Florence very quickly became one of my favorite Italian cities with the quaint, old town feel and rich culture… and the food, of course, the food.

STAY

Grand Amore : gorgeous boutique hotel with specific attention to details… think macarons on your pillow!

Palazzo Guadagni : such a steal for this location. also, love love love the balcony area…perfect for an evening of socializing with friends and sipping wine! (see below!)

Soprarno Suites : again, a steal for this unique hotel, offering super chic rooms.

DO

Uffizi museumThe David – usually there is a long line, so you might want to hit this first!The Duomo – the HUGE, beautiful green church in the center of the city (climb the dome on a clear day – cost is 8 euro, but it is TOTALLY worth it) Ponte Vecchio – the old bridge covered in jewelry shops, it’s the iconic bridge of Firenze!Bobelli Gardens and Bardini gardens at Pitti Palace – perfect picnic spot, sans wine!San Lorenze market – leather goods and souvenirs, open everyday right in the center of the cityPiazza MIchelangelo – the best sunset spot! bring a bottle of wine and some friends!Bargello Sculpture museumSaint Maria Novella ChurchSaint Croce ChurchSan Lorenzo ChurchPalazzo vecchioBotanical Gardens

EAT

Affordable: Panini Toscani (delicious sandwiches right beside the Duomo!), All’Antico Vinaio (your day 2 sandwich spot!), Gusta Pizza (tasty pizza, ask for it heart-shaped!), Il gatto e Il volpe, Edi House
Splurgy: Golden View Open Bar (best ambience!), Il Latini (Florentine steak!), Acqua Al 2, Locale
Best gelato: Perche no, Gelateria neri, Grom

DAY TRIPS

Tuscany : just on the outskirts of Florence is the gorgeous rolling hills of wine country! We stayed at this gorgeous Airbnb, less than a half hour away from Florence! Also, this classic winery was the perfect tasting spot…and the best meal!

Cinque Terre : hike the five cliffside villages–there are amazing views and bonus, a great way to burn off all that pasta! I would set aside at least 2 days from Florence to travel and explore this, although if you have more you can really immerse yourself in these small villages! We stayed in Monterosso at this Airbnb.

Pisa : If you’re driving to Tuscany or CT from Florence, this is a easy stop off to see the iconic Leaning Tower!

Read all about fashion in Florence here!