and of Ubaldini Peruzzi, first mayor of Florence, by Raffaele Romanelli in 1896. Unlike most piazzas in the historical center of Florence this one offers its visitors both shade and many places to sit. The palaces that rim the piazza are from the 1800s and early 1900s.

Description:

This is down-and-dirty Florentine lunchtime at its best, an osteria so basic the little stools don't have backs and a communal spirit so entrenched the waitresses will scold you if you try to take a table all to yourself. Since 1953, their stock in trade has been feeding market workers, and you can watch the kitchen through the glass as they whip out a wipe-board menu of simple dishes at lightning speed. Hearty primi include tortelli di patate al ragù (ravioli stuffed with potato in ragù), minestra di farro e riso (emmer-and-rice soup), and penne al pomodoro (pasta quills in fresh tomato sauce). The secondi are basic but good; try the coniglio arrosto (roast rabbit) or go straight for the Fiorentina steak, often priced to be the best deal in town.

Description:

The Botanical museum is one of the youngest museums of Florence. It was created by the wish of the Lorena through collaboration with the famous botanist, Filippo Parlatore. He contributed not only his private collection, but also made exchanges and international acquisitions which made the museum the richest of its kind in Italy and one of the most renowned in the world. Only a small part of this enormous collection is open to the public. It includes prize-winning vegetables, plant models, old herbariums and botanical manuscripts. The rare and valuable collection of wax models by Calamai and Tortori (before 1800) and a herbal code (painted at the end of the 15th century) are recommended. Next to the museum there is the "Garden of simple things", made from the old Medici vegetable garden created by Cosimo I and now one of the oldest in the world. Visits should be booked.

Our Local Expert Says:

The gardens are expansive and hide many different areas to explore and enjoy.

Description:

Inside this garden lies the Buontalenti grotto (1583-1593). Decorated with mannerist-style scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, the grotto includes copies of Michelangelo's famous "Slave" series, the originals of which were transferred to the Galleria dell'Accademia. In the 17th century, the garden was extended as far as the Porta Romana, adding the Vasca d'Isola (pond) at the centre with a fountain and a statue of Neptune. In the late 18th century, Zanobi del Rosso built the Kaffehaus pavilion.

Our Local Expert Says:

A particular garden is that reaches up the hill to Forte Belvedere.

Description:

The building was constructed by an antiques dealer, Stefano Bardini, at the end of the 19th century and was left to the city council in 1922, together with his wide ranging collection. (sculptures, paintings, furniture, ceramics, tapestries, weapons, carpets, musical instruments, sarcophagi, tombstones, and funeral monuments.) The construction is unique in its use of doors, windows, and arches from churches or ruined villas and with Venetian and Tuscan wooden ceilings. As well as the Roman sarcophagi and column-heads there are sculptures by Della Robbia and works of art attributed to Donatello. One crypt-like room has a collection of tomb stones and funeral monuments in it. The collection of ancient musical instruments is also of note.

Our Local Expert Says:

Think Italian block party - great food, great atmoshpere

Description:

Sagras are held right through the warmer months of the year in summer and fall in smaller towns outside of Florence. Showcasing local favorite dishes these events usually run on weekends and are usually tourist-free zones since advertisements are only in Italian and private transporation is usually required. These events are usually very informal and take on a block party atmosphere with long communal tables set up in a park or in the street. For information on Sagras occuring during your stay in Florence visit the APT office in Florence.

Description:

Botticelli NIHotels is housed in a typical Florentine 16th century patrician home, this hotel is around 500 meters from the Duomo and the Academia. Guestrooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style with Renaissance art prints; all have complimentary Internet and minibars. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, guests can use tour assistance and the concierge to plan a day of sight seeing.

Description:

Set high up in a beautiful spot overlooking the city, this park is ideal for family days out and the perfect antidote to city stress. Spend a lazy afternoon stretched out on the grass, go for a meander along its pathways or bring a picnic. Appreciated by Tuscan Resistance members who sought refuge here during the Second World War, the park is easy to get to: just follow Via Bolognese or Via dei Colli Alti near Colonnata (enjoy the view on the way up), which lead to Piazzale Leonardo da Vinci (595m). On a clear day the entire Arno valley is visible from here and a further two-hour walk takes you to Monte Morello's highest point of 934m.

Description:

The district of Mugello, north of Florence, was the original home of the Medici family. It was at the time of Lorenzo the Magnificent that the Medicis had this, one of their first country villas, built very near to Artimino. In 1454 Michelozzo was placed in charge of the villa's construction, which was to be used primarily for hunting purposes. The peculiarity of the villa lies in its crenellated tower at the front of the building with battlements on each side and reinforced on each corner with strong bastions like a medieval castle. The extensive private gardens are not open to the public. Another place worthy of a visit is the nearby Castello di Trebbio, which was another of Michelozzo's accomplishments. The construction involved the restructuring of an old medieval castle, commissioned by Cosimo il Vecchio, between 1427 and 1436. This too is privately owned and may be visited on request.

