FLORENCE

Florence has a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination:

• April–June (Spring): Best for pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.
• July–August (Summer & Peak Season): Ideal for festivals and long sightseeing days, but expect heat and tourists.
• September–October (Fall): Great for wine harvests, fewer crowds, and perfect temperatures.
• November–March (Winter & Off-Season): Best for lower hotel rates, fewer tourists, and cozy holiday markets.

• The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) – Florence’s most famous landmark with stunning architecture and a breathtaking dome designed by Brunelleschi.
• Ponte Vecchio – A historic bridge lined with charming jewelry shops and stunning river views.
• Uffizi Gallery – Home to Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
• Michelangelo’s David (Accademia Gallery) – One of the most iconic sculptures in art history.
• Piazzale Michelangelo – A must-visit panoramic viewpoint offering stunning cityscapes.
• Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens – A former royal palace with beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Basilica of Santa Croce – The final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
• San Lorenzo Market & Mercato Centrale – The best places for authentic Italian food and souvenirs.
• Bargello Museum – A hidden gem with remarkable Renaissance sculptures.
• Day Trips to Tuscany – Florence is a gateway to Chianti wine country, Siena, and Pisa.

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine Steak) – A thick-cut, Tuscan-style grilled T-bone steak.
• Ribollita – A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, beans, and vegetables.
• Pappardelle al Cinghiale – Fresh pasta with slow-cooked wild boar ragu.
• Lampredotto – A Florentine street food favorite, made from slow-cooked tripe in a sandwich.
• Tagliere Toscano – A charcuterie board with Tuscan salami, pecorino cheese, and honey.
• Cantucci & Vin Santo – Almond biscotti served with sweet dessert wine for dipping.
• Gelato – Florence is the birthplace of gelato—try it at famous spots like Gelateria dei Neri or Vivoli.
• Trippa alla Fiorentina – A traditional tripe stew in a rich tomato sauce.
• Schiacciata Fiorentina – A light, fluffy sponge cake dusted with powdered sugar.
• Chianti Wine – Florence is in the heart of Tuscany, making wine tastings a must.

• Flights: Arrive at Florence Peretola Airport (FLR), just 20 minutes from the city center.
• Trains: Florence is well-connected to Rome, Venice, and Milan via high-speed trains.
• Walking: The best way to explore the city—most attractions are within walking distance.
• Buses & Trams: Public transport is available, but walking is usually more efficient.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Available, but not as common as in larger cities.
• Bike & Vespa Rentals: A great way to explore Florence and the surrounding countryside.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Italy’s Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Euro (€ EUR).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for markets and small trattorias.
• ATMs are available throughout the city, offering good exchange rates.
• Currency exchange is available at the airport, train stations, and city center exchange offices.

• Italian is the official language.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Learning basic Italian phrases like “Grazie” (Thank you) or “Buongiorno” (Good morning) is appreciated.

• Meals are an experience – Dinner is typically served later (8-10 PM), and meals are enjoyed slowly.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – A small service charge may be included in the bill.
• Dress modestly at churches – Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
• Greet with a handshake or a light kiss on both cheeks – Common among Italians.
• Avoid loud voices in public spaces – Italians value a relaxed, social atmosphere.
• Don’t ask for ketchup with pasta – It’s considered a crime against Italian cuisine!

• Restaurants: 5–10% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge (“coperto”).
• Bars & Cafés: Rounding up the bill is common.
• Hotels: €1–2 per bag for bellhops, €2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: €5–10 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (April–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (November–March): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For the Uffizi & Accademia Galleries: Book tickets online at least a few weeks in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Some museums require timed-entry tickets—book in advance.
• Florence has strict traffic restrictions in the historic center—avoid driving.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com