Florence is the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany and of the province of Florence. It is the most populous city in Tuscany and has a population of 367,569

The city lies on the River Arno and is known for its history and its importance in the Middle Ages and in the Renaissance, especially for its art and architecture. A centre of medieval European trade and finance, the city is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance; in fact, it has been called the Athens of the Middle Ages. It was long under the de facto rule of the Medici family. From 1865 to 1870 the city was also the capital of the Kingdom of Italy.

The historic centre of Florence continues to attract millions of tourists each year and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982.

Today Florence is a wonderful place to relax; people watch and surround yourself with art and culture. Let Italy 4 Real plan your customized tour to Florence today!

Florence Highlights:

• The Duomo – The most visible structure in Florence’s skyline, the Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. Designed by Brunelleschi, construction began in 1296 and took 150 years to complete. The pink, white, and green marbled façade is breathtaking.
  
• The Bargello Museum – This museum incorporates the most comprehensive range of sculpture from the medieval and Renaissance periods in all Italy. Pieces include Donatello’s David and Michelangelo’s Bacchus. The museum was once a Medieval prison of torture.
  
• The Pitti Palace – One of Florence’s most popular tourist attractions, the palace was originally designed for the Pitti family, rivals of the Medicis. Ironically, it now houses the great art works that belonged to the Medici family. Works by Raphael, Tintoretto, Rubens, and many other artists are featured. Check out the Boboli Gardens surrounding the rear of the palace as well.
  
• The Mugello Region – Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Just a short ride from Florence, the Mugello Region encompasses some of the most picturesque villages in Tuscany. The Seine River winds through this area, rich with vineyards, and canoeists are welcome. The region is very popular with walkers, climbers and horseback riders. Check out the wine town of Rufina, with its wine-making museum.