Description:

The villa belonged to the Medici family and Cosimo, Florence's new Duke, began the work on renovating the grounds, he planned an Italian garden with geometric designs, Vasari made the Duke's dreams become reality. At the centre of the garden on the Fountain of Hercules and Anteus was placed a marble composition by Bartolomeo Ammannati, which is undergoing restoration. There are two lakes in the garden, with stone sculptures of animals, which stand out amongst the water displays. Today, the villa is the home of the Accademia della Crusca (set up to preserve and to study the "correct" form of the Italian language in 1583 and transferred here in 1974), and is not accessible to the public. Admission includes a visit to the Villa Medicea La Petraia.

Our Local Expert Says:

Get a sandwich, or 'panino' at the shop nearby, find a cool spot on the green slope to relax, and take in some fresh air.

Description:

Olmo is outside Florence, but not too far from the city. The green parkland is located in the northern hills near the Vetta le Croci (518m). It is perfect for outdoor pursuits and relaxing walks. Florentines tend to frequent Olmo, especially on Sundays, and there are refreshment stops where you can revive yourself with traditional Tuscan specialities. The Olmo fields are close to a set of crossroads which sends traffic in three directions - to Fiesole, Borgo San Lorenzo (where you can continue your walk), and Florence. It can be reached by going down Via Bolognese and once you have passed Pratolino follow the signs for Olmo.

Our Local Expert Says:

There is a colossal statue by Giambologna from the 16th century. The bearded figure is crouched next to a small pond and is as tall as the surrounding trees. Colossal!

Description:

Nothing remains of the 16th-century Medicean villa built by Francesco I de' Medici. It was surrounded by an immense park, full of decorative buildings, including (towards the end of the 17th century) a repertory theatre ordered by Ferdinando de' Medici. However, with the passage of time, the villa was ruined, and it was demolished. The park was eventually reclaimed by Joseph Frietsch before being handed over to the Demidoff family in 1872. After having bought the Savoy property, they decided to construct a villa, which has remained standing to this day. All that remains of the re-named Medici estate which was famous for its wonderfully evocative scenery are a few building works carried out by Bernardo Buontalenti, who was responsible for the original project commissioned by Francesco I. The park, which now belongs to the Province of Florence, is a venue for cultural shows and exhibitions, and remains open from March until October. It includes a fine collection of sculptures.

Description:

Located in the Careggi zone, this small restaurant provides genuine, traditional Tuscan food ignoring current fads.

Description:

Botticelli NIHotels is housed in a typical Florentine 16th century patrician home, this hotel is around 500 meters from the Duomo and the Academia. Guestrooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style with Renaissance art prints; all have complimentary Internet and minibars. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, guests can use tour assistance and the concierge to plan a day of sight seeing.

Description:

Take a day trip from Florence and spend the day horse riding in Italy's famous Chianti region. It's a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside, which is renowned worldwide for its vineyards and unparalleled beauty. Led by your friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guide you will be taken on horseback into the Chianti region where most of the region's famous wines are produced. You will ride for two hours through vineyards, olive groves and Middle Age villages seeing the Tuscan landscapes at their best.

Before leaving for your ride you'll be given a brief safety introduction and lesson (lasting approximately half an hour) where you'll have the chance to get acquainted with your horse. The stables cater for riders of all abilities and beginners are very welcome, as previous riding experience is not necessary. Riding hats (helmets) are provided free of charge and casual clothes can be worn.

Once back at the farm, you are served a delicious Tuscan lunch of Pecorino cheese, prosciutto, salami and bruschette. After your meal you will have the chance to sample some of the finest Chianti wines (the wine tasting fee is included in the tour, wines are also for...

Description:

Botticelli NIHotels is housed in a typical Florentine 16th century patrician home, this hotel is around 500 meters from the Duomo and the Academia. Guestrooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style with Renaissance art prints; all have complimentary Internet and minibars. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, guests can use tour assistance and the concierge to plan a day of sight seeing.

Description:

Discover the real, hidden Florence on a morning walking tour to the city's secret corners. You'll visit sites that can't be accessed by tourist buses, and travel back in time to medieval and Renaissance Florence.

The 2.5-hour morning walking tour begins at the church of Santa Maria Novella, off the beaten track and with a fascinating inlaid marble facade that's one of the landmarks of Florence. Inside the church, you'll admire masterpieces by Giotto, Masaccio and Ghirlandaio.

Around the corner is your next stop, a famous old pharmacy that's still in use today! Smell and admire the potpourris and soaps made from natural ingredients, and see the old instruments and ceramic jars used by the Dominican monks of Santa Maria Novella.

Next, you'll explore the Rucellai neighborhood and the church of Santa Trinita. You'll see frescoes in the famous Sassetti Chapel that feature detailed examples of Renaissance Florentine dress and everyday life from the period.

The walking tour continues over the River Arno to the Oltrarno neighborhood, to explore alleyways lined with artisan workshops. After exploring what was once the Jewish neighborhood of Florence, the tour ends in the picturesque Piazza Santo...

Description:

Since 1912, this typical Florence restaurant has maintained a high profile as well as a faithful following, due to its good food and low prices.

Description:

The museum occupies the site of what used to be the convent of the Pious Sisters of the order of Oblates. The core exhibition, in the house of Buonarroti, obtained collections of drawings and paintings from the Uffizi and showed Florence when it was the capital of Italy. The transformation of Florence can be seen through its documentation in paintings, prints and plastics from the Renaissance to the end of the last century. The most important piece is the "Map of the succession", which is a large 19th century reproduction of a 1740 etching which showed Florence at the height of its Renaissance splendour. There are also views of Florence and lunettes which show the main Medici residences.

Description:

The Badia Fiorentina is an Benedictine abbey and church home to the Fraternity of Jerusalem.
Located in Via del Proconsolo, Dante was said to have grown up across the street in "Casa di Dante' rebuilt in 1910 as a museum to Dante(it wasn't where he really lived). The Abbey was founded in 978 as a Benedictine institution by Willa, Countess of Tuscany, in rememberence of her late husband Hubert and was one of the chief buildings of medieval Florence. The church's most amazing view is of Filippino Lippi's Madonna Appearing to St. Bernard completed in 1485. Between 1284 and 1310 the church was rebuilt into Gothic style, but in 1307 part of the church was demolished to punish the monks for non-payment of taxes. The church was renovated in a Baroque style between 1627 and 1631. The prominent campanile was completed between 1310 and 1330, is Romanesque at its base and Gothic in its upper stages.

Description:

In Moorish style, the architecture of this synagogue, somewhat strange by Florentine standards, attracted the original Sephardim of Florence's Hebrew community. In line with the eclecticism at the end of the 19th century, its architecture also contains Christian elements such as the transept, the apse, the pulpit and the dome (which, with its green copper roof, is one of the city's most visible landmarks.) All the internal walls were decorated between 1882 and 1890 by a local painter: Giovanni Panti, who made use of gold-plating to highlight the Moorish designs.

Description:

Here's your chance to learn how to cook a classic Tuscan dinner in Florence - and then eat it, matched with Tuscan wines! Skilled chefs take you through each step, from starter to dessert, and at the end of your fun-filled Italian cooking lesson you can take the recipes away to try them at home.

Your cooking lesson takes place in the fully equipped, typical Florentine kitchen of a well-regarded cooking school. Guided by friendly expert chefs, you will learn how to prepare a typical four-course Tuscan meal, and also learn how to match each dish with suitable wines.

After working up a healthy appetite in the kitchen, it's on to the dining room where the prepared dishes will be served for dinner, accompanied by matching wines.

Description:

Botticelli NIHotels is housed in a typical Florentine 16th century patrician home, this hotel is around 500 meters from the Duomo and the Academia. Guestrooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style with Renaissance art prints; all have complimentary Internet and minibars. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, guests can use tour assistance and the concierge to plan a day of sight seeing.

Description:

Discover all that the green Umbria region and its eternal cities have to offer on this private day tour from Florence.

Accompanied by your own private guide, enjoy personalized attention as you travel in style through Perugia. Admire the Maggiore Fountain, the gothic Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Town Hall within Palazzo dei Priori.

Your private tour continues to Assisi, famous all over the world for being the native town of St Francis. Stop for lunch in a well-known restaurant (optional), before embarking on a guided visit to the Basilica of St Francis. Choose to explore the interior of the Basilica (optional) and listen to commentary about the frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, via hired ear phones. You'll also visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara, the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and other important places.

This in-depth, private tour is hosted by an English-speaking guide. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at the time of booking to alert your guide, so that he or she can prepare for your private tour.

Description:

Located in a delightful piazzetta in the ancient San Frediano quarter, this restaurant is characterised by its Tuscan-Sicilian food and its reasonable prices. Regional dishes and Sicilian food are on offer here, including spaghetti Messina-style, and Sicilian soup. Ciao Bella also offers pizza cooked in a wood oven, fish and seafood, all of which can all be accompanied by Sicilian wines.

Description:

Botticelli NIHotels is housed in a typical Florentine 16th century patrician home, this hotel is around 500 meters from the Duomo and the Academia. Guestrooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style with Renaissance art prints; all have complimentary Internet and minibars. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, guests can use tour assistance and the concierge to plan a day of sight seeing